Hiker Advice

@hikeradvice

42 posts

How to tell if hiking boots are too big: The simple fix

To check if hiking boots are too big, slide your foot forward until your toes touch the front; you should only be able to fit one finger behind your heel. If you can easily fit two fingers or your heel lifts significantly while walking on an incline, the boots are too large and will likely cause blisters. I remember my first pair of serious leather boots. I bought them a size up because I heard…

Do you need hiking boots for Mist Trail? Avoid this mistake.

You definitely need footwear with aggressive traction, like hiking boots or high-quality trail runners, because the Mist Trail involves hundreds of soaking-wet granite stairs. While you don’t strictly need heavy boots, standard trainers lack the grip to handle the slippery, spray-covered rocks near Vernal Fall, making slips very likely without proper lugged soles. I still remember the first time…

What's better for walking hiking sneakers or running shoes

I often get asked what’s better for walking hiking sneakers or running shoes when people are planning their next weekend outing. Choosing between these two depends entirely on where your feet hit the ground, as running shoes offer plush cushioning for hard pavements while hiking sneakers provide the rugged grip and toe protection needed for muddy, uneven trails. If you walk mostly on flat, paved…

Should hiking shoes be tight: Stop killing your feet

Hiking shoes should be snug and secure around your midfoot but never tight enough to pinch or restrict blood flow. You need about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe to account for foot swelling and downhill descents. A tight shoe leads to pain, numbness, and blisters. I learned the hard way that “secure” doesn’t mean “strangled.” On my first long trek…

Who Makes Good Hiking Boots: Stop Buying Overpriced Junk

Reliable brands like Salomon, Scarpa, Lowa, and Meindl consistently make good hiking boots that balance comfort with durability. Salomon is ideal for fast-paced hikers, while Scarpa and Meindl offer superior support for heavy packs and rocky fells. Your choice depends on foot width, terrain, and weather conditions. I’ve spent years ruining my feet with bad footwear. There’s nothing worse than…

Hiking shoes and hiking boots: how to never get a blister

Hiking boots offer high ankle support, stiffer midsoles, and better protection for rocky terrain and heavy rucksacks. Hiking shoes are lighter, lower-cut, and more flexible, making them better for well-maintained trails or faster paces. The main choice depends on your trail conditions and how much weight you carry. I remember standing in a gear shop in the Lake District, staring at a wall of…

Are Keens Good For Hiking? The TRUTH About These Boots

Yes, Keen hiking boots and sandals are excellent for hikers who prioritise a wide toe box, reliable stability, and top-tier toe protection. They are particularly effective on rocky or muddy trails where the thick rubber outsoles and Keen.Dry waterproof membranes keep your feet secure and dry throughout the day. I remember my first pair of Keen Targhees. I bought them because my toes felt…

Should hiking shoes be a size bigger? Save your feet now

Usually, you should buy hiking shoes half a size to a full size larger than your standard street shoes. This extra space accounts for natural foot swelling during long walks and provides a 1cm to 1.5cm buffer that prevents your toes from painfully striking the front of the boot during steep descents. I remember my first serious trek in the Lake District. I wore my usual size 10 trainers,…

Are Timberlands hiking shoes? Avoid this massive mistake

Timberland boots are not strictly hiking shoes, although some specific models like the White Ledge work for light trails. The classic yellow boot lacks the flexibility, breathability, and specialised traction required for technical terrain or multi-day treks. I get asked this often because Timberlands look like they can handle anything. They have that rugged, outdoorsy aesthetic that makes you…

How to choose hiking boots for rocky trails: 3 simple keys

To choose hiking boots for rocky trails, prioritise a stiff outsole with multi-directional lugs for grip and a thick rubber rand to protect the uppers from sharp edges. Opt for mid-to-high-cut boots that offer lateral ankle stability and ensure the midsole includes a rock plate to prevent underfoot bruising on jagged stones. I’ve spent far too many afternoons stumbling over loose scree and…

How much toe room in hiking boots? End pain forever.

You should aim for about 12mm to 15mm of space, which is roughly a thumb’s width, between your longest toe and the front of the boot. This gap allows your feet to swell naturally during a long walk and prevents your toes from smashing into the front during steep downhill descents. I remember my first “real” mountain trek in the Lake District. I bought boots that felt perfect in the shop—snug,…

Do you need hiking boots for Switzerland? My simple rule.

You definitely need hiking boots for Switzerland if you plan on tackling red-and-white mountain trails or high-altitude alpine paths where loose scree and steep gradients are the norm. However, for casual valley strolls, paved lake-side paths, and well-maintained forest tracks, a pair of sturdy trainers or trail runners often provides enough grip and comfort. Before my first trip to the Bernese…

Are water shoes good for hiking? Stop making this mistake

Are water shoes good for hiking? Yes, water shoes are excellent for short hikes with frequent river crossings or wet, slippery terrain because they drain instantly and provide great grip. However, they lack the stiff soles and ankle support required for long-distance treks or jagged, rocky mountain trails. I remember the first time I took a pair of flimsy mesh shoes on a trail in North Wales. I…

Are Columbia hiking boots good? Don't waste your money.

Columbia hiking boots are a reliable choice for beginners and weekend trekkers who prioritise comfort and value. They offer dependable waterproofing and lightweight cushioning that works perfectly on well-maintained trails, though they might struggle with the extreme durability needs of professional mountaineers. I remember standing in a gear shop years ago, staring at a wall of boots that cost…

Are combat boots good for hiking? Stop ruining your feet

Many people wonder are combat boots good for hiking when they want a tough, reliable pair of shoes for the wilderness. Combat boots offer enough durability and ankle support to handle moderate trails and off-path scrambles, but their weight can lead to foot fatigue. While they provide excellent protection against sharp rocks and brush, they often lack the specialized cushioning and breathable…

Are hiking boots good for snow? Don't make this mistake.

Hiking boots are good for snow if they feature a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex and offer decent traction, but they often fall short in deep powder or extreme cold. For packed trails, they work well with gaiters, though dedicated winter boots provide better insulation and height for serious sub-zero conditions. I remember the first time I wore my favourite summer hikers on a snowy trail in…

Are Hokas Good For Hiking? Don’t Buy Until You See This

Yes, Hoka shoes are excellent for hiking, offering superior impact protection and comfort for long distances. They are particularly good for hikers with joint pain, though their high stack height requires extra care on very technical or uneven terrain. I used to be a staunch believer in heavy, leather hiking boots. I thought if my ankles weren’t encased in stiff material, I wasn’t really…

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