The importance of choosing a boot for the safety and comfort of our excursions
If in the summer the essential qualities are breathability and lightness, in the rainy and snowy months waterproofness and thermal insulation must become the first things to take into account! When planning an excursion, the choice of trekking shoes is crucial to ensure comfort, safety and optimal performance in all weather conditions. Here is a complete guide to selecting the ideal trekking shoes for each season.
Trekking Shoes for Winter
During winter, for challenging treks or snow excursions, it is essential to opt for sturdy and well-structured boots. These must offer not only waterproofness but also excellent thermal insulation. It is also important to choose appropriate socks, preferably made of wool or technical fibres, avoiding cotton socks which do not offer the same thermal protection and moisture management.
Trekking Shoes for Other Seasons
For excursions in spring, summer and autumn, the choice of shoes varies based on the type of terrain and the length of the route. For flat or moderately rugged terrain, low-top hiking shoes may be sufficient, offering a good combination of lightness and support. For longer routes or rough terrain, tall trekking boots are recommended, which offer greater protection and support for the ankles.
Important Materials and Features
- Adherence and Stability: A quality sole, preferably in Vibram, guarantees excellent grip on different types of terrain and greater stability.
- Protection and Comfort: Reinforcements on the toe cap and heel protect against impacts and abrasions, while good padding ensures comfort during long walks.
- Waterproofing and Breathability: Materials such as Gore-Tex are ideal for keeping feet dry and at the same time allowing good breathability.
- Lightness: Lightweight shoes reduce fatigue, especially on extended hikes.
Choose the Right Size
It is essential to choose the correct size trekking shoes. Consider getting a slightly larger size to accommodate thicker socks and to prevent your toes from hitting the toe of the shoe, especially when going downhill.
For further information and advice on mountain equipment and clothing, you can consult the following articles on our website www.dolomitiwalkinghotel.it:
FAQ
Low-top hiking shoes offer more flexibility and are ideal for less rugged terrain or short hikes. High boots, on the other hand, provide superior support for the ankles and are preferable for more demanding routes or rough terrain.
Choose a size that allows for slight mobility of the foot without being too loose. Try the shoes on with the socks you plan to wear on the hike. Make sure there is a little space between your toes and the tip of the shoe.
Yes, especially for hiking in wet or muddy conditions. Waterproof shoes protect your feet from water keeping them dry, but they should also be breathable to prevent sweat buildup.
Materials like Gore-Tex are ideal for waterproofing and breathability. For the upper, leather or suede offers durability, while synthetic fibers are lightweight and offer decent water resistance.
It depends on the frequency of use and the conditions of the trails. In general, it is advisable to replace them when you notice significant wear of the sole or deterioration of the materials, to ensure safety and comfort.
