Hiking in winter requires specific equipment, particularly well-suited footwear. Good boots provide insulation, waterproofing and reliable grip to keep you safe on the terrain. Here's how to choose the right shoes for hiking in the snow.
Choosing the height of your boot shafts for hiking in snow
High-shaft boots
High-shaft boots are the most popular choice for hiking in the snow. As well as providing better ankle support, they prevent snow from getting in over the top. Their downside is that they are heavier and don't allow as natural a foot roll as other options.
Mid or low-shaft boots
Hiking in low-shaft walking shoes or mid-shaft boots gives you greater freedom of movement at a lower weight. However, gaiters are essential if you want to walk in the snow. Unlike high-shaft boots, they offer less protection against rough terrain or the elements.
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Protecting yourself from snow and bad weather
The importance of a waterproof-breathable membrane
To avoid getting soaked by snow or rain in winter, your hiking shoes should feature a waterproof-breathable membrane such as Gore-Tex. This prevents water from penetrating the inside of your boots. It also has the advantage of effectively wicking moisture from perspiration — particularly useful during intense effort.
Using gaiters
For added protection against winter weather, gaiters are ideal. They are essential with mid or low-shaft boots and are sometimes integrated on high-shaft models. Gaiters with a waterproof membrane provide excellent protection against the elements.
Ensuring good thermal insulation
Shoes equipped with a lining
Hiking in snow, especially in the mountains, means cold. You need to pay particular attention to your extremities to avoid suffering from it. As well as opting for high-shaft boots that retain heat more effectively, you can choose shoes equipped with a lining. This lining, of varying thickness, helps insulate you from the cold.
Other possible solutions
In addition to shoes equipped with a lining, you can also add merino wool socks. Thermal insoles can also help retain heat. They are sometimes lined with a fleece layer for extra comfort.
Ensuring traction and grip on snow
The importance of a good sole
Grip and traction are key factors when choosing shoes for hiking in the snow. While standard hiking shoes have versatile soles, you should equip yourself with shoes featuring an outsole made from materials that perform well in winter conditions. This gives you better grip on snow, which is an unstable surface.
Using crampons
Shoes fitted with crampons of at least 5 mm allow you to move safely in the snow. If that's not enough, you can add walking crampons. Bear in mind these are not suited to mountaineering and should be used in hiking when moving over difficult terrain. Finally, if the powder snow is deep, your best option is to go for snowshoeing.
To avoid taking unnecessary risks, it's important to choose the right shoes for hiking in the snow. In winter, and particularly in the mountains, it's essential not to overestimate yourself and to wear equipment that is well suited to your hike. That way, you can plan your outdoor outings and head out with complete peace of mind!
