What are their advantages? In which situations should you prefer them over low-cut or high-cut shoes? Here's what you need to know about mid-cut shoes.
For several years now, the market has offered mid-cut hiking shoes — also known as mid or semi-high shoes — sitting between low-cut and high-cut. More flexible than high-cut shoes and above all lighter, they are well suited to medium-length hikes, especially in summer, for hikers carrying a small pack.
High-cut, low-cut and now mid-cut — it's getting harder to keep track! Let's break down the advantages and disadvantages of mid-cut shoes together, to work out when they're the better choice over their low-cut and high-cut counterparts.
Brief description
A shoe is considered mid-cut when it rises to ankle level and has one hook above the ankle (compared to two on a high-cut shoe). Versatile, lighter than high-cut shoes yet offering better ankle support than low-cut models, mid-cut shoes are an excellent compromise between the two. Of course, they aren't perfect in every situation and, like any compromise, they don't win on every front. They remain less robust than high-cut shoes and don't offer the same ankle support; they are heavier than low-cut hiking shoes — but they hold their own and represent an excellent alternative for medium-length outings in nature or mid-mountain terrain.
When should you choose them?
Mid-cut shoes offer good ankle support and good breathability. They are fairly lightweight and flexible enough for the hiker to benefit from a better foot roll compared to a high-cut shoe. Generally more waterproof than low-cut shoes, they also feature toe caps for foot protection and are more durable. All of which makes them a versatile choice for a wide range of situations — let's look at those together.
- On moderately steep mountain terrain: while they grip the ankle less tightly than high-cut shoes, mid-cut shoes offer sufficient support for outings in mid-mountain terrain, provided the paths aren't too rugged. They give you more flexibility and lightness than high-cut shoes.
- For easy walks and light hikes: on straightforward terrain, especially in fine weather, there's no reason to burden yourself with heavy, stiff and warm high-cut shoes. Prioritise lightness, breathability and comfort with mid-cut shoes.
- In the desert: again, high-cut shoes often prove more of a hindrance than a help in the desert. They retain heat and don't allow the same natural foot roll as mid-cut or low-cut shoes. For greater versatility (when travelling you may not be hiking exclusively in the desert), opt for mid-cut rather than low-cut shoes.
- For multi-day hiking trips: the materials used in mid-cut shoes are almost always lighter than those found in high-cut shoes. Mid-cut shoes are therefore often lighter and can be a great choice for a multi-day hiking trip where every gram counts. Do make sure, however, that your pack isn't too heavy, to avoid putting excessive strain on your ankle — which is still less supported than in a high-cut shoe.
- For mountain hikes: mid-cut shoes also work well for mountain hikes, as long as conditions aren't too extreme — they will never be as waterproof or as warm as high-cut shoes. When buying, make sure they are fitted with toe caps to protect your toes and the front of your foot.
