Let's look at the various components that make up a hiking shoe, so you can determine the best option for your needs at the time of purchase.
To be able to choose the right pair of shoes best suited to your needs, it is necessary to first analyse the various components that make them up, so you can make an informed choice among the different options available. The choice between different upper heights, upper materials, and outsole stiffness is made based on criteria that may depend, for example, on the terrain you hike on or how often you hike — and it is only possible to make the right choice if you are familiar with the various options available on the market.
The upper
The term "upper" refers to the upper part of the hiking shoe and comes in three main categories: high upper, low upper or mid upper — that is, medium height. The choice between different upper heights is primarily based on the terrain on which the hiker plans to use their shoes. On rugged terrain, in high mountain environments or on rocky trails, it is advisable — if not essential — to wear shoes with a high upper (or possibly mid if the terrain is not too uneven). On the other hand, for a more leisurely walk on flat ground or hills, low-upper shoes are preferred, as they are more flexible and above all lighter.
The upper can also be made from different materials: smooth leather, nubuck or suede, mesh — meaning fabric — or even synthetic leather. Again, the choice of upper material depends on the terrain you hike on, your level, and the characteristics you prefer to prioritise: breathability, waterproofing, durability, flexibility or resistance, to name just a few.
The sole
A hiking shoe is made up of not one but three different soles:
- an outsole, which must have lugs and be non-slip. A good outsole offers a perfect balance between flexibility and durability, grip on the ground and foot support.
- a midsole that acts as a shock absorber, which is very important for protecting the leg joints and lower back. It is generally made from polyurethane foam or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) — the former being more durable, the latter more lightweight with more effective cushioning.
- an insole that provides enhanced cushioning and largely ensures the comfort of the shoe as well as its hygiene, since it can easily be washed and changed regularly. From the start, you can perfectly well replace the original insole with a new, more ergonomic or heat-moulded one.
Waterproof-breathable membranes
Some shoes come equipped with them, others do not — it's up to you to decide whether you need them. They combine water repellency and breathability thanks to highly advanced technology that allows perspiration and moisture to be expelled through the pores of the shoe, while preventing water from getting inside. Waterproof-breathable membranes are by far the best option if you want to keep your feet dry. The best-known brand behind this advanced technique is Gore-Tex®, a true benchmark and a reliable choice.
Tongue and lacing
Paying attention to the tongue when choosing your hiking shoe may seem a little excessive, but it is no minor detail — far from it. The tongue can be more or less thick, more or less ergonomic, and therefore more or less comfortable. Again, it is up to you to find the right balance between a thin tongue that allows better precision of movement and a thicker tongue that is more comfortable but offers less precision.
Lacing is also an important element that should never be overlooked. Proper lacing is essential for your safety: it ensures good support for the foot and ankle, helping you avoid the risk of twisting and other injuries. Good lacing is lacing that is easy and quick to do — and most importantly, lacing that stays tied.
The toe cap
The toe cap can also offer more or less coverage. Generally made of rubber, it covers the toe area and protects your toes from potential impacts, making it an essential feature on rocky trails. It can also extend to the back of the foot, at the heel, or even wrap all the way around the perimeter of the foot. The more coverage it provides, the better it protects the shoe against abrasion, offering durability and resistance for a longer lifespan for your walking shoes.
