How to choose the right winter hiking shoes to make the most of your outings in all weathers and all year round
Winter should not put you off hiking! On the contrary, the beauty of the landscapes at that time of year is often unrivalled. However, it is important to choose shoes suited to winter conditions, so you can hike safely while staying warm and dry, and fully enjoy your mountain outings despite the cold, rain, mud and sometimes snow.
High-ankle shoes in any case
High-ankle shoes are the absolute must for any winter outing. They are the only ones suited to the coldest temperatures and capable of protecting your foot from external moisture. Most are fitted with lugged and non-slip soles for optimal grip in snow or on ice. They are also the most waterproof of the three main types of hiking shoes (low, mid and high) and the most robust. Note that there are shoes specifically designed for the winter season, warmer and generally higher than standard high-ankle hiking shoes.
How to choose the right winter hiking shoes?
Before buying shoes intended for winter hiking, it is essential to take the time to carefully check several details, to ensure you can head out in complete safety and the best possible comfort.
- Check waterproofing: the first thing to ensure when choosing winter hiking shoes is their waterproofing. There is nothing worse than hiking with wet feet, especially in the cold. In autumn and winter in the mountains, rain and snow arrive early, so you will quickly find yourself walking on wet and damp ground. Opt for leather shoes lined with a waterproof membrane and fitted with reinforcements on the sides, at the front (an important toe cap) and at the back. The higher your shoes, the more watertight they will be in rain or snow. Also note that there are gaiters you can pull on over your shoes, which are very effective too, especially in rain.
- Check that the sole grips well: the sole must protect you from the cold — that is a first, non-negotiable point. Secondly, it must also provide good grip on snow and ice! On black ice or hard-packed snow, it is very easy to slip. You must choose soles with pronounced lugs and avoid overly rigid soles — the more flexible they are, the better the traction on the ground. You can also use hiking poles to improve your balance and stability, and reduce the risk of falls or slipping.
- Choose breathable shoes and insoles: as already mentioned, there is nothing worse than hiking with wet feet. Yet when exerting yourself, you tend to sweat. To prevent your feet from sitting in their own moisture, opt for warm but breathable socks and shoes that wick away moisture effectively. This also reduces the risk of blisters. There is also no point in buying shoes that are too warm if you are not hiking in extreme conditions. Even in the cold, once you get moving, you warm up. If you choose shoes that are too warm, you will sweat more, which is not particularly pleasant either.
