Hiking shoes

At Cimalp, we offer the best hiking shoe brands for all types of terrain. So, what are the features of our hiking shoes and why should you absolutely make them yours? For your next mountain outings, remember to prepare your hiking accessories and gear.

Our walking and hiking shoes: the features

We offer built-to-last shoes, carefully crafted, made from leather or technical materials and lined with waterproof-breathable membranes. Thanks to this, your feet stay dry and, most importantly, breathe even during long hikes in warm weather. Moreover, the Vibram soles are known for their perfect grip and stability on all surfaces, wet or dry, flat or sloped, while remaining flexible and lightweight.

You will particularly appreciate the technical and durable materials, but also superior build quality, with a pre-shaped heel and a sole that perfectly moulds to your arch. All of this for uncompromising comfort and durability on all-terrain hikes, even the most demanding. Hike in style by choosing from a wide range of designs and colours to find a pair that is both technical and on-trend. Cimalp also offers numerous innovations for an optimal experience on every trail.

Why have hiking and trekking shoes?

If you're here, it's because you're a keen hiker and you need a well-suited pair of men's or women's hiking shoes:

• To your body shape
• To the type of terrain
• To your habits
• To your fitness level

Just like the tyres on your car, shoes are an essential part of your hiking kit. The sole provides grip on the ground, the upper ensures ankle support and the waterproof membrane protects against the elements. All of these features guarantee both your safety and walking comfort. We've put together a comprehensive guide on trek shoes, so if you'd like to everything you need to know about hiking shoes, find our advice.

What upper height should you choose?

Choosing the right upper height for your hiking shoes is essential to ensure your comfort and safety during your outings. An ill-suited upper can quickly ruin your walking experience. Depending on the terrain, different models exist to meet every need.

Shoes with a high upper are specifically designed to provide a optimal support of the ankle and foot, making them ideal for rugged terrain or long hikes with a heavy backpack. They are built-to-last and reduce the risk of injuries such as sprains, while providing additional stability.

Models with a mid upper are versatile shoes that represent a good compromise, offering ankle support while remaining more lightweight and more flexible than high-upper models. They are perfect for moderate hikes. 

Finally, low-upper shoes are the lightest and most flexible, ideal for day hikes and forest walks on non-technical trails. They offer greater freedom of movement, but do not provide the same ankle support as higher models. Check out our collection of low-upper hiking shoes.

Our fitting tips

When choosing hiking shoes, it's crucial to focus on 2 or 3 specific models that best match your activity. Here are some tips to help you find the right pair:

• Try with the right socks : It's advisable to test your hiking shoes with the socks you'll be wearing on your hikes. Hiking socks are generally thicker than regular socks and offer better cushioning and increased protection against blisters.
• Testing stiffness : When trying on shoes, gently twist the shoe to test its stiffness. If the structure is very rigid, it will be better suited to technical hikers tackling difficult and rugged terrain. On the other hand, a more flexible shoe will be perfect for less demanding terrain or for sporty walkers who practise fast hiking.
• Choosing the right size : It's generally advisable to choose a size slightly larger than your usual size. This prevents your toes from touching the end of the shoe, especially on descents. In addition, your feet can swell during exercise, so it's important to leave them a little room.
• Compare the feel : Try different models by lacing them up and comparing the feel. Walk, jump, and climb a few stairs if possible to test comfort and support. A good shoe should wrap around your foot without compressing it, offer good arch support and be comfortable from the very first try.

When should you replace your walking shoes?

It is recommended to replace your hiking shoes every 1,000 km, depending on how often you use them and the conditions in which you hike. It's important to replace your hiking shoes when they start to show signs of wear, such as worn outer soles or deteriorated stitching.

How to care for your hiking shoes?

Regularly, it's important to care for your shoes by carrying out a deep cleaning. To start, loosen the laces and tongue to allow ventilation and drying, and to reach every corner. Then clean the outer soles, making sure there are no stones or residue left. Next, remove the insoles and, if necessary, brush or wash them, then leave them to dry in a well-ventilated area.

Grab a soft brush, make sure you have access to lukewarm clean water within reach, and start scrubbing. A rinse with clean water will help tackle bad odours and, if your shoes are breathable, reactivate the breathability of the membrane. Finally, leave your hiking shoes to dry in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or any heat source.

From time to time, remember to re-waterproof to preserve the efficiency of the membrane against rain. You can even replace the laces and have your pair resoled. By following these simple care tips, you'll ensure a longer lifespan for your shoes. 

 The importance of a good pair of socks and soles

A large part of the discomfort felt while hiking is often due to poor arch support. To optimise your comfort, it's essential to pay attention to the quality of your socks and soles:

• Soles : Choosing the right soles is crucial for arch support. It's important to take into account your gait type (neutral, supinating or pronating) as well as your arch type (high, medium or flat). Well-suited soles can greatly improve your comfort and prevent pain even on steep gradients. For warm-weather hikes, opt for lightweight and breathable soles that wick moisture away effectively.
• Socks : Hiking socks play a crucial role in foot comfort. They should be breathable to wick away perspiration and prevent friction and folds that can cause blisters. In cold conditions, choose socks that offer good thermal insulation.

At Cimalp, our hiking and trekking shoes are built to meet strict quality and performance standards. If you need expert advice, don't hesitate to get in touch. Complete your outfit with a breathable hiking t-shirt, a hiking jacket or some walking poles.

Where to buy hiking shoes at Cimalp?

You can buy your hiking shoes directly on our online store or in our shop located in Saint-Marcel-lès-Valence. On our website, we offer a wide range of models and new arrivals available at the best prices, with real-time availability and a variety of colours, so you can quickly find the pair you need. You can also explore all our outdoor sportswear for your mountain adventures.

We also offer options for fast delivery and convenient at home or at a collection point. If you change your mind, returns are free within 30 days. Plus, you'll regularly benefit from promotions and competitive prices to help you save. We also offer end-of-line models at a reduced price compared to the recommended retail price to protect your budget. For those who prefer to try before they buy, our physical store lets you discover shoes in person. Explore our range and take advantage of Cimalp's technology excellence for your next hikes.

Browse all our models, whether high, mid or low upper:

• The men's hiking shoes
• The women's hiking shoes
• The Scarpa mountaineering and hiking shoes
• The Meindl mountaineering and hiking shoes
• The Lowa hiking shoes
• The Asolo hiking shoes
• The Aku hiking shoes