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 make them your go-to? For your next mountain outings, remember to prepare your hiking accessories and gear.

Our walking and hiking shoes: the features

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

You will particularly appreciate the technical and durable materials, as well as superior-quality craftsmanship, with a pre-shaped heel and a sole that perfectly conforms to your arch. All 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, you're an avid walker looking for a well-suited pair of men's or women's hiking shoes:

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

Just like the tyres on your car, shoes are an essential piece of your hiking kit. The outsole provides grip on the ground, the upper ensures ankle support, and the waterproof membrane protects against the elements. All of these elements are key to both your safety and walking comfort. We have written a comprehensive guide on trekking footwear, so if you want to everything you need to know about hiking shoes, find our tips.

What collar height should you choose?

Choosing the right collar 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-cut upper are specially designed to provide a optimal support of the ankle and foot, making them ideal for rugged terrain or long hikes with a heavy pack. They are robust and reduce the risk of injuries such as sprains while providing extra stability.

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

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

Our tips when trying on shoes

When choosing hiking shoes, it is 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 on with the right socks: It is advisable to try your hiking shoes with the socks you will wear 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, uneven terrain. On the other hand, a more flexible shoe will be ideal for less demanding terrain or for active walkers who practise fast hiking.
• Choosing the right size: It is 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. Also, your feet can swell during exertion, so it is important to leave them a little room.
• Comparing feel: Try different models by lacing them up and compare how they 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 feel 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 is important to replace your hiking shoes when they start showing signs of wear, such as worn-out outsoles or deteriorating seams.

How to care for your hiking shoes?

Regularly, it is important to take care of your shoes by doing a deep clean. To start, loosen the laces and tongue to make it easier to air out and dry, and to reach every part of the shoe. Then clean the outsoles, 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, breathable area.

Equip yourself with a soft brush, make sure you have access to clean, lukewarm water, and start scrubbing. A rinse with clean water will help combat bad odours and, if your shoes are breathable, reactivate the breathability of the membrane. Finally, leave your hiking shoes to dry in a dry, breathable spot, away from direct sunlight or any heat source.

From time to time, think about re-waterproof to preserve the effectiveness of the membrane against rain. You can even replace the laces and have your pair resoled. By following these simple care tips, you can extend the life of your shoes. 

 The importance of good socks and insoles

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

• Insoles: The choice of insoles is crucial for arch support. It is important to take into account your gait type (neutral, supinating or pronating) as well as your arch type (high, medium or flat). The right insoles can greatly improve your comfort and prevent pain even on steep ascents. For hikes in warm weather, opt for lightweight, breathable insoles that wick moisture away effectively.
• Socks: Hiking socks play a crucial role in the comfort of your feet. They should be breathable to wick away moisture 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 meet the highest standards of quality and performance. If you need expert advice, feel free to get in touch. Complete your kit with a breathable hiking t-shirt, a hiking jacket or walking poles.

Where to buy hiking shoes at Cimalp?

You can buy your hiking shoes directly on our online shop or in our store 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 great choice of colours, making it easy to find the pair you need. You can also explore our full range of outdoor sportswear for your mountain adventures.

We also offer options for fast delivery and convenient for home delivery or click-and-collect. If you change your mind, returns are free within 30 days. Plus, you regularly benefit from promotions and competitive prices to help you save. We also offer end-of-line models at a discount on the recommended retail price to suit your budget. For those who prefer to try products before buying, our physical store lets you discover the shoes in person. Explore our offers and enjoy the excellence of Cimalp technologies for your next hikes.

Browse all our models, whether high-cut, mid-cut or low-cut:

• 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