What are the best hiking shoes?

The pair that suits your terrain and the weight of your pack. On easy trails, low-cut shoes weighing around 370 g each are enough; in the mountains with a heavy pack, choose high-cut boots. Our guide compares the models in the range: what are the best hiking shoes?

What is the difference between a hiking shoe and a trail shoe?

The hiking shoe is designed for stable progression with the option to carry a load. The trail shoe is optimised for running on trails: lighter, less protective, and unsuitable for carrying a heavy pack. If you're walking, even at pace, go for a hiking shoe.

Should I size up by half a size?

Yes, generally. Feet swell during exercise, particularly on descents. Leaving 0.5 to 1 cm between your longest toe and the end of the shoe helps prevent black toenails. Always try them on with the hiking socks you’ll wear. In the Cimalp range, the 365 X-HIKING and 365 X-TREK run small (go up a size), while the TOUET runs large (go down a size).

How do I care for my hiking shoes?

After every outing: brush the sole and upper, leave to dry in the open air — never near a direct heat source. Every 5 to 10 outings: apply a waterproofing treatment suited to the material to reactivate the DWR.

Hiking shoes

Explore our selection of walking shoes suited to all your hikes and treks, whatever the terrain. Choose from Cimalp's range of waterproof and breathable footwear or from recognised brands such as Meindl, Scarpa, Aku, Asolo and Lowa.