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If you want to wear sneakers while hiking, consider trail running shoes or low-top hiking shoes instead. You should make sure to purchase shoes with good tread and durable materials to protect your feet from the elements.

When you hike, you should make sure to wear proper shoes. Sneakers are not designed for hiking over varied terrain. Instead, they are designed for gym use or walking the streets. Because of this, they will not provide adequate traction on trails and they will not protect your feet from debris. 

Consider the following (general) alternatives available on the market:

Trail running shoes

If you have a high arch, a pair of trail running shoes may be too low for you. Conversely, if you have a low arch, you may need to consider a stability shoe. The following sections will explain why trail running shoes are okay for hiking. A good pair of hiking shoes will have about 10mm of cushioning in the heel. Whether you need more cushioning or stability is up to you.

A good all-round trail running shoe is the Brooks Cascadia 14. This versatile shoe offers mixed-surface traction and stability in the woods, and excellent support on road surfaces. The soles are made with special zones to provide traction and stability. This model has a midsole made of soft EVA, making it a great choice for hiking or backpacking. Runners with medium-volume feet may want to consider the Inov8 Terraultra G260. It has a storied history among British mountaineers and lightweight backpackers.

Waterproof Hiking Shoes

When shopping for waterproof hiking shoes, look for a water-repellent membrane and a grippy sole. While water-resistant hiking shoes aren't meant for multi-day hikes or rugged terrain, they are good for short excursions such as crossing a creek and canyon-exploring. Waterproof hiking shoes that feature more stability, cushioning, and support are better suited for longer hikes. Read on for some tips on purchasing the right hiking shoes.

The first consideration when choosing hiking footwear is the water-repellent membrane. Gore-tex and eVent membranes are made to keep water from getting in. Gore-tex membranes are the best choice for this, as they let vapors escape, reducing the risk of sweaty sock situations. Another factor to look for is the number of lugs on the rubber outsole. Hiking shoes with five to seven millimeters of lugs are good for solid grip.

Lightweight Hiking Shoes

Depending on your intended use, lightweight hiking shoes are fine for short hikes. But for long hikes, you may need more support. Lightweight hiking shoes are generally made of soft rubber. Their softness will cause them to wear out faster than firm rubber outsoles. Support in hiking shoes comes from the midsole and sole of the shoe. They are stiff in the middle of the foot but flexible near the toe.

The Merrell Moab Ventilator is designed to keep your feet cool during long days on the trail. Its water-resistant leather and mesh upper will help keep you cool. The sole is durable and provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces. These shoes are also good for people with wide feet but don't have much arch support. However, they're affordable and will fit any budget. They'll be great for short hikes.

Features to Consider

Durability of Hiking Shoes

While a pair of hiking boots can be durable, the same cannot be said of the same pair of leather boots. Leather shoes are extremely durable, molding to your feet and gaining softer with age. The soles of these shoes, however, wear out much faster than the uppers, and most hikers end up sending them to a cobbler when they're past their prime. If you're a serious hiker, you'll want to make sure you purchase hiking shoes made from leather.

Hiking shoes are often more durable than standard running shoes, since they're made for rougher conditions. They are made from waterproof materials, making them excellent in wet environments. A pair of hiking boots may be used for more than 1000 miles before needing to be replaced. Because hiking shoes are thick and stiff, they need a longer break-in period. During this time, they mold to your foot's shape and prevent blisters.

Comfort of Hiking Shoes

While comfort is a key factor in selecting a pair of hiking shoes, a poorly fitting shoe can cause discomfort. The shape of the human foot varies widely. Selecting hiking shoes that fit your arch type and heel is crucial for proper support. Comfort also contributes to a reduction in stress-related injuries. The following are some tips to make your shoes more comfortable:

Whether you choose to wear leather boots or hiking shoes, the comfort of your footwear can make or break your hike. Hiking shoes should offer support, cushioning, and durability. While you can choose hiking boots for cold weather, shoes that are lightweight in the summer can be comfortable in warm weather. Whether you go hiking a few times a year or spend countless hours each year, the right shoe is essential for your comfort.