Trekking shoes are a fundamental element when planning an adventure in nature. Nowadays, many different types of hiking boots and shoes exist.  Not just different brands, there are also different technologies to provide more comfort, resistance, or grip for tougher terrain.

Running shoes, on the other hand, may seem comfortable, but we know from experience that this ends up being a bad idea.  The same goes for work boots.  They may be very tough, but they’re not made for this type of activity.

So, how to choose the best shoes for going on excursions with Haloyiannis?  Is Waterproof better?  With ankle support, or low cut? 

The most common technologies: Waterproof vs. Water-resistant

Goretex is the first patented membrane technology brand.  This consists of a very fine layer of politetrafluoroethylene which, in summary, prevents water from entering the inside of the shoe, while at the same time allowing sweat to escape.  It is said that this membrane contains 1400 million pores in just one square centimeter.

This makes it both a water-resistant and breathable technology, which keeps the foot dry and at an optimal temperature.  For this reason, it’s recommended when hiking across a river, when it has rained a lot or when rain is in the forecast.  The material also dries much quicker than other shoes. A few alternatives to Goretex that also use membrane technology include Hyvent, Sympatex and Omnidry.

On the other hand, Waterproof technology utilizes a very different method, which consists of spreading a chemical product over the entire surface of the shoe to leave it completely waterproof.  However, as it’s not a breathable material, it’s very important to consider beforehand which activities the shoes will be used for, how many kilometers they’ll need to cover and the type of terrain.

If you plan on going on a long trek, most likely sweat and heat from waterproof shoes will irritate your feet.  But if you’re going a shorter distance and plan on being in a humid area for an extended amount of time, such as for taking pictures, this type of footwear works well and will provide protection.

Types of soles

While trekking, it’s normal to come across complicated terrain.  The trails tend to be in good conditions, but there are always areas that put the resistance and grip of our shoes to the test.  It may be a rocky terrain, a slope with loose sand, or mud.  It’s important that the shoe has a good sole that supports us, is comfortable while walking and holds up through many adventures.

For long walks, it’s important to use a flexible and comfortable shoe.  A good bit of advice that we can give you is to start using your shoes before embarking on a long hike. Try walking around your neighborhood to break them in.  This way, they’ll adapt to your feet and won’t feel so rigid during your main challenge.

Differences between high, mid and low-cut boots

In order to avoid injuring the ankle, high or mid-cut boots are recommended.  This is the main function of this element that characterizes trekking shoes: provide stability while walking, especially for those who aren’t used to these activities. What’s more, of course, by using high-cut boots our ankles and feet are better protected from branches, mud or rocks which we will surely encounter along the way.

That being said, it’s important to know that when lacing up the shoes, they should not be too tight around the foot or ankle.  Even though they may feel firm and secure at the beginning, during the walk you’ll need them to be a little bit loose.  If not, you’ll run the risk of injury.

To see the excursions we have available at Haloyiannis, write to us at haloyiannis@gmail.com and start planning your best vacation and adventures in nature with us.