Hiking Boots and Shoes - coolhikinggear.com

The Best Hiking Boots For Machu Picchu

I mentioned a few weeks back that I am planning to travel to Peru later this year to, among many things, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I am really looking forward to this as it is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, it’s been on my hiking bucket list for many years.

I pretty much have everything sorted in terms of travel, Inca Trail passes, etc. As I draw closer to the trip, about three months away now, I am now starting to turn my attention to the finer details, so things like gear are coming up for review and consideration.

One of the main questions I have come across when looking into gear, is what are the best hiking boots for Machu Picchu, or rather, hiking on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

I did a fair bit of research into this, and also spoke with a guide who leads treks on the Inca Trail to get his take on it and he confirmed what I suspected. Below I go through the main things you want to look for in a pair of hiking boots best suited to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Solidity with Flexible Soles

Basically, you want to have a solid pair of hiking boots, by solid I mean as in good quality. A key thing to look for is a pair of hiking boots with a relatively flexible sole.

The key thing here is flexibility in the sole. What I mean by that is that, you should be able to bend the sole of the hiking boot between your two hands, as shown in the image below.

Now, I don’t mean that you can bend it so much that the hiking boots fold in on themselves, that’s too flexible. On the other side of the coin, you also don’t want or need a sole that is too rigid that hardly bends at all.

For example, something along the lines of boots that are crampon compatible is not suitable. You’re looking for the middle ground of stability with flexibility.

It goes without saying, but the soles should also offer good traction and grip on the trail. It is hard to go wrong with Vibram made soles when it comes to that requirement.

I’ve used many hiking different boots with Vibram soles and to date, the Vibram soles have delivered well in terms of grip and good traction on terrain.

Comfort

On first glance, this is obvious, you of course want comfort in a good pair of hiking boots, almost a no brainer. However, there are a few things to point out when focusing in on this.

First, I think a good Mid style hiking boot is a good thing to aim at. In terms of construction, a mid style shaft is ideal. So not rising too high and tight up over your ankles, but providing enough support to be comfortable. The shaft should also have adequate padding to provide comfort in the support provided

The next thing is good breathability, so again Mid GTX (Goretex) is a perfect fit. Temperatures will vary depending when you go. Broadly speaking, as referenced in this post, the best time to visit Machu Picchu is between April to October, more May to September, as the rainy season is in full swing from November to February / March.

Between April to September, we are in Fall and Winter in Peru, with winter being from June to September. This is also the dry season, which may seem a little counterintuitive.

Temperatures from June to September can be as high as in and around 20 degree celsius during the day, and as low as zero degrees celsius at night. It is not uncommon for it to drop below zero in the negative either.

The main point of note here is that, you need a versatile of hiking boots that can breathe when your hiking during the day, but still offer a bit of warmth as the sun goes down and the evenings get chilly, and they can get chilly!

My Recommendation

Having reviewed the gear list for this trip, the good news was that I already have all the hiking gear needed in my existing hiking kit. Granted, I have a fair bit of hiking gear, but I think in many cases most people will have much of what they need, if they are regular hikers.

I plan to take my Lowa Renegade GTX, I think they are perfect for the job. They have decent flexibility in the soles so should meet the requirement and allow the foot to bend, not too little and not too much. Here is the ladies version of the same boots, which I also recommend.

They have a Gore-tex lining so they are very breathable, basically they are the boots I wear hiking in summer in similar temperatures as outlined above, but they also hold up pretty well in much cooler conditions too.

They are a mid style hiking boot so the shaft is just the right size, with adequate padding to provide comfort and stability.

They are my top recommendation. If you’d like to check out more hiking boots, check out the best hiking boots for men and the best hiking boots for women. You will find plenty of recommendations there to meet your needs for every type of hiking.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, that’s my opinion and recommendation on the best hiking boots for Machu Picchu. I hope you found this article useful if you’re trying to pick boots for this trip.

Your hiking boots are of course fundamental to the level of enjoyment you will have on this hike, a bad pair of boots and you will open yourself up to blisters etc. which is just no fun at all!

Remember to break your boots in before you get there, so your boots are comfortable for the entire trek. I am really looking forward to the trip, and I hope you have a great one when you get there too!

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Best Hiking Sandals

In this post we preview the best men’s hiking sandals available on the market today. When you are choosing your hiking sandals, whether you are an experienced hiker or trekker or not, there are a few key things that you need to consider.

Getting the wrong pair of sandals, as with any other piece of footwear, can lead to a whole world of pain and quite probably an awful lot of blisters. To help avoid that, we link to our buying advice at the end of this article.

Before we get to that, let’s take a look at the best hiking sandals for men! If you don’t have time to go through the full list and just want to know our top choice for men, we recommend the KEEN Newport H2, they are excellent!

There are oodles of options available, so we’ve honed in some of the top performers which are also the most popular with lot’s of excellent reviews and user love.

1. KEEN Newport H2

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Neoprene backed webbing for comfort and fit, wet or dry
Comfortable and supportive fit
Excellent traction
Fast-drying and machine washable

Cons:

Closed toe means sand and small stones can get trapped inside the sandal

KEEN Newport H2 Features Summary:

Washable polyester webbing
Non-marking rubber outsole with razor siping sole
Metatomical EVA footbed
Removable metatomical PU footbed
Multi directional lug pattern for increased traction
PFC Free materials
Secure fit lace capture system
TPU stability shank
Cleansport NXT for natural odor control

Best Uses: River walking, light hiking on trails, camp shoes, general outdoor use, general day-to-day use

The Newport H2 by KEEN, one of the leading brands in outdoor footwear, is a hybrid model that combines the grip and versatility of a water sandal with the toe protection and secure fit of a shoe.

Ideal for any outside activity and robust enough for even moderate hikes, the KEEN Newport H2 is extra-supportive and makes transitions from wet to dry with ease thanks to its excellent traction and fast-drying construction.

This KEEN sandal has a non-marking rubber outsole with multi-directional lug pattern and razor siping for excellent traction. The Newport H2 grips well on both wet and dry surfaces, making it an excellent choice for hiking over more rugged terrain, especially with water crossings.

The TPU stability shank further adds to its support, while its anatomical EVA footbed molds to the shape of your foot for a personalized fit and unrivaled support and comfort.

The density of the footbed makes the sole springy and helps to absorb shocks while preventing your foot from slipping, even when wet.

The Newport H2 features a neoprene lined webbing upper that is durable, comfortable and quick drying. The neoprene prevents chafing and improves performance and stability in wet conditions.

Complete with durable rubber toe area to prevent stubbing and an efficient lace secure-fit fastening system, the KEEN Newport H2 provides a secure fit with enhanced protection not usually found in a sandal.

Fast-drying and machine washable, this sandal is extremely practical. The upper is also treated with an odor-reducing Aegis Microbe Shield® to keep your sandals smelling fresh between washes. The Newport H2 is available in several colors with a range of contrasting color accents.

In short, this is a fantastically versatile sandal with great traction. It is as suitable for trail hiking as it is for creek exploration and general outdoor activities, thanks to its comfortable fit, great support and covered toe area.

2. Chaco Z/2 Cloud 2

Check Availability at REI.

Pros:

Very comfortable sandal that fits snugly around your feet
Great traction works well on flat and rocky terrain
Excellent molding on the shoe with built in ankle protection
Adjustable and easy to clean, machine washable
Very good in the water and quick drying

Cons:

Expensive
A little on the heavy side

Chaco Z/2 Cloud 2 Sandals For Men Features Summary:

Toe loops offer additional forefoot control
Podiatrist-certified Luvseat polyurethane footbeds for all-day comfort and support
3.5mm lug depth for great traction
Antimicrobial application for odor control

Best Uses: River walking, water sports, light hiking on trails, camp shoes, general outdoor use, general day-to-day use

These Chaco Z/2 Cloud 2 are a really comfortable and functional pair of sandals. Excellent on land or in the wet stuff, they’re a top all around performer. They are also ideal for almost all other types of trickier terrain including rocks and boulders.

The shoes are machine washable if they do get dirty on one of your exciting adventures.

The Dual-density polyurethane midsole in conjunction with the Polyester jaquard webbing upper, gives you that extra bit of support when you are walking. The ChacoGrip rubber outsoles and ultrasoft top layers for cushioning underfoot make you feel like you aren’t actually wearing any shoes at all.

This is a really comfortable sandal that you can wear all day and night, should you so choose. It is a fantastic water shoe that provides you with great comfort and it will perform just as well when you are hiking on a light trail on a hot summers day too.

The sandals are very easily cleaned, and are great in the water, so there are no concerns about permanent water damage. The ability to dry the shoe quickly means that you are ready to wear them again in just a few hours.

Overall verdict; brilliant sandals, easily adaptable to any terrain. You may need to wear these sandals in a bit before your first real test out in the elements of nature.

3. Teva Hurricane XLT2

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Great adjustability in the sandal
Really good fitting and very comfortable shoe
Sturdy, rugged, and durable
Quick to wear in and be ready for extended use, ill work on varying terrain
Good in the water and very quick and hassle free to wash and dry

Cons:

There have been complaints of the glue coming away from the shoe leaving the shoe to fall apart. This has been reported by several customers
The quality of the product has diminished over the years with loyal customers expressing their concerns with the quality of the latest versions
Hard outsole with very little padding on the straps and no toe protection

Teva Men’s Hurricane XLT2 Sandal Features Summary:

Available in 18 colors/styles
Made with polyester flat webbing
Contoured footbed and the sole is made from rubber
Rugged sandal
Straps are made from nylon

Best Uses: Campsite use, general outdoor use, general day-to-day use

Next on our list, A very simple yet effective sandal that has been developed so that every strap is adjustable to enable you to find the perfect fit.

With many different colors to choose from, you can absolutely guarantee that you will find something to suit your needs. The lack of material means that this particular sandal is very easy to clean and extremely fast drying.

Because the shoes are basically straps, you are able to pack them easily and they will take up very little room in your bag.

This is a comfortable shoe that is produced by one of the forerunners in hiking sandals. Years of development have gone into this shoe to make it one of the very best on the market.

This is a very simple sandal that provides great adjustability to ensure the most comfort for you. There is a large selection of colors available to make sure you can purchase the best option that meets your requirements.

These are very quick and easy to wash and dry, which is a wonderful benefit when you are hiking / trekking.

Verdict; This is a rugged sandal that has very loyal followers. However, note that the more regular customers are now complaining that the quality of the shoe has dropped dramatically over the last couple of years.

4. Chaco Z1 Classic Sport

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Sturdy footbed for support and comfort even on extended hiking trips
Great shock-absorbing outsole for comfortable feet whatever the terrain
Sturdy and durable, these sandals are made to last
Intuitive, highly-adjustable straps for a custom fit

Cons:

If you’re looking for a lightweight sandal for occasional use you may find the Z1 on the heavy side

Chaco Z1 Classic Sport Sandal For Men Features Summary:

Available in 20+ different color styles
Polyester jacquard webbing upper wraps around the foot and through the midsole for a customized fit
Adjustable and durable high-tensile webbing heel risers
Adjustable fit with durable high-tensile webbing heel risers
LUVSEAT PU midsole
Antimicrobial application for odor control
Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole with 3.5mm deep lug

Best Uses: Light trail hiking, campsite use, river walking, general outdoor and day-to-day use

The Z1 Classic Athletic by Chaco has become an iconic sport sandal, renowned for its comfort and durability since its creation in 1989. Streamlined and fuss-free, its solid sole and superb grip make this robust sandal ideal summer hiking footwear, even out on rough terrain.

Made from a bespoke non-marking rubber, ChacoGrip, this sandal’s thick outsole protects your feet and is an excellent shock absorber, making easy work of difficult terrain.

The Z1’s outsole provides enhanced performance and grip thanks to a 3.5 mm deep lug that is optimized for extreme conditions and wet traction.

Performance and traction are further enhanced by the Z1’s LUVSEAT PU stiff and sturdy midsole, which provides contoured arch support. These midsoles do not compress nor break down with wear and are central to Chaco’s practical design.

The upper consists of durable polyester jacquard webbing. Not only does this webbing wrap around the foot, for fit and comfort, it also wraps through the midsole itself, ensuring an unparalleled fit and increasing longevity.

The straps can be adjusted to a custom-fit, although it can take a little trial and error to get used to Chaco’s excellent system if you’re trying it out for the first time.

In terms of comfort, the Z1 is hard to beat, especially for long days on the trail. Its LUVSEAT midsole is podiatrist certified, offering day-long support and keeping your feet comfortable no matter how many hours you’re out hiking for.

The upper straps are quick drying and intuitively placed, preventing rubbing and ensuring your feet are secure. An antimicrobial treatment application ensures the Z1 remains odor-free, even after long periods of wear.

For intensive use, durability and extreme terrain, it’s hard to find a sandal that’s an improvement on the Chaco Z1 Classic. It’s streamlined, timeless design provides the protection and traction you need out on the trail without compromising on comfort.

5. Ecco Yucatan

Check Availability at Amazon.

Pros:

Durable, molded EVA footbed offering stability and cushioning
Agion treated footbed to prevent bacterial growth
PU foam midsole for outstanding comfort
Superior grip and traction on outdoor terrain

Cons:

Some may find the front strap doesn’t adapt adequately to their feet as it only offers minimal adjustment
More expensive than many other quality hiking sandals

Ecco Yucatan Sandal For Men Features Summary:

Available in a wide variety of color combinations and pattern styles
Pull-up leathers on a classic silhouette for a rich look and feel
Lightweight moulded EVA footbed with soft microfibre cover for supreme cushioning and superior stability
A direct-injected PU midsole foam provides long-lasting cushioning and outstanding everyday walking comfort
RECEPTOR technology for excellent stability and dynamic support from ground impact to toe-off
urable rubber outsole for outstanding grip and traction on varied terrain
Overall versatile design and construction

Best Uses: Light trail hiking, campsite use, river walking, general outdoor and day-to-day use

The Ecco Yucatan is a classic sandal with a huge fan base, having sold over 10 million pairs.

Famous for its outstanding comfort, this popular sandal is a great all-rounder, suitable for light to moderate hiking although its traditional looks mean many chose it as their go-to summer sandal for daily wear

The outsole is made from durable rubber and with its deep lugs it offers outstanding grip and traction on varied terrain, including slippery rocks and loose-underfoot trails.

With its midsole consisting of directly injected PU foam for long-lasting cushioning, the Yucatan provides great comfort for the everyday walker. Receptor technology ensures that the foot remains stable and supported from ground impact.

This performance sports sandal features an Agion-treated EVA footbed to inhibit bacterial growth and maintain healthy feet and odor-free sandals.

The soft microfiber covering combines supreme comfort with excellent stability, keeping feet fresh. The Yucatan has a comfortable, flexible nubuck leather upper in a classic silhouette, complete with three-point adjustability and a neoprene lining for even more added comfort.

The Yucatan’s versatile design, great comfort and grip make it an ideal sandal to wear out on the trail, although its lightweight classic design make it equally suited to an urban lifestyle and day-to-day non-intensive sports use. These sandals are extremely popular and keep feet comfortable mile after mile.

Conclusion

We hope you found this post on the best hiking sandals for men useful. As you can see these are some of these options are available at very affordable prices. We’ll be adding to this over time, so refer back often to see what other excellent sandals we add.

If you’re new to hiking sandals, be sure to check out guide on how to choose hiking sandals. It goes over the main things you need to consider when buying a pair of good hiking sandals to meet your needs.

Happy hiking!

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boots For Women

Columbia is famous for its wide range of sleek and stylish boots. The company specializes in outdoor footwear, sportswear and accessories, all of which are engineered using the highest quality of materials and the best technology available. Today we take a closer look at an excellent pair of hiking boots from them, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots for women.

The Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots For Women

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot

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Summary

Brand and Model	Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots For Women
Retail Price	Check price on Amazon
Our Rating
Pros	Comfortable boots, lightweight and affordable
Cons	Laces are a bit short, more cushioning would be nice, can lose a bit of traction when wet
Best Uses	Perfect for light to medium hiking, a great choice for a newbie hiker wanting to test the water, practical for day-to-day use as well

Overview

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots for women are one of the newest products from the brand, and going by the looks of it, the boots are totally designed to impress! Available in the classy shades of quarry, cool wave and cordovan, crown jewel.

The Newton Ridge Boots are stylish, comfortable and durable. These shades will perfectly complement your hiking gear as well as your casual attire, and add an entirely new definition to it.

You can always team it up with a pair of colorful woolen socks to pep up your look further! The boots come in a sporty design, and the leather finish renders a classic and sophisticated look to them. The boots are easy to put on, and marry a perfect combination of practicality, comfort and style.

Comfort

The Women’s Newton Ridge Boots are extremely comfortable. While the boot itself is made from leather and mesh, it comes with a soft techlite midsole cushioning that will help keep your feet warm and dry.

The midsole, is made from compression-molded EVA foam which keeps your feet comfortable, irrespective of the weather conditions or the terrain. While the cushioning will make it comfortable for you to walk, it’ll also make it easier for you to put the boots on. And that’s not all! The mesh insole is soft and breathable which further ensures that your feet, don’t suffocate in any way.

We were also impressed by the strong yet very stylish lace. Yes! Unlike many other trekking boots, the Newton Ridge come with a lace that is firmly placed at the top in a triangular D-shaped ring. This system is handy and helps when you’re looking to pull your laces tighter for that snug fit. The simple lacing system also ensures that you don’t have to fiddle to adjust them. All you need to do is pull them and they’re good to go!

In case you’re worried about using these boots in frosty weather, don’t, you’re totally covered! Being made from the best quality materials, they are balanced and perfectly safe to be used in frost and snow. Many users have tried the boots on frosty streets as well as deeper snows as a part of their hiking trips out on the trail, and almost all of them have lauded the product for its amazing functional capability and convenience.

Being made from a combination of leather and mesh, you surely won’t have to worry about water or frosty climate ruining your shoes. The Columbia Newton Ridge Boots are crafted from waterproof, full grain leather (always hard to beat leather as a material for hiking boots!) that has had stain resistant treatment.

So, it doesn’t really matter how tough the weather is, the boots perform well will keep you warm all the way round on the trail. The Omnishield technology will further protect your feet when you’re walking on small puddles, rivers or snow.

Support, Stability and Grip

When it comes to support and proper grip, we’d rate this boot pretty high. This is primarily because of the rubber outsole, which provides it with the necessary grip and support, even when you’re walking on the most rugged terrain.

This rubber outsole has two layers, namely, the lugged outsole and the small, white, rubbery heel that creates a rift between the outsole and the midsole. Owing to this, your feet will feel snug and protected from any outside coldness from snow, ice or any uncomfortable terrain that you’re passing over. The outsole also provides excellent grip on the trail.

The boots waterproof construction will keep your feet dry from shallow streams, showers and early morning dew. You can easily tackle the most rugged terrains and the boot will give you ample support in doing so.

The boots feature a design and construction that’ll ensure that you experience no discomfort / arch pain during the most difficult hiking trails. They also help to protect your feet via the toe bumper. The construction is such that it won’t cause any pain to the ankles or the arches irrespective of terrain.

The hard front (made of leather) and the midsole (made of ethylene vinyl acetate) will, collectively, ensure that your feet get the necessary secure and stable feel while hiking high amid lofty mountains.

These boots also fit pretty well, leaving you enough room to wear thick socks if needed. And guess what? Despite your thick socks and the most rugged terrain, it’ll still manage to keep your feet comfortable!

So if you’re someone who tends to hike a lot, this is one boot that’ll definitely fit your needs. They’ll keep you warm, comfy and last for several seasons to come. And at the measly price its available in, the product is totally worth your money!

Price

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots retail in below the $100, and you can could find a bargain if you shop around. This is a very wallet friendly price, and we think it is a fair price for the standard of boots you are getting. Click on the image at the top of this review, or any of the links in this review and you will be taken to Amazon to get a live price.

Best Uses

The best uses for the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots are great for light to medium day hiking and general outdoor use. We don’t think you can expect too much more from them, say like backpacking, beyond that. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as the price point is so competitive.

These are perfect boots for someone new to hiking who wants to dip their toes in the water, to see how they enjoy it. If it doesn’t work out and you don’t take to it, worst case you’ve got a nice pair of boots you can wear around town!

It’s worth noting that their traditional style and classic hiking boots look, will go well with any pair of jeans or cords.

Customer Reviews

Looking at an average across 5 major retailers, 86% of users (1000+ reviews) gave the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots 4 stars or more, with over 70% giving 5 stars. Some seriously good scoring in those numbers!

Read user reviews on Amazon.

Our Rating 4.5 (Out of 5)

Pros and Cons

Pros

Incredibly comfortable, whatever the terrain, weather conditions or the duration of your hike
Traditional style with a sleek and functional design and construction
Offers great support to your arch and ankles
Can be used as a regular boot as well as a hiking boot
Extremely lightweight and breathable
Sturdy, durable and affordable, a good bang for your buck!
Full grain leather construction is comfortable and functional

Cons

The interiors could include more cushioning
Laces are pretty short
Doesn’t offer you the best traction during heavy duty trails in comparison to other models
Can get slippery when they’re wet
Some users referenced the top of the boots developing creases and digging into their toes
Boots can have a tight fit so need to watch the sizing

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot's For Women Features Summary

Material: Leather and mesh
Techlite™ lightweight midsole for long lasting comfort
A combination of full grain leather and suede
Shaft measures approximately 5.25" from arch
OmniShield water and stain resistant treatment
Compression-molded EVA foam midsole
Superior cushioning for high energy return
Scratch rubber heel and mesh tongue
Omni-Grip™ non-marking traction rubber provides advanced traction for grip on varying terrain

Conclusion

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots for women can be a great choice for lady hikers, who are looking for a perfect balance of practicality and style in their hiking boot, without breaking the bank. So, if you’re someone who’s really focused on the comfort, and you’re in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, this is one pair of boots that you need to try.

The boots could also be ideal for people who experience arch pain. Users who’ve bought the product reportedly experienced zero arch pain despite trekking with it for days. So this is yet another positive reason to invest in a pair.

The Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boots are waterproof, offer excellent grip and are extremely affordable considering the features! So if you’re looking for a pair of sporty waterproof boot, this is an excellent product at the price.

If you're still unsure what type of hiking boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and our hiking boot recommendations. I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did.

Do you use the Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boots? What is your experience with them?

Ahnu Sugarpine II Hiking Boot’s For Women Review

As a keen hiker and outdoor enthusiast, you know that proper hiking gear is essential for a successful day out on the trail. Footwear plays a critically important role in protecting your feet while hiking.

In our review today, we shall explore a popular ladies hiking boots option; the Ahnu Sugarpine hiking boots from Teva. So let’s get to it!

Check Availability on Amazon.

Pros:

Exceptionally lightweight
Very comfortable, well padded
Waterproof and breathable
Very modern and stylish look offers versatility

Cons:

Some user comments that the soles in the boot could be improved upon
Not the best option for backpacking

Ahnu Sugarpine Hiking Boot’s For Women Features Summary

Numentum Hike technology with a lateral to medial TPU heel clip for neutral positioning and stability
Dual-density EVA, removable footbed provides extra shock absorption with heel and arch support
Integrated nylon shank and arch support provide torsional rigidity and mid foot support
Vibram non-marking outsole and slip-resistant lugs, self cleaning lugs provide grip and traction on varied surfaces
Rubber toe protector protects toes from stubbing
Gusseted tongue helps keep debris and dirt out
Shock dispersal plate in forefoot for stone bruising protection

Overview

Ahnu are an excellent footwear company that provides hiking boots that are durable and rugged, with excellent design quality. With plenty of experience under their belt, Ahnu has made a name by consistently offering quality products.

Between balancing your movement and providing all-day comfort, it’s important you get a good pair of boots. However, choosing the ideal boot can be quite challenging; there are so many brands and styles, and you want to make the right choice, so it can take a fair bit of reviewing before you get the right hiking boots for you.

The Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine II hiking boots are, of course, designed for women who love spending a great deal of their time outside. With that in mind, they have a feminine style and appearance to them which is very pleasing to the eye.

The Sugarpine boots are available in no less than ten different color combinations, so plenty to choose from. While the style and look of the Sugarpine boots have a sleek and feminine look, the boots also offer significant quality and durability in terms of performance.

Comfort

Tough trails have met their match in the athletic and comfy Women`s Sugarpine boots. To start, we loved that these boots largely run true to size, and require minimal break-in, so potentially good to go out of the box for many, which can be a winner.

Additionally, the exceptionally lightweight nature of the boots, in conjunction with the supple mesh and suede upper, and well-padded construction, gives an outstanding feeling of comfort as you hike.

The materials used in the construction of the boot are designed to provide athletic flexibility in the forefoot. Hikers will particularly enjoy taking on rugged trails in the Sugarpine boots, thanks to the dual-density EVA outsole, which again provides a light and athletic feel, while also providing great traction.

side from the athletic feel, the insole also has excellent shock absorption properties, which offer a ‘cushioned’ experience even on tougher terrain.

Waterproof

Another desirable feature on the boots is the waterproof nylon mesh, with moisture wicking mesh lining running inside. The upper mesh is breathable, which helps to minimize the build-up of sweat, as any moisture is wicked away.

This is achieved without compromising on the maintenance of comfortable and warm conditions around your feet.

The waterproof mesh performs well ensuring that water does not find its way in around your feet. This waterproof material is not only crucial in keeping your feet dry, but also helps to ensure that the boots last for the long haul.

Overall, the waterproof and breathability combo capabilities of the Sugarpine boots offers optimal comfort, almost like having the feeling of running shoes on your feet.

The Ahnu Sugarpine hiking boots specifically made for women, or rather made with a woman`s feet in mind. The boots sport plenty of arch and heel support. Similarly, the shaft height comes far up enough to make you feel supported and comfortable, thanks to the additional padding.

Hiking trails and mountains can at times be quite messy, especially if it`s during the rainy and muddy season.

However, with the Ahnu Sugarpine, there’s no need to worry about getting dirt trapped in the soles of your boots; the self-cleaning lugs in the boots not only provide excellent grip on the trail, but the specific design of this feature, “naturally” cleans the lugs. This means that you do not have to stop your trail to clean the lugs out of your boots.

While the boot can exhibit signs of buckling in the material around the ankles, which can cause minor pressures but not hot spots in the area, the shoes generally offer a comfortable fit to the user.

Support and Grip

When it comes to purchasing hiking boots, support is a major factor to consider. Fortunately, Ahnu has packed the Ahnu Sugarpine II hiking boots with a gamut of desirable features, to help keep you supported on your hikes.

In a nutshell, these remarkable boots have everything it takes to handle even the tougher elements that the trail can throw at you.

For a start, when it comes to the upper construction, the Ahnu Sugarpine hiking boots offer a high-quality construction, with the upper boasting a durable synthetic and suede material construction.

The suede overlays on the boots act as functional reinforcements providing additional support to your feet as they’re held in the boots.

Ahnu has created the Sugarpine boots with a blend of functional and exciting technologies, which are both practical and sensible for the trail.

For instance, the Numentum Hike technology employed in the midsole and outsole, helps to encourage your foot`s natural biomechanics, providing a comfortable feel as you hike. This helps to center and guide your foot as you hike to help promote an efficient, natural and balanced stride.

When it comes to providing sensible quality protection against the rigors of the trail, the Ahnu Sugarpine hiking boots for women are second to none. Ahnu has fitted the boot with a gusseted tongue extending up to the ankle.

This tongue is responsible for keeping any dirt and debris from getting in and around your feet. Similarly, to protect you from stubbing your toes by accident, the boots feature durable toe protectors.

Stability

When it comes to stability, the Ahnu Sugarpine hiking boots are firm. The heel clip in combination with thick Vibram outsole provide excellent grip and traction. This, aided by the self-cleaning lugs, ensures that you won’t slip and slide, giving you a firm grip on the surface.

The boots aim to deliver a neutral positioning, with arch support and cushioning responsible for keeping your feet supported and cushioned, even on a long-distance trail. This provides more control of your movement, when climbing over rocks, or walking on slippery surfaces.

Best Uses

The best uses for the Ahnu Sugarpine II hiking boots are light to medium day hiking, camping and general outdoor activities. They may not be the best option for tougher trekking or backpacking trips. That doesn’t mean they won’t take on the job though.

A definite added benefit of the Ahnu Sugarpine is their stylish design and look. They really look the part and go great with jeans for casual use, wearing about town on an evening out.

Our Rating 4.5 (Out of 5)

Conclusion

The Ahnu Sugarpine hiking boots for women are a fine pair of hiking boots from Teva, which are an excellent choice for the lady hiker. They’re stylish and well-priced, as well as being both durable and comfortable.

They`re not bulky and heavy compared to some other hiking boots in the same class. The material design of these boots means that their lightweight construction is an excellent plus. The boots are also not the stiffest, making the boot perfect for light to medium hiking.

However, even though they’re light and flexible, they do not compromise on the support of the user, providing exceptional ankle and heel support. All in all, a good balance is struck.

If you’re still unsure what type of hiking boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and our hiking boot recommendations. I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did.

Leather vs. Synthetic Hiking Boots, Which is Better?

I was thinking recently about the pros and cons of the traditional leather hiking boot versus some it’s synthetic counterparts, in terms of its material construction.

Before going any further, I think it useful for me to define what I mean by a traditional leather hiking boot and a synthetic hiking boot.

To me, a traditional hiking boot is the leather alpine style boot, like the one pictured above, which have been around for years.

A synthetic hiking boot is one that may have a more technical look and will usually consist of textile only or a greater mix of textile and leather materials in the construction, like the one pictured below.

HiTec Mens Bandera Mid WP Hiking Boot Featured Image

If you’re in the market for new hiking boots, then check out the best men’s hiking boots and the best women’s hiking boots.

Materials

The main construction material options for hiking boots are broadly summarized in the table below:

Full Grain Leather

Tough and durable leather with great abrasion resistance, as well as natural water resistance and breathability. Ideally used for wetter climates and rugged terrain. Can come in different thicknesses depending on what hiking you want to use the boots for.

Nubuck Leather

Buffed down full-grain leather. Not as tough as full grain leather but still has good water resistance and breathability as well as performing well in terms of abrasion. A step down from full-grain leather in terms durability but a step up in terms of flexibility.

Synthetic Materials

Made from synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, etc. Usually a combination of many different materials. Less expensive than leather but does not enjoy the natural waterproofing that leather provides so the waterproof membrane used in the boots is important.

I should state at the outset, that while I definitely have a preference which I won’t reveal till we reach the conclusion, I have over the years utilized both the traditional leather and more modern synthetic types of hiking boots.

I thought I would walk through some of the obvious categories for comparison to see how they both fair in comparison.

Weight

A practical consideration for any pair of hiking boots is weight. This can be more relevant for certain types of hiking than others. For example, if you are planning to do a lot of backpacking, a sturdy but ideally lighter hiking boot could be preferable.

In my experience, in terms of weight, as a general rule, the more modern hiking boots constructed using a mix of leather and more synthetic materials and textiles are typically lighter than the traditional Alpine style full leather boots.

There are exceptions on both sides of this equation but this has been what I have found overall. A fully synthetic pair of hiking boots will be lighter in weight, but you will lose out in other categories.

Stability

Given that the traditional leather Alpine hiking boot is usually heavier, I have also generally found the traditional style of leather hiking boots provide more stability over varying terrain.

Again, there are exceptions and the overall construction of the whole hiking boot has a lot to do with this. However, that said, on a longer term basis I think leather is a tougher material that molds better to the shape of a foot than synthetic materials.

It remains stronger for longer and with that in mind, I give this one to the traditional leather hiking boot.

Style and Look

This is one that I personally feel is a big one. It’s probably just good old fashioned conditioning but it is hard to not think of hiking when you look at a traditional style leather hiking boot.

That style and design has been around for a very long time and so is just associated with hiking … I think of the Alps and I think of a fine pair of leather Alpine hiking boots 🙂

The synthetic style boots broadly speaking aim for a more modern and technical look or aim to mimic the traditional leather style. You can of course get a very technical looking hybrid that utilises both leather and textiles.

At the end of the day, this is down to personal taste and preference. For me, I think it’s very hard to beat the look of a traditional leather hiking boot. It is pleasing to the eye and looks the part. As this is a personal preference, so I will call this one a draw.

Waterproof Capabilities

A large part of any hiking boots waterproof capabilities comes from the lining which is often made from a specific waterproof material like Gore-tex.

Nearly all hiking boots will have this lining. However, leaving the lining aside, the question here is whether an upper made 100% from full grain leather or one that is 100% synthetic, or a combination of the two, provides a better option in terms of being waterproof.

I will always come down on the side of the 100% leather option but the quality and type of the leather used plays a big part in that statement. Generally speaking though, the leather boots win out against synthetic.

Breathability

Most hiking boots these days will have an inner liner that is both waterproof and breathable. In that regard, most well designed hiking boots should have some level of breathability.

However, leather is skin at the the end of the day and so has some level of natural breathability in it. However, by design and construction, synthetic materials can be adapted to allow a much better airflow inside hiking boots. In that regard, it could be argued that synthetic materials are better in terms of breathability.

However, you need to look at things in their entirety and in the right context.

That is, if you’re planning to always do your hiking in warm and dry weather, mainly over well established paths and trails, you may think about sacrificing the other advantages that leather hiking boots can provide to be able to enjoy a better ventilated pair of hiking boots. It’s rarely that simple though 🙂

Price

At the end of the day, any top pair of hiking boots will likely have leather in its construction to some degree. The question becomes more, are the uppers 100% made from leather or a mix of leather and textiles.

As a general rule, a good solid pair of leather hiking boots will cost more than something that is either made wholly from synthetic materials or a mix of both synthetic and leather. Leather is a more expensive material and so usually means a more expensive pair of hiking boots.

Break In Time

Nearly all new boots or shoes need to be broken in, to some degree. When it comes to leather vs. synthetic hiking boots, in the early stages synthetic will usually be the winner.

Leather is of course a much tougher material than the synthetic materials used for hiking boots, so it logically will take longer to break leather in.

However, what you may gain in the short term you may lose in the long term in terms of abrasion and wear and tear. On the cold number of breaking in alone, your feet will usually adapt much quicker to synthetic material boots than leather.

Durability

In terms of durability, I would say there is no real contest. Hiking boots made from quality leather are tougher and more durable. As a natural fiber, leather is more resilient and will withstand abrasion over time much better than hiking boots made from synthetic materials.

This is borne out in the fact that many top quality leather hiking boots can be resoled if the leather upper is taken good care of.

It is not uncommon for good leather boots to last for many, many years if you replace the soles. Synthetic hiking boots on the other hand, have a shelf life and when they’re done, they’re done.

meindl-vakuum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-in-the-field-2

Other Considerations

One other thing worth mentioning is related to your diet preferences. ‘Huh?’ I hear you say. Yes indeed … if you are a vegetarian or a vegan, a synthetic hiking boot may be more in line with your principles than one made from leather, which of course comes from animals.

Not relevant to all but most likely relevant to some so I wanted to add that in as a note here. While not directly related to the performance of the types of hiking boots against one another as such, it is still a valid point worth adding into the mix.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to leather vs. synthetic hiking boots, my personal preference is hands down, a top notch leather pair of hiking boots.

I just can’t really see how synthetic hiking boots can compete in terms of functionality. However, there can be exceptions as outlined above e.g. hiking in really hot weather on well established trails.

While leather is my favorite, in summer I do sometimes use a hybrid mix in hiking boots with an upper made of nubuck leather and some synthetic materials. As outlined above, they are a bit lighter and definitely more breathable for a hotter time of year.

At the end of the day, it’s your personal preference but if you are looking for a quality pair of hiking boots, you will nearly always end up with some element of leather involved in the construction of the upper, if they are not 100% leather.

I hope you found this article useful and maybe even thought provoking. What do you prefer, leather or synthetic hiking boots? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

What’s the Best Hiking Boot Bag?

Have you ever needed to fly away on a short weekend trip and wanted to get some hiking in while you were away? However, you only have a carry on or two in your baggage allowance.

I am not sure if you’ve ever tried to do this, but trying to squeeze hiking boots into a plastic bag and then a carry-on bag, on top of your hiking gear and clothes, is not an easy thing to do. Especially if your boots are wet!

Similarly, after a typical day hiking in the mountains, have you ever needed a handy way to pack your boots away without putting them on the floor into your own or someone else’s car?

I often need to get a ride back to a meeting spot where me and my hiking friends met before carpooling to get to our hiking start point. It can be easy to forget to pack a plastic bag or something else to put your boots in when you’re finished.

These are just a couple of examples of where a hiking boot bag can be a really useful thing to have. So, let’s start with the basics.

What is a Hiking Boot Bag?

A hiking boot bag, is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a bag to put your hiking boots in. It is used for the purpose of carrying your hiking boots while in transit on your way to and from your hike. It enables you to pack your hiking boots neatly away so you can carry them in a tidy and efficient manner.

A boot bag also provides an extra bit of protection for your boots should they get knocked about in the trunk of a car, or in a baggage hold.

By design hiking boots are big and chunky so they’re just not that amenable to tight spaces like carry on bags. So when travelling, typically they wind up in a plastic bag for journeys from A to B.

This isn’t ideal, especially after using them, as moisture can’t get out so they can get smelly and muggy after a period of time and that definitely isn’t good to have in and around your clothes in a carry on bag!.

What to do … A hiking Boot Bag is the answer. The option below from Quadra is our top choice!

The Quadra Hiking Boot Bag

Check Availability on Amazon.

What to Look for in a Hiking Boot Bag?

If I had to sum up in two words what a hiking boots bag should do, for me, it would be practicality and functionality. I want a hiking boot bag that is first and foremost practical but it needs to be functional and able to do what it is designed to do.So what does practicality and functionalityinvolve?

Well for a start it needs to be easy to use. A zippered opening is my preference, preferably with a very sturdy zip. The bag itself should be easy to open and easy to place your boots into.

Similarly, it should be easy to remove them from the boot bag too. Not rocket science I know, but sometimes it’s the simple things 🙂

Next up, is should be well constructed with a suitable material. You need a durable material but also ideally one with some level of breathability. Starting with durability, you are putting hard and heavy boots into your hiking boot bag, possibly with dirt and so on, on them so the boot bag needs to be able to take a bit of abuse.

Durability also plays an important role in terms of the carry handle. You need a good strong carry handle that is comfortable in your hand and easy to use. With all that in mind, a tough durable synthetic construction using polyester is ideal.

Synthetic materials like Polyester also lend themselves well to cleaning. After putting dirty boots into your boot bag for a few weeks or months on the trot, your boot bag will need a bit of a clean itself, and synthetic materials are good for that.

Next up, breathability. Hiking boots tend to get wet and damp, so they need to be able to breathe if they’re sitting in a bag for any length of time.

Again, a suitable synthetic material used in the construction will significantly help with this. Otherwise, some kind of venting capability built into the bag is a must in my opinion.

The final thing to think about is size. The different types of hiking boots available are as varied as anything else these days. There are all sorts of types and styles which are used for different purposes. You may need to take this into consideration when getting a boot bag.

I think if you’re getting a relatively standard sized pair of hiking boots like the Lowa Renegade GTX, this shouldn’t be a big issue or consideration for you, unless you wear very large or wide sizes.

Where it might come more into play for even standard sized hiking boots, is when you have tougher and bigger boots. For example, the Salomon 4D 2 GTX are going to be a bit chunkier than the aforementioned Lowa Renegade GTX as they’re more or a backpacking boot as opposed to a light hiker.

If you need to pack serious winter Alping style boots, it becomes even more of a consideration. It’s easy to work it out though, just check out the measurements of the hiking boot bag and make an approximation in relation to the actual size of your hiking boots.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a hiking boot bag is a simple but really cool little thing to have available when you head out on your hiking adventures.

Just think, no more plastic bags or dirty boots lying in your car, or someone else’s for that matter 🙂 As well as that, it is an easy way to transport your hiking boots while on the move, especially on planes and trains … as well as automobiles.

Definitely a good investment if you need a simple solution! What do you think, is a hiking boot bag a good investment?

How To Choose The Best Insoles For Hiking Boots And Shoes

I received a comment from a gentleman last week on a review of a pair of trail shoes, where he stated that he couldn’t understand where the comfort of the shoes, that I was referring to in the review, was coming from.

He stated, rightly so, that the insoles of the shoe were too thin for him and just wearing them in his house for a couple of hours was hurting him.

Now, my experience with the Lowa Lo, hasn’t been like that at all. On the contrary, I find the shoes very comfortable. I also tend to like a thinner insole (within reason of course), I find too much padding can lead to problems for me.

Either way, what I want to illustrate with this example is simply that, no one size or preference will work for all. I have no doubt the insoles in the Lowa Lo he had just bought were causing him discomfort.

Sometimes, as crazy as it sounds, even insoles, depending on the type they are need to be broken in but other times, they just aren’t the right fit for your feet.

I suggested to him to, if he was otherwise happy with the shoes, to consider getting a new pair of insoles. Failing that, his best course of action was to return them for a refund.

With that in mind I thought it would be useful to investigate the insole side of that advice some more and explore what insole options there are available.

Your Feet are Unique

The range and types of people’s feet are as wide and varied as the many types of hiking boots there are available.

From flat feet to high arches, from narrow feet to broad feet and a myriad of things in-between, there is a large amount of possible options. So it is not surprising that there are a lot of different types of insole available.

If you’re in the market for new hiking footwear as well as insoles, then check out the best men’s hiking boots and the best women’s hiking boots.

If you are looking more for lower cut trail shoes, check out the best men’s hiking shoes and the best women’s hiking shoes.

If you find yourself not 100% comfortable in any pair of hiking boots, reviewing the insoles is one possible solution that might help improve your comfort factor without having to go down the road of custom made hiking boots or buying a new pair.

Signs that you may Need New Insoles

To start with, let’s look at some signs that you might need new insoles for your hiking boots. At the extreme end, it will be fairly obvious a pair of insoles in a pair of hiking boots isn’t working well i.e. it will be sore and painful while walking in them.

However there are many destinations along the way to this extreme and you may never get that bad. Although as soon as you notice anything, you should aim to correct it as soon as possible, as continued use could lead to more acute problems down the line.

If, for example, you are out hiking and you notice that your ankles and feet are getting fatigued and feel achy more easily than you would expect. That can be a sign that your insoles aren’t up to scratch. Similarly, blisters and hot spots can also result due to ill-fitting insoles.

Please also keep in mind that pain may not necessarily manifest in your feet or ankles, you can experience pain in your back or legs while hiking that can be a result of issues coming from the feet area.

Generally speaking, you’ll know yourself after using your hiking boots on a long hike, just be sure to pay attention and listen to what your body is telling you, it is rarely wrong.

Aside from that, insoles can just wear down after consistent use over time, just like the ones in my old Scarpa boots in the picture at the start of this article, and they just need to be replaced like anything else after a lot of miles have been put in.

What are the Different Types of Insole Available?

When you’ve established that you may need new insoles, broadly speaking, there are two different types of Insole to consider for hiking boots (or indeed most kinds of shoes).

The first kind offers a more rigid fit and focuses on providing support, while the second has a more cushioned sole and focuses on shock absorption.

When it comes to the first kind which offers more support, think of someone who has a high arch vs. someone who has flat feet as an illustrative example.

You can easily see that a hiking boot that is comfortable for someone with flat feet may be very uncomfortable for someone with a high arch, as their feet require different support at different levels.

The problem here is structural support. For the second type of insole, the focus is on shock absorption and so it has more to do with cushioning.

A handy way to think of the difference is that a rigid structural insole encourages your feet to mold to the insole to provide stability and structure, while a cushioned insole molds to your feet to provide more cushioning. Insoles will also typically have anti-odor, bacteria characteristics to help your boots stay fresher.

How Your Feet Move

Next it’s worth thinking about how your feet actually move. Broadly speaking, your feet have two main motions, pronation and supination. Everyone pronates and supinates to one degree or another. Of course, some will pronate more than others and so on, depending on the way their feet are.

The post linked to just above covers this topic in more detail. However for the purposes of this post, in brief, pronation is the body’s way of absorbing shock and so your foot expands as you walk on flat ground.

With supination, which provides a natural support for the body, the foot roles outwards to provide lift to push forward. Both are part of your ‘gait’, or the way you walk. The video below also gives a simple explanation of pronation and supination.

To get a better idea of how you walk, for most people, any good outdoor gear or running store should be able to help you figure out whether you over pronate, over supinate, sit in the middle, etc.

For more extreme cases, you may need to see a foot specialist where they will perform a computerized gait analysis and so on. To get you started, you can do the wet test to get an idea of what type of feet you have.

What Insoles do Hiking Boots Typically Come With

In short, it seems to vary as best as I can tell. They will tend to have a mix of both kinds to try and suit the majority of people.

However, a more rigid insole seems to me to be the more common as it is I assume, and in my opinion, generally better for hiking. Some insoles in hiking boots can leave a lot to be desired though.

It’s worth noting, some boot and shoe makers, for example, Merrell, will have their own special trademark technology for insoles e.g. Ortholite foot beds. As far as I understand it, these are leaning more towards the world of orthotics as they are more specialized, and so could be very comfortable.

The insoles in most hiking boots will be removable so you can take them out to be aired, handy when you need to clean your boots after a hard day on the trail. This also means you can easily replace them or place more insoles on top of the existing insole.

Profile Guides

Insoles broadly can be explained by the profiles listed below:

Profile	Description
Low Profile	This if for people who require low arch support. If you have good arches a low profile insole could be the ticket
Medium Profile	The medium profile, aka slightly flat footed, is probably the most common. A medium profile insole will offer great support for most people and most foot types
High Profile	This is for people who have flat feet. If your foot pronates more rather than supinates, then a high profile insole can help you build up your arch support

As well as this, sometimes, there will be a reference to volume. What this means, is that it references the amount of volume (or space) needed in a walking boot or shoe, when combined with the existing insole i.e. sometimes it can be added to the existing insole.

Volume	Description
Low Volume	This insole should fit all types of low volume shoes e.g. cycling shoes as an example
Medium Volume	Should fit some hiking boots and shoes including boots with fixed insoles
High Volume	This will only fit “roomy” insoles i.e. you can take the manufacturer’s insole out (pretty standard in most decent hiking boots). Probably the most common choice for use with hiking boots

Getting a Proper Fit

Once you’ve worked out your profile, either instore or via the wet test, as you’re getting insoles for already problematic boots, a good fit is critical. Outlined below are some tips on how best to get a good fit from an insole:

Check if your heel fits inside the heel cup, and doesn’t spill over the edge
If the insole is too narrow, try going up a size
If your toes extend beyond the end of the foam forefoot, also try to go up a size

Insoles are normally cut to match your feet so they will normally be big compared to your feet and you adjust accordingly. Take your time with getting the cut right. Do too little rather than too much as there is no undoing it if you make a mistake and cut too much off!

Popular and Functional Insole Options

Below I have listed some popular insole options from two well-known insole companies, Superfeet and Sorbothane.

Superfeet are more to do with the first kind of insoles i.e. for more rigid feet to provide arch and structural stability and support. Sorbothane, focus on impact absorption providing more cushioning in particular parts of the insole.

Superfeet

Let’s start with looking at the Superfeet options, please note there are more options available but these are three of the more common ones in available.

Superfeet Green Insoles

The Superfeet Green are for folks with high arches and will fit most roomy footwear styles where the factory insoles can be removed. These can help with common foot pain like arch pain, heel pain & plantar fasciitis.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Superfeet Blue

Superfeet blue are a Medium-arched insole for people who require intermediate support. They will fit most footwear, including hiking boots, without much extra room. Again, they can be used to help with common foot pain, arch pain, heel pain & plantar fasciitis.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Superfeet Black

You can probably guess what type of feet these are for 🙂 Yes, the Superfeet black are a low-arched insole for people who require light support. Again, they will fit most footwear and they can be used to help with common foot pain, arch pain, heel pain & plantar fasciitis.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Sorbothane Insoles

These are general purpose shock absorbing insoles and they come in three varieties which are, single strike, double strike and full strike. They are for use in all types of walking shoes and hiking boots

Sorbothane Single Strike Insoles

These are High performance insoles complete with support, foot strike protection, flexibility and cushioned comfort.

Designed for activities where the heel is subject to the most impact shock, an inbuilt comfort contour and heel cup in the heel forefoot area offers a comprehensive shock absorbing solution. They rebound to their original shape after each impact for shock absorption and cushioning.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Sorbothane Double Strike Insoles

These are high performance insoles complete with support, foot strike protection, flexibility and cushioned comfort.

Designed for activities where both the forefoot and heel are subject to the most impact shock, an inbuilt comfort contour and heel cup in the heel forefoot area and added shock absorption in the forefoot area offers a comprehensive shock absorbing solution.

They rebound to their original shape after each impact for shock absorption and cushioning.

Check Availability at Amazon.

Sorbothane Full Strike Insoles

These are High performance insoles complete with support, foot strike protection, flexibility and cushioned comfort.

Designed for activities where the whole foot is subject to impact shock, Full Strike offers a comprehensive shock absorbing solution. They rebound to their original shape after each impact for shock absorption and cushioning.

Check Availability at Amazon.

What I Prefer

When it comes to a general insole, my personal preference is a more rigid insole option as opposed to one with more cushioning. While it can take a bit longer to get more comfortable in, the rigid insole tends to toughen up my feet.

It also, apparently, encourages the feet to make more fat cells on the base of the foot, in effect creating your own shock absorption.

I am broadly cautious of too much cushioning. I always think of how running shoes that had too much cushioning, which although heavily marketed as running shoes, were eventually found out to be bad for peoples feet, and actually caused runners more issues that old fashioned flat running shoes!

I used to run a lot so I experienced this first hand and I think the same logic applies in hiking boots.

However, as already stated, everyone is different and some folks may need that bit more cushioning. What works for me, will quite likely not work for you so take the time to find what meets your needs.

FAQ re: what can New Insoles help me with?

I say this a few times throughout this article, new insoles won’t fix every problem, they’re not a silver bullet. However, they are worth investigating if you are experiencing some minor discomfort in your hiking boots when hiking, especially if the source of the issues is down to the fit.

Some typical things that New Insoles can offer some help with are arch problems e.g. low or collapsed ones, where one foot is a little longer than the other and heel slippage.

It is worth paying attention to what may or may not have changed. Below are some questions to run through to help assess whether insoles could be worth a look.

Q1. Are your hiking boots brand new?

If yes, then it could just be about time to break them in. If too much time has went by, then it could be time to start experimenting with new insoles.

Always spend a bit of time wearing the boots at home in the house before committing to buying them. You can usually bring them back within a few weeks as long as you haven’t worn them outside, be sure to check with the retailer in advance though.

While wearing your boots in the house is nowhere near the same as using them out on the trail, small issues in terms of discomfort in the fit, can well present themselves as noticeable.

These could of course be part of the breaking in process, but they should subside after a time if they are. If they don’t, then you may have a fitting issue that could develop into something more substantial.

Q2. Are you only experiencing issues in one part of the foot? On both feet or just one?

Where the discomfort shows up and how, is important to note. If it’s just in one place, then the assertion would be that you otherwise have hiking boots that fit pretty well, so insoles could help to solve the problem.

Q3. Has the irritation or issue only developed recently? Was it sudden or gradual?

Has the issue suddenly appeared, or has it manifested gradually. If sudden, did you start to notice the problems after a specific event e.g. your foot slid down into a hole in the ground while hiking.

If so, then maybe your discomfort could be due to a stressed muscle, tendon, ligament, or the like. Some stretching and a foot massage can help. a great way to stretch your feet is to get a hard ball, like a golf ball. We go into how to do that in more detail in the next question.

If it has manifested gradually, then this could be a sign that your insoles are wearing down, and so replacing them might help resolve the issue.

Q4. In reference to the last question, how can I stretch and massage my feet without the help of someone else?

Using a tennis or golf ball, stand on it with one foot while your other foot is standing normally on the ground. Apply pressure and roll the ball around the sole of your foot. Adjust pressure as required, gradually applying more into tender spots.

The video below is specifically in reference to plantar fasciitis, but the same process applies fro a general stretch.

This is a great way to loosen the feet, kind of like giving yourself a foot massage. Our feet are often neglected when it comes to regular and good TLC, mainly as we think we can’t get at them without the help of someone else 🙂

This is somewhat ironic, as if there is one part of our bodies that takes a beating every day without fail, it has to be our feet, as we are walking on them each and every day.

If this doesn’t help, then moving onto investigating into insoles is probably a sensible next step. Keep in mind, that if you experience any unbearable or very sharp pain while rolling the ball under your foot, stop!

You only feel tight tension in your feet, a kind of pleasurable pain if you will, like having a good shoulder massage, it can hurt a little in the shoulders at the time, but you know it’s good discomfort as you can feel it loosening.

As always, use common sense when doing this. Take your time and ease into it gradually.

Q5. Are there any other things I can do to help keep my feet comfortable while hiking on the trail in my hiking boots?

One tip I will give, which is a bit out of left field in the context of this article. However, I feel it is worth experimenting with, as I was surprised at the side benefits of it.

Some years back, I started to apply Vaseline to my feet before setting out on a hike. My reasoning for doing this, was just as an extra thing to help prevent blisters and chaffing, especially on longer 20 to 30 mile hikes.

This is great to help prevent blisters and it works well for that purpose. However, over time I started to notice some other benefits of doing this.

It’s hard to put my finger on precisely, but I would say that my feet in and of themselves, somehow felt less tired as well, after a long hike with the Vaseline applied.

I have reasoned that the Vaseline enables more micro movement within the boots, between your hiking socks and your skin. This means there is less friction, and so my feet are more comfortable.

On the flip side of that, when there is more friction, this can eventually lead to a build of a stronger tension which then drills down into the underlying tendons, ligaments, etc.

I have no scientific basis for this I hasten to add, purely my subjective experience. However, the main point is, that if you are experiencing minor discomfort, adding this into the box of tricks to experiment with to help resolve it, is worth a shot.

It costs pennies, and if nothing else, you will help fend off the dreaded blister and your feet should feel a bit more comfortable and loved, sure what can there be to lose with that 🙂

Conclusion

If you get a pair of good hiking boots that you otherwise really like, but you feel they could be more comfortable, investing in good insoles is certainly worth a look.

Trying to find the perfect hiking boots is a tough and ongoing quest for most, so if something ticks every other box but the insoles are causing you some issues, it could be worth looking into this more to see if some new insoles will do the trick.

Please remember to keep in mind that some insoles need a bit of time to break in as referenced above, so give your boots time and properly break them in.

Remember, I am adding this information here to hopefully be helpful for folks as guidance and information, but I want to stress that I am not a foot specialist.

If you find you are experiencing serious problems with your hiking boots, or any shoes for that matter, you should seek appropriate professional advice.

I hope you found this article on how to choose the best insoles for hiking boots and shoes useful. If you did, please like and share around your networks, it always helps us when you do that 🙂

Meindl Men’s Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots Review

I recently purchased the Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots from Meindl and I was excited to try them out. They’re a sturdy 3 season (But they will work well for 4 seasons for many) boot and after checking them out, I realized I had a serious contender for my favorite hiking boots on my hands!

What can I say except that I am seriously impressed with these hiking boots. German engineering for your feet is always going to be hard to beat. These are seriously impressive hiking boots.

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Pros and Cons

Pros:

Sturdy Nubuck leather / Goretex construction means most hikers will get year round use out of these boots
Excellent Vibram soles provide good grip over all types of terrain
Great for all types of hiking and backpacking
Classic style and look works well

Cons:

Some comments that they could breathe better
May not be an ideal choice for lighter hiking in hotter weather

Meindl Vakuum GTX Hiking Boot’s For Men Features Summary

Gore-Tex performance membrane
Nubuck Leather upper
GORE-TEX® Lining
Air-active Sole
VIBRAM® Outsole

Best uses: Nearly all types of year round hiking and backpacking

Overview

So, where to begin. I’ve often heard the name Meindl and I have seen plenty of their hiking boots around while out on the trail. The basic assumption I always had, or the underlying message I got from people when we spoke about Meindl, was quite simply ‘Quality’.

With that in mind I was looking forward to getting my hands on a pair of Meindl boots. I needed hiking boots that would do me all year round, with a leaning towards something sturdy and tough for the harder times of year in Winter. After reviewing the many excellent options on offer from Meindl, I settled on the Vakuum GTX.

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Why these? Well, I was initially looking into a different pair of Meindl boots, the Burma’s, but when I actually saw the Vakuum’s, I was impressed. They really caught my eye as they just looked tough, stable and secure so I quickly changed my mind to run with them.

They come in the classic hiking boot look and in only one color, dark brown. I am a fan of the classic leather hiking boot look and style so this was immediately a positive for me. You can see them fresh out of the box in the image below.

Meindl Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots for Men Out of the Box

The Meindl logo is on the side of the boots and on the tongue at the top but it is quite tastefully done and the gold on dark brown is actually really nice to the eye.

My primary aim with these boots was to get a tough year round hiking boot that could take on any terrain and be versatile enough to be used in whatever weather, excluding extreme weather of course, the seasons could through at them while out on the trail.

Update July 2017 – after 10 months of use: I thought I’d add a short update after using these hiking boots for about 10 months. Overall I am really, really happy with them and give them the coveted title of the best pair of hiking boots I have ever owned.

They really are excellent. I am happy with them across the board, the only one criticism I would give them is that they could breathe a bit better.

It’s not a big issue for me as I just wear a lighter pair of hiking boots in warmer temperatures, so it is a small thing. As said, overall, they are a truly awesome pair of hiking boots!

Check Out The Best Men’s Hiking Boots Here!

Comfort

Starting with the insoles, they were very comfortable when I first put the boots on. Not too soft and not too hard so a good start! The insoles are removable and breathable using an ‘air-active sole’.

It’s worth noting that specific insoles for these boots are available separately. How about that for a vote of confidence in the construction, they know you’re going to want new insoles long before the boots wear out.

meindl-vakum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-inside-view

The boots have a padded collar, as shown in the picture above, which rests comfortably against the ankle when the boots are on. The tongue of the boots is also well padded to provide protection for the tops of your feet.

The tongue is also gusseted and feels sturdy when you lace the boots up so you have confidence that unwanted debris will be kept out of your boots.

In terms of a secure fit, I can safely say that the Meindl Vakuum hiking boots not only look very secure and sturdy from the outside, but feel that way too as soon as you put them on.

I was seriously impressed with the construction and how the boots felt on my feet. Really sturdy and secure without sacrificing anything in comfort.

meindl-vakum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-front-view

Moving on to the lacing system, the Meindl Vakuum boots are fitted with laces that can easily take three knots in them, my standard way of tying my boots.

So many other pairs of boots I feel fall short when it comes to lace size and you are lucky if you can get two knots in. Not a big thing but it’s nice that this wasn’t an issue.

The lace eyelets are tough metal and the lace hooks, as with everything else in these boots, feel very secure and tough when you tie them up.

The Meindl Vakuum boots are waterproof and breathable via a combination of Nubuck leather and Gore-tex lining.

Having taken these out on some serious test runs, two of which were in a very wet bog in Connemara in the West of Ireland, I have to say that I am really pleased with the waterproof capabilities.

meindl-vakum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-in-the-field-1

In terms of breathability, I’ve also found the Meindl Vakuum hiking boots to be excellent. However, I’ve only used them in Autumn so far. The boots are thick and a bit heavy so I would need to see how they would perform in hotter weather in summer.

It is possible they could be too heavy for that type of climate. No issue for me though as I tend to wear a lighter pair of hiking boots like the Lowa Renegade GTX at hotter times of year.

When it comes to weight, these are sturdy and tough boots so they do weigh a bit heavier than other similar types of hiking boots. I weighed the pair in at about 2.3 kg (Pair of size 10 US / 9 UK / 43 EU).

I haven’t found their weight to be an issue for anything I need to do on the trail but mention it here just for reference in case it is an important factor for you.

The boots are chunky by design but I have found this to be really comforting, especially when hiking over scree or in rocky terrain. I just feel like I have more protection on my feet!

Next up, let’s take a look at sizing. I had no issues and they fit true to size. One thing that is worth noting though is that I had a significant break-in period with these boots. I had to go through a few blisters as they molded to my feet but I could tell it would be worthwhile.

Of course these blisters could have been avoided but what can I say, I got lazy 🙂 With that in mind, I do recommend you take the time and break these boots in properly, it will likely save you some pain!

Of course they may fit you perfectly right out of the box too of course. My experience has always been that really good long term leather hiking boots take me a while to break in. Somehow, that seems to be a sign that I am going to get serious longevity out of them.

Support, Stability and Grip

We started the last section with insoles so lets start this one with outsoles! The outsoles on the Meindl Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots are Vibram. I am a fan of Vibram soles, have been for a long time now.

meindl-vakum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-vibram-sole

I have taken these boots out over rocky terrain, muddy ground, bog and in heavy rain and to date, all good on the grip front. I am not surprised by this given that I have such faith in Vibram. I’ve never had any issues with Vibram soles, so I have confidence in them.

meindl-vakum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-in-the-field-2

Support on these boots is frankly just awesome. They are seriously tough and durable. the outer wrapping from outsole runs about an inch up onto the boots. This is really secure and snug and you know it adds a lot to the waterproof capabilities of the boots.

meindl-vakum-gtx-hiking-boots-for-men-in-the-field-4

I could waffle on about the stability and durability of the boots but I don’t really see how valuable that would be. They are just really stable and provide excellent support across all types of terrain and in all conditions. Enough said!

Price

The Meindl Vakuum Hiking Boots are definitely at the higher end of the scale when it comes to price. If you hunt around, you might get a discount. They are truly worth it, a seriously good investment in my opinion!

It’s worth noting here as well, as I alluded to above, that I feel these boots are for the long haul. If you look after them, the uppers and so on, you can ship them back to Meindl and they will resole them.

Having hiked in them 10+ times now, I really can see how these boots can last the pace if you play your part and clean them after every use, and give them some good TLC in terms of reproofing and so on.

It’s worth noting that Meindl have a seriously good customer service reputation. Kind of like, any problems at all with the performance of the boots and they will take them off your hands and replace them with minimal questions asked.

I don’t know about you, but that’s the type of customer service I expect from quality brands so I wanted to give that a nod here as I think it’s important to mention.

Best Uses

So far I have used them on all types of hiking and a few short backpacking trips and they have performed exceptionally well.

With that in mind, the Meindl Vakuum Hiking Boots are excellent for all types of hiking, backpacking across the whole year … Within reason of course … if you are hiking in heavy snow in Winter you probably need something much tougher 🙂 .

They are great all rounders and I love them however, it is worth noting that they could be too much boot for light hiking in fine weather.

Customer Reviews

Interestingly enough, I get the impression that Meindl aren’t a huge name in the States, I could be wrong though. They are well known and respected in Europe though.

With that in mind I could only find a few user reviews for these boots in the US. That doesn’t mean anything negative I hasten to add as my first hand experience with them is that they are truly excellent boots. I did of course find some user reviews though.

Our Rating 5 (Out of 5)

I started this review with a picture of the boots fresh out of the box, so I thought I’d add a picture of them after 10 or so tough hikes as I draw the review to a close. They have lightened in color pretty quickly but that’s cool 🙂

my-meindl-vakuum-gtx-hiking-boots-after-some-good-use

Conclusion

What can I say except that I think I may have found a new favorite pair of hiking boots! Yes indeed, I think the Meindl Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots are a tough act to follow and so far, I’m very pleased with them.

They are exceptionally well designed and constructed, and to date I have found them very comfortable in all sorts of conditions and over all types of terrains.

I’ve been pleased with the waterproof capabilities so far, usually a bug bear of mine, and in terms of comfort, they are starting to really work nicely for me after a bit of a break in period.

Their breathability may be one thing that I would like to check more on but I’ll have to hike in some hotter conditions to really test them, as my hiking in Autumn has been in relatively mild temperatures. One final thing to mention is longevity.

I really feel that these boots are for the long haul but I guess I won’t really know that until some months and years down the line 🙂 I’ll add an update on how things progress in that regard.

If you’re on the lookout for a pair of new hiking boots, you could do a lot worse that purchasing the Meindl Vakuum GTX Hiking Boots, they really are excellent and I expect many miles of good and comfortable use from them!

If you’re still unsure what type of hiking boots you should get, check out the hiking boot buying guide and my top hiking boot recommendations. I hope you found this review useful. Please comment and / or share it around your networks if you did.

Can You Wear Sneakers Hiking?

So, can you wear sneakers hiking? Well, the short answer is yes, but you could probably wear stilettos too however you are not likely to get very far in them 🙂

In all seriousness though, this is a question that there are a lot of differing opinions on so I thought today I’d do a short post giving my two cents on it.

If you don’t want to go through the whole article, the synopsis is that we don’t think hiking in sneakers is a good idea, you are far better off with buying hiking boots or trail shoes.

You can check our best hiking boots for men and best hiking boots for women, to get a low down on some of the best hiking boots available on the market today.

If you prefer a shoe as opposed to a boot, then check out our best hiking shoes for men, and our best hiking shoes for women. Not the best option for anything off trail or on rocky or challenging terrain, but still very functional for light trail hiking and way better than standard sneakers.

Some Definitions to Begin …

First thing, I think is important to clarify before continuing, is what we mean by ‘sneakers‘. In this article I am referring to anything from tennis shoes to standard running shoes (not trail running shoes).

Next up, we need to define what we mean by ‘hiking’. Hiking can mean lot’s of different things to lot’s of different people so I think context is important.

By hiking, I am referring to walking up and into mountainous terrain both on and off trail. With that in mind, terrain is a good place to start so let’s look at this under that heading first.

Terrain

For me, the terrain you are hiking in must play a huge part in what you wear on your feet. If you are heading out into a marsh or boggy area, sneakers are not going to cut it. They will get waterlogged very easily and I can see no way how that can be a pleasant experience.

If however, you’re hiking on well marked man-made trails and paths, it’s probably more reasonable to wear sneakers (Not that I recommend this I hasten to add).

Again though, there are other factors to consider. For example …

Season and Weather

If it’s mid winter and you are out hiking on the same very well marked man-made trails mentioned above, but they are covered in snow and ice, obviously, sneakers are definitely not a good thing to be wearing on your feet.

Even if it’s Summer but you’re up high enough in the mountains, there will quite possibly be plenty of snow and ice. Would I personally want to walk into that environment in sneakers? No, I can’t say that I would.

Also, if you are unfortunate enough to have something happen to you and you can’t walk out, you have to sit and wait in the elements for help to arrive.

If it starts pouring rain, your Nike or Reebok tennis or road running shoes aren’t going to be able to keep your feet too dry or warm for any length of time, and it is possible, depending where you’re hiking of course, that things like hypothermia could start to pose a threat.

A sturdy pair of hiking boots on the other hand, will obviously hold out the worst of the weather and keep your feet warmer for longer in bad conditions.

Grip and Traction

One thing you need on the trail is good grip, especially if you go off trail or like to scramble a bit. Crossing rivers, using stones to step across is another common example where you need good grip to prevent you from slipping.

Sneakers just aren’t made to take on that kind of job. Hiking boots and trail shoes will have specially made soles with lugs on them, as pictured below, designed to give good grip.

HiTec Mens Bandera Mid WP Hiking Boot Multi Directional Lugs

They are also commonly made from materials which are much better at handling wet and slippy terrain.

Ankle Protection

I see many debates on whether hiking boots are better to protect your ankles as opposed to trail shoes. From what I can pick up, many hikers prefer the freedom of motion trail shoes provide and they think it is better than the restrictive limits of hiking boots. This is especially true for people wanting to hike very fast.

I can see the logic of this and I of course have and use trail shoes but for me, even though I love them, they just don’t provide the same level of protection as when I wear a pair of my hiking boots. We are talking about sneakers here though, not trail shoes.

Whether hiking on mucky trails or stony paths, I think ankle support is really important and you never know when you will really need it.

To help illustrate my point, just last weekend, I was out hiking in and area I had never been hiking in before. My route was to be dictated on the day by the map.

All good. I followed my route on the map and it was going fine. After reaching the summit of the main peak I was hiking to on the day, I headed down towards a trail I wanted to pick up.

On the map, all looked fine. The contours were well spaced out so the land wasn’t too steep and there were no obvious map key indicators of anything that could cause problems. I decided to head for that trail and pick it up to get me back to the forest and a further path back to my car.

Things aren’t Always Straightforward

When I got to that area, the summer over growth was significant. There were lot’s of overgrown ferns covering the trail for the starting section of it.

I didn’t really have much of a choice and it didn’t look too bad so I continued. The ferns were very thick for about 400 meters, not a large stretch really which was one of the reasons I pushed on.

However, as I got to the end of the patch of ferns, they got even thicker and I had to really tread carefully, which I did. However, just 20 meters from the end of that patch, my right boot went down into a hole in the ground that I couldn’t see because of the ferns, even though I was paying close attention.

I twisted my ankle, letting out a yelp at the time 🙂 , and one week later, it is still sore. However, I was lucky as although it was sore when it happened, I was able to walk out with it.

The way my foot landed, I could feel the support of my hiking boots stopping me from twisting too far. If I had been wearing sneakers, I dread to think! Most likely a snap could have been on the cards and time for calling some emergency help!

Conclusion

To conclude, if you are looking for the best sneakers for hiking, given the context and definitions of hiking and sneakers I listed at the start of this article, I personally do not think it is a good idea to wear sneakers (tennis shoes or standard running shoes) out on the trail.

Even if it is on well marked and even trails, I think you are much safer and better to be in trail shoes or hiking boots.

Personally, I always wear hiking boots when I go hiking. I do use trail shoes a lot but normally for day-to-day use. When I go into the mountains, I nearly always wear a pair of my hiking boots.

I vary between different pairs depending on the conditions. For example, in Summer I wear lighter mid style Gore-tex boots, in the depths of Winter I wear tough and heavy leather boots.

Of course, as always, you need to take the circumstances and your requirements into consideration but as a general rule, I think wearing tennis shoes and sneakers to go out hiking on the trail is not a great idea. At the very least, I feel a decent pair of trail shoes is the minimum requirement.

What do you think? Do you think it’s OK to wear sneakers out hiking in the mountains? It’s an interesting question with many different opinions.

Remember to check out our best hiking boots for men and best hiking boots for women, if you are looking for a great pair of hiking boots. Or, if you prefer a hiking shoe, check out our best hiking shoes for men, and our best hiking shoes for women.

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