Trekking boots

Trekking boots

What it is?

In the past few years, trekking boots have become very popular among citizens. This type of shoe is designed for traveling, hiking in the mountains and areas where there are no roads. For a long time, such shoes were used mainly by tourists, but now they wear trekking boots in cities and are used for outdoor activities and walks.

Trekking boots are also widely used by lovers of fishing and hunting, as well as firefighters and other employees of emergency departments. Some people confuse trekking boots with mountaineering boots, but the latter essentially differ in construction and are not suitable for hiking and walking, as they are designed for technically challenging climbing in the mountains.

The history of the emergence of trekking boots began at the beginning of the 20th century, when such shoes had a smooth sole made of leather. Subsequently, for better adhesion to the surface, the boots were refined and equipped with metal prints. And by the middle of the century, these models ousted more modern and comfortable in design shoe models that have a well-developed tread.

Features and benefits

Trekking boots have several features compared to regular shoes. They provide better grip, so they are comfortable to walk on slippery, loose and rocky surfaces. The function of fixing the ankle significantly reduces the likelihood of injury on uneven roads, and partial protection of the legs protects them from injury due to falling stones or stepping on their sharp parts. In addition, trekking shoes are very durable.

The advantages of such shoes when wearing, both in the city and in hikes are obvious. First, in trekking boots, the probability of injury is minimal. Secondly, it is easier and more convenient to walk through mud, snow or stones in them. Thirdly, such footwear maintains extreme conditions, does not tear and does not get wet. And fourth, trekking boots, even with a very active lifestyle, will last much longer than normal ones.

Fashion models

Manufacturers of trekking shoes today offer a wide range of fashionable and high-quality models.

  • Tourist. Trekking shoes for tourism is characterized by a combination of lightness and functionality. This shoe is perfect for easy hiking on rough terrain and for walking up to 2000 meters altitude. The boots are distinguished by the fact that they are tall and securely fix the ankle, saving it from herbs
  • For hiking. For hiking in different types of terrain, you can choose trekking sneakers, mountain boots or high mountain boots. The choice of model depends on its purpose. Sneakers or hiking boots are suitable for hiking in the woods, as they are light and comfortable. For hiking in the mountains and simple climbing to a height of 200 - 600 meters, it is advisable to choose mountain trekking boots. These shoes are powerful, heavy and hard soles. Some models are equipped with welts for cats.
  • Winter The range of models of winter trekking boots is very diverse. It can be high boots with fur inside, and lightweight sneakers with multilayer insulation or fur. High winter boots are great for hiking, sledding, walking in the fresh air. Winter hiking sneakers are more intended for active sports on the street, for example, for running. Mountain winter boots are used for easy climbing in the mountains.
  • For outdoor activities. Boots for outdoor activities - this is the most popular type of hiking boots. In the collections of such shoes there are models for any season.Boots for outdoor activities can be high, low, made of thick natural leather or synthetic materials. For hiking in the fall and spring, you can choose trekking sneakers or lightweight boots, and for winter walks high waterproof boots with fur.
  • Waterproof. Water resistance is an important indicator of quality trekking shoes. These shoes will ensure dryness and comfort of the feet, even if you step into the water. Thanks to the new technologies of joining the sole and top, as well as waterproof materials, high-quality tracking boots do not let water through. These shoes always have the appropriate markings.
  • Low. Low trekking boots are lightweight, and are designed for hiking on the plains, forest and mountain trails. Compared to regular sneakers, tracking has some advantages - they have a more rigid sole and heel, wear-resistant protectors and a reinforced toe.
  • For the city. In an urban environment it is also important that the shoes are comfortable. Trekking boots for the city make you feel comfortable on slippery sidewalks and on muddy roads. One of the main extreme factors of the city is dampness and the classic shoe models often cannot resist it. Trekking boots keep your feet dry and not cold. Sneakers or boots for easy trekking can be purchased as trekking boots for the city.
  • For the summer. Summer models of trekking shoes are fundamentally different from autumn and winter. In the first place here goes the indicator of air permeability. Summer variants of trekking boots are presented with light sneakers, the top of which is made of thin breathable material and sandals. The peculiarities of trekking sandals are that, thanks to adjustable straps, the foot is securely fixed in the shoes, and the relief sole well absorbs and protects the foot from small stones.
  • For fishing. Fishing lovers have long loved trekking boots for their quality and convenience. Such models are distinguished by a high shaft, thick lacing and waterproof materials. In addition, due to the peculiarities of sewing technology, models for fishing have a multi-layer insulation that retains heat for a long time, and a grooved outsole with a powerful tread allows you to overcome various irregularities.

Top Rated

At the end of the year, experts compiled a ranking of the best trekking boots.

1. Oboz Scapegoat Mid. Durable trekking boots for extreme road conditions. Due to the polymer layer in the sole and a powerful protective plate in the front part of it, you can carry a backpack weighing more than 18 kg in your shoes without experiencing any unpleasant sensations in your legs. A wide and well-fitting tongue allows you to securely fix the ankle, and also prevents small debris from entering the shoe. Breathable mesh upper material allows the legs to breathe, and after the showers and river crossings, these shoes quickly dry out.

2. Five Ten Access Leather. Trekking low boots are made of genuine leather, have a breathable surface and comfortable sole. Thanks to the midsole and the tread, the load on the legs is significantly reduced, even when wearing a heavy backpack. This model is perfect for summer trips.

3. Hi-Tec Sonorous Mid II Waterproof I. The difference of these trekking boots in a rigid sole with a nylon arch support that supports the foot. Thanks to the quality materials of the upper and the sole, the shoes are highly durable.

How to choose

The choice of trekking boots should be approached very carefully and take into account several parameters.

Route and terrain hike. If the trip will be short and take place at low altitudes or across the plains, then you can choose trekking sneakers. Routes involving climbing the mountain paths and stones, more complex and require durable shoes.Therefore, for such trips it is better to choose high boots with a hard sole.

Materials When choosing trekking boots you should pay attention to the quality of the material, it is better if the top is made of thick and tough genuine leather with a minimum number of seams. In addition, the hard top of the boot will securely fix the ankle and reduce the likelihood of dislocation. The sole should consist of several layers, one of which is a polyurethane shock absorber or a midsole, a shock absorbing and softening blow when walking. Comfort while walking largely depends on the quality of the sole. The presence of an orthopedic insole is a huge plus to the quality of the shoes.

The size. The size of the boots should be slightly larger than the size of the feet. Toes should be a bit lacking up to the walls of the shoes. After tightening the lacing, the foot should be securely fixed in the shoe. Too large in size shoes are not worth buying, as they will rub their feet. Large sizes of shoes are presented by almost all manufacturers, so you can easily pick up such shoes.

Price and manufacturer. Do not lose sight of the cost of trekking boots and the name of the company. Do not buy cheap trekking boots from an unknown manufacturer. Such shoes are likely to fall apart in the first campaign. It is necessary to give preference to more expensive models and proven well-known brands.

What to wear

Traditionally, trekking shoes are designed for tourism, sports and outdoor activities. These are sports shoes, which is why it is best combined with sportswear. Warm track suits go well with trekking winter boots and sneakers, but depending on the model, these boots can be worn with other clothes.

1. Jeans. Trekking boots designed for the city go well with jeans. For winter, winter sneakers or high boots are suitable for jeans, and for summer trekking sneakers made of breathable lightweight materials can be purchased.

2. Shorts and Bermudas. These are variants of summer clothes, with which summer trekking sneakers and sandals will be well combined.

3. Jackets and parks. Athletic shoes, including trekking shoes, go well with sport jackets and parks.

Do not combine trekking shoes with classic trousers and suits, as well as a coat.

Brand news

  • Quechua. The company has released a new model FOR 100 HIGH NDY with three levels of water resistance, that is, for about 8 hours of walking, the shoe remains dry. After drying wet shoes, they again restore their properties. The model has a fairly light weight - only 488 grams, and a high ankle, which well fixes the ankle. The sole has good adhesion due to 5 mm deep grooves. However, according to users, this model has disappointed many with its hard sole and quick soaking.
  • Asolo. The new season from the brand Asolo - model Jester Gv Graphite / Black. Shoes are quite high price category. The top layer consists of suede with a polyurethane coating and a special water-repellent impregnation. There is an intermediate sole that supports the foot and provides cushioning, an intermediate instep. The weight of a pair is 600 grams.
  • Dolomite. Model APRICA GTX 016 HAVANA top of water-repellent pressed leather 2 mm, Gore-Tex lining. The weight of the pair is 610 grams.
  • Vibram. The Italian company has protected the sole of special rubber, guaranteeing a strong grip and good shock absorption.
  • Mamut. The MERCURY MID II GTX MEN model has already been awarded the Best Buy nomination by the German magazine. Mamut boots are made of high quality nubuck. Vibram outsole, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane. Inside the cover is textiles, and heat is given by a multi-layer insulation. The boots are rather heavy and weigh 984 grams.
  • Meindl. Model Meindl Colorado Pro GTX 2919-10 have a modern design and high quality materials.The top is made of natural nubuck, treated with water-repellent impregnation. To protect against wear, the toe of the boot is reinforced with a pad of polyurethane. The feature of the model is in the presence of a flexible insert in the region of Achilus, which, when heated from the foot, takes its shape, thereby fixing it reliably.
  • Merrell Ice Cap Moc III women. The top is made of synthetic waterproof nylon, have protection from getting wet. Inside the fleece lining, the sole provides cushioning and centering of the foot when walking, and the reinforced toe protects the foot and increases wear resistance.

Stylish images

Trekking boots are first and foremost sports shoes, so they will look stylish with sportswear. But, in addition to hiking and outdoor activities, such shoes are often worn in the city, and therefore you need to know what to combine them with so that the ensemble is appropriate and stylish.

For the city, trekking boots will look fashionable in this image with contrasting details of neon-colored clothing. The most classic and suitable combination for everyday wear is black trousers, a white sweater and trekking boots of a calm gray color.

A look conspicuously looks, consisting of balone black trousers in combination with a maroon jacket and a flight jacket. An accessory that points to a sporty style is a fashionable bag.

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