Hiking shoes and trekking shoes: comparison guide
Hiking shoes and trekking shoes are different as the difficulty and duration level of both activities (Hiking & trekking) are not the same.
Hiking shoes are usually lightweight and designed for comparatively shorter, established, and marked trails.
The trekking shoes are designed for longer duration and more demanding terrain hence they are tougher than hiking shoes.
To understand the difference between hiking shoes and trekking shoes, we have to understand the difference between hiking and trekking activities.
Hiking vs Trekking
In hiking, people return to the same base after walking but in trekking, they don’t come back to the original base instead they will find different accommodations like a tent or hotel.
Hiking is on marked trails or loops with pre-determined destinations, It is moreover a leisure walk but trekking on the other hand is a more challenging journey on difficult unmarked terrain with a longer duration as it lasts for at least 2 days.
Trekking is more challenging than hiking and needs more physical and mental preparedness. Obviously, the equipment necessary for trekking and hiking can’t be the same as you would need some more and tougher equipment for trekking especially the shoes.
Difference between Trekking and Hiking shoes
Hiking shoes-
You will only need basic hiking shoes or boots. You need hiking boots for mountain terrain otherwise shoes would be just fine. Hiking shoes are designed with superior traction and good comfort in mind. Hiking shoes provide good stability and comfort to make you feel more confident while maneuvering every bend on your trail.
Hiking boots shoes consist of-
Lightweight upper material like synthetic or mesh to provide breathability and comfort.
Good cushioning and superior grip for comfort and traction on uneven surfaces.
Trekking shoes-
Designed to keep the harshest terrain conditions in mind trekking shoes are built to withstand great stress while carrying heavy loads and at the same time provide protection and support to the wearer. Trekking shoes are usually heavier than hiking shoes. Though many synthetic material trekking shoes are available but it is my personal preference to have a trekking shoe made out of real leather.
Trekking shoes consist of-
High-top (above the ankle) uppers to provide much-needed protection and support to the ankle.
Usually made out of tougher material like leather which is also breathable.
Thick rugged soles and toe protection for good traction and maximum protection to feet.
Water-resistant lining such as Gore-Tex lining is also provided under the outer material.
Don’t forget about good socks-
You can go for water-resistant socks if conditions are wet. On hotter days just stick to those thinner ones. In colder climates get the woolen socks that are tough and dries quick. Also, note that the thicker socks can fit tightly in the shoes which will make them uncomfortable to wear especially in winter. You can get the shoes half-size larger if you are planning to use them in winter.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading our article on Trekking and Hiking Shoes.
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