I've always been fascinated by trekking; I feel like it's a rewarding experience and also helps clear ones head, which is why I recently booked a trip as well. One of the first things I did after that was look for trekking shoes; the best trekking shoes work for a variety of terrains, stabilise your ankles, give good traction, and help you stay comfortable during your entire hike. With hours of research and talking to a bunch of people who go for regular treks, here are the top trekking shoes to buy online.
The Ultimate Guide On Buying The Best Trekking Shoes For Your Next Adventure
Things To Know
Outsole: Ensure that the outsole of your shoe is flexible and soft. This allows for your shoe to better adapt to a variety of terrains. One hack to check this is by tapping a sharp object, like a key, and listening to the sound it makes. A sharp sound means that the sole is hard whereas a dull sound means the sole is soft.
Water Resistance: Since your shoes will go on many adventures with you, you need them to be versatile and durable in all weather. Water resistance is also an important feature for snow treks.
Ankle Support: Your trek will probably involve walking on rough terrains for long periods of time, so but obviously you'll need a shoe that will provide you ankle support to prevent any twists and turns to your ankle, which can also potentially end your trek.
Traction: Making sure your shoe has a good grip is the most basic thing you should look for. Look for shoes that have deeper grooves on the outsole for a solid grip.
Fitting: An ill-fitted shoe isn’t comfortable to wear on a daily, so you can only imagine how dangerous it is to shop for an ill-fitted pair of trekking shoes. Ensure that your feet are comfortable with a thick pair of socks. It's even recommended to size up by 0.5 as that can prevent shoe bites. A good way to figure out if the shoe is fits you well is to move your foot as forward as possible, and if you're able to slip your little finger in the back of the shoe consider it a good fit.
Salewa Rapace Goretex Mountaineering Boots
₹21375
The Salewa Rapace Gore-Tex is perfect for high-intensity mountain training. It's got a sure grip Vibram WTC outsole, which is what creates great traction, even on slippery surfaces. The shoe has a comfort lining, is breathable and waterproof. The Bilight TPU midsole gives long-lasting shock absorbency and rebound. It also guarantees a 100% blister-free fit.
User Review: True to size, takes time to soften, very comfortable, excellent grip.
Rating: 4.91/5 on 73 reviews
Forclaz Waterproof Trekking Boots 100
₹8399
Jatin, our in-house trek enthusiast, tells us that these are one of the most used pairs of trekking shoes in India. I can see why; it's got a good grip that is able to provide great traction on wet and dry hikes, is waterproof, and offers ankle support, all within a price range of INR 7,000.
User Review: Comfortable, value for money, held great in most weather conditions.
Rating: 4.2/5 on 6791 reviews
La Sportiva Aequilibrium St Goretex
₹23392
For shoes that will accompany you in all your adventurous expeditions, you've got La Sportiva's Aequilibrium St Goretex Mountaineering Boots. These are great for trekking, hiking, climbing, mountaineering, crossing glaciers and much more in a mixed terrain. These trekking shoes have an ergonomic design and padded lining for ankle support. The upper part of the shoe is made of HoneyComb Guard™ fabric, which makes it water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. The Double Heel™ heel increases the braking effect when going downhill, reducing muscle fatigue. It's durable, has internal foam cushioning for comfort and is also compatible with crampons.
User reviews: Without a doubt the best trekking shoes, comfortable, lightweight, waterproof, gives good ankle support.
Rating: 4.94/5 on 15 reviews
La Sportiva Trango Tech Leather Goretex
₹20557
Crafted from Nubuck leather and microfiber, these trekking boots boast a sturdy yet streamlined build that's ready to take on the toughest of terrains. The GORETEX inner lining keeps your feet cosy and dry no matter what mother nature throws your way. The 4mm thick insole ensures maximum comfort, while a shock-absorbent polyurethane midsole keeps you going strong. 3D Flex braided support system optimises mobility and stability, while the Vibram Cube technology in the sole offers unbeatable grip without weighing you down.
User review: More like socks than boots — easy to pull on, comfortable to walk in and feel protected and confident to tackle anything outdoors!
Rating: 5/5 on 18 reviews
Quechua Snow Trekking Shoes SH500 Mid
₹5999
When it comes to snow hiking you want something that will not only give you traction but also keep your feet relatively warm and for that we've heard great things about the Quechua Snow Hiking Shoes. Featuring a comfort temperature range of -3°C when stationary and -11°C while on the move, your feet will stay toasty warm even in the coldest conditions. The breathable, waterproof membrane keeps moisture at bay, ensuring dryness throughout your hike. The SnowContact technology along with 3mm studs helps with grip and proper traction when on the move. Additionally, the fur-lined adjustable high collar with lacing effectively prevents snow from entering these trekking shoes.
User reviews: Comfortable, colour differs slightly than shown in the ad, provides good warmth and grip in snowfall
Rating: 4.6/5 on 2,660 reviews
Salewa Crow GTX Waterproof Mountaineering Boots
₹32499
Many say that the Salewa Crow GTX mountaineering and trekking boots excel in tackling challenging terrains and offer a blend of comfort and stability. Engineered with the innovative 3F system and anatomically designed shaft construction, they adeptly cradle the foot, ensuring both security and flexibility. A slender steel cable intricately connects the heel, lacing system, and sole, forging a resilient and pliable unit that supports each step you take. These shoes will stay dry no matter snow or rain, thanks to the waterproof GORE-TEX® membrane, and the Vibram outsole delivers unrivaled traction.
User review: Quality hiking shoes, great traction, good fit, and comfortable to be in 10+ hours a day.
User rating: 4.6/5 on 670 ratings
