What do I wear on a trek? Part 2: Appropriate shoes for a trek

The right shoes make an enormous difference to your trek. Just any pair of running or walking shoes won’t do. Firstly, trekking shoes need to be comfortable, as you need to wear them for several hours. Secondly, they should be snug and provide proper ankle support and protect your feet from  bites and injuries.  Thirdly, it should also keep your feet dry and cool in summers and warm in winters. And finally, in uneven terrain and where the trail is not smooth, one needs to wear a sturdy shoe that will protect your feet from the wear and tear of walking. 

So, what should I look for in a trekking shoe?

Trekking Shoes that are durable 

Buy a shoe that is made from outer materials such as leather, suede or synthetic materials like Gore-tex (GTX) or Nova Dry. Trekking Shoes need to last for several treks and so buy shoes  that are solid and strong and that can be used for a range of weather conditions. There are several brands to choose from in India such as Forclaz, Quechua and Salomon. There are other brands such as La Sportiva, Oboz, Merrel etc that are not easily available here. Decathalon and Wildcraft are good sporting goods stores to source trekking shoes.

Trekking shoes with good soles

This is perhaps the most important thing to look for in a shoe. When you pick a pair of trekking boots, turn it over and look at the sole. This is the part that is in contact with the ground, when you walk and it has to be sturdy, durable and last for several treks. Good soles should have grooves, lugs and cleats to provide  good grip on various types of surfaces. It should have friction  and traction.  Friction is the ability to cling onto a surface such as rock, while traction is the ability to grip onto softer terrain and loose surfaces, such as scree, gravel, and mud to prevent slipping or sliding. 

Trekking shoes that are water resistant

Trekking exposes you to all kinds of weather conditions. Rain, sleet, snow , slush can make your trekking journey very uncomfortable if you are not wearing  the right kind of shoes. If your feet get wet, then you can be exposed to unnecessary infections or can even fall seriously ill.  You need a shoe that is water resistant and ensure that there is no seepage from mud, water and slush. Do not buy a water proof shoe as it can make your feat sweaty and stinky. 

Trekking shoes with ankle support

Your trekking shoes needs to be able to handle all kinds of terrains - inclines, descents, and uneven trekking paths that are filled with rocks and debris. Your ankle bears the brunt of every step and therefore it is important that it is protected even when the going is tough.  

Trekking shoes that fit well

Buying a trekking shoe cannot be a hurried affair. Take a friend along with experience  in buying and using trekking shoes. Comfortable but snug is what your are looking for here. Buy a shoe size that is one size than your regular shoe size. Do remember that you will have to wear these shoes with thick socks or two layers of socks if it is a winter trek. Do try your shoes on with socks ( take a pair along with you) and ensure that there is a gap between your index digit which is the longest and the shoe. Tight shoes can make for a painful trekking experience. 

Trekking shoes for women

Since men and women have feet that are anatomically different, it makes sense that many trek wear companies are designing shoes that are aimed at women. There is a huge variety to choose from and it is advisable that women purchase shoes that are specifically produced keeping them in mind.

Remember to  

1. Research the various brands and types of shoes before you zero in on a trekking shoe.  As a beginner, choose a shoe that can be used for a range of terrains. 
2. Invest in a good quality and brand of trekking shoes. The price range can vary between Rs 3000 to 9000 but do not be stingy and choose shoes that can become a liability on a trek. 
3. Break into your new trekking shoes before you go on a trek. You should feel comfortable in your trekking shoes and do not want a shoe bite when you are on a trek. Walk in them a few times to get used to the shape and grip of the shoe and experiment with how you want to tie the laces to ensure that your ankle is adequately supported
4. Choose a shoe that is light and does not add to your body weight. Remember that a heavy trekking shoe can weigh you down and impact your trekking.

I do hope my post helps you choose the right kind a f trekking shoes. As always looking forward to your comments on the blog. My next post will be about other must have accessories on a trek.