Trekking Sneakers Guide – 2024: expert guidance for choosing from the expert

Sportmaster PRO expert

“In recent years, trekking for many people has become not just another fashion trend, but a real way of life. This type of activity, which combines care for physical health and outdoor adventure, is attracting more and more fans. However, to fully immerse yourself in the world of trekking, you need not only the right trail, but also the right footwear. How to choose it?”

The demand for trekking shoes has skyrocketed along with the growing popularity of active lifestyles. Health-conscious people are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city more often by spending time outdoors. They also realize how important physical activity and new impressions are. What kind of sport is suitable for outdoor activities and combines all these settings?

Of course, trekking. Here and sport, and recreation in nature, and new impressions. To make them extremely positive, it is important to take care of a few things. The main thing is the availability of suitable footwear. It is very important to choose it properly, because at stake is not only comfort and mood, but also health.

In addition to easy trails, there are also complex mountain terrains with steep cliffs, loose passages and snow-covered ridges. And the foot is the foundation on which our body stands. And it’s pretty shaky.

What are trekking sneakers?

This is, in fact, a lighter version of hiking boots. The latter are designed for long walks with a heavy backpack, and trekking sneakers – for hiking in the “ultralight” mode (with a minimum of equipment), fast and short routes, running.

Unlike ordinary sneakers, trekking models are designed with consideration of difficult natural conditions: terrain features and vagaries of the weather. These shoes provide reliable grip on various surfaces, protect the foot from injury and provide comfort even on long hikes.

When actively traveling over difficult terrain, the foot must be securely locked in place. This is the responsibility of the upper materials. The elasticized fabrics fit snugly around the upper part of the foot, preventing it from chattering.

The midsole cushions and fixes the lower part of the foot, protecting it from tipping and stabilizing it under stress. The bottom layer of the sole is responsible for traction. The stronger it is, the safer and more confident you can walk.

It is important to realize that even a model from the premium price segment may not fit, and an inexpensive pair – to sit as fit. Therefore, shoes before buying must be measured.

There is such a concept as a shoe – this is the shape and fit, under which a particular product is designed. Since there are so many varieties and sizes of feet, and one manufacturer can not make a hundred models, there is a good chance that not all options will suit you. Therefore, it is better to go to a sports store and choose a pair there.

Important characteristics of trekking sneakers

1. Upper materials

As mentioned above, one of the key tasks of the shoe upper is to fix the foot, which should be reliable. Nylon, which is abrasion resistant, is used to increase the durability of the shoe under heavy use. Other synthetic fabrics such as polyurethane are added to increase durability and a snug fit.

Other important tasks that the upper materials must handle are moisture protection and maintaining breathability.

Often the upper is made up of different materials, and Gore-Tex membrane is used in places where the foot sweats the most. Due to its microscopic pores, it does not allow liquid moisture to pass through, but it does allow water vapor and air to pass through. This allows to achieve moisture protection while maintaining breathable properties. In this way, comfort can be maintained even in difficult climatic conditions.

2. lacing

Trekking shoes often have a more complex lacing design than regular running shoes. It stretches over the entire surface of the shoe, and at the top is firmly fixed with special elements. This creates a tighter fit and prevents the foot from slipping inside the shoe.

Some models also have quick lacing systems, convenient when customizing the shoe for certain conditions. Such sneakers are especially good if the trail combines different forms of terrain.

3. Outsole

The sole of trekking sneakers plays a key role in ensuring comfort and safety during outdoor activities. Modern technologies – such as EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or air cushions in the midsole – provide excellent cushioning, absorbing shock and reducing stress on joints.

Some models for additional rigidity and reliability have a special torsion element in the midsole layer – a plate that prevents the sole from bending and protects the foot from sharp rocks and other protruding terrain elements.

Different tread patterns, grip elements made of rubber and TPE provide excellent contact with the surface and stability, which is especially important when crossing stony or slippery terrain.

4. Construction

The design of trekking shoes usually takes into account the anatomy of the foot and the specifics of movement in difficult conditions.

Reinforced zones or bumpers around the heel and toes protect against impact and wear. Additional support for the arch of the foot through special insoles and anatomically shaped shoes help prevent fatigue and increase overall comfort.

We have looked at the basic factors to keep in mind when choosing trekking shoes. At the same time, it is better to discuss individual requests and wishes with an expert when buying, having in mind the exact planned route and specifying the approximate weather conditions. The specialist will help to choose the best pair and give recommendations on fit.

How to choose sneakers depending on the season and route?

1. Mountain trails and climbs

In the mountains, it’s important to have sneakers with extra grip for traversing rocky and steep terrain. A dense, stable sole prevents the foot from twisting and slipping on uneven terrain.

For hiking in the mountains, it is better to choose sneakers with a high sturdy upper, which will protect not only the foot, but also the ankle from hitting rocks and injuries. Additional protection (thickenings and plates) in the toe and heel area will reduce the risk of injury.

2. wooded terrain

For traversing forest trails, sneakers should have a flexible sole. The tread layer may not be as thick as in the case of a pair for mountain walking. Other than that, medium cushioning is sufficient. A flexible sole will provide comfort and a sense of control when moving among roots and branches and help you adapt to uneven terrain.

To protect your foot from branches and other small objects, it is better to pay attention to sneakers with side protection and a dense upper.

3. Sand dunes, loose terrain

Choose sneakers with closed tops. It will help prevent sand and small stones from getting into your shoes. You should also favor models that do not have holes for ventilation, and breathability is achieved through the Gore-Tex membrane. This will prevent your feet from overheating.

4. cold, winter, ice

It is important to have sneakers with good thermal insulation – to keep warm in cold conditions. Or choose a model half a size larger – so that the foot feels comfortable in a warm sock and does not squeeze.

For walking comfort, look for sneakers with technologies that provide good traction on icy surfaces: with metal spikes and inserts, as well as with TEP as a tread material. What is its advantage? Unlike rubber, TPE does not “go stale” in the cold and continues to provide reliable traction.

5. Rainy weather

The main thing that distinguishes trekking shoes with protection from moisture is the use of Gore-Tex membrane and other waterproof materials. At the same time, some models have a special removable galosh or rubber inserts on the sides. The pair becomes similar to rubber boots, and it is no longer afraid of contact with water.

Top 5 models of trekking sneakers – expert’s choice

1. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

One of the most popular models on the market from a well-known and respected manufacturer. This is the fourth iteration of the X Ultra, which takes into account the weaknesses of the previous models.

The first thing that catches the eye is the reinforced toe bumper. It protects your fingers from constant bumps on rocks and branches.

The upper cover is made of elastic material with Ripstop weave. This makes it very strong.

Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX

The brand’s Gore-Tex logo indicates the use of membrane fabric in the pair, which means that the foot will not get wet and will breathe. Sensifit technology – a system of plastic “wings” – is used on the sides. These help to keep the foot securely in the correct position.

The elastic Energy Cell+ midsole and ADV-C chassis also lock the foot in place and provide a high level of cushioning. If you look at the outsole from below, you can see the signature Contagrip tread with multi-directional spikes in the toe and heel for reliable traction.

Finally, another distinguishing feature of the pair is the brand’s signature touch – Quicklace lacing with a quicklace pocket.

2. Merrell Moab 3.

The upper material uses genuine leather, which is one of the best choices for hiking shoes. It is highly flexible and durable, and it locks the foot in place well.

The leather is combined with a large number of mesh inserts. They help the foot not to overheat in high temperatures and get rid of excess moisture.

Merrell Moab 3

The midsole has Air Cushion technology. It is responsible for cushioning as well as fixing the foot and keeping the foot in the correct position.

The sole itself is made with Vibram technology, a world-renowned Italian brand that is considered a trendsetter in the market of specialized sports soles.

3. La Sportiva TX4

This pair is ideal for use in the mountains and on easy mountaineering routes. The rugged leather upper is responsible for durability and longevity, and additional protection against wear and tear is provided by a rubber ridge around the perimeter of the shoe.

La sportiva TX4 Woman sneakers for women

Specially designed lacing system allows you to securely fix the shoe on the foot with just one movement. Vibram outsole with two-component rubber compound provides reliable traction on any surface.

Additional features include Impact Brake System technology, which guarantees good cushioning and protects joints from shock loads even when running fast on hard surfaces.

4. Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX

Another legendary pair from Salomon. Available in different variations: for cold winter weather, for summer, for wet trails (with Gore-Tex membrane).

The Contagrip technology outsole provides reliable traction and good cushioning, while the tread layer cleans itself from dirt.

Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX

Plastic “wings” on the sides of the shoe upper support the foot and prevent twisting, and a special toe pad protects the toes from bumps and bruises. The quick lacing system keeps you focused and securely locks your foot in place in just a few seconds.

5. Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex.

These sneakers can be called trekking sneakers in part. They are not designed for hiking, but for cross-country running, or trailrunning.

The waterproof Gore-Tex membrane protects you from contact with moisture, and a special cuff prevents water from getting inside the sneaker.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex

Foam outsole provides good cushioning and reduces shock to the joints and helps the foot to roll gently from heel to toe. The tread with rubber inserts improves traction, and the special volumetric pattern makes the pair a great companion for a wide variety of trails.

The success of your choice of hiking shoes depends largely on how well you plan your hike, taking into account weather conditions and terrain. Amortization in the intermediate sole, reliable tread, membrane in the upper part, special lacing and other technologies allow to make shoes comfortable and safe.

The main thing is to approach the purchase wisely, try on a pair, walk around the store and test different models. If necessary, ask the consultant all the questions you may have.