Comment choisir sa chaussure de randonnée ?

How to choose your hiking shoe?

Choosing the right hiking shoe is essential to ensure comfort, safety and performance. Here are some criteria to consider to make the right choice:

1. Type of hike

  • Day hike : For hikes on well-maintained trails, lightweight shoes or trail shoes may be sufficient.
  • Multi-day hike : For multi-day hikes with a heavy backpack, opt for mid-cut or high-cut hiking shoes for better support and protection.
  • Hiking in Difficult Terrain : For rough terrain or harsh weather conditions, choose sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes.

2. Materials

  • Leather : Durable, waterproof and supportive. Ideal for long and difficult hikes.
  • Synthetic : Lighter, dries faster, but less durable than leather. Ideal for short hikes and in dry conditions.
  • Kimbertex : Waterproof and breathable membrane, suitable for wet conditions.

3. Comfort and fit

  • Sizing : Make sure the shoe fits properly, neither too tight nor too loose. Leave room for your toes to wiggle.
  • Shape : The shape of the shoe should match that of your foot.
  • Insoles : It is important to support the arch of the foot.

4. Support and cushioning

  • Midsole : Look for a midsole with good cushioning to absorb shock, especially if you're carrying a heavy backpack.
  • Upper : A tall upper provides more ankle support, which is important on uneven terrain.

5. Adhesion

  • Outsole : Choose an outsole with good traction to avoid slipping on wet or rocky surfaces. Vibram soles are recommended.

6. Waterproofing and breathability

  • Waterproofing : If you often hike in wet conditions, opt for waterproof shoes.
  • Breathability : In dry and hot conditions, a breathable shoe helps keep your feet cool.

7. Weight

  • Lightweight : Less fatigue, ideal for quick hikes.
  • Heavy : More protection and support, better suited for long, difficult hikes.

8. Test

  • Try the shoes on at the end of the day : Your feet are more swollen at this time, simulating the conditions of a day of hiking.
  • Use your hiking socks : For a precise fit.
  • Walk : Step up and down to test support and fit.

9. Break-in

  • Wear them before your hike : Walk in your new shoes to soften them and prevent blisters.

By taking these criteria into account, you will be able to choose a hiking shoe adapted to your specific needs, guaranteeing comfort and safety on the trails.

Happy hiking!

Also discover

Chaussures de randonnée pour enfants : comment bien choisir ?
randonnée

Children's hiking shoes: how to choose the right ones?

When hiking, kids don't pretend: if their shoes are bothering them, you'll know it quickly. And there's no need to wait for the picnic break. A scrape, a slippery sole, or a pair that's too stiff,...
Comparatif : chaussures de randonnée basses, mid ou hautes, comment choisir ?
conseils

Comparison: low, mid or high hiking shoes, how to choose?

Choosing the right pair of hiking shoes means avoiding blisters on the first climb and ankle pain before you even reach the summit. But between bass, mid or high, it's sometimes difficult to see...
Bucket List : 100 expériences outdoor à vivre une fois dans sa vie
Sélection

Bucket list: 100 outdoor experiences to have once in your life

There are moments that remain etched in your memory. Experiences that shake you up, amaze you, and push your limits. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for ad...