When planning for an outdoor hiking or walking excursion, it is important to choose the right footwear for your feet. Wearing the wrong shoes for the wrong activity can lead to painful aches, blisters, bruising, and unexpected falls.
However, not everyone is aware of the differences between hiking boots and walking boots – there are a few key features that set these two types of footwear apart from each other.
Construction and Look
Walking boots are designed for easy to moderate trails. They are also designed for all day hikes and so are relatively lightweight even though they are made out of tough leather mixed with synthetic materials. In addition, while these boots give support to the ankle and bridge of the foot, the sole is not very flexible.
Hiking boots come with many features that walking footwear does not, including fabric linings and toe caps. Since these boots are made for difficult trails, they are designed to withstand various terrain and provide support for the entire foot. Further, they are waterproof, and a second midsole at the bottom provides overall shock support. Compared to walking footwear, hiking footwear is made out of thick leather that generally does not allow for much flexibility.
How do Walking Boots Differ From Hiking Boots?
The Sole
Compared to hiking boots, walking boots have a shallow, wide spread cleat pattern. This is so that the bottom of the boots do not get clogged or caked with dirt if walking on a muddy trail. Also, the sole is usually made out of a rubber material that is produced to cushion and protect harmful impact around certain areas of the foot. Further, the sole is overall lightweight to ensure a comfortable walking experience.
On the other hand, hiking boots are designed for the pits and uneven terrain of a hiking “trailer”. The sole is made up of angled, deep set cleats. This ensures that hikers will have a good grip on the trail when walking up or downhill. In addition, hiking boots have a perimeter of extra rubber around the sole for extra grip security. As a result, boots designed for hiking are often much heavier than boots designed for walking.
Boot Grades
Walking and hiking boots have different boot grades. The higher grading means the boot has a better grip, more security, and less flexibility when traveling on a steep trail.
Walking footwear has a B0 grade, the lowest boot grade possible. This is because they are designed for comfort on a long, smooth trail rather than on a tough, turbulent one.
Boot grades for hiking boots depend on expected use, with grades that span from B1 to B3. B1 boots are safe for walking on hills and slightly bumpy roads. A B2 rated boot, on the other hand, is made for mountainous and snowy routes. This is the average boot grade most hikers use. Finally, boots with a grade of B3 can be used for serious mountaineering and rock climbing.
As you can see, a lot goes into boot planning and construction. But hopefully you are now ready to get the right outdoor footwear for your particular needs and hit the trail!
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