Types of Hiking Footwear

  • Trail runners: Low-cut, lightweight, fast drying. Best for day hikes on well-maintained trails with a light daypack. Less ankle support but very comfortable for long distances on easier terrain.
  • Hiking shoes (low-cut boots): More sturdy than trail runners, good grip. Suitable for day hikes and light multi-day trips with moderate terrain.
  • Mid-cut hiking boots: Ankle coverage without full rigidity. Good all-rounder for multi-day hikes and moderate terrain with a pack under 15kg.
  • High-cut hiking boots: Maximum ankle support and protection. Best for heavy packs (15kg+), rocky terrain, and multi-day trips with uneven ground. Heavier but more supportive.

Key Features to Consider

  1. 1

    Waterproofing

    Gore-Tex and similar membranes keep feet dry in rain and stream crossings but reduce breathability — feet can get sweaty on warm days. For tropical climates or summer hiking, non-waterproof boots that dry quickly may be more comfortable. For alpine, wet weather or shoulder-season hiking, waterproofing is worth it.

  2. 2

    Sole stiffness and traction

    Stiffer soles distribute pack weight better across the foot and are less fatiguing on long days with heavy loads. Softer soles feel more natural on easier trails. Vibram soles are the most trusted brand for grip on wet rock, mud and scree.

  3. 3

    Fit — the most important factor

    Try boots on in the afternoon (feet swell throughout the day). Wear the socks you will hike in. Lace up fully. Stand and check: your toes should have a finger’s width of space at the front (to prevent blackened toenails on descents). Heels should not slip. The widest part of the foot should be comfortable without pressure. Walk on an incline if the shop has one.

  4. 4

    Break in before your hike

    New boots need breaking in before a multi-day trip — wear them on short walks for 2–4 weeks. Leather boots need more breaking in than synthetic. Never wear brand-new boots on a long hike.

Australian-specific adviceFor most Australian day hiking (Blue Mountains, Grampians, national parks), trail runners or light hiking shoes are sufficient in dry conditions. For Tasmania, alpine areas or multi-day trips with a full pack, waterproof mid or high-cut boots are strongly recommended. Merrell, Salomon, Scarpa and La Sportiva are well-regarded brands widely available in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

500–1,000km for most quality boots, depending on terrain and care. Signs of wear: compressed midsole (press with your thumb — it should not stay compressed), worn outsole lugs, delaminating upper. Resoling is sometimes possible for leather boots. Clean mud off after each hike and dry away from direct heat to extend lifespan.
Trail gaiters (low ankle height) are useful in scrubby Australian bush to keep seeds, pebbles and debris out of your shoes. They are inexpensive ($20–40) and worth having for off-track hiking. Full height gaiters are needed for deep snow, mud or when crossing wet vegetation in cold conditions.