TRAIL SHOES

BUYING GUIDE

Walking shoes are in vogue, with many outdoor enthusiasts ditching their bulky, blister-inducing boots in favour of lighter, comfier and lower-cut footwear. Here’s what to look out for if you want to make the switch.

COMFORT

Comfort is king when it comes to walking shoes, so it’s best to try before you buy and take advice from a knowledgeable sales assistant, where possible. Aim to find a pair that fits snugly without any rubbing or pinch points.

THE UPPER

Lightweight shoes typically employ a mix of suede or nubuck and fabric, mesh or other synthetic materials in their lightweight uppers, which are wonderfully comfortable but far from the most protective or durable.

THE MIDSOLE

The midsole of the shoe – which usually comprises of a stiff shank embedded in either EVA or PU, two types of foam rubber – provides cushioning, stability, impact absorption and comfortable flex. The stiffer a shoe, the better it’s suited to scrambling and technical rocky ground.

WATERPROOFING

Trail shoes with a waterproof membrane (eg Gore-Tex) will keep your feet dry, but if you encounter a knee-deep bog they’ll take forever to dry out. Non-waterproof shoes are better for hot, dry days: they’re far more breathable (your feet will sweat less) and dry out way quicker.

STYLE

Some trail shoes are like trail running trainers, with a fast, agile design. They are the comfiest, lightest and best for long hikes, but aren’t particularly protective or durable. Other pairs are styled like ‘approach shoes’ with a stiffer, stronger build suited to ridge scrambling and rocky terrain.

THE OUTSOLE

A shoe’s outsole (the underside bit that touches the ground) provides traction via a tread pattern of rubber lugs. Brands use a dizzying array of lug shapes, patterns, directions and depths, but in general deeper, widelyspaced cleats provide better grip.