A long walk can be great until your feet start hurting. The problem is not always the distance. Walking on wet grass, mud, pebbles, and hills makes the whole walk quite tough on one’s feet.
Choose the right shoes for a long walk based on where you will go. A pair that feels good after about thirty minutes in a park can feel bad after six or seven hours outside.
For UK walks, it is also worth thinking about rain and changing ground. You may leave home in dry weather and find yourself walking through mud before the day is over.
Walking Shoes Or Boots?
For easy routes, walking shoes can be enough. These shoes are lighter than boots. They also feel better when you walk on flat, hard ground.
If you might end up in mud or on uneven paths, choose boots instead. Boots cover more of your legs and feel steadier on rough spots.
Therefore, before purchasing walking shoes for long walks, think about your usual places of walking.
Walking shoes may suit you if you usually walk:
-
Along country lanes
-
On firm trails
-
In parks and woodlands
-
On well-maintained paths
-
On longer routes where you prefer lighter footwear
Boots may suit you if your walks include:
-
Muddy fields
-
Wet grass
-
Rocky paths
-
Hills and slopes
-
Uneven ground
-
Poor weather
You do not have to choose boots simply because you are planning a long walk. Look at the route first.
Are Walking Shoes Suitable For Long Walks?
They can be.
A walking shoe can be a good choice when the ground is reasonably even. If you are walking for hours, having less weight on your feet can also be a welcome change.
Our K2 Men's Leather Waterproof Walking Shoes are an example. They have a grip twist sole, flex foam midsole, stabilising strap and waterproof construction.
Picture a long Sunday walk through the countryside with mostly dry paths and a few wet sections. It is possible to have the light feeling with a shoe such as K2 without being fully exposed to the elements.
However, if the course ahead is expected to be particularly muddy and rocky, then you might wish for a boot.
Are Boots Better For Long-Distance Walks?
Boots are useful when the route gets rough.
A boot may be more comfortable in cases when one walks on a muddy field or through loose stones. The next thing to consider is that boots should be waterproof.
Our PELLY Men's Leather Waterproof Walking Boots are one example. If you know your route includes wet grass and muddy paths, waterproof leather can help keep your feet dry.
INUVIK Men's Leather Waterproof Walking Boots are another option. The padded collar and tongue and moulded EVA footbed give the boot a comfortable feel when you are out for longer.
But no rule says boots are always better. A heavy boot can feel unnecessary on a flat, dry trail.
What Should You Look For In Walking Footwear?
When you buy hiking shoes, a few things matter.
1. Fit: Your heel should not slide. At the same time, your toes need some room to move. Avoid shoes that feel tight right away. They will not magically become comfortable after a while.
2. Cushioning: Walk around for a bit, maybe a couple of hours if you can. Notice how your feet feel. Extra padding helps reduce tiredness on longer trips.
3. Grip: Look at the sole and try it on surfaces like wet grass or muddy paths. If it slips easily, choose a different pair. You need a tread that matches the places you walk.
4. Waterproofing: Useful if you walk throughout the year. Even wet grass can leave your feet soaked.
5. Support: More important on uneven ground, hills and longer routes where you are carrying a bag.
As for ladies walking boots, there are HEWITT Women's Leather Waterproof Walking Boots that have padded insoles and collars. For those who want to spend the whole day in the open air, such little things are very important.
PEAK Women's Leather Waterproof Walking Boots are also available to those who would rather wear boots covering the ankle area.
Do Men's Trekking Boots Make Sense For Long Walks?
Men’s hiking boots will certainly help you out when you go through paths with a lot of ups and downs.
However, they are not required for hiking all the time. When your paths are mostly on the plains, you might choose other footwear.
The same goes for hiking boots for men. Do not choose a pair just because it looks tough. Think about where you will wear them.
Whereas trekking shoes can work fine for women on shorter treks, it would be better for the ladies to consider walking boots if the terrain is rugged or muddy.
What About Walking Socks?
Your footwear is only one part of the setup.
The socks you wear can change how your boots or shoes feel. Thick everyday socks may bunch up, while very thin socks may not give you the feel you want.
Use the walking socks you normally wear when trying on new footwear. And do not take a brand-new pair straight onto a long route.
Wear them around the house first. Then try a few shorter walks. If your heel rubs or your toes feel cramped, you will know before you are miles from home.
Which Northwest Territory Footwear Can You Look At?
At Northwest Territory, we have walking footwear for different types of routes.
For men, PELLY and INUVIK are waterproof walking boots, while K2 is a lower waterproof walking shoe. SACHS is another style to consider when looking through the range.
Walking boots for women include HEWITT and PEAK brand waterproof boots for walks outside.
It is not necessary to select any specific type of footwear simply because it is known as walking boots or walking shoes. Check your terrain and choose the right one that is comfortable.
FAQs
1. What footwear is best for long-distance walking?
This will be determined by the nature of the terrain. Walking shoes may be appropriate on solid terrain, while boots would be more appropriate on muddy, rocky, or rugged terrain.
2. Are walking shoes suitable for long walks?
Yes, walking shoes may be appropriate if you are going to walk long distances on solid terrain. They are very light in weight as compared to boots.
3. Are boots better for long-distance walks?
Boots would be more useful if you need protection and support from the footwear. For flat and easy routes, walking shoes may be enough.
4. What features matter most on a long walk?
Consider the fit, cushioning, traction, stability, and waterproofing of the footwear. Try it out with the socks that you normally wear for walks.
5. Are hiking boots for men suitable for everyday walks?
Yes, they can be very useful if the regular walks involve countryside, hills, fields or uneven terrain.
The Simple Way To Choose
When choosing walking footwear for long-distance walks, start with the route.
Dry and easy path? A walking shoe may be enough.
Mud, rain, hills or rough ground? A waterproof boot may make more sense.
Whichever you choose, make sure it fits properly, wear it before your main walk and use comfortable walking socks.
At Northwest Territory, we have both walking shoes and boots, so you can choose according to the walks you actually enjoy.
