There are three types of hiking shoes depending on the use. It really is a personal choice between which type you are most comfortable in. Here we list the details of each and decide which style fits you best.
Trail Running Shoes
These are lightweight shoes that tend to look more like a sneaker than a hiking boot. They are low-cut just under the ankle models with flexible midsoles. Trail running shoes are the most lightweight shoes and are best for day hikes. Though they do not provide a stable ankle support, being low cut allows you to bend and flex over challenging terrain. The ALTRA Men’s AL0A4PE5 Lone Peak 4.5 is a trail running shoes that performed so well off-road that it can be considered in the list. It has a pretty good traction provided by the 5mm lug depth. The shoes has a wide toe box and low cut design to ensure comfort even during downhill.
Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are a cross between sneakers and hiking boots. These commonly range from mid to high cut models that can support day hikes or short backpacking trips but with light loads. Hiking shoes have stiff rubber soles and stiff upper that provides support that sneakers can’t provide. Like the Merrell Moab 2 Vent, the low cut model of the Moab 2 Mid GTX. This model is not waterproof but the abrasion-resistant Vibram sole can hold up yo hours of hiking even on hot summer days.
Hiking Boots
Heavier than the hiking shoes, the hiking boots are designed to carry heavier loads and can be used on multi day trips. Designed to be high cut that wraps around the ankles to provide a more stable support. We recommend the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid GTX, has a better ankle support that its hiking shoes counterpart. It is mid cut that provides stability on rough terrain and is waterproof.