From The Ground Up: Beginner's Guide to Hiking Boots

“I’m just starting out, I don’t need hiking boots.” This is the thought that crossed my mind when my boyfriend first suggested I look into a pair. I had hiked the Billy Goat Trail near my parents’ home in Maryland in just sneakers and had survived, despite the trail being less of a trail and more just rocks and boulders. So why would I need to buy hiking boots?

You may be thinking this as well – hiking boots can be expensive, and if you don’t see yourself doing a ton of hiking, you may wonder whether they’re worth it. Three (to four) words: Ankle support. Waterproof-ness. Grip. You want these things. Hiking boots give you these things. No matter how comfortable your current sneakers/walking shoes of choice are, they will be dead to you once you hike in a pair of good, sturdy, boots. They are so worth the investment.


Not surprisingly, comfort is your highest priority when trying on boots. Make sure they are comfortable walk around in at the store (don’t think any odd pressure points will magically disappear). You should also try out a variety of movements to make sure they don’t pinch you in any surprising places. This could mean busting a move in the store, using REI's handy dandy faux rock, or just actually taking them hiking. If you buy from REI, you can return your boots in whatever condition, no questions asked, up to one year from purchasing them.

REI's return policy saved me on my first pair, which were made by Lowa. I absolutely adored them, but once I started hiking over more varied terrain, going downhill became incredibly painful. There was a weird pinching spot right on the outside of my pinky toe, which may seem like a minor issue, but in reality it is completely non-negotiable regardless of the length of the hike. I have very long, narrow feet, so if your feet are shaped differently, I still encourage you to check out their boots.

My original boots - the Lowa Bora GTX QC women's hiking boots. Find them here.

If you’re not used to wearing any sort of boot that comes up to your ankle, wearing them can be a comfort adjustment as well. But besides feeling a little stiff, you shouldn’t be experiencing any rubbing or discomfort. The extra support comes in handy once you start hiking around, trust me! Even on a well-maintained trail, there will always be little rocks or divots that you may miss, plus having ankle support makes hiking anywhere way more comfortable. 

My Lowas and me in happier days

Next priority – finding a grippy sole. Merrell is a brand that offers Vibram soles, which give you a fantastic amount of grip even on wet rocks and steep inclines. I know Vibram makes many people think toe shoes, which makes many people think, “Ew.” But the company makes regular shoe soles as well, and at the price point that Merrell offers, they’ve become my favorite shoe. There are tons of brands that offer Vibram soles, so if you can find one that is also otherwise comfortable, go for the Vibram.

My current boots - the Merrell Siren Waterproof Mid Leather women's hiking boot. Find them here and here.

My Merrell boots are also waterproof, which is a must. You sacrifice breathability, but it’s absolutely worth it to be able to trudge through whatever water you come across (even just a small creek or puddle can totally soak your socks, and then you’re miserable). I have admittedly sweaty feet, and as long as you get some thinner hiking socks (click here for a guide to hiking socks) you’ll be good to go on the temperature front.

They even look cute with regular jeans! The pig is the mascot of our favorite BBQ place in Colorado.

There are several other characteristics to consider, but they all go along with simply finding a comfortable shoe. A shoe that feels heavy in the store will be a chore to hike in once you’re outdoors and going for a while. A great option for lighter but still sturdy shoes are Salomon’s trail-runner/hiking boot hybrid. My boyfriend has the men’s version and is in love with them, plus he always reminds me that he will be able to out run me if we ever run into a bear (that’s what’s really important, right?). 

The Saloman X Ultra Mid GTX men's hiking shoes - find them here.

So when you go shopping, remember: find something comfortable, with good ankle support, that’s waterproof, and nice and grippy. Keep an eye out for REI sales, which is how both my boyfriend and I have gotten excellent deals on our boots! Once you've found your perfect pair, you'll want to make sure to find a good pair of socks (or multiple pairs...#sockaddict) to go with them. Find out more about what brands you should look for here.