Hiking shoes

Lace up for treks with hiking shoes

When it comes to hiking, you need a good mix of comfort and stability. Slightly different from hiking boots, MEC’s collection of hiking shoes are great for day hikes and easy treks, letting you tackle the trails at your own pace. Designed by brands like Merrell, Salomon, KEEN and more, learn about finding the right pair of hiking shoes in Canada to make the most of the beautiful landscapes ahead.

Hiking shoes vs. hiking boots

There are some key differences between hiking shoes and boots depending on the type of trekking you plan to do. Low-cut day hiking shoes take the flexible soles of trail runners and build them up for the rigors of the trail. They give you more stability than trail runners and protect your feet more. They’re best for day hikes and groomed trails and for hikers who don’t need ankle support or lots of stability. Hiking shoes are lightweight and flexible with no break-in time needed (especially compared to boots). However, hiking shoes don’t have as much ankle support and are less durable than boots, so consider what your feet need on your upcoming treks.

Consider the waterproof hiking shoe

In Canada, where weather be unpredictable and conditions can change rapidly, waterproof hiking shoes are must-haves. If your trails require you to hike through streams, wet grass or sudden rain showers, hiking shoes made with materials like GORE-TEX® might be right for you. They’re also made with other waterproof membranes that provide a barrier against moisture while still allowing your feet to breathe. This breathability is crucial for preventing your feet from overheating and reducing the risk of blisters, which can quickly turn a pleasant trek into a painful one.

Fitting your hiking shoes

For the most accurate sizing, get your feet measured in store. If you can’t visit a store, use a tape measure to find your foot length in centimetres, then compare that to the size charts on mec.ca. Stand up to measure your feet so you get a more accurate measurement. Keep in mind that sizes can vary from brand to brand, so you might not end up wearing your usual size.

Set aside some time and plan to try on a few different models or hiking shoes or boots. Find a sloping ramp or stairs, and walk up and down, taking small steps. On the way up, your heel shouldn’t move more than half a centimetre. If it does, the boot may be too large. On the way down, your toes shouldn’t touch the front of the boot. If they do, the boot may be too small.