Hiking Shoes or Boots? How to Make the Right Choice?
- October 26, 2025
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Pic Blanc sports: Helly Hansen official distributor in Lebanon.
The success of any hike often depends on what’s on your feet. We’ve all seen tired hikers struggling to keep up in the wrong shoes—and those who move with ease simply because they made the right choice. But when should you go for hiking shoes, and when are boots the better option?
Hiking shoes are lighter, more flexible, and often feel like wearing a sporty sneaker—only with a sturdier sole and better grip. They’re ideal for shorter hikes, forest trails, or weekend adventures that start in the city. They allow your feet to move freely, fatigue less, and dry faster when wet. However, they offer less ankle support, making them less suitable for rocky or technical terrain.
Hiking boots, on the other hand, are built for more demanding routes. The higher cut supports the ankle, while the stiffer sole protects against sharp stones and provides stability on muddy or slippery paths. They may feel heavier at first, but when climbing steep trails or carrying a loaded backpack, you’ll be thankful for their extra support.
Whichever you choose, one thing matters most: waterproofing. Nothing ruins a hike faster than walking for hours with wet socks. The Helly Tech® membrane used in Helly Hansen footwear solves this problem—keeping water out while allowing moisture to escape from the inside. The result is dry, comfortable feet even on long hikes.
When deciding, consider your plans. For a few hours on an easy trail, a lightweight shoe will do. For multi-day treks with changing terrain and weather, boots are the smarter choice. Gentle forest paths suit the freedom of a shoe, while slippery ground calls for the grip and stability of a boot. In warm summer weather, shoes feel cooler; in rain or cold, a waterproof boot provides the right protection. And don’t forget about comfort—try on your footwear in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure the perfect fit. The deeper the tread, the better the traction.
In the Helly Hansen collection, you’ll find both options:
Cascade Low HT – a lightweight, low-cut model perfect for quick hikes,
Cascade Mid HT – mid-cut and waterproof for longer routes,
Ascender Mid HT – robust, stable, and equipped with the Helly Tech® membrane for confidence on any terrain.
The right footwear is more than just comfort—it’s your most reliable companion on the trail, helping every step become part of the adventure and letting you truly enjoy being outdoors, wherever you go.
