Are Converse Good for Hiking? (Find Out)

Having proper shoes is recommended for hiking. However, you also see people taking the trails in slippers, running shoes, sandals, and even Converse.

If they can do it, you should be able to do it too, right?

It is a common question whether Converse is good for hiking. There are several opinions doing the rounds, and some even claim to conquer some of the most difficult trails.

So, can you hike in a Converse?

In this blog, we will tackle this important question in detail. We will list several factors that will make an informed decision.

So, let’s dive right in without further delay.

Is Converse Good for Hiking?

Converse has become a part of many peoples’ lives. You can see them around the feet of countless folks walking the streets, sitting in cafes, and taking the tube in the subway.

Converse looks cool and is breathable enough to keep your feet cool in summer. However, they may not be the best shoes for taking the wild trails.

They lack many features that hiking shoes come with to make for a safe trip. Let’s explore the reasons that indicate why Converse is not a very good option for hiking.

Converse is Not Designed for Hiking

Converse started its journey as a general shoemaker. It manufactured rubber shoes for gents, ladies, and kids. After a decade of operation, Converse started making shoes for basketball players.

The footwear from the company has maintained the same design and structure over the years. And that means there has been no change to make it prepared for hiking.

Therefore, Converse was not originally made for walking the mountains or forests. It was meant to be used on the streets and on basketball courts only.

As a result, hiking with Converse means you are hiking with the wrong shoes. So, it may give you a few blisters or cause your ankle to twist when you step on a rock.

Your Feet is Bound to Get Wet

Canvas is, after all, made of cloth. The material is not waterproof and gets wet with the slightest splash of moisture.

In addition, it will also catch moisture and dewdrops from grasses and bushes as you walk through vegetated areas.

Moreover, the shoes don’t have any water-resistance lining that is present in quality hiking boots. So, you can forget about keeping your feet warm or dry in rain and snow.

As a result, you have to be comfortable with wet feet with soggy socks if you hike in a Converse.

You May Slip and Fall

Converse shoes don’t have the best grip in the world. In fact, it is not even close to what even cheap hiking boots come with.

Converse is made for even surfaces as it was designed for basketball courts or the streets. So, they don’t offer you the same confidence you get with a pair of good hiking boots.

Additionally, snow and moisture are enough to make you slip and lose your balance.

So, Converse is not suitable for slippery rocky surfaces, moss, mud, snow, or moisture. Sadly, you can’t do without them while traversing an unknown terrain.

Pain and Pricks May be Inevitable

Converse has a thin sole without any reinforcement you need for hiking shoes. Additionally, you don’t have any insert to support the arch of your feet.

This might not become an issue when you are on metal roads. However, the scenario changes as soon as you step from metal to dirt roads. They are full of stones, thorns, pebbles, and all sorts of objects. So, you have to step on them if you want to reach your destination.

Surely, Converse is not the best option when you have to tread such paths or trails. You will feel every pebble and stone on your way and even get a few surprising pricks from sharp things.

You want a solid sole that can bear the hardship of rigorous hiking. Additionally, you need robust arch support so that your feet don’t pain after the hike ends.

Moreover, you don’t have any ankle support to count on. So, it will be highly uncomfortable to hike warning a Converse as you have to constantly stabilize yourself.

You Will Have to Buy a New Pair of Converse Frequently

Converse is out of the question if hiking is your passion. The shoes are not meant for serious hikers as they aren’t to handle that level of stress.

As a result, you can expect your Converse to go through wear and tear to a higher degree. Your soles may give up or your canvas shell may get torn.

Therefore, you will have to purchase a new pair of shoes every now and then to support your passion for hiking.

The above factors don’t really put Converse in a good light if you want to use them for hiking. Instead, you can go for reliable hiking shoes that are designed for rough environments.

Better Alternatives Than Converse For Hiking

Here are the top choices you can consider for hiking:

Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoes

Moab 2 is a popular choice for hikers. It is ideal for light hiking and can manage most of the trails you may come across.

The pair of boots are made from quality leather and come with ample features to encourage you to hike more.

For example, it has a water-resistant membrane to keep your feet dry and warm. You also have a protective top cap so that stepping on stones is not painful.

Moreover, the boots have breathable mesh lining so that you don’t get sweaty feet. Additionally, you will not feel embarrassed to open your boots to rest your feet in fear of stinky feet in front of your friends.

Best of all, you can rely on a tough EVA midsole to walk all trails with super confidence. You can also trust the air cushions in the heels to walk over any surface without your feet feeling anything.

Pros

• Rubber toe cap for additional protection
• Good grip
• Excellent for rain and snow

Cons

• A bit heavy
• Not for backpacking

Where to purchase Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoes?

You can purchase Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoes here on Amazon.

La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoes

La Sportiva is one of the best hiking boots you will come across. The boots can handle medium-level rugged terrain and will be your true companion in your journeys.

In addition, the shoes come with a low cut so that you can always walk in style.

La Sportiva has all the bells and whistles you will expect in a pair of quality hiking boots. You don’t have to worry about rain or snow as it has a waterproof lining.

Moreover, you can stay comfortable with 360-degree breathable fabric to keep your feet airy.

Most importantly, the boots are equipped with a special sole. It is called the Impact Break System and offers amazing traction.

So, you can walk even on slippery or tricky surfaces with complete peace of mind.

Pros

• Good breathability
• Suits rigorous hiking
• Excellent waterproofing

Cons

• Heel is a bit wide
• Heavy for a low-top boot

Where to purchase La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoes?

You can purchase La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoes here on Amazon.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is a heavy-duty hiking boot. You can take it with you for tackling some of the most difficult trails. The boots are wide-fit so that your feet and toes can have the much-needed space to relax.

Moreover, the shoes are lightweight and offer awesome stability. You will always be able to keep your feet straight and walk on a rugged surface with zero concern.

Needless to say, the boots are waterproof and even suitable for use in snow. You also have an all-terrain grip so that you can choose to go anywhere.

The chassis is also quite tough and won’t let you down even if you hike in extreme terrains or conditions.

Pros

• Adapts to your feet
• Good traction
• Simple laces

Cons

• Waterproofing doesn’t last long
• Midsole is a bit thin

Where to purchase Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes?

You can purchase Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes here on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Converse is not at all a reliable option for hiking. People may use them but it’s good for only using once in a while when you don’t have anything else. You should always invest in a good pair of hiking boots to support your hobby or passion. You can try out any of the boots we reviewed for a great hiking experience.