How Much Should You Spend on Hiking Boots

How Much Should You Spend on Hiking Boots/Shoes? (Find Out!)

When you’re looking for a new pair of hiking boots, it’s important to find the right fit for your needs.

Not all boots are created equal, and you’ll want to make sure that you’re spending your money on a quality product that will keep your feet safe on the trail.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss how much you should spend on hiking boots, and what factors to consider when making your purchase. We’ll also provide some tips for finding the best deals on hiking boots!

How Much Should You Spend on Hiking Boots?

There are many brands to pick from when you’re looking for a new pair of hiking boots. With all the different materials, designs, and features, it can be tough to know where to start.

How much you spend on hiking boots varies based on what type of hiking you will be doing.

If you’re a beginner or just a day hiker, you can expect to spend $50 to $100 on some high-quality hiking boots. But, if you were a thru-hiker, you’d spend between $100 to $200 on a pair of hiking boots.

The reason why there is such a big difference in prices is because of the different features that each type of boot offers.

For example, a beginner or day hiker might not need all the bells and whistles that a thru-hiker requires.

Different Types of Hikers:

  • Day Hiker ($50 – $100)
  • Casual Multiday Hiker ($75 – $100)
  • Ultra Lightweight Hiker ($50 – $100)
  • Trail Runner ($50 – $100)
  • Thru-Hiker ($100 – $200)

Hiking Shoes For Day Hiker

Hiking Shoes For Day Hiker

A day hiker is someone who hikes for only 1 day which includes most beginner to veteran hikers.

Most of these hikers hike for  3-10 miles a day which could take anywhere from 3-6 hours.

If you are a day hiker, you should look for hiking boots that offer good ankle support, are comfortable, and have decent traction.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on your hiking boots as long as they meet these criteria.

A good pair of day hiking boots will usually cost between $50 and $100.

Top Hiking Shoes/Boots for Day Hikers

Hiking Boots For Casual Multiday Hiker

Hiking Boots For Casual Multiday Hiker

The next category of hikers is what we like to call the casual multi-day hiker.

These are hikers who usually hike on the weekends or for a few days at a time and typically only go hiking a few times per year.

But despite their infrequent hikes, they still want a quality pair of hiking boots that will last them for many years to come.

And while they don’t mind spending a little more money on their hiking boots, they still don’t want to spend too much.

The sweet spot for casual multiday hikers is usually in the $75 to $100 range.

Top Hiking Boots For Casual Multiday Hikers

Hiking Shoes For Ultra Lightweight Hiker

Hiking Shoes For Ultra Lightweight Hiker

The next step up from the overnight or weekend hiker is the lightweight or speed hiker, who often hikes long miles at a relatively fast pace.

And because of this, they will need a very lightweight and comfortable hiking boot that doesn’t weigh them down too much.

But at the same time, these hikers still need shoes that provide enough support and protection from the elements.

The best hiking boots for lightweight or speed hikers are usually in the medium price range between $50 and $100.

Top Hiking Shoes For Ultra Lightweight Hiker

Hiking Shoes For Trail Runners

Hiking Shoes For Trail Runners

The next category of hikers is the trail runners, which as the name implies are hikers that typically like to move fast and cover a lot of ground quickly.

So for these types of hikers, they will want to focus on getting a lightweight and comfortable hiking shoe that offers good traction while still being durable enough to handle some miles.

And because trail runners are often covering a lot of ground quickly, they will also want to focus on getting a hiking shoe with good cushioning and support to help minimize the impact on their feet and legs.

This is why many of the best trail running shoes also make great hiking shoes as well.

Top Hiking Shoes For Trail Runners

Hiking Shoes For Thru-Hikers

And last, but not least on our list of different types of hikers are the thru-hikers, who as the name suggests will hike an entire long-distance trail from start to finish.

It typically takes these types of hikers between four to six months to complete depending on the length of the trail.

During a thru-hike, a hiker will go through an enormous amount of wear and tear on their hiking boots, which is why many thru-hikers will often times purchase two pairs of hiking boots.

One pair to start the hike in and then another pair to replace the first pair partway through the hike.

When it comes to picking out a good pair of hiking boots for a thru-hike, you should really focus on the upper end of the price range and look at hiking boots that are around $100 to $200.

Top Hiking Shoes for Thru-Hikers

Factors To Consider When Buying Hiking Boots/Shoes

Factors To Consider When Buying Hiking BootsShoes

Below are a few factors you should consider when buying hiking boots/shoes:

  • Stability
  • Weight
  • Toe Protection
  • Traction & Outsoles
  • Waterproof
  • Insoles
  • Pricing

Stability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hiking boot is stability.

You want a boot that will provide good support on uneven terrain and help prevent ankle rolls.

A boot with good stabilizing features will also help to protect your feet and ankles from impact when you are walking on rough ground.

Weight

The weight of the boot is also an important factor to consider.

You want a boot that is light enough to not slow you down but also heavy enough to provide good support and protection.

A boot that is too heavy can be a burden on your feet and legs, especially if you are carrying a lot of gear.

Toe Protection

Another factor to consider is toe protection.

You want a boot that has good toe protection to prevent your toes from getting bruised or stubbed when you are walking on rough ground.

A boot with a high ankle can also help to protect your ankles from impact.

Traction & Outsoles

The traction and outsoles of the boot are also important factors to consider.

You want a boot with good traction to prevent slips and falls on slippery or wet ground.

You also want a boot with a durable outsole that can handle rugged terrain without wearing it down too quickly.

Waterproof

Another factor to consider is waterproofing.

You want a boot/shoe that is waterproof to keep your feet dry in wet or snowy conditions.

Waterproofing can also help to extend the life of your boots by preventing them from getting wet and soaked.

Insoles

The insoles of the boot are also important factors to consider.

You want a boot with good insoles to provide support and cushioning for your feet.

Insoles can also help to extend the life of your boots by preventing them from getting too worn down.

Pricing

The last factor to consider is pricing.

You want to find a boot that is priced within your budget but also provides good value for the money.

There are many different types of hiking boots/shoes on the market, so it is important to do some research to find the best one for you.

Are Expensive Hiking Boots Worth It?

Are Expensive Hiking Boots Worth It

Now that we’ve gone over some of the different types of hikers and what they should look for in a hiking boot, let’s answer the question: are expensive hiking boots worth it?

The simple answer is yes and no.

It really depends on what you need the hiking boots for.

If you’re just going on the occasional day hike, then you probably don’t need to spend a lot of money on a pair of hiking boots and something in the $50 to $100 range should suffice.

However, if you’re planning on doing some serious backpacking or thru-hiking, then you’re going to want to invest in a good pair of hiking boots that are on the higher end of the price range.

These types of hikers will need a pair of hiking boots that are durable, comfortable, and can handle a lot of miles.

And while you can find some decent pairs of hiking boots in the $100 to $200 range, the higher-end hiking boots that are $200 and up will often times be worth the extra money.

Should You Buy Hiking Shoes or Boots? Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes

Should You Buy Hiking Shoes or Boots Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes

The age-old debate of hiking shoes vs. boots has been around for as long as people have been hiking.

And there are pros and cons to both options.

For example, hiking boots tend to provide more stability and support than hiking shoes, which is important if you’re carrying a lot of weight or hiking on uneven terrain.

Hiking boots also tend to have a longer lifespan than hiking shoes.

On the other hand, hiking shoes are typically lighter and more comfortable than hiking boots, which is important if you’re going to be logging a lot of miles.

Hiking shoes also tend to have better ventilation, which helps keep your feet cool and dry.

At the end of the day, it really comes down to personal preference.

There are avid hikers who swear by their hiking boots and there are others who only hike in shoes.

The best way to figure out what works best for you is to try both options and see which one you prefer.

To figure out which would be more useful for you, take a look at the pros & cons of both hiking shoes and hiking boots below!

Benefits Of Hiking Shoes

Below are the benefits of hiking shoes over hiking boots:

1. They are much lighter

One of the main reasons to choose hiking shoes over boots is because they are much lighter.

This can be a big advantage, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking.

The last thing you want is to have a pair of heavy boots weighing you down.

2. They are more portable

Hiking shoes are also more portable than boots.

This is because they take up less space and are easier to pack.

So, if you’re planning on doing some backpacking or thru-hiking, hiking shoes may be the way to go.

3. They tend to dry faster

Hiking shoes also tend to dry faster than boots.

This is because they have less material and better ventilation.

So, if you’re hiking in wet conditions, hiking shoes may be the way to go.

4. They offer excellent breathability

Another advantage of hiking shoes is that they offer excellent breathability.

This is because they have less material and better ventilation.

So, if you’re hiking in hot conditions, hiking shoes may be the way to go.

Disadvantages of Hiking Shoes

]Below are the disadvantages of hiking shoes over hiking boots:

1. They offer very little ankle support

One of the main disadvantages of hiking shoes is that they offer very little ankle support.

This can be a big problem, especially if you’re carrying a lot of weight or hiking on uneven terrain.

If you need ankle support, then hiking boots may be the way to go.

2. They don’t last as long as boots

Hiking shoes also don’t last as long as boots.

This is because they have less material and are not as durable.

So, if you’re looking for a pair of shoes that will last you many years, hiking boots may be the way to go.

3. They have way less cushioning

Another disadvantage of hiking shoes is that they have way less cushioning than boots.

This can be a big problem, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking.

If you need cushioning, then hiking boots may be the way to go.

Benefits of Hiking Boots

Below are the benefits of hiking boots over hiking shoes:

1. They tend to last much longer

One of the main benefits of hiking boots is that they tend to last much longer than hiking shoes.

This is because they have more material and are more durable.

So, if you’re looking for a pair of boots that will last you many years, hiking boots may be the way to go.

2. They are way more stable

Hiking boots are also way more stable than hiking shoes.

This is because they have more material and are generally much heavier.

So, if you’re carrying a lot of weight, hiking boots may be the way to go.

3. They are better for rougher terrain

Hiking boots tend to be way better for rougher/uneven terrain. Not only that hiking boots are more durable in all sorts of weather conditions.

This is because they have higher ankle support which is great for long hikes and they also have a thick sole.

All of this together makes for a much more pleasant and safer experience when you are out on more difficult terrain.

4. They offer ankle support

Another big advantage of hiking boots is that they offer ankle support.

This is because they have higher ankle support which can be great for long hikes and when you’re carrying a lot of weight.

If you need ankle support, then hiking boots may be the way to go.

Disadvantages of Hiking Boots

Below are the disadvantages of hiking boots over hiking shoes:

1. They are much heavier

One of the main disadvantages of hiking boots is that they are much heavier than hiking shoes.

This can be a big problem, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking.

The last thing you want is to have a pair of heavy boots weighing you down.

2. They can take forever to dry out

Hiking boots can also take forever to dry out.

This is because they have more material and generally don’t have as good ventilation as hiking shoes.

3. They tend to have less breathability

Another disadvantage of hiking boots is that they tend to have less breathability than hiking shoes.

This can be a big problem, especially if you’re hiking in hot conditions.

4. They aren’t as portable

Hiking boots also aren’t as portable as hiking shoes.

This is because they are much larger and generally take up more space.

Conclusion

So, what’s the verdict? Should you buy hiking boots or shoes?

The answer really depends on your needs.

If you need something lightweight and portable, then hiking shoes may be the way to go.

But if you need something more durable and stable, then hiking boots may be the way to go.

It really all comes down to what you need and what you’re looking for. No matter what, both hiking boots and shoes have their own advantages and disadvantages.

So, make sure to choose wisely! Thanks for reading! I hope this helped!

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