Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes? The Complete Guide for Trekkers

Brooke Barber
Nov 19
4 min read

When planning a major adventure, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing between hiking boots vs. trail shoes. The right footwear can elevate your trek, while the wrong choice can lead to blisters, rolled ankles, or even a failed summit attempt. Whether you're preparing for Everest Base Camp, trekking the Inca Trail, or exploring the gentle hills of the Cotswolds Way, understanding the difference between boots and trail shoes will help you choose what’s best for your feet and your terrain.

This updated guide breaks down each option, explains which trails demand boots, highlights “in-between” treks where either can work, and recommends the best hiking boots and trail shoes of 2025.

🥾 Some Trails Demand Boots — No Exceptions

While trail shoes are rising in popularity, there are some routes where boots are not optional due to the combination of altitude, weather exposure, freezing nighttime temps, and uneven volcanic rock.

Routes That Require Hiking Boots

Mount Kilimanjaro (all routes)
The terrain varies widely—scree, volcanic dust, high winds, and cold summit conditions. You need ankle support, insulation, and durability. Trail shoes are unsafe here.
High alpine routes with snow/ice exposure
Any trek requiring microspikes or crampons needs a boot with a stiffer, more supportive build.
Rugged Terrain
Trails where paths are not fully cleared, or may be rugged make hiking boots essential. Some trails along mountains have shifting rocks or scree that can move under your feet. It's important to have durable boots for trails that are not as smooth and clear.

These are the kinds of trails where boots are a safety requirement, not a comfort preference.

⚖️ The “In-Between” Trails: Boots Recommended, Trail Shoes Possible

Some of the world’s most iconic treks fall into a middle category—routes where conditions can shift from easy to rugged, smooth to rocky, warm to cold. On these trails:

Newer trekkers should choose boots.
Experienced trekkers may opt for trail shoes, as long as they understand the pros and cons.
Weather changes everything. Wet conditions often favor boots.

Two excellent examples:

The Inca Trail (Peru)

The Inca Trail includes stone staircases, uneven rock, steep descents, and wet/damp conditions—especially in the cloud forest.

Boots Recommended For:

New trekkers
Anyone with ankle-instability
Rainy season (Nov–April)
People carrying moderate to heavy packs

Trail Shoes Possible If:

You’re an experienced hiker with strong ankles
You prefer a lighter, faster feel
You’re trekking during dry season

Many seasoned hikers complete the Inca Trail in trail shoes, but first-timers almost always fare better in boots.

Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland)

A stunning but demanding route with big elevation gains, rocky traverses, and wide variations in terrain and weather.

Boots Recommended For:

New trekkers or those unsure which to choose
Early/late season when snow may be present
Trekkers carrying heavier packs

Trail Shoes Possible If:

You have extensive trekking experience
You’ve completed high-mileage days in trail shoes before
You prefer agility over maximum support

This is a classic example of a trek that can be done beautifully in either—but boots offer a larger margin of safety for most hikers.

🥾 Hiking Boots: When They’re the Better Choice

Boots still shine when terrain is rough, pack weight is high, or weather is unpredictable. They protect your ankles, offer stability on uneven surfaces, and keep you warm and dry. For long, remote, or technical treks, boots remain the safest option.

👟 Trail Shoes: When They’re a Great Fit

Trail shoes excel on moderate trails, in warm weather, or for hikers who prioritize agility and comfort. They’re breathable, lightweight, and popular on well-maintained routes. But they require strong ankles, solid technique, and the right conditions.

How to Choose (Quick Decision Guide)

Choose Boots If:

You are new to trekking
You’re hiking a high-altitude or cold route
Your pack is heavy
You need ankle support

Choose Trail Shoes If:

You are experienced
You’re hiking in warm or mixed conditions
Your pack is light
You prefer comfort and speed

⭐ Best Hiking Boots and Trail Shoes (2025 Picks)

🥾 Top Hiking Boots

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

Durable, breathable, and waterproof—excellent for rugged treks and variable weather.

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX

Lightweight but supportive; fantastic on mixed terrain and ideal for trekkers who want agility with ankle protection.

Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof

Supportive and confidence-building; perfect for new trekkers choosing boots for routes like the Inca Trail or TMB.

👟 Top Trail Shoes

Hoka Speedgoat 6

Cushioned and grippy; great for experienced trekkers wanting comfort on long days.

Saucony Peregrine 15

Versatile, protective, and excellent on a broad range of trail surfaces.

Brooks Cascadia 19

Stable and durable—ideal for trekkers who want trail shoes but still crave structure.

Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4

Roomy toe box and all-day comfort; fantastic for multi-day moderate treks.

Topo Athletic MTN Racer 3

A more technical, performance-focused option for confident, experienced trekkers.

Final Word: Match Your Shoes to Your Trek (and Experience Level)

Some trails require boots. Some allow trail shoes. And many—like the Inca Trail and Tour du Mont Blanc—offer flexibility depending on your comfort, confidence, and trekking history.

But the golden rule remains:

Comfort + experience + terrain = the right footwear choice.

Break your footwear in, train with it, and know exactly how it feels under load. Your feet are your most important piece of gear—choose what supports them best.