Choosing the right footwear for your outdoor pursuits might not be easy. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start.

Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping for shoes for your outdoor activities.

8 Best Ways to Shop for Outdoor Shoes

Activity

When purchasing outdoor shoes, the most significant decision is what you want to use them for. Which of these is your preferred mode of transportation? You’ll need a different pair of shoes for different tasks.

Boots or Shoes?

It’s all about personal choice when it comes to footwear. As trail runners are lighter than boots, your feet may move more freely. Runners and hikers who want to traverse low-lying terrain will find these shoes excellent.

Walking boots offer a lot more support for the ankles. These shoes are ideal for hillwalkers who frequently encounter steep inclines and drops. Because of the boot’s stiff construction, your foot will be more protected from the ground underneath you.

Terrain

The terrain you’ll be traversing should influence the style of footwear you pick for the outdoors. A lightweight shoe or boot is a smart choice if you want to trek on well-worn paths. As a result, this form of walking needs a less specialized design.

Stiffer soles and more ankle support are required for rugged terrain and steep slopes. In addition to enhancing stability, this will also assist in absorbing some of the jarring from the uneven terrain.

Conditions of the Day

Determine what weather and environmental circumstances you’ll face before purchasing boots for outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping. Wearing a boot or shoe with additional insulation in colder locations may be necessary to keep your feet warm and safe in the snow.

It’s advisable to go with something lightweight and breathable while in a hotter area. As a result, your feet will stay more comfortable and dry. Blisters are less likely to develop when hiking with well-ventilated feet.

Outdoor footwear with deep lugs and an aggressive tread pattern is needed in wet and muddy environments. You’ll have more stability and traction when you’re on the go.

Waterproofing

Many people have their preferences on whether or not to buy waterproof shoes. There is no question that waterproof boots and shoes have advantages, especially in wet areas. As a result, waterproof boots can be hefty and cumbersome.

A pair of trail runners that dry rapidly when wet is preferred by certain outdoor enthusiasts. They are more permeable to moisture as an added benefit, making them ideal for hotter regions.

Comfort

Trust us when we say that comfort is a priority. Durability is important when shopping for outdoor shoes, but if the shoes don’t feel right, you’ll quickly give them up, no matter how long they survive.

Remember that the first few wears of any shoe will be unpleasant. They will take some time to get used to and mold your feet, so be patient. Before heading out on the trail, always wear your new shoes around the house first. It will help you break them in without getting blisters.

Sizing

If you want to use your boots for trekking, get half or a full size larger when purchasing them. Your shoes must tolerate the swelling of your feet that occurs during a trek. While the toe box should accommodate some wiggle room, you should still be able to keep your heel in place. Blisters are less likely to form if you do this.

If you’re going to a store to get shoes for walking about in the sun, go in the late afternoon. Because your feet have already swelled a bit after a long morning on your feet, you’ll obtain a more accurate fit while trying on shoes. Trail socks are a must, so don’t forget them!

Brand

When shopping for outdoor shoes, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the big names in the market. Salomon, Merrell, Scarpa, and Keen are some of the most popular footwear companies.

The reputation of a brand is typically built on the quality and longevity of its products, and it is this quality and longevity that drives up the price. Outdoor shoes from any of the brands above are likely to be more costly. However, considering how long these shoes will last, the additional cost is well worth it.