What Shoes to Pack for Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When it comes to packing for a backpacking adventure, the right kind of shoes can make or break your trip. That’s why it’s important to choose shoes that not only fit your style and comfort needs, but also ones that are lightweight and durable enough to withstand the rigors of the trail.

The best shoes for backpacking depend on the terrain you’ll be covering, as well as how much weight you’ll be carrying. For example, if you’ll be doing mostly day hikes on relatively easy trails with light loads, then a pair of comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners will suffice for most trips.

For multi-day trips with heavy packs or challenging terrain, however, a good pair of lightweight backpacking boots may be in order. There are several types of boots to choose from here, ranging from low-cut models designed for light loads and gentle terrain to mid-cut and high-cut models that offer more support and stability over rough terrain.

No matter which type of boots you choose, make sure they fit properly and have been broken in before your trip. You should also take into consideration their weight; heavier leather boots may provide more support but they won’t do you any good if they weigh you down on the trail.

Other Footwear Options:

In addition to hiking shoes or boots, there are several other types of footwear that can come in handy on a backpacking trip. Sandals or flip flops make great camp shoes for chilling around camp after a long day’s hike, while waterproof hiking sandals can provide extra ventilation during hot summer days or stream crossings.

If you plan on doing some wading in rivers or lakes during your trip then neoprene water shoes might be worth considering; these offer protection from sharp rocks and debris while still allowing your feet to move freely underwater.

Of course it’s always a good idea to bring an extra pair of socks along as well; merino wool socks are great for hiking as they’re lightweight yet insulating and naturally odor resistant.

Conclusion:

Picking out the right shoes for backpacking can take some trial and error but once you find the perfect combination of style, comfort, durability and weight then you’ll be ready to hit the trails with confidence! When it comes down to it though, there is no one size fits all solution so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for your specific needs.