If you live in the UK, you’ll know that spring is one of the worst times of the year for unpredictable weather. This unpredictability can put a lot of people off hiking in spring, but you shouldn't let this stop you from enjoying the nature around you.
If you are going on a spring walk, make sure you’re well prepared. Even if you’re going on a shorter hike, it’s important you’re wearing the right footwear.
What to look for in good hiking shoes
When you’re looking for hiking footwear, you should take your time to shop around before deciding on a pair. There are a few key factors to look out for when choosing your hiking shoes and boots, including:
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Traction: The resistance to slippage on a variety of surfaces.
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Breathability: How well do the shoes/boots allow for moisture to escape.
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Weight: Wearing heavy shoes or boots can result in greater oxygen consumption and energy demands.
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Cushioning: The ability to absorb shock
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Support and stability: Achieved by cushioning, medial support and correct inserts for additional stability.
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Durability: Dependent on the materials and technology used.
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Protection: To protect feet against a range of weather and terrain conditions.
What footwear do you need to hike in Spring?
Knowing what footwear to wear on spring hikes can be tricky, since the weather can be so unpredictable. You should make your decision based on where you will be hiking, as well as what the weather forecast is.
You can never guarantee what the condition of the trails will be like in spring; it could be really muddy or quite dry and bumpy.
To give yourself the best chance in conditions, a lightweight walking shoe or boot would be the best option. This way, your feet will stay dry if it rains and if the temperature starts to heat up, you won’t have to worry about moisture being trapped in.
You should also look for a pair which have good traction, since trails can vary in terrain the further you get.
Best walking shoes
The Hi-Tec Mens Trail Destroyer Black/Silver Lightweight Walking Shoes are a lightweight walking shoe with a modern, sporty design. Featuring a soft shell upper and EVA midsoles, these shoes provide comfort and stability for those spring walks and hikes.
The Dri-Tec waterproof membrane ensures your feet stay dry all day, whilst the carbon rubber outsole provides great traction.
The ladies Skechers Ladies Trego Lookout Point are a low profile waterproof shoe that you can rely on during wet weather walks. The lightweight and durable mesh allows for a comfortable and breathable fit, whilst also providing flexibility and durability.
The removable moulded EVA footbed and the compression-moulded EVA midsole delivers underfoot cushioning and comfort.
Best walking boots
Skechers Arch Fit Dawson Raveno Brown Waterproof Trail Walking Boots provide comfort and support, thanks to Skechers ArchFit technology. These lace up outdoor trail boots feature waterproof leather and mesh uppers with durable Goodyear performance outsoles.
The removable insole helps to mould to your foot to reduce shock absorption and increase weight dispersion.
The women's Skechers Trego Alpine Trail Brown Waterproof All Terrain Ankle Boots are the perfect lace-up hiking boot, featuring waterproof suede, synthetic and mesh uppers and Air-Cooled Memory foam.
These boots also feature an all-terrain rubber traction outsole and Skechers Relaxed-Fit for a roomy fit.
Best walking trainers
The Hi-Tec Men's Trail Destroyer Lightweight Vegan Walking Shoes are high performance walking trainers, stitched with structured uppers for stability and support.
Reflective elements ensure your feet are visible when running in the dark, and the impact-absorbing CMEVA midsole ensures long lasting cushioning and comfort.
Skechers Hillcrest Pure Escapade Navy Turquoise Walking Trail Shoes are a sporty trail trainer, designed with leather and synthetic mesh uppers.
These Skechers Memory Foam cushioned trainers feature shock absorbing midsoles and flexible rubber traction outsoles.