Looking for advice on buying hiking shoes!

Moabs are great but might be a bit warm if you’re in a hot climate like Brazil.

I prefer boots for ankle support. I’ve seen people roll their ankles more often with shoes.

Tobin said:
I prefer boots for ankle support. I’ve seen people roll their ankles more often with shoes.

I’m also looking for boots. Do you have any favorites?

Val said:

Tobin said:
I prefer boots for ankle support. I’ve seen people roll their ankles more often with shoes.

I’m also looking for boots. Do you have any favorites?

Some good brands to check are Asolo, La Sportiva, Lowa, Scarpa, and Zamberlan. They should fit well out of the box. Try them with your thickest socks and make sure you’ve got a bit of toe space.

@Reece
Thanks so much!

Val said:

Tobin said:
I prefer boots for ankle support. I’ve seen people roll their ankles more often with shoes.

I’m also looking for boots. Do you have any favorites?

I’ve had great experiences with Oboz. Lightweight, waterproof, and they’ve lasted a few years.

Just try them on in-store, walk around, and see which feels best!

If you’re looking for long-lasting, I’d go for Scarpa or another high-end European brand. Salomon’s quality hasn’t been great recently.

Honestly, get both and send back the one that doesn’t feel perfect after wearing them around for a bit.

I’d go for extra ankle support. It’s saved me on multiple trips.

You’re going to get tons of different opinions. Go to a good outdoor store, try a bunch, and see what feels right.

If you’re hiking on rocky, steep terrain, go for a higher ankle rise for more stability. Less chance of rolling an ankle.

Ray said:
If you’re hiking on rocky, steep terrain, go for a higher ankle rise for more stability. Less chance of rolling an ankle.

There’s not much science behind mids actually giving stability. Only the taller boots can really provide that.

@Ocean
For those of us with weaker ankles, boots can be lifesavers. I’m way less likely to get a serious injury with boots on.

Ray said:
If you’re hiking on rocky, steep terrain, go for a higher ankle rise for more stability. Less chance of rolling an ankle.

I’ll be doing some tough, rocky, and wet hikes.

Jem said:

Ray said:
If you’re hiking on rocky, steep terrain, go for a higher ankle rise for more stability. Less chance of rolling an ankle.

I’ll be doing some tough, rocky, and wet hikes.

For tough conditions, you might want a non-waterproof trail runner that dries fast or a Gore-Tex boot with gaiters if it’s cold.

@Reece
I did the PCT in trail runners with waterproof socks in the Sierras. Worked great!

Jem said:

Ray said:
If you’re hiking on rocky, steep terrain, go for a higher ankle rise for more stability. Less chance of rolling an ankle.

I’ll be doing some tough, rocky, and wet hikes.

I’d avoid both Salomon and Merrell for tough hikes. Maybe try Hoka Speedgoat?