I’m planning a trip to Europe at the end of March and need a good shoe for walking several hours a day on cobblestone streets and hills. I’ve heard Salomon shoes are good, but I’m open to other suggestions for quality hiking shoes that are also comfortable for walking. Any recommendations?
I’ve found that Salomon’s quality has declined, and I’ve had multiple pairs fail. I’d also steer clear of Merrell, Columbia, and The North Face for the same reason. It’s crucial to find a shoe that fits well right out of the box with no discomfort. When trying shoes, do it at the end of the day with the socks you plan to wear. Look for ⅓ to ½ inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the insole. Popular choices for durable and comfortable hiking shoes include Asolo, La Sportiva, Lowa, and Scarpa. Remember to break them in gradually to ensure comfort during your trip.
@Vail
Great advice! I’ve also moved away from Salomon to Asolo and couldn’t be happier. They fit well and last much longer. Also, good call on the Smartwool socks, they make a huge difference in comfort and foot health.
@Harlan
Asolo has been a game changer for me, especially their Fugitive GTX and TPS 520 GV Evo models. Glad you’ve had a similar experience!
@Vail
Thanks for the detailed advice! Given I’m mostly urban trekking, would a lighter, non-Gore-Tex shoe be better to avoid overheating?
Luca said:
@Vail
Thanks for the detailed advice! Given I’m mostly urban trekking, would a lighter, non-Gore-Tex shoe be better to avoid overheating?
For urban environments, especially on cobblestones and hills, I’d recommend something with good cushioning and support like the Hoka One One Arahi or the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor. These offer comfort and durability without the bulk of traditional hiking boots.
Check out AKU or La Sportiva for high-quality shoes. While Scarpa is also excellent, they can be a bit narrow. If comfort is key, ensure the shoe fits your foot shape.
Despite the negative feedback, my recent Salomons have been excellent, particularly the Speedcross series which are lightweight and have great traction for urban and light trail use.
Sloane said:
Despite the negative feedback, my recent Salomons have been excellent, particularly the Speedcross series which are lightweight and have great traction for urban and light trail use.
Do you find the waterproofing on the Speedcross affects breathability much?
@Luca
The waterproofing hasn’t been an issue for breathability for me. They keep my feet dry without getting too warm, even in mild weather.