Are Hiking Boots Necessary? [The Pros & Cons]

Whether you’ve been hiking forever or are just getting into it, you’ll know that there are a few pieces of gear that you’ll need.

A backpack, a water bottle, maybe a camera, and of course, some good quality shoes.

But are hiking boots necessary? Or can you get away with using something that you already have at home?

In this post, I’ll be going over the answer to your question, the pros and cons of hiking boots, and what to look for in your trail shoes.

Are Hiking Boots Necessary?

First things first, let’s answer the question of whether or not you really need hiking boots in order to get on the trail.

The answer depends on a few things including the type of hiking that you like to do and how long of hikes you’ll be doing.

If you prefer heading out on shorter hikes, typically under 3 miles, with not a whole lot of elevation gain, then no, you won’t need hiking boots.

If you like going for long-distance hikes, climbing mountains, and tackling tough terrain, then hiking boots may be more beneficial to you.

Even those people who are doing an in-between of these two things typically do not need hiking boots and can usually get away with trail runners or hiking shoes.

It’s even interesting to note that a lot of people doing thru-hikes don’t use hiking boots and tend to go for something lighter.

Hiking boots are really bulky, tough, shoes that can get in the way on those shorter hikes or if you’re trying to go ultralight.

So in the end, they aren’t really needed if you don’t have them unless you’re going to be going over really tough terrain.

Pros of Wearing Hiking Boots

Even though we now that you don’t have to wear hiking boots if you don’t want, it’s good to address the benefits of them.

There are a lot of benefits, compared to the cons.

Supportive

One of the top reasons that people wear hiking boots on the trail is that they tend to be pretty supportive.

When you’re walking on uneven ground, you’ll want something that can support your foot and ankle to avoid injury.

Most hiking boots have a higher ankle cuff that wraps around your ankle, protecting it from rolling.

This can be beneficial in the long run especially because you’re going to want those ankles in good shape!

If you have ankle or knee problems, then wearing a sturdy hiking boot might be what’s best for you.

Comfortable

Hiking boots are built to be worn for long periods of time, so they’re made to be comfortable.

They usually have soft insoles that can be replaced if you’d like to put in a different pair.

And they typically have a nice cushion to help with the pounding of your feet on the ground when hiking.

Waterproof

One of the biggest perks of having a hiking boot compared to regular shoes is that they’re sometimes waterproof.

It’s really nice to be able to step in a puddle on the trail and not have to worry about coming out soaking wet.

This is also really beneficial when you have to cross streams on the trail or it starts to rain unexpectedly.

Protective

Because of their stiff, rigid build, hiking boots do a really great job at protecting your feet.

Whether this is stubbing your toe on a rock, scraping the side of it on a tree branch, or walking through stubborn brush, you’ll be protected.

I love that I don’t really need to worry about what I’m stepping on because my feet aren’t going to get hurt with my sturdy shoes.

They also protect you from things such as poison oak or ivy, which can sometimes be found alongside trails.

Or, from rattlesnakes when you’re in the desert area, who rarely bite above the ankle.

Hard Sole

Going along with the protection aspect of a pair of hiking boots, you’ll also have a really hard sole that protects the bottom of your foot.

There have been times when I’ve stepped on a really sharp rock and haven’t felt a thing, thanks to my boots.

If you’re going to be on really tough terrain such as boulder fields, then hiking boots are the way to go.

Durable

Because they’re made specifically to be on the trail, hiking boots are pretty darn durable.

Most can last you between 500 and 1,000 miles, depending on how and where you’re hiking.

They also can handle almost anything thrown at them, which makes them so great.

Compared to other normal shoes, you’ll need to replace your hiking boots a lot less often.

Okay to Get Dirty

One of my favorite parts of having dedicated hiking shoes rather than wearing another pair is that I don’t feel bad getting them dirty.

I know that they’re meant to be out on the trail, so there’s no sense in being careful with them.

If they get muddy, oh well. If they get wet, oh well. If they get stained, oh well.

It’s what they’re meant for!

Cons of Wearing Hiking Boots

On top of the benefits of hiking shoes, there are a few downsides that you will want to be aware of.

These are the main reasons why people wonder if they can get away with something else such as hiking shoes or running shoes.

Expensive

Compared to a pair of running shoes, hiking boots can be really expensive.

You’re looking at probably between $50 to $250, depending on the brand and style that you go with.

A cheap pair from Wal-Mart can get you by if you’re on a budget, but Merrell and Saloman can cost upwards of $200.

But, on the other hand, you get what you pay for, so if you’re searching for quality shoes, you know where to find them.

Bulky

One of the biggest reasons that people try to stay away from hiking boots is that they are so bulky.

They’re usually pretty heavy, are hard to fit in a suitcase, and can be just annoying for short trails.

If you aren’t doing any strenuous hikes or hard climbs, hiking boots just aren’t necessary.

Not Versatile

Lastly, they aren’t very versatile and are typically used for one thing; hiking.

While you can style them with some clothes and some people do wear them for other uses, they typically sit in the closet until your next hike.

That being said, this helps them last longer and keeps them durable.

When is it Necessary to Wear Hiking Boots?

Now that you know pretty darn well that it isn’t always necessary to pull out the hiking boots, let’s talk about when it is.

If you’re heading out on a long-distance hike where you know there will be some pretty rough terrain, I would wear them.

They’ll help to keep your ankles upright if you misstep.

Another time to wear them is when climbing a mountain that is going to have a lot of snow, because you may need to wear crampons.

Crampons don’t do well on hiking shoes, and you’ll just be better off with boots.

Essentially, the only times that you’ll really need hiking boots is when it’s tough terrain or you’ll encounter snow.

Hiking Boots Vs. Hiking Shoes Vs. Trail Runners

Another thing that you may be wondering is, what’s the difference between hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail runners?

There are so many different kinds out there that it can be tough to keep them straight.

Hiking Boots

We’ve already done a pretty deep dive into hiking boots, so I won’t go too far here.

These are basically your most rugged, toughest pair of shoes that are great for tough terrain and snow, and are super durable.

You don’t need them most of the time, and they can be quite bulky and heavy.

Hiking Shoes

The next step down from boots is hiking shoes, which are still durable and tough but aren’t as bulky.

These are great for your everyday hikes, whether they be long-distance or short.

Hiking shoes are less expensive and can typically be more versatile than boots.

People wear them more often, as they aren’t as heavy but still have the same features as boots do.

Trail Runners

Trail runners are your lightest, most comfortable set of trail shoes.

They’re pretty breathable, lightweight, and great for warm weather because they help you stay cool.

Because they’re so light, many people use them for long distances and of course, trail running.

They can be more affordable and are easier to bring places, as well as wear for more occasions.

What to Look for in Shoes for Hiking

When you’re looking for a pair of shoes for hiking, whether it be boots, shoes, or trail runners, there are a few things to keep an eye out for.

First, you’ll want something that’s durable and will last you a while.

There’s no sense in spending money on something that’s going to break in a few months.

Next, find a pair that has good support and offers good protection for your feet and ankles.

If possible, choose one that is waterproof to help when stepping in puddles or over streams.

Lastly, traction is important in slippery conditions, whether that be water, ice, or scree.

FAQ: Hiking Boots

Lastly, here are a few FAQs to help finish in answering your question of whether or not you need hiking boots.

Can You Go Hiking Without Hiking Boots?

Yes, it is possible to go hiking without hiking boots and many people do it!

There really is no reason to invest in a pair of hiking boots unless you’re planning to do a lot of hiking in a year.

Instead, opt for a pair of hiking shoes or trail runners that will still suit your needs for the hike.

Can I Go Hiking With Normal Shoes?

Yes, you can hike with your normal, everyday shoes, especially when the trail is easy.

If you’re going on a more difficult trail, I would recommend getting a pair of hiking shoes or trail runners.

But boots aren’t really needed unless the trail is really tough or has snow.

Do Hiking Boots Make a Difference?

If you’re tackling really rough terrain or going on a hard hike, yes, hiking boots can make all the difference.

They’ll protect and support your feet, be durable, and will be more comfortable.

But on shorter hikes, they really won’t do much more for you than a hiking shoe will.

Can I Hike in Running Shoes?

Running shoes are acceptable to hike in but only if the trail is fairly short and easy.

They tend to be more slippery and don’t support your feet and ankles very well.

If you want to read more on this, you can read my post about it here.

Wrap-Up: Are Hiking Boots Necessary?

In the end, we’ve learned that if you’re going on a shorter hike and won’t be covering a lot of tough terrain, hiking boots aren’t really necessary.

As long as you aren’t doing a full mountain climb, won’t be encountering snow, and won’t be climbing boulder fields, you can get away with hiking shoes or trail runners.

Hiking shoes and trail runners tend to be less expensive and still durable enough to make for a good trail shoe.