We choose shoes for a winter expedition to the mountains

What should you pay attention to when choosing winter mountain shoes?

A winter walk in the mountains undoubtedly has its charm. The view of snow-capped peaks is breathtaking, the company of family or friends improves your mood, and time spent outdoors gives you energy to act. If you don't want anything to ruin your mood during a mountain trip, be sure to wear comfortable clothes and appropriate shoes.

Remember that inappropriate footwear can not only cause you to get painful calluses or catch a cold when your feet get completely wet from the snow, but it can also significantly affect your safety. 

There are so many models of hiking shoes on the market that making the right choice is quite a challenge. Fortunately, there are several aspects worth paying attention to when purchasing them. We have discussed them in this article.

First, keep your feet warm

The winter weather can be felt especially in the mountains. Regardless of whether you plan to conquer peaks or just admire the beauty of the surrounding nature from gentle hills, you must prepare for low temperatures.

Thermal underwear and a warm hat are not all that is worth buying. It is equally important that the shoes are properly insulated, so you will not have to wear several pairs of woolen socks, which may cause abrasions.

Second, stiffen the ankle joint and provide traction

To ensure your safety when mountain climbing on snow-covered terrain, it is very important to stiffen the ankle joint. To do this, tie your shoelaces tightly and choose high-top shoes. This will provide additional protection against snow getting inside the shoe.

Good winter trekking shoes should also provide you with grip and traction. Snow and icy areas require a properly fitted sole that will ensure your safety.

Third, make sure it is waterproof

Also make sure your shoes are waterproof. When dealing with snow, you can get your feet wet in the blink of an eye, which not only leads to colds, but can also have a significant impact on your safety.

To avoid this, choose snow boots with water-repellent membranes. If mountain walks are rare for you, you do not need to invest in waterproof footwear. A much cheaper solution will be a shoe spray with waterproof properties, thanks to which you will create a durable protective barrier, and the melting snow will stop on the surface of the upper without soaking into the material.

Fourth, size up

It is worth leaving some space for your toes, but enough so that your heel does not move while walking. When trying on winter hiking boots, it's a good idea to wear the socks you plan to wear while hiking.

Wondering what to do when no size fits perfectly? Under no circumstances should you try to force your feet into shoes that are too small. Wearing shoes that are too tight can restrict blood flow, leading to cold feet. Moreover, keep in mind that your feet tend to swell when you walk. For this reason, choose a slightly larger size and eliminate the extra space inside the shoe by using thick socks or special inserts.

Find out the answers to frequently asked questions

To make your choice even easier, we have prepared a list of answers to the most frequently asked questions about snow boots.

Are shoes made of natural or synthetic materials better for winter mountain hiking?

Shoes made of natural materials are heavier than synthetic ones. If you care about maximum comfort and want to avoid the feeling of fatigue, choose footwear made of synthetic materials. However, make sure they meet all the requirements we have outlined in this guide.

What length should winter hiking boots be?

The most comfortable shoes for winter hiking should reach above the ankle. In this way, they will not only keep you safe and prevent ankle sprains, but also prevent snow from getting inside the shoe.

Can you wear regular hiking shoes for a winter hike in the mountains?

If your hiking shoes are waterproof and have adequate insulation, there are no major contraindications. Otherwise, they can absorb water and cause discomfort, and in extreme cases even contribute to frostbite of the feet.

How to avoid blisters while hiking in the mountains in winter?

Before setting out on a mountain expedition, make sure your shoes are properly broken in. Wear them around the house while you go about your daily activities, or use the proven methods for stretching out tight shoes that we discussed in this article.