There is an old rule that it is best to “Use the right tool for the job” and in this case, we are saying to the outdoor enthusiasts that the days when a good pair of sneakers was all you really needed for any outdoor adventure, whether hiking, rock climbing or any other activity are long gone.
The outdoor industry has elevated shoe design to an art form, creating high-tech footwear for pretty much every adventure. The goal is not to have a closet full of shoes but one with the best options for use in our active pursuits. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, here are the pairs of shoes you can invest in, to make your time outside much better.
We visited our friends at Salomon – Going Outdoor to prepare this guide. You can visit their Two Rivers branch to find the shoes for just the right occasion.
Trail Running Shoes
The trail running shoes stand out because of their aggressive grip to prevent you from sliding while running on uneven and rocky ground. They are also generally heavier and thicker than road runners to provide much-needed support. The extra padding in the shoe comes in handy as well, as your legs will get an entirely different kind of workout from a trail run.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots should be a staple in an outdoor enthusiast’s closet. If you like to hike, or are headed up into the mountains carrying a backpack, you should absolutely own a pair of hiking books of some kind. Much like trail running shoes, hiking books protect your feet from rough terrain and you will find that when you return home from a hike, your legs feel more refreshed than if you had worn sneakers.
Hiking boots are available in three categories: High top boots, Mid Boots and Low cut boots. The choice here is all up to you, adding that the high top boots provide a higher level of support for your ankles and feet. Low cut hiking boots tend to be much lighter and are ideal for easy or flat trails.
Road Running shoes
Sure your regular running shoes are fine, however if you are considering being an active outdoor athlete, then you may want to invest in a good pair of road running shoes. They are typically lighter than trail running shoes allowing you to move faster and still provide cushioning for the heel and the toes.
Waterproof Shoes
Designed to provide comfort and protection for your feet while you are out in areas where water is present. Waterproof shoes (the speed cross range at Salomon) are designed to allow water to drain effortlessly and won’t chafe or blister your feet when they get wet.They are also ideal when you’re in slippery surfaces and areas with unstable rocks.
