Have you ever finished a hike with sore feet, aching arches or blisters that seemed determined to ruin the rest of your weekend? While a good hiking backpack can help carry the load, your hiking boots are doing the real hard work. Whether you're heading out for a quick bushwalk, tackling an overnight trek or hitting rugged terrain, choosing the right hiking boots can make all the difference.
In this BCFing Buying Guide, we'll walk you through the different types of hiking boots, explain what features to look for and help you find the perfect pair for your hiking style. Wherever the trail takes you, BCF can help you find the right footwear to keep you comfortable every step of the way.
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What Are the Best Hiking Boots?
The best hiking boots aren't necessarily the most expensive pair on the shelf. The right boots are the ones that suit where you'll be hiking, how much weight you'll be carrying and the level of support your feet need. Before choosing a pair, ask yourself:
How far will you be hiking?
What type of terrain will you be covering?
Will you be carrying a daypack or a fully loaded hiking pack?
Do you mainly stick to walking tracks or venture onto rougher terrain?
Are wet conditions and creek crossings likely? Do your boots need to be water resistant?
Once you've answered these questions, you'll have a much clearer idea of which hiking boots will work best for your next outdoor adventure.
What Are the Different Types of Hiking Footwear?
Not every hike calls for a heavy-duty hiking boot. Different hiking styles and terrains require different levels of support, protection and comfort.
Hiking Shoes vs Hiking Boots
There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to hiking footwear. If you mainly stick to well-formed trails and day walks, a quality pair of hiking shoes may be all you need. If you're tackling rough terrain, carrying a heavier pack or heading out for multiple days, hiking boots will typically provide the extra support and protection you're after.
Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are a lightweight and comfortable option for day hikes, casual bushwalks and well-maintained walking tracks. They're also a great choice if you're carrying a lighter pack and want footwear that won't weigh you down. Compared to standard runners, hiking shoes offer improved grip, durability and trail-specific features while still remaining breathable and easy to wear over longer distances.
Mid-Cut Hiking Boots
Mid-cut hiking boots are one of the most popular choices for Australian hikers thanks to their versatility. Sitting higher than a hiking shoe, they provide additional ankle support and improved stability on uneven terrain while offering better protection from rocks, roots and other trail obstacles. They also strike a great balance between comfort and durability, making them a great option for everything from day hikes and bushwalks through to overnight treks.
High-Cut Hiking Boots
High-cut hiking boots are built for more demanding hikes and heavier pack loads. Designed to provide maximum support and protection, they're a popular choice for multi-day hikes, remote tracks and rugged terrain where stability is essential. The taller design helps support your ankles on uneven ground while offering extra protection from rocks, roots and trail debris. If you're carrying a heavier backpack or venturing further off the beaten track, high-cut hiking boots can provide the confidence and support needed for longer days on the trail.
What Features Should I Look For in Hiking Boots?
Choosing the right hiking boots is about more than just how they look. Several key features can have a big impact on comfort and performance.
Fit
Fit should always be your number one priority.
A good hiking boot should:
Feel secure around the heel
Allow your toes to move naturally
Have no pressure points
Feel comfortable from the start and suit your foot shape
Remember that your feet can swell during longer hikes, so a little extra room in the toe box can be beneficial.
Support
The support you need will depend on the type of hiking you do.
Consider:
Ankle support for uneven terrain
Arch support for long-distance comfort
Heel stability when carrying heavier loads
The rougher the track, the more support you'll generally want from your footwear.
Waterproofing
If you regularly hike through wet conditions, waterproof hiking boots can be a great investment.
Benefits include:
Keeping your feet dry during rain
Improved comfort in wet conditions
Added protection from mud and puddles
Keep in mind that waterproof boots can sometimes be less breathable than non-waterproof alternatives.
Breathability
For warm Australian conditions, breathability can be just as important as waterproofing.
Breathable materials help:
Improve airflow
Reduce sweat build-up
Increase overall comfort
If most of your hiking is done during the warmer months, breathable boots may be worth considering.
Grip and Traction
The outsole of your hiking boot is what keeps you connected to the ground.
Look for:
Aggressive tread patterns
Durable rubber outsoles
Reliable grip on wet and dry surfaces
Good traction can make a huge difference on loose gravel, steep climbs and muddy sections of trail.
Weight
Hiking boots come in a range of weights.
Lighter boots generally offer:
Greater comfort
Less fatigue
More agility
Heavier boots often provide:
Extra support
More protection
Increased durability
The right choice will depend on where and how you hike.
Should I Size Up My Hiking Boots?
One of the most common questions people have around hiking boot sizing is should I buy a larger size? As a general guide:
Try boots on with hiking socks
Make sure your toes don't touch the end of the boot
Ensure your heel stays secure when walking
A good hiking boot fit should allow for a little extra room, as your feet naturally expand during longer hikes.
Don't Forget Your Hiking Socks
Even the best hiking boots can become uncomfortable if paired with the wrong socks. Quality hiking socks can help:
Reduce friction
Minimise and prevent blisters
Manage moisture — merino wool socks are naturally moisture wicking
Improve overall comfort
Many experienced hikers will tell you that investing in quality socks is just as important as choosing the right boots.
Breaking In Your Hiking Boots
Before setting off on a long hike, it's worth taking the time to properly break in your boots. Start by wearing them around the house, then take them on short walks and gradually increase the distance as they become more comfortable. This gives the materials time to soften and mould to your feet, helping to reduce the risk of hot spots and blisters on the trail.
When Should I Replace My Hiking Boots?
Like any piece of outdoor hiking gear, your boots won't last forever. Signs it may be time for a replacement include:
Worn tread
Reduced grip
Flattened cushioning
Visible damage to the upper
Ongoing foot discomfort
Replacing your boots before they completely wear out can help maintain comfort and performance on the trail.
Ready to hit the trail in a fresh new pair of hiking boots? Head in-store or check out the BCF website for all the hiking essentials you need for your next hike.
About the author
BCFing Experts
The BCFing Experts have done more than their fair share of boating, camping, fishing, hiking, four-wheel driving and much much more! Whether you're tackling tough tracks in Tassie or chasing big barra up North, the BCFing Experts have the know-how to make your next outdoor adventure a pearler
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