Should you hike in shoes or runners?

When I started Hiking, large leather boots were the only real option. They were burly, tough, and difficult to break into, but one pair would last you for decades. However, technology has caught up. If you head out to the trails today, most hikers and backpackers are opting for more lightweight, low-cut options. While the influx of new shoes from brands like Hoka, Merrell, Danner, and Salomon has transformed the footwear industry, that doesn’t mean the hiking shoe is dead. It just depends on what you want to do and when you do it.

What shoes should you choose to go out for the day? I have tested countless pairs of Great hiking shoesAnd runners and hiking boots, across a variety of terrain, from forest paths and coastal paths, to high alpine terrain. To get a better understanding of the differences between the many options available — and which ones are right for you — I surveyed Ingrid Johnson, a leading footwear product specialist at REI. (For what it’s worth, Johnson’s personal recommendation is Salomon XA Pro).

When you’re choosing your next pair of running shoes (or hiking shoes), be sure to check out more WIRED External Guideslike Best running shoes, Best puffer jacketsand Best backpacks for hiking.

This is when you need shoes

If you’re carrying a heavy pack over rough terrain, or if it’s wet or snowy, you need hiking boots. They tend to be higher at the ankle, with solid midsoles, protective toe caps, and are generally made of very durable materials such as leather and sturdy synthetic fabrics such as Cordura. Hiking boots prioritize stability, protection, and durability.

Shoes generally have thicker, deeper lugs, stiffer soles, stronger toe guards, and sturdier ankle support. They protect you from the impact of rocks, uneven ground, moisture and often cold conditions. The higher-cut designs also provide more ankle support, something I found reassuring when returning from a recent injury.

But don’t think that hiking boot brands are stuck in the dark ages. By borrowing lightweight features and materials from road running, brands are able to offer technical shoes with cushioning, grip and stability. They are still heavy, but lightweight compared to traditional leather shoes. Boca Su 3 GTX ($240) It’s one of the best shoes out there, blending soft nubuck leather with a Vibram Megagrip sole and bags of cushioning. Here are some other choices.

These Salomons boots are enduringly popular for good reason, featuring great levels of comfort and support without the bulk typically associated with traditional hiking boots. They feel like ski boots, but that’s not a criticism, the height and support are very welcome when walking around all day carrying a full pack.

The suede and rubber toe cap make them impressively strong, they’re also easy to clean, and the Gore-Tex lining provides complete waterproofing. The outsole is deep, aggressive, and resistant to unexpected slips, and top marks go to the metal lacing system, especially the medial eyelet that holds the laces securely. They’re not as forgiving on the feet as many of the newer running-inspired designs, but there’s plenty of shock absorption in the ball and heel.

You pay well for the privilege, but the Kopec is a versatile, waterproof, all-season boot. The upper is made from 100% Cordura nylon, which is extremely durable and gives the shoe a sturdy and secure feel, despite weighing only 11.9 ounces for a size eight.

Designed for hiking on varied terrain, they impressed me with their great combination of stability and cushioning. If you’re not a fan of the cushiony feel of running shoes, these shoes are the sweet spot. They have out-of-the-box comfort, which is rare with a more rigid shoe, and feel really secure when jogging and walking. Security in the heel and ankle is matched by a Vibram Megagrip rubber sole with 4mm mud-loving lugs. I’m a big fan of this rubber compound, and here the lugs are arranged to give the most grip with the least weight.

After months of regular wear – on and off the trails – it still looks remarkably new, and I appreciate being able to simply hose it off to wash off the mud. Yes, they’re expensive for hikers, but the materials used provide a true crossover between old and new designs, without compromising on style or performance.

Serious alpine terrain demands respect, and if you’re going to face snow, ice, rocks and steep climbs, you need mountaineering boots. Weighing 1 pound, 5.8 ounces per shoe (9.5), the Kento Tour from leading Swiss manufacturer Mammut offers a surprisingly agile combination of solid sole support, grip and protection. Given the height and stiffness, it’s a remarkably comfortable shoe, and despite the generous 11mm drop, it’s easy to stick to your natural stride.

This is about as far from a running shoe as you can get — it’s crampon-compatible, for one thing — but it has out-of-the-box comfort, and enough flexibility to keep it from feeling like a ski boot. Gore-Tex takes care of the waterproofing, and the plush leather upper and bootie lacing system means you can really dial in the fit.