Most people come across this simple question in mind “can you wear hiking shoes everyday” Well, yes, you can wear hiking boots or shoes every day as casual wear.
If you really are searching for a comfy pair of shoes to wear around town, hiking boats can be quite a good choice. These boots can also be worn casually during rainy days too.
Hiking boots and shoes are adapted to satisfy almost all conditions of the weather. They are usually sturdy, water-resistant, and supportive. If you lace up them, you will feel like you can walk with these boots throughout the day.
Everyday wearing can mean different things to different people, but for the purpose of this article, I’m going to believe that it means wearing them all the time, whether you’re at work, going to the bar, dining out, or going for a walk.
If you plan on going on a longer off-trail cross-country hike, hiking boots might be a safer option. The most important thing is that you choose the fully-supported shoes for your particular circumstance.
Qualities of Best Hiking Shoes for Everyday Use
No doubt, you can wear hiking shoes every day, but you can’t wear any hiking shoes out there. You have to make sure that the shoes you choose are suitable for you. So, I will share with you some of the qualities of the best hiking shoes that you can wear for everyday use.
So, without further delay. Let’s dive into it!
Lightweight and Breathable
Since you will be wearing hiking shoes most of the time of your day, so you have to make sure that your shoes are lightweight and breathable. It is just a simple rule – the lighter the shoes are, the less energy you need to take each step.
Moreover, your hiking shoes should be breathable. It is a bad idea to see your feet swollen at the end of the day because of stiff shoes. However, you can avoid such a situation by opting for breathable and comfortable hiking shoes.
Durable and Stylish
Apart from the comfortability, your hiking shoes must be durable and good-looking. You might hear some people complaining about breaking their shoes and cursing the brands. It is because of the lack of research on the durability of hiking shoes.
Unfortunately, most of us get intrigued by the stylish look of shoes, which is important. However, the more important thing is their durability. First, check the durability of shoes, then go for the looks.
Difference Between Hiking Shoes and Running Shoes
Usually, people don’t understand the difference between hiking shoes and trail running shoes. However, both of these categories of shoes are completely different.
Choosing the best shoes for yourself totally depends on you. You can either choose trail running shoes or hiking shoes to wear every day. However, before making the decision, you should know some things.
The following things will help you to distinguish between hiking shoes and trail running shoes so you can choose the best one for yourself:
Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are best for providing support, protection, and water resistance. If you are looking for durable and strong shoes, then you should go with hiking shoes.
But if you are looking for something lighter and comfortable, then it is obvious that you may not find hiking shoes that helpful. Hiking shoes are typically more stiff and strong than trail running shoes, so they can be a bit uncomfortable for casual wear.
Trail Running Shoes
On the other hand, trail running shoes are much more comfortable and are suitable for those who prioritize comfort over durability and water resistance.
Trail running shoes are quite comfortable and breathable, and this prevents you from getting blisters on your feet. However, the one drawback of trail running shoes is that they are less durable than hiking shoes.
Best Hiking Shoes for Men
Let’s have a look at the best hiking shoes for men, along with the pros and cons:
Vasque Clarion ’88 GTX
The GTX boots of the Clarion ’88 are a modified version of a classical Vasco style of the 1980s. With characteristics such as the lightweight suede and flat soles, they are durable, but the retro styling allows them comfortable enough to carry on the rainy days in town.
Pros
- Gore-Tex membrane
- Vibram outsole
- Water-proof
- Molded PU midsole
Cons
- Size can be bigger for some people
Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex Men’s
The Salomon X GTX is a sturdy trail-friendly shoe that is perfect for day walkers. They fit like a hybrid between both a trail runner and a walking shoe. The balance, endurance, and support are outstanding. The X Ultras practically is a perfect alternative for those who do a lot of hiking.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Stable
- Incredible strength
- Long-lasting and reliable fit
Cons
- Prone to tearing apart
Merrell Moab 2 Low WP
If you are looking for a reliable, high-value shoe, the Merrell Moab 2 is a good solution. These shoes – and their variants from Moab Mid – have been a favorite amongst hikers for several years because of their toughness and comfort. The well-rounded Moabs are comfortable to wear water-proof shoes, and you will feel comfortable enough to wear them during the day. For hikers, I usually suggest Moabs because of their comfort and reliability.
Pros
- Highly comfortable
- Breathable
- Water-proof
- Available in the affordable price range
Cons
- It May feel heavy to some people
La Sportiva Spire GTX
The well-rounded Spire GTX from La Sportiva is shaped very much like a running shoe with highlights of walking shoes. The breathable mesh top and stable lacing mechanism are more similar to trail shoes, but the hard soles are more like protective hiking shoes.
Overall, the Spires is a perfect choice for multi-sport enthusiasts who want a single shoe that can accommodate walking and running lightly.
Pros
- Comfortable and breathable
- Secure and stiff
- Excellent traction
Cons
- Stiff soles and expensive
HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4
HOKAs are designed for optimal trail comfort, and we consider the Speedgoat 4 to be the best on the line. The Speedgoats are super cozy, and the wide toe box allows you to move over many miles. Moreover, the dense midsole is comfortable and provides great protection underfoot.
Pros
- Wider toe box
- Supportive and comfortable
- Available at the affordable price range
Cons
- Not much stable
Best Hiking Shoes for Women
The following are the best hiking shoes for women in 2021:
Altra Lone Peak 5
Altra Lone Peak 5 hiking shoes have a lot of loveable features, some of which include durability, comfort, and a roomy toe box.
Moreover, Altra Lone Peak 5 has proved to be comfortable hiking shoes for women of all ages. The most important thing is that you can wear them casually as well.
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Breathable toe box
Cons
- Mesh is prone to tear apart
Merrell Siren Edge 3 WP Low
If you are looking for something durable but at the same time want to experience trail runners, then Merrell Siren Edge 3 hiking shoes are best for you.
With these shoes, you will find the answer to your simple question about “Can You Wear Hiking Shoes Everyday” because these shoes are also best for everyday use.
Pros
- Extra lightweight and durable
- Highly comfortable
- Best for trail runners experience
- Affordable price range
Cons
- Non-waterproof
Keen Targhee III Low WP
Keen Targhee III provides great traction and is famous for its comfortable and wide toe box. Moreover, the lacing system of these hiking shoes is also unique and provides a secure grip around your heels.
However, you may need to add insoles because these hiking shoes are a little stiff and may cause discomfort to some people.
Pros
- Highly durable and secure
- Wide toe box
- Affordable price range
Cons
- Stiffness may cause discomfort
Saucony Peregrine 11
Saucony Peregrines have proved to be the top-class hiking shoes for women for many years. It is because of their great traction and durability.
Moreover, Peregrine 11 is lightweight and provides a high level of comfort to your feet during long hiking sessions.
Pros
- Secure and extra durable
- Breathable toe box
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Mesh is not much strong
Oboz Sawtooth II Low
Finding the perfect shoes for your feet can be quite hard. So, let me introduce you to Oboz Sawtooth II’s highly comfortable and supportive hiking shoes.
The best thing about these hiking shoes is that they are extra durable and can handle the roughest trails without even breaking down. However, they are a bit heavier than other hiking shoes because of their strong material.
Pros
- Highly durable and support
- Excellent traction
- Ideal for rough trails
- Afford price range
Cons
- Heavier than other hiking shoes
Can You Wear Hiking Shoes Everyday – FAQs
Besides the simple question about wearing hiking shoes every day, some people also come up with other related questions in mind. So, in this section, I’ll answer those frequently asked questions.
Can I Wear Hiking Shoes for Walking
If you randomly come up with a question like “Can you wear hiking shoes everyday for walking.” Then, yes! You can wear hiking shoes for walking as well.
However, you should know the basic difference between hiking and walking shoes. So, basically, walking shoes are comfortable and lighter as compared to hiking shoes.
Moreover, hiking shoes are specifically designed for long trails and hiking on stiff rocks. On the other hand, walking shoes are made for smooth surfaces and roads.
Hiking shoes have a much thicker sole that makes them heavier. However, you can adjust the weight of hiking shoes if you choose between water-proof and non-waterproof shoes.
The best thing about hiking shoes is their better ankle support and toe protection. Moreover, they can be effective for slippery surfaces because of their strong grip.
However, walking shoes are much more flexible and provide the optimum level of comfort during walking. If you are looking for comfortability, then you should go for walking shoes, especially the traditional walking shoes that mostly nurses and doctors wear.
Unfortunately, comfortable nursing shoes tend to be more simple. However, some brands like Asics have manufactured stylish and comfortable walking shoes.
Can You Run in Hiking Shoes
Questions like “Can You Wear Hiking Shoes Everyday” and “Can You Run in Hiking Shoes” are common among many new hikers. While running on the trail, the hikers realize that they should invest in some footwear that is both suitable for hiking and running.
Hiking shoes can be used as running shoes, but there are certain factors that affect your running experience with hiking shoes. You should keep in mind that hiking shoes are specifically designed for hiking.
Therefore, it is possible that you may feel a little uncomfortable while running in hiking shoes. Moreover, it is obvious that hiking shoes are heavier and stiff than normal running shoes.
For example, if running shoes cover up to 50 miles easily, then hiking shoes won’t make up to that range. Similarly, the water-proof material of hiking shoes makes them a little heavier than normal running shoes.
If you are a regular runner and want to buy durable shoes like hiking shoes and lightweight running shoes, then you should consider buying trail running shoes. They provide you the feel of both hiking and running shoes.
Final Thoughts
A lot of people, especially hikers, come up with this simple question in mind that “Can You Wear Hiking Shoes Everyday.” In this article, I have explained everything relating to that question. Moreover, you will also find the best hiking shoes for men and women in this article.
If you are thinking of using hiking shoes for everyday use, then you should keep in mind some things like weight, comfort, and durability while making your final decision.
If you know of any hiking shoes suitable for walking, running, or everyday use, feel free to share them with us in the comments sections below. Moreover, if you have any queries relating to hiking shoes, just leave a message!
Until next time – Adiós Amigos
