Your choice of footwear needs to be in sync with the terrain you wish to tackle in order for you to get the most of your experience. In doing so you have three categories to select your footwear from:

Trail Runners: these are designed for running off the pavement. Low cut and lightweight, the soles of these shoes are soft but aggressive for maximum traction with the terrain.

• Best use: running on gravel, trails and day hiking on relatively smooth trails

Hiking Shoes: being lighter than hiking boots and more durable than trail runners, hiking shoes are a popular choice for experienced backpackers and hiking on almost any kind of terrain. You do however need strong feet and ankles, with lots of practice placing your feet, when wearing these shoes
 • Best use: day hiking, casual wear and experienced back packers/hikers with minimal loads

Hiking Boots: for hikers who require ankle protection, and want a stable/supportive boot. Hiking boots are generally more durable, whilst providing the most ankle protection on rough, rocky trails. If you’re one to hike on more uneven terrain with slips, roots and large rocks, then it is a good idea to opt for a boot.

Mountaineering Boots: if you intent to use technical crampons, you need to opt for a mountaineering boot. These boots are big, burly, and stiff (being insulated for colder weather). They have a full ankle collar, durable construction, and gaiter/crampon compatibility. Mountaineering boots can also be chosen for hiking when you are carrying very heavy loads through rough terrain and weather.