This past year of lockdowns and social distancing has caused many to turn to the great outdoors for their exercise. You may have started out with your normal running trainers or exercise shoes, but not having proper support for those longer walks can leave you in more pain than you need to be. To help you when deciding what hiking shoes may be right for you, the team at FitPro decided to put some of the leading hiking shoes through their paces.
Vivobarefoot tracker (RRP £190)
I’ve always been a fan of VIVOBAREFOOT and, since lockdown, my outdoor activities have taken a new direction, so I was thrilled to trial the VIVOBAREFOOT tracker. It’s a good-looking hiking boot. It comes in a men’s and a women’s option but they look the same – the men’s is a bit wider. It’s made from high-quality leather and I certainly put it through its paces on all terrains and in all weather – rain, snow and slush … I did wear warm socks but it also offers a waterproof lining and thermal protection, so I was really comfortable. Also, the lovely team at VIVO did suggest I take a full size larger and I’m glad I did. 5 stars (JW)
If you would like more information on this product or to purchase it CLICK HERE
Salomon X-Ultra 4 GTX (RRP £140)
I love to hike, so welcomed reviewing the new Salomon hiking shoe. I found the initial fit very comfortable but probably could have gone a half size or even full size up. I’d suggest you go for your UK size, not EU, as that could be a little misleading. Saying that, I used it for walking, hiking and running and I was really happy with it. It’s lightweight, has great grip on all terrains and when heading up and down hills. It promotes waterproof protection, although I didn’t hit any super bad weather so couldn’t test it. I reviewed the X-Ultra in black and was really happy with it – not sure that the pink would look so great after one of my hiking sessions. 4.5 stars (SC)
If you would like more information on this product or to purchase it CLICK HERE
Giesswein Wool Cross X Alpine (RRP £179)
In the recent sub-zero temperatures and heavy snow in some parts of the UK, I was delighted to put the Giesswein Wool Cross X Alpine hiking boots to the test. I’ve since tested them out in different conditions to get a good feel. The first thing I noticed is that the boots are extremely lightweight and stylish. The merino wool fabric inner is particularly soft and comfortable – they felt easy to wear and light on my feet so didn’t need ‘breaking in’ unlike other hiking boots, so I literally hit the ground running! The merino wool mid-height ankle padding gave extra warmth in the extreme conditions and added stability and support on the uneven terrain. The sole is flexible, so provided great grip in the snow. My feet remained nice and dry, no nasty rubbing or blisters much to my relief, and no nasty odours! (Interestingly, the boots can also be worn without socks as the merino wool wicks away the moisture.) These boots are definitely made for walking … can’t wait to hit the hills and the Giesswein Wool Cross X Alpine hiking boots will most definitely be joining me on my next hiking adventure! (DO)
If you would like more information on this product or to purchase it CLICK HERE
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