Why Your Running Takkies Are Pretty Bad Hiking Shoes 

No, your running shoes, responsible for your latest PB (well done!), won’t fare well on the mountain. Here, why running takkies are bad hiking shoes and what to wear instead. 

I’ve been (reluctantly) hiking since I was old enough to walk. Since then, my parents have always been pedantic about my sister and me wearing the correct shoes for hiking. They always wore proper hiking boots at the first inkling of a fallen leaf or scatter of stones. Fast forward thirty years, and hanging out on the mountain, I’m always seeing questionable footwear: running shoes with stacked heels, soft, bouncy soles navigating uneven terrain and regular sneakers you’d wear to the mall getting scuffed up on the trail. “People do think that they can run and hike in them [lifestyle shoes],” says podiatrist Erin Amy Dayaram. “Those will keep many healthcare professionals in business.” With that in mind, Dayaram explains why your running and lifestyle takkies are pretty bad hiking shoes. 

Why Are Running Shoes A Bad Idea For Hiking?

Basically, running and hiking shoes are made for very different purposes. “Running shoes are generally designed for forward motion on relatively smooth surfaces like roads or tracks,” explains Dayaram. “They often have a cushioned, flexible sole, which makes them comfortable for running but less stable on uneven terrain – the “bouncy” nature of running shoes (this is material- and technology-dependent) can increase the risk of ankle sprains on a hike, especially when navigating rocky or sloped trails.”

Are Lifestyle Shoes Ok On The Mountain? 

According to Dayaram and most footwear experts, your everyday lifestyle shoe, perfect for errands, coffee and sightseeing, won’t cut it for mountain time. “I personally and professionally would not recommend them for the purposes of long walks or hiking, particularly hiking, because of the terrain and risk of injury, often felt after the hike or long walk or mostly, after the holiday.” 

READ MORE: The Best Running Shoes For Speed, Distance & Trail

How To Pick The Right Shoe For Hiking 

If you’re going up the mountain, there are a few non-negotiables, says Dayaram. “It’s essential to focus on the sole and heel design, as these features are key to stability and injury prevention”. And, by nature, they’re more rigid, specifically to “support lateral movements and uneven surfaces,” adds Dayaram. Here’s what to look for: 

Sole 

Find a shoe with a sole that isn’t flexible and has good traction. Raised patterns on the sole, called lugs, are designed to grip uneven terrain. You want to find a shoe with these features. 

Heel 

A slightly raised heel absorbs shock, reducing impact on your ankles and knees, says Dayaram. “Look for a shoe with a heel that is stable and reinforced, which helps prevent ankle rolls by keeping your foot secure,” she adds. 

Fit 

“Choose shoes that feel comfortable from the first wear or require minimal breaking in,” advises Dayaram. “The last thing you want is to spend your holiday dealing with blisters.” 

Durability 

Those techy-sounding words describing your shoe? They’re materials are specifically engineered to take on the trails. “Look for durable materials that are both breathable and water-resistant,” says Dayaram. “This ensures that your shoes can handle different weather conditions and terrains.” Also, says Dayaram, look for a reinforced toe box and heel, which adds comfort and support. 

READ MORE: The Gross Truth About Your Smartwatch (And How To Fix It)

Hiking Shoes To Try 

These trail takkies look cute and won’t render your feet unwalkable the next day. 

READ MORE: How To Find The Right Dumbbell Weight For Your Fitness Goals, According To A Personal Trainer

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