Hiking Boots vs Hiking Shoes: What's the Difference?

Some People Prefer Hiking Shoes. Others Are Giving Hiking Shoes the Boot.

What makes a boot a boot and a shoe a shoe?  

Yes, there are differences between hiking boots and hiking shoes. But at the end of the day, the most important factor in choosing hiking footwear is comfort. That’s why Altra is trusted on trails across the world. Whether you’re taking on day hikes or thru hikes, it’s important that your feet have enough space to comfortably conquer long distances, and lighter, roomier options can help you achieve just that. 

At Altra, we don’t believe in the big, bulky, brown boot. That’s why all of our hiking options—from low trail-to-town options to the mid weatherproof rompers—are made with our signature FootShape™ comfort. 

While weight, materials, intended use, fit are all factors in selecting hiking boots vs shoes, preference should always be one of your main decision-making factors.  

Let’s take a look at some of the main differences to help guide your hiking footwear hierarchy.

HEAVY DUTY VS LIGHTWEIGHT 

Generally speaking, hiking boots are going to be a heavier option. But that doesn’t mean you have to end up with a stiff, bulky boot. Replacing the “big, brown boots” are lighter, more flexible options like the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid and the Lone Peak Hiker.  

LONE PEAK ALL-WTHR MID

As its name implies, Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid is your go-to, all-elements option and is our closest offering to a traditional hiking boot while still offering a lighter weight option with FootShape™ comfort.

LOW VS MID 

One of the main and most obvious differences between hiking boots and hiking shoes is that boots come in a mid-to-high ankle height while shoes are typically low-cut.  

Not only do the mid options add additional weight, they can also feel more supportive. The mid options are designed for longer, more intense hiking styles and while the low options can accommodate some pretty technical terrain, they are most commonly found on flatter hikes or in the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low’s case, even some speedy trail running.

LONE PEAK HIKER

The Lone Peak Hiker is a boot/shoe hybrid that combines benefits of the hardcore hiker with everyday performance in a surprisingly lightweight package. It’s a bit of an anomaly, but in a good way.  

LONE PEAK HIKER – WOMEN'S ICE BLUE 

Weight: 9.9 oz / 281 g (W)  11.5 oz / 327 g (M)