Trekking Boots vs Hiking Boots

Trekking, backpacking, and hiking go side by side regarding outdoor activities. However, there are many apparent differences between trekking boots and hiking boots.

The main difference between trekking boots and hiking boots is the support and gripping outsoles. For instance, trekking boots are efficient and sturdy on snowy and skiing grounds while being heavyweight, whereas hiking boots are lightweight and work best on smooth to abrasive grounds. Moreover, hiking boots offer the best foot functionality, while trekking boots offer a supportive grip.

And now, let’s see some more differences.

Comparison Between Trekking vs Hiking Boots

Features	Trekking Boots	Hiking Boots
Image
Weight	Heavyweight	Lightweight
Waterproof	Waterproof for any weather	Less water-resistant
Performance and functionality	Best supportive design on sides with gripping footsteps	Offer more feet functionality and the best interior for comforting
Outsoles and support	It offers the best toe cap and extra stiff shank	Generally low cut and offer minimal ankle support
Durability	Extra durable with robust material use such as leather, hard rubber, and steel	Less durable with a blend of light materials such as rubber, plastic, synthetic fabric, etc.
Outsole	A strong grip with deep grooves in the sole provides friction	A stiff outsole that performs better on abrasive grounds, including gravels, sand
Best for	All seasons and in any condition	Hot and dry weather

Details of Hiking vs Trekking Boots

Now let’s look at the detailed differences between trekking and hiking boots to get a clear picture.

1. Weight

The weight of hiking boots is pretty less in comparison with trekking boots. You can quickly and comfortably wear hiking boots all day without hurting your vulnerable foot joints or putting strain on your feet. On the other hand, trekking boots feature heavy-duty material and carry more weight to ensure durability and added support for trekking, but trekking boots will affect your walking speed.

For example, I wore this Lowa Men’s Tibet GTX Trekking Boot, which was heavy on my feet with its 2.1 pounds. In contrast, this Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Bootfelt is lightweight for my hiking routine with only 1.19 pounds.

2. Grip and Traction

The support and grip of trekking boots work better on stiff and snowy ground due to their heavy material choice. On the other hand, hiking boots feature a high-traction outsole that performs better on almost all grounds. Usually, trekking boots have deep grooves in the sole for extra firm grip and friction, while hiking boots have rugged outsoles.

For example, this Nautica Mens Hiking Work Boots Ankle High Outdoor Trekking High Top Shoes -Ortler 1 has the best outsole for grip and support. In contrast, this Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof Boot, Breathable with High-Traction Grip, is only best for hiking dedicated ground.

3. Durability and Protection

Trekking boots are ideally more durable and sturdy thanks to the leather uppers, toe cap, and stiffer shank, which is all about protection and durability. On the contrary, hiking boots are less durable due to lightweight material choices such as rubber, plastic, and synthetic fabric.

Moreover, trekking boots offer the best protection for feet against injuries and impact, whereas hiking boots offer less protection but added comfort. Also, hiking boots can be less efficient in water-repelling, while trekking boots are smart for being waterproof in any weather.

For example, I wore these HI-TEC Yosemite WP Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots for Men, Lightweight Breathable Outdoor Trekking Shoes, and they offered durability in almost every aspect whereas this Merrell Men’s Moab Adventure Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot has a mid waterproof mind, and its synthetic uppers kept my hiking reliable well.

4. Support Cushioning and Comfort

The cushioning and the comfort of hiking boots are best. However, when discussing support, trekking boots come with cushioning and pads on the side to add more support and firm footsteps. Whereas hiking boots are perfect for day-long wearing with ergonomic feet functionality and performance.

Hiking boots make sure ideal feet functionality to minimize tripping and fall incidents. However, they come with a low-cut design compared to trekking boots that otherwise don’t add much support.

Trekking boots are comfy and add to firm footsteps, whereas hiking boots ensure ideal feet functionality to minimize tripping and fall incidents. For example, this Salewa Women’s Trekking & Hiking Boot has a supportive foot interior, especially for trekking. In contrast, this ECCO Men’s Track 25 High Gore-Tex Hiking Boot is great for day-long comfort with its Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane.

5. Dedicated Performance

You might be wondering about the performance of both footwear. As the name says, you can infer some information. But hiking boots are exceptionally best for hot and dry weather, whereas trekking boots are reliable for all weather/season conditions. Also, hiking boots are not very insulated so that you can wear them in hot weather.

For example, this KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot has provided me with the best experience for hiking due to its material. In contrast, this Salewa Women’s Mountain Trainer Mid GTX Alpine Trekking Boot has been reliable for its ultra-comfort and gripping for alpines.