Vivek Saini
You’ve signed up for a trek. You’re getting your gear together. And now you’re stuck on that one question:
“Should I buy hiking boots or trail runners?”
Ask any experienced trekker and you’ll get different answers, often passionately arguing over tea or in gear shops from Manali to Rishikesh. Some swear by classic leather boots that can kick boulders. Others have walked 100 km in trail runners with not a blister in sight.
So, what should you pick?
Let’s break it down.
First, What Kind of Trek Are You Doing?
Are you going for a weekend walk in the Western Ghats, or a week-long backpacking expedition to Roopkund with a 10-kg pack?
-If it’s a long trek in the Himalayas with variable terrain, snow patches, and river crossings, you’ll probably want boots.
-If it’s a faster-paced, low-altitude trek in summer conditions, trail runners may be enough.
But don’t make your choice just on the trail. Make it on you.
Questions to Ask Yourself
1. Are You New to Trekking?
If yes, and especially if you're unsure about walking on rocky, uneven terrain with a backpack, boots give more ankle support and confidence. That extra stability can make a world of difference when descending slippery slopes or crossing icy patches.
2. What's the Weather Going to Be?
The Indian monsoons? Expect slush and slosh. The early spring treks? Hello, leftover snow.
-Boots are better in cold, wet, or snowy conditions.
-Trail runners are awesome for dry, summer treks, lighter, faster, and way more breathable.
3. How Much Are You Carrying?
If you're doing a self-supported trek or carrying a heavier load (say, more than 10 kg), boots help distribute the stress. But if you're on a guided trek with porters/mules and carrying just a day pack, trail runners may be all you need.
4. How Do You Usually Handle Footwear?
If you’re someone who needs extra foot support or has had ankle/knee issues, boots are safer. But if you’re light on your feet, used to running or hiking in shoes, and don’t want to break in stiff footwear, trail runners will feel more natural.
Traction, Grip & Durability
Boots: Better for mud, scree, and mixed terrain. Ideal for unpredictable Himalayan conditions.
Trail runners: Offer great grip on dry rock and forest trails. Some models have sticky rubber soles that work well on wet boulders too, but not all of them.
So... Which One Should You Pick?
Honestly? You don’t have to pick one.
Many backpackers we know carry trail runners for the trek and sandals for camp.
Some start with boots for training and later switch to trail runners for speed treks.
Others swear by one reliable pair of mid-weight boots that handle almost everything.
It depends on you, your comfort, your pace, your pack, and your terrain.
Final Thought
Whichever you choose, fit matters more than the label. A great pair of trail runners that fit you perfectly will beat a fancy boot that causes blisters on Day 2.
Try them on. Walk around. Wear the socks you’ll use. And remember:
No shoe can make the climb easier, but the right one won’t make it harder.
