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Now that the weather is cooling down, it's time to hit the trail. Not just for foliage treks, but for your physical and mental wellbeing. And not just in any old shoe, but in sturdy hiking options geared to time-tested feet.
The benefits of walking are well documented. They may include lengthening your lifespan, lowering your risk for diseases like cancer and heart failure, and even helping to prevent dementia. But a walk in nature? Well, that propels the advantages to another level altogether.
Trading in the treadmill — or laps around the mall — for a hike outdoors maximizes the health rewards of exercising, according to researchers. Exploring a trail in the woods or other wild environments requires you to exercise an essential part of the brain, the hippocampus, that’s responsible for learning, memory and navigation.
Picking up new skills along the way — like identifying plants or deciphering a trail map — boosts your nervous system’s ability to adapt and rewire itself, a process called neuroplasticity.
Another study reveals that green and watery “blue” spaces support a key aspect of healthy aging — mental well-being. Whether forests or fields, running or still water, these natural spaces were shown to provide a sense of renewal, restoration and spiritual connectedness.
It's no surprise hiking is among the top five most popular outdoor activities for Americans over 55, according to the Outdoor Industry Association’s 2023 survey.
Feet First
To truly enjoy your walk in the (neighborhood or national) park, you’ll need more than just cooler temperatures. The right footwear is essential. Hiking boots and shoes for mature feet must deliver three things: comfort, support and traction.
Cushioning, arch support and wide toe boxes all can address boot comfort for hikers at every skill level. Sturdy soles and higher cuts deliver the necessary stability and support while staying light on your feet. Which brings us to another consideration — weight. Look for shoes and boots in the sweet spot of under two pounds per pair.
When it comes to price, expect to pay around $150 for hiking boots built to log 1,000 miles and about $100 for hiking shoes with a lifespan of 500 miles. These shoes aren’t inexpensive, though they are durable and kind to aging feet.
Keep an eye out for online sales, which can cut the cost considerably.
Hiking Boots
Recommended by experts and everyday people alike, these trailblazing boots can set you on the path to all the health benefits hiking delivers.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof: This third generation of the Moab provides a reinforced heel cushion, extra shock absorption and a contoured footbed for added arch support. Those eager to hit the trail will appreciate this boot’s high marks for coming straight out of the box feeling broken in. And, the Moab comes in wide widths for those whose feet have broadened over time ($96-$150).
Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid: Since its launch 15 years ago, the Targhee has built a devoted fanbase. In this fourth iteration, hikers will find generous space across the forefoot so toes can spread out and a durable, all-terrain outsole that feels light but still delivers dependable support and protection. And the traction? “Makes me feel like a mountain goat,” wrote Elizabeth, age 55-64, in her REI.com review ($150-$170).
Orthofeet Dakota: For nearly 25 years, Orthofeet has combined innovative athletic footwear technology with therapeutic detailing to relieve issues from plantar fasciitis to bunions. Their recently added hiking footwear stays true to the mission. The mid-height Dakota delivers a wide toe box, adjustable arch support, premium orthotic insoles and widths from standard to extra wide ($140-$160).
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX: With the traits of a beefier boot — like a sturdy toe bumper, high ankle collar and mostly leather upper — the X Ultra 4 Mid can conquer a range of activities from casual day hikes to multi-day treks. And they still manage to weigh in under two pounds per pair. Reviewers frequently praise them as “comfortable from the outset” and “instantly felt great on my feet” ($175).
Hiking Shoes
While hiking boots tend to grab the spotlight, hiking shoes have their advantages too. Their increased flexibility can enhance balance and eliminate any break-in period. On the con side, they offer less protection and wear out sooner.
Merrell Speed Solo Hiking Shoes: Reviewers with all manner of foot afflictions — plantar fasciitis, neuroma, bunions and toe implants — recommend these Merrells for their comfort and stability on the trail. At 1 pound 3.8 ounces a pair, their lighter weight contributes to 4+ star popularity as does their sweet-spot pricing ($110).
Columbia Trailstorm Ascend Waterproof Hiking Shoe: If you’re looking for a sure-footed shoe under $100, consider the Trailstorm. Columbia’s unique Navicfit lacing system locks the heel in place to keep the shoe — and you — secure on the trail. And a multi-terrain outer sole provides traction in both wet and dry conditions ($55-$80)
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker: With lots of street cred and court cred, Adidas has moved on to building its reputation on the trail. That seems to be working. The outdoors experts at REI rated the Terrex Free Hiker as the most comfortable hiking shoes on their 2024 best list with a “comfy-from-the-first-step sensation” ($112-$160).
Kuru Chicane: These low-profile trail shoes have unique, arcing laces that start narrow near the toe and curve wider toward the ankle. Once on, the “heel-first” technology Kuru excels at becomes clear. The Chicane’s shock-absorbing, heel-hugging and arch-supporting qualities prompted one reviewer to write: “[My feet] feel supported from every angle, arch and heel. I just ordered my third pair.” Available with weather-resistant Nubuck leather uppers or in a mesh and leather combination ($165-$175).
Whether you prefer hiking boots or shoes, the choice belongs to you and your feet. Either way, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the healthy and healing benefits that come with a walk in the park.
What's YOUR go-to store when it comes to buying shoes? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo credit left to right: Merrell (2); Columbia; Getty Images; Kuru Chicane; Salomon; Merrell (2)
Ethel Staff
Follow Article Topics: Lifestyle
