Footwear

What is outdoor footwear for?

Whatever your activity, you need the right boots and shoes. Our outdoor footwear is specifically engineered to ensure the right protection to give you the best mountain experience.

How to choose the right women’s outdoor footwear

With so many different outdoor activities to choose from, the range of outdoor footwear is also huge. Your chosen activity and the environment you will be in are the main deciding factors in choosing outdoor shoes or boots.

For speed hiking, you will look for low-cut hiking or approach shoes that are more supple and lighter weight with reduced support.

For hiking, you might want higher cut boots with support to take you through high alpine terrain and mixed underfoot terrain. You may even want crampon-compatible boots for glacier traverses. Carrying a heavy backpack will also affect what shoes you choose.

But whatever you choose, the fit has to be right, and they have to be comfortable.

What to look for when buying women’s hiking footwear

• Soles: Our outsoles are made by sole technology experts VIBRAM® and POMOCA® from specialist rubber compounds with tread patterns engineered to give you grip, traction and precision in their intended area of activity.
• Uppers: Our footwear has high-quality upper materials, including durable leather and strong, lightweight fabrics. Leather footwear is generally more hardwearing, but does require slightly more shoe care. Synthetic uppers tend to be lighter and more flexible.

What is a midsole?

The midsole is a component built into the inside of the shoe under the footbed. It provides impact protection and support. We use EVA midsoles in shoes designed more for lightweight comfort. In footwear made for greater durability, we use polyurethane insoles. Our mountain boots have stiffer midsoles. They give you more support in challenging terrain and when carrying a heavier pack – and for vie ferrate and crampon use.

Do I need GORE-TEX®?

Most of our outdoor boots and shoes are made with a GORE-TEX® membrane for waterproof protection and breathability which makes them ideal for use in a wide range of mountain conditions. But if you will be hiking or climbing in drier warmer conditions, then shoes without waterproof performance will suffice.

Is it a good idea to buy footwear a size bigger?

This also depends on what you want them for. Either way, your toes should always have plenty of room.

• Winter
  Winter mountain boots need a more relaxed fit for wear with thicker socks and to ensure your toes have enough space to wiggle them and keep them warm in the cold. Always make sure your heel does not slip however, as this will lead to blisters.
• Summer
  Summer footwear can be more snug fitting for more precise foot placement on scrambles or for rocky approaches. But feet swell as they warm up over the day, so bear that in mind when trying them on – and consider the time of day when you try them on. If in doubt, go up half a size.