Which hiking boot suits your walks?
Hiking boots are grouped in categories. Category A is a light, flexible shoe for paved paths and day walks. Category B has a firmer sole and more ankle support for hilly terrain and multi-day walks with a daypack. Category C is a mountain boot with a stiff sole for rocky terrain and heavy packs. For Limburg, the Ardennes and the Alps most women are best served by a B boot.
High or low?
A high boot supports the ankle and keeps stones and water out; ideal for uneven ground and mountain paths. A low shoe is lighter and cooler and suits flat walks, city trips and warm days.
Waterproof or breathable?
A Gore-Tex membrane (GTX) keeps water out and lets sweat through; the best choice for a wet climate. Boots without a membrane breathe better and dry faster, pleasant in hot and dry regions.
The right size and fit
Try boots on in the afternoon with the socks you will wear. Leave a thumb's width in front of your toes and make sure the heel does not lift. Meindl and Lowa have women's lasts with a narrower heel; Hanwag has wide lasts, Merrell fits sportier. In store we measure your foot and you walk the test slope.
Brands
Meindl stands for German quality and a perfect fit, with the Caracas, Respond and Vakuum as best-known women's models. Lowa combines light weight with support in the Innovo and Renegade series. Hanwag makes handcrafted mountain boots for wide feet. Merrell brings sporty, light hiking shoes. Grisport offers solid boots at a sharp price.
Frequently asked questions
Do hiking boots run large or small?
Usually slightly smaller than sneakers; go half to one size up depending on the brand. We measure in store.
Do I need to break in hiking boots?
Yes, take a few short walks first so the leather shapes to your foot.
Can I exchange boots ordered online?
Yes, free in our store in Roermond or by post within 14 days. See also men's hiking boots, hiking socks and Meindl.