I know a good pair of hiking boots can be an investment, so when shopping for new hiking boots most of us want to make sure we pick a quality pair with proper support that will stay in great shape for a long time. .
If you're wondering how long hiking boots last, you've come to the right place. Our team of experts have combined our experience to tell you everything you need to know about the expected longevity of walking shoes and how you can help extend the life of your next pair.
Keep in mind, however, that no matter what quality boots you buy, if you use them for hiking, you can't expect to buy hiking boots that will last forever.
Short summary
- Walking shoes generally need to be changed every two years or after 500-1000 miles of use. Lighter pairs or hiking boots usually need to be replaced every year or every 400-500 miles.
- A good pair of shoes will cost more than a cheaper pair, but will give you more comfort and durability, saving you money in the long run.
- You can extend the life of your hiking boots by repairing them when necessary and making sure to keep them clean and properly stored.
How long do walking shoes last?
If you walk 10 miles a week, you'll get about two years of use out of standard hiking boots. Most lightweight running shoes will likely need to be replaced at least once a year, making them less durable than typical walking shoes.
Many factors determine whether you are at the lower or higher end of the mileage range, such as: B. the terrain you hike on, the quality of your hiking boots, and how often you wear them.
Materials and construction also have a significant impact.When to replace your hiking shoes. Frequent hikers should expect to change their pair of hiking boots more often than casual hikers.
How many kilometers last the mountain boots?
In general, you can expect a good pair of walking shoes to last you 500 to 1,000 miles. Trail running shoes or lighter hiking shoes can go 400-500 miles on the trails before needing to be replaced.
If you wear shoes with the highest level of finish, such as B. Full-grain leather boots with waterproofing and thick soles, you're probably at the higher end of the durability class and could potentially get over 1,000 miles out of the boots.
Keep in mind that these boots are usually very expensive.
What factors determine the useful life of your mountain boots?
Some of the most important factors that determine the lifespan of hiking shoes include the quality of the shoes, the terrain you wear them on, how often you walk, the material of the shoes, and the construction of the shoe.
quality boots
It goes without saying that if you buy and wear a quality pair of boots, you'll have more life in the long run.
While these boots cost more money up front, the initial investment saves you from having to buy a new pair after minimal use.
Additionally, higher quality boots cause less foot discomfort and offer better ankle support, protection and overall grip than cheaper boots that are not built to the same standard.
It may seem like a good deal to pay less up front for your hiking boots, but that will only make them fall apart sooner and you may need to buy new ones after just a few months of regular use.
ground you walk on
If you tend to backpack or take longer, more challenging hikes on rocky mountain trails or in areas of thick, wet mud, your hiking boots or shoes will wear out more quickly than when hiking on flat dirt trails or pavement.
Consider the types of adventures you tend to take when shopping for new hiking boots.
How often do you walk?
The more you walk, the faster your boots wear out. If you walk 10 miles or more a week, you can expect to need new boots much sooner than if you only walk 10 miles a month.
A very casual hiker may wear the same pair of boots for several years.
starter material
Leather boots are the highest standard when it comes to walking shoes, especially if you have boots with full-grain leather uppers.
This material takes much longer to show wear than other materials.
Cloth boots tend to have a shorter lifespan.
However, many brands are developing synthetic materials such as polyurethane, which resist as well as leather.
boots construction
Good walking shoes have excellent capacity. One of the most common reasons why shoes break down faster is because they are not well made.
For example, shoes that use TPU welding tend to last longer because they hold their shape better.
You can also look for ones that have a shank in the midsole, as this makes them stronger and helps better support and protect the foot. Both midsole and upper durability should be considered.
Also, walking shoes with strong soles and a protective band around the toe and heel better protect these high-wear areas and prevent them from tearing or cracking.
It pays to look for a boot manufacturer that has a reputation for high standards, and chances are you'll find a boot that lasts longer.
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How can you extend the life of your mountain boots?
You can improve the life of your shoes by repairing them when necessary and taking care of them properly.
Once you've found a hiking boot you love, you'll want to make sure you maximize its lifespan and enjoy it on many adventures to come.
Repair your boots if necessary
Before you toss that old pair of boots, consider fixing them up first. Many problems that are not serious can be fixed by a professional or at home.
These issues include loose eyelets, frayed laces, and broken midsoles. A quality repair to a minor issue could mean your boots last a bit longer before they need to be replaced with a new pair.
In most cases, checking the surfaces of your boots regularly will alert you to something that is affecting their lifespan. So you can easily fix the problem before it gets worse.
Boot Storage and Care
You can also take steps to extend the life of your hiking boots and trail shoes by taking good care of them between uses.
Good boot care includes cleaning the boots after every hike (with warm water and a brush), conditioning with a protectant, and moisturizing the leather.
Boots with a lot of dirt will dry out the material and wear down the shoe faster, so it's important to keep them clean.
For proper storage, be sure to store your boots in a dry place without too much moisture. Also, keep them out of sunlight to prevent them from drying out.
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Choose walking shoes that last longer
If you're serious about hiking and want a good pair of shoes, avoid buying a cheap pair that probably won't last long.
If you spend a little more than average for a sturdy pair, you can walk in comfort in a variety of conditions, and your feet will thank you.
If you are looking for a really good and durable leather option, consider this one.Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, which is available for both men and women.
Another good but cheaper option is the Nortiv 8 knee high boot.
frequent questions
How long should Keen hiking shoes last?
How long should Keen hiking shoes last?
Keen walking shoes should last an average of about 800 miles before they need to be replaced. With regular use, this corresponds to about two years. Keen's light boots tend to break down more quickly and may need to be replaced with a new pair every year.
How long do leather boots last?
How long do leather boots last?
Leather boots last longer than cloth boots because leather doesn't rip or tear as easily. Sturdy leather shoes will last two years or more if cared for properly.