Hiking Gear: 6 Signs You Need a New Pair of Hiking Shoes

We're encouraged to go outside every once in a while, especially if we spend most of our time indoors. After all, the outdoors is where you go to discover things for yourself, and being one with nature is also an excellent way to relax. There's no better way of doing this than hiking.

As with any other activity, hiking requires specialised equipment to ensure comfort as you go through the trail. One example of this is hiking shoes, arguably one of the more important ones because they can make or break your movement. Since they also wear down because of the rigorous activity involved, the time will come that you'll need to buy a new pair. For this reason, one must know the signs they need to, such as:

#1 - Worn Out Appearance

When hiking shoes are brand new, they should be snug and firm, as it is what you need for your hiking activity. Nonetheless, your sneakers will wear down over time, usually when you notice the wear on the heels and soles.

This is why you need to invest in a new pair. Since the current pair isn't supporting your feet anymore, it's not doing what it's supposed to. You risk injuring your feet by continuing to wear it, which is why you need new equipment if you want to be safe.

#2 - Warped Shape

If you notice that your hiking shoes are losing shape, it's also time to invest in a new pair. This is because the shape of your feet is squeezing your shoes—warped or deformed, in other words. It's not just about the shape of your feet, as it also affects your gait and how you walk. This can cause accidents, so you need to change your shoes if you notice that the shape is changing.

#3 - Cracks, Rips, or Tears in the Stitching

Hiking shoes are often put together with heavy-duty stitching, perfect for steady movements as you go through rugged trails. However, this stitching also makes up the soles, meaning that there's a chance that the stitching may break or rip if the shoes are worn out.

When this happens, the soles will start to come apart, and you'll notice that the stitching looks worn out. You can also see the signs of a tear or rip in the stitching, which is a sign that your shoes need to be replaced immediately. It's not just the stitching that makes up the sole, but the whole sole itself. If it's worn out, it's time to buy a new pair.

#4 - Frayed Shoelaces

It's pretty surprising, but the laces of your hiking shoes can also be another sign that it's time to invest in a new pair. While this is just a minor issue, frayed laces can signify that the shoes are ready to give out.

One way to solve this issue is to replace the shoelaces, but if you don't have time to do this, it's time to invest in a new pair. The only things that you'll invest in, then, are the shoes. If you choose to replace the laces, you should get a heavy-duty one.

#5 - Thinning Midsole

The midsole is the part of a shoe that sits between your feet and the midsole. It offers cushion and support by absorbing the shock when your feet land on the ground. As you walk, the midsole will wear down and thin out. When you notice that the midsole is losing its thickness, it might be time to buy a new pair.

#6 - Worn Down Ankle Collar

The ankle collar is the part that encircles your ankle to make sure that your foot stays comfortable while you're on the move. Like the midsole, it absorbs the shock of your feet on the ground. Over time, the ankles will start to wear down and risk losing their elasticity. The ankle collar is one of the shoe parts that need to be there for your safety, so it's best to replace it before it's too late.

Conclusion

If you notice any of these signs in your hiking shoes, then you need to make the call to buy a new pair of shoes. However, you don't need to overspend because you'll have plenty of affordable and quality hiking shoes. All that matters is finding the right pair of hiking shoes that suits your needs.

If you’re looking for hiking shops in Brisbane, Adventureco is the place for you! We offer a wide range of selections for hiking equipment, such as clothing, footwear, bags, and other outdoor accessories, all for affordable prices. Simply go to our website and take your pick!