In this fast-paced world where old technology is replaced by new technology every single day, one might wonder if hiking boots can replace walking boots for good. Because frankly, in this deteriorating economy, who would have the time and money to buy a new pair of shoes for every happening in their life?
If one shoe fits all, then what’s the need to clutter your closet and empty your pockets? Besides, wearing hiking boots for everyday use could turn those dull evening walks into a quick five-mile hike with friends.
Related: Hiking Vs Trekking: What is The Difference
But some would say it’s a dangerous terrain to walk as hiking boots can’t be worn for longer periods of time due to their sturdy nature. Let’s explore both possibilities and see where you find yourself standing at the end.
But before we proceed, let’s first define work boots and walking boots to understand them better.
What are Hiking Boots?
Hiking boots are specially designed to cover long distances in mountainous areas. They protect the feet from mud and sling, support the ankle area, and offer traction for slopes.
Their waterproof exterior stops the water from seeping in while crossing puddles or rainy areas.
What are Walking Boots?
Walking boots are lightweight and breathable shoes usually used for evening walks. Their cushioning provides support to the heel and aids in forward movement.
Related: Can You Hike in Steel Toe Boots?
They come in two styles: with laces and without laces. Their rocker-style bottom makes the walks effortless and comfortable.
Types of Walking Boots
There are many types of walking shoes. The most popular ones and frequently used are discussed below.
- Mid-cut: the back of the shoes is not too high but protects the ankles. The shoes provide good support to the feet. They are recommended for short walks during the day.
- High cut: the back of the shoes is usually higher than normal, covering the whole back of the shoes. They provide greater support for the ankle but are also labeled as uncomfortable by some due to the high back. Their exterior is usually thick and sturdy.
- Leather exterior: these walking boots have a tough material on the outside, which protects them from wear and tear. They are fully covered and are also easier to clean. But also face criticism because of their heaviness and less breathability.
- Fabric exterior: as the name suggests, these boots have a soft exterior, are economical and affordable, and are very lightweight with excellent breathability. A few of their drawbacks are that they offer less protection, and once they get dirty, they are very hard to clean.
Comparison Table for Hiking vs. Walking Boots
| Hiking Boots | Walking Boots |
| Provide excellent grip and traction. | Does not provide good traction. |
| Not very breathable. | Very breathable. |
| Usually Heavyweight | Lightweight. |
| Firm heel counter | Rocker-style bottom. |
| Stiff outer. | Soft outer |
We compared both hiking and walking boots side by side in a comprehensive comparison table above just to differentiate them first before heading into the actual question, that is, whether to use hiking boots for walking or not.
Can You Wear Hiking Boots Every Day For Walking?
In short, you can wear hiking boots for daily walking but just for short and quick walks. They are not suitable for long and comfortable walks in the urban environment, like on concrete or hard surfaces, as they are bulky and come with extra tread patterns.
Moreover, quality hiking boots are very expensive(cost between $100 to $400), so using them on daily walks can damage their life. But you can buy walking shoes for less than $100 or even much less with better comfort and cushioning for daily walks.
Like a double-sided sickle, wearing hiking boots for everyday use has both advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of Wearing Hiking Boots for Walking and Every day
Here are a few reasons why you might want to wear boots daily.
Fewer Shoes in The Closet
If you start making collections for every shoe type, soon, your closet will be flooded with shoes, and you will find yourself needing clarification about what you should keep and what must be thrown away.
I prefer to invest in one or two good pairs and use them for every occasion. This not only saves me the hassle of carrying an additional pair with me but also saves space in my closet.
Hundreds of Bucks in Savings
Imagine the amount of money you would be saving once you start relying on a single pair of shoes for multiple ventures. Spending 100 dollars on shoes would go a long way rather than spending tons more on each pair for hiking and walking.
Extra Grip
Hiking shoes are designed for traction. One needs a firmer grip on the ground when hiking on rough and tough terrains. Imagine if you are wearing hiking shoes to run errands, and it starts raining.
Your shoes will protect you from slipping and falling on the ground. And if you live in an area with a lot of snow, your hiking shoes will provide great traction.
Ankles Support
Your hiking gear is always designed to provide maximum support during upward movement so that the weight falling on your feet will not strain your ankles.
Hiking shoes usually have a high ankle area so that all the heel and ankle area is fully covered. This suggests that if you are walking in your hiking shoes and hit a rock or something, your ankles will be protected.
Provide Lumbar Support
I, for one, have been a victim of slipped discs in the past, and my physiotherapist stressed greatly wearing shoes with good lumbar support to avoid back spraining. After much trial and error, I finally discovered that good hiking shoes provide excellent lumbar support, and now I wear time to time with added comfortable hiking insole.
Mostly Waterproof
Many brands these days are making waterproof hiking shoes. This is such a relief in the rainy season. Any kind of sandals or loafers that people wear daily would be such a nuisance on a heavy rainy day.
Hiking boots would not only keep the water away from your feet but would also protect the feet from mud and sling on wet roads.
Provide Good Insulation
Hiking boots are your best friend in chilly winters. If you live in Canada or other European countries where winters are very brutal, choose a pair of hiking boots over walking shoes.
The thick inner lining of hiking boots will provide you warmth and great comfort to get through those frozen mornings and nights.
Enhance Productivity
Speaking from my experience, I have the vigor and enthusiasm to conquer the world every time I am in hiking boots. I am hoping and running between my errands as if I am still in a hiking mood, which positively impacts my working capacity.
Try wearing hiking boots for everyday use to enhance your productivity and feel lively during mundane chores.
Drawbacks of Wearing Boots For Walking
However, I have talked to several people who do not recommend wearing hiking boots for everyday use due to the following reasons.
Expensive
The average use you could get out of a pair of hiking shoes is 500-1000 miles depending on their quality. If you wear them daily, you will have to replace them more often.
Hiking shoes are more expensive than regular shoes, so you would end up spending more on hiking shoes. So, it’s better to use an average-priced pair for walking and an expensive pair exclusively for hiking.
Heavier Than Walking Boots
Hiking boots are specially designed to withstand the brunt of rough surfaces and unpredictable weather, so they are designed with extra layers of material.
Hence, they are heavier in size compared to everyday walking shoes. Don’t go for hiking shoes if you don’t want to drag your feet while on a casual walk.
Not Breathable
The thick padding in boots makes them unbreathable. Your feet would not get any air or feel trapped, especially in those sunny summers. The continuous chaffing causes blisters and rashes on the skin. It’s best for you to opt for a nice pair of sandals for summer for your early morning walks or evening jogs.
Not Ideal For Driving
Although I love wearing hiking boots to run errands and even for an evening stroll, I find them utterly unbearable during driving. Due to traction, the sole of the hiking boot gets stuck on the pedal, and moving my foot from one pedal to another becomes very difficult.
The foot needs to be in a slanting position while driving, and with hiking boots, the whole pressure is thrown on my ankles, making them sore.
Not Suitable For Workouts
When you are brisk walking, your foot moves in a circular toe to heel motion. When you are running, toes get more pressure than heels. Walking and running shoes are particularly designed with this phenomenon in mind.
Boots, on the other hand, are designed for ankle support, which means they could prove harmful for the feet when used for walking or running.
Could Negate The Dress Code
Not all of us could just casually wear hiking boots for everyday use. Many workplaces have a dress code that employees must follow. Imagine how absurd you would look while wearing boots with a tailored three-piece suit.
Alternative Options
If you still want to wear your hiking footwear daily, we suggest buying hiking sandals instead of boots. You can wear sandals for hiking and daily use. They provide excellent traction and comfort with extra padding, and traction is much better than regular walking shoes.
However, they are unsuitable for hiking on rugged terrains, but you can wear hiking sandals on well-maintained to medium rocky trails.
FAQs
Can Hiking Boots be Worn Casually?
You can wear them casually, but they are specially designed for hiking and outdoor adventures, especially on rugged terrains. But keep in mind that they are unsuitable for formal, office purposes or any formal events because they are challenging to incorporate.
However, if you want to wear them casually, we suggest buying some minimalist and neutral colors, which won’t look very odd casually. But they might not offer much comfort at concerts like specially designed casual shoes.
Is There a Difference Between Hiking and Walking Boots?
Yes, there is a difference between the two. Unlike walking shoes, hiking boots are specially used for off-road activities over rugged terrains as they provide better ankle support, grip, and stability.
In contrast, walking boots are specially designed for urban use or on concrete where you need better comfort instead of ruggedness. They are better at cushioning and weight compared to heavier boots. Please see the side-by-side difference in our comparison table between hiking and walking boots for better clarity.
Can You Wear Walking Boots All The Time?
It is not recommended to wear walking boots at all times for various medical reasons. For example, wearing it all the time will lead to foot infections due to sweat and moisture that will build up inside the shoes. This will worsen in hot weather when people sweat more; even breathable boots will have the same issue during the heat.
Also, they are not much flexible, so they will impact your posture and cause discomfort. Due to these unavoidable medical reasons, we are against wearing walking boots all the time.
Summary
Thus, it can be said that wearing hiking boots for walking every day has advantages and disadvantages. People who like to wear heavy boots and whose feet are always cold would prefer to opt for hiking boots daily. While those who like fresh air touching their feet go for a breathable pair of walking boots.