Hiking – the right gear for every terrain
From the right hiking boots and backpack to practical hiking poles: If you want to hike safely and comfortably in the mountains, you should choose your gear based on the type of hike, the terrain, and the duration of the trip.
From casual shoes to hiking boots
Today, there is a suitable outdoor shoe for almost every purpose—from light day hikes to alpine tours in the high mountains.
Size and application must be a good fit
The longer the trip and the more gear you bring, the more important volume, the carrying system, and practical organization become.
Greater comfort and better traction
Hiking poles help protect your knees and muscles, improve your balance, and provide extra stability, especially on difficult terrain.
Different types of hiking boots
Whereas in the past, the distinction was usually made only between hiking boots and mountaineering boots, today there are many specialized models designed for leisure, trekking, alpine touring, and climbing.
Multifunctional shoes
Suitable for many sports activities. Typically low-cut, well-cushioned, and without significant ankle support.
Lightweight hiking boots
They reach at least to the ankle and provide a good level of stability for easy to moderate hikes.
Hiking boots
Made of leather or synthetic materials, featuring a sturdier construction, good lateral support, and often available in waterproof versions.
Bergstiefel
Hiking boots
High-altitude boots
With a hard, rigid sole and fully crampon-compatible—for ice, snow, and high-altitude use.
Climbing shoes
Specialized shoes designed for maximum precision, excellent grip, and direct power transfer on the rock face or in the climbing gym.
In addition to the intended use, the quality of craftsmanship is also crucial: the better the materials, stitching, and sole are finished, the more durable and reliable the shoe will be.
What really matters when it comes to hiking boots
The quality of the upper’s construction is crucial to the shoe as a whole. Whether it’s smooth leather, suede, or synthetic fabric—durable materials, clean stitching, and the right sole construction are particularly important.
Fit
The shoe must fit securely, shouldn't pinch, and should provide enough comfort on long hikes.
Stability
The more alpine the terrain, the more lateral support, shaft stability, and torsional stiffness are required.
Weather protection
Weather-resistant materials and as few seams as possible help keep moisture out.
Sole
It determines traction, rolling characteristics, and shock absorption, as well as, depending on the design, the ability to accommodate crampons.
The right backpack for every trip
Depending on how long you'll be out and about and what you want to bring with you, different types of backpacks are suitable. The capacity should always match the intended use.
Daypack
Perfect for short hikes and day trips when you only need to bring the essentials.
Hiking backpack
Designed for longer and more specialized trips, such as in alpine terrain or multi-day expeditions requiring additional gear.
Trekking backpack
For longer trips and tours with a lot of gear. There's room here for a tent, stove, sleeping bag, and other equipment.
Good backpacks stand out not only for their storage capacity, but also for their comfortable carrying system and practical compartment layout.
Valuable assistance on long and challenging tours
Hiking poles help relieve strain on the leg muscles when walking uphill and, especially when descending, protect the knee joints. At the same time, they improve balance and safety.
Save more energy
Because the weight is distributed evenly across the arms and legs, the muscles are noticeably relieved during long rides.
Greater stability
On muddy ground, scree, or snowfields, hiking poles provide extra stability.
Pay attention to the material
The material of the pole, the grip material, the adjustment mechanism, and appropriate cushioning are important.
The best thing to do is try it out
The best way to find out which hiking pole is right for you is to try them out in the store.
Ready for the next hike?
We can help you choose hiking boots, backpacks, hiking poles, and functional gear for your next hike.
