Evaluation: Footwear Assessment: Mountain Warehouse's Hiking Footgear
As the author prepares for an exhilarating adventure across South America's diverse landscapes, the importance of suitable hiking boots cannot be overstated. From the challenging terrains of the Andes mountains to the potential for heavy downpours in the rainforests, the right footwear is crucial.
One such option that has proven its worth is the Mountain Warehouse Explorer Hiking Boots, although they are no longer available, the Adventure Hiking Boots are very similar. The author found these boots to be perfect for their South American adventure, having purchased them from the Mountain Warehouse Sale.
For trekking in South America, hiking boots should offer versatility, waterproofing, good traction, ankle support, and durability. Here are some top recommendations:
1. Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2: Lightweight, waterproof, and offering excellent traction, these boots are ideal for technical day hikes and moderately demanding trails such as those in Patagonia or the Andes.
2. Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX (especially for women): These boots provide great waterproofing, stellar traction, and are comfortable for long treks. While they offer moderate ankle support, they are better suited for agility rather than heavy support needs.
3. Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX: These waterproof hiking boots offer ultra-grippy soles, breathability, and are made with sustainable materials. They are perfect for treks requiring waterproof footwear with comfort and environmental consideration.
4. Merrell Moab (3 or Speed 2 Leather Waterproof variants) and KEEN hiking sandals: These waterproof options are well-rounded, offering good comfort and support. Sandals like KEEN provide protection during wet rainforest activities or river crossings, making them ideal in wet, warm jungle conditions.
In general, waterproofing and good aggressive outsoles are essential due to the mixture of wet rainforests and rugged mountain terrain. Boots with some ankle support and cushioning are important for uneven Andes trails, while lighter, breathable footwear or hiking sandals help in the hot, wet lowlands and rivers. Durability should be balanced with weight and comfort depending on the length and difficulty of your trek.
The author's preference for sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes is based on the need for foot support and protection over tricky terrain and in heavy rain. Two essential items on the list are new backpacks and a decent pair of hiking boots, both of which the author was able to find at Mountain Warehouse.
As the author embarks on various treks and walks on different terrains in South America, including the rainforest, the Andes mountains, the Peruvian desert, the Bolivian salt flats, and Machu Picchu, their trusty hiking boots will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their journey.
[1] [Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2](https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/uk/en/product/adidas-terrex-free-hiker-2-gtx-mens-3257731) [2] [Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof](https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/uk/en/product/merrell-moab-3-waterproof-mens-3226452) [3] [Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX](https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/uk/en/product/salomon-quest-4-gore-tex-womens-3255757) [4] [Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX](https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/uk/en/product/hoka-one-one-anacapa-2-low-gtx-mens-3257730)
- The Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2, perfect for technical day hikes and moderately demanding trails, offers lightweight, waterproof characteristics with excellent traction.
- Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX, particularly designed for women, provides great waterproofing, stellar traction, and comfort for long treks, although it offers moderate ankle support.
- Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX hiking boots offer ultra-grippy soles, breathability, and are made with sustainable materials, ideal for treks requiring waterproof footwear with comfort and environmental consideration.
- Merrell Moab and KEEN hiking sandals are waterproof options, offering good comfort and support, with KEEN providing protection during wet, rugged activities or river crossings, making them ideal in wet, warm jungle conditions.
- Proper hiking footwear, especially waterproof and grippy boots or sandals, is essential in South America's diverse landscapes, which include rainforests, mountains, deserts, salt flats, and Machu Picchu.
- An adventure traveler's preparation includes inspecting the hiking boots' waterproofing, aggressive outsoles, ankle support, cushioning, and durability to navigate various terrains and weather conditions.
