Footwear

Footwear for operational use, hiking, and extended wear.

Height, sole, membrane

The shaft height is the first choice to make. A low-cut model gives the ankle freedom of movement and weighs less; a high-cut one provides support and protects against sprains on uneven terrain, at the cost of stiffness and heat retention. On mixed terrain with a load, the high-cut is almost always the right choice.

The sole determines grip and the surfaces it performs on. Deep lugs hold on mud and soft ground but slip on wet rock and smooth floors; a softer compound does the opposite.

The waterproof membrane keeps water out but slows sweat evaporation: in warm climates and during intense activity, a breathable non-membrane model keeps the foot drier than a waterproof one.

Regarding sizing, bear in mind that under load the foot widens and lengthens: those who hike with a pack typically go half a size up from their everyday footwear size.