As a professional hiker and backpacker for years, I have realised that one of the most significant decisions that you need to make is the shoes you are going to wear. Whether it’s overnight backpacking, short-day hiking or a long-distance trail, your choice of shoes can make a big difference as it is the only thing that can keep you going through those tough terrains. And from my own experience, I can tell you that you simply can’t make it long if you are stuck in a pair of uncomfortable shoes or boots.

Don’t forget that both trail runners and boots are great choices, but only when you know which one is right for you. The trail runners sure attract the fashion conscious backpackers with their interesting designs and colour options compared with the boots. The lightweight design also impresses the hikers by making them considerably more nimble on their feet. However, as a seasoned backpacker, I seem to care less about the weight on my feet and more about the features that the boots have to offer. Here are a set of things and key questions that you would probably need to ask yourself before coming up with a choice.

Is this your first time?

It’s better to go safe on your first hiking tour, and boots do come to your rescue when you don’t know how to keep your footing stable on a rough and slippery terrain, especially when you are carrying heavier loads.

Think of the terrain on your trail

Stability is one thing, but you must have footwear that is able to sustain its strength through the abuses of a rough trail, and resist wear and tear. Once you are out, you can experience anything from a beautiful forest trail to rough rocks. The boots need to be fit to tackle any of these possibilities. Moreover, they will also give you warmth and waterproof protection, if need be.

Consider your weight

How heavy are you? This probably is a smart way to analyse the type of footwear you need. A solid, stable boot is perfect if you need ankle support and a stronger footing due to a heavier backpack.  However, you can pick the trail runners if you're not carrying anything heavy or haven’t experienced any problems in your ankle or foot before.

How long is your trail?

The distance that you are going to travel in your shoes can be a significant factor too. Light trailers are perfect for a short trip. You can maintain a brisk pace with these super light shoes. But they will not survive long if you are going on a long day trail.

What you need, when you need it

Though the trail runners are lightweight, they offer significantly less grip than the boots. The thick lugs of the hiking boots tug into the soil, giving you a firm grip even on slippery patches. You may find a few trail runners with a sticky rubber compound for enhanced grip, but the traction that boots provide is incomparable.

Once you are through with asking these questions, you will be able to make the right pick for yourself. Always remember that comfort and safety should stand as a prerequisite for your shoe selection. Ending up with a twisted ankle or a bruised foot is the least you can wish for. It all comes down to your personal preference of what is the best for you.