Non-slip soles for off-road trails
Extensive lab research went into the design of the sole. It's composed of a specific rubber formula that optimizes grip and traction. As no two requirements are alike, we automatically look for the best balance for walking on loose natural terrain (forest) and hard, rocky trails (coast).
Designed for use on off-road trails
Our hiking shoes are designed for walking on nature trails. We choose our shoes' sole and upper components and test them to make sure that they're suitable for walking on loose terrain (like a dirt forest path) or hard, rocky trails (like coastal paths). Walking on paved roads may cause premature wear and discomfort. They are not suitable for mountain hiking.
To reduce our environmental impact
For these shoes, we chose components that are more environmentally friendly:
- Upper (front of the shoe, flap, and top of the shoe): 52% recycled polyester and 48% dope-dyed polyamide (process using less water)
- tongue and ankle support lining: 100% recycled polyester
- Laces and loops: 100% recycled polyester
- Insole: 85% recycled polyurethane foam and 100% polyester lining
- Outsole: 30% recycled rubber
Where does our leather come from?
We use nubuck leather. It has a soft, silky feel. Although cow leather is used in these shoes, no animal is killed to obtain it: only food industry waste is used. The leather on these shoes originates in France and is tanned in Spain.
How to look after your leather shoes
After your hike, we recommend you:
- Dry your shoes away from any heat sources
- Brush the dry leather vigorously with a stiff brush to remove mud and dirt
- Use a crepe brush or nubuck eraser to remove stains
- If the stains persist, clean with a brush and a little warm water
- Leave to dry
- Brush again with a stiff brush
- Use spray-on waterproofing: this will make the leather shine and bring out the colours
Waterproofing test
Footwear with a membrane is lab- and field-tested to ensure optimal waterproofing and breathability. First, the shoe is immersed in water and pressure is applied to verify that no bubbles form on the water’s surface. Next, the shoes are placed on a mechanical arm that simulates walking and half-immersed in water to verify that the inside remains perfectly dry.
3 levels of waterproofing
We test 3 levels of waterproofing:
- 2,000 flexes, about 2 hours of hiking
- 4,000 flexes, about 4 hours of hiking
- 8,000 flexes, about 8 hours of hiking
The NH500 Mid WP men's shoes were tested for 8,000 flexes. This means they will stay waterproof during an 8-hour hike. Of course, as soon as the shoes are dry, they become waterproof again.
Lab-tested
Laboratory tests were conducted to test the following elements: secure attachment of eyelets and straps, adhesion, toxicology, resistance to UV rays, abrasion of the sole and upper components, and accelerated ageing. We use these tests to improve the quality of our products and prevent the premature wear of our hiking shoes.
How to keep your shoes waterproof for longer
To restore their original water-repellency and prevent stains, spray your shoes several times a year with waterproof spray.
Choosing the right walking shoe size
Try on both shoes, standing up, wearing your hiking socks. Try on several models and sizes if necessary. Check the following two areas of comfort:
- the heel seating
- the front of the foot on a downward slope
Avoid any pressure points when fitting. Feel free to walk around the store. Break in your shoes gradually over the course of a few hikes.
The shoe/sock combination plays an important role
Blisters can form for a number of reasons: rubbing, a crease in the sock, moisture, a shoe size that is too small or too big, etc. So it's important to choose the right size and to have socks made of the right material for your walking shoes.
Choosing the right walking sock size
You must choose the right sock size for your foot to prevent additional creases in the sock: if your socks are too big, they will develop folds and wrinkles that will rub and may cause blisters, and if your socks are too small and they can create pressure points and sock slippage.
Choosing the right material for your walking socks
Moisture must be effectively managed when walking: we all sweat—it’s bound to happen. If your shoes are breathable, they'll wick away moisture caused by perspiration. This means you also need to choose light and breathable socks. On the other hand, if you wear waterproof shoes for rain protection, you'll want to choose differently: you need socks that will absorb your sweat and wick it away from your foot.
What socks should you wear with the NH500 Mid WP shoes?
Although these shoes have a breathable waterproof membrane, they don't eliminate moisture from perspiration as effectively as ventilated shoes. You should choose NH500 high socks: they contain moisture-absorbing cotton and have a reverse terry-knit structure underneath that wicks moisture away from your foot. They're high enough to protect your ankles from the shoes. It's an excellent combination for reducing the chance of blisters.
Warranty
Our hiking shoes are guaranteed for 2 years.
Our commitment? To offer you long-lasting products suitable for all your country hikes and walks. Because the products we love the most are those that have a story behind them... and plenty of life in them yet!
