How often do you hike and at what intensity?
Our products are classified based on performance and features for 3 mountain-walking levels:
- Occasional: about 10 hikes per year of about 3 to 4 hours in length, covering less than 10 km and less than 700 m in elevation gain.
- Regular: about 20 outings per year. 4 to 6 hours, 10 to 20 km, 700 to 1,200 m of elevation gain per outing.
- Intensive: more than 20 times a year. More than 6 hours, more than 20 km, 1,200 to 2,000 m of elevation gain per outing.
Sustainable development information
The boots’ cuff lining fabric and inner sole coating were thread-dyed during manufacturing to reduce environmental impact. Textile dyeing requires a lot of water but also produces wastewater from the dye baths. We use a bulk dyeing process that involves adding the colour pigments when the yarn itself is produced to reduce the environmental impact.
Grippy sole
Certified sole grip.
To be certified, the boots must pass lab tests to assess their grip rate on different surfaces (smooth, rough, dry, wet). To validate tests, testers evaluated quality of soles in the fields and mountains over 500 km.
Waterproofing test
In a lab, the shoe is immersed in water to mid height while on a mechanical arm that simulates walking. We use this test to determine how long and how far the shoe can walk and still stay dry.
This is validated in the field and in the rain to ensure a consistent result in use.
Making waterproofing last longer
To keep feet dry, use a waterproof gaiter or mini-gaiter to protect the top of boots and to prevent water, pebbles, and sand from getting in.
Re-waterproof boots twice a year using a re-waterproofing agent (search for ‘waterproofing’ on our Decathlon website) which helps to restore original water-repellent qualities and to prevent stains on the outside.
What size should I choose?
The most important thing is to try on several sizes and styles to find the one that’s best for you.
You can choose one size up from your usual size so your toes won’t bump the toe box when going downhill, as long as you still have enough support to prevent friction.
Tip: keep your toenails short and check that your laces are tight enough to keep your foot from sliding forward in the shoe before a long descent.
How to try on footwear
Certain Decathlon stores have a test trail.
1. Try on both shoes, standing up, wearing your hiking socks. 2. Tighten the laces, making sure they’re evenly tightened.
3. Check the following:
- your heel doesn’t lift up before the shoe when walking uphill.
- your foot doesn’t slide and your toes don’t touch the front when going downhill.
4. Try on several sizes and models.
Break them in gradually to adapt them to your feet.
Which socks should I wear?
Waterproof shoes are less breathable than non-waterproof shoes. Ideally, wear mid-length socks like the MH500, MH520, and MH900 to wick away perspiration and reduce friction.
Optimize your shoes: replace your insoles!
The original insole in your shoes is designed to fit most feet. Changing the insole may provide:
1. Improved support: some insoles are preformed or reinforced to better support the arch of the foot. 2. More comfort: the insoles can also provide warmth and/or cushioning.
3. Longer life: restore the support and comfort of your shoes by replacing the insole each season.
How to care for your shoes
- Leave to air dry.
- Remove dry mud with a stiff brush.
- Clean marks using a brush and some warm water
- Leave to dry
- Spray with a re-waterproofing product to restore the upper’s water resistance
How to avoid blisters
See all our tips here:
https://conseilsport.decathlon.fr/conseils/9-astuces-pour-eviter-les-ampoules-tp_10725
