clearance

Traction

Robustness

Waterproof

Cushioning

Lightweight

Our products are classified based on performance for 3 hiking levels:
- Occasional: around ten hikes a year, 3-4 hours each, less than 10 km, and less than 700 m of elevation.
- Regular: about 20 outings a year, 4-6 hours each, 10 to 20 km, and 700 to 1,200 m of elevation per outing.
- Intensive: more than 20 times a year, more than 6 hours each, more than 20 km, and 1,200 to 2,000 m of elevation per outing.

What frequency and intensity of hiking are these shoes for?

New high-performance sole with an exclusive rubber blend developed by our experts. More grippy, more durable. The sole was designed for grip using 3D simulations and then laboratory tested to assess the grip coefficient on different surfaces and conditions. A panel of testers field-tested these shoes in the mountains to validate them. 

Outdoor Contact sole

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 go and stay dry. The results are validated in the field and in the rain to ensure consistency.

Waterproofing test

Use a waterproof gaiter or mini-gaiter to protect the top of your shoes and keep water, pebbles, and sand out.

Re-waterproof shoes twice a year (search for “waterproofing” on our Decathlon website) to help restore original water-repellent qualities and prevent stains on the outside.

Extended waterproofing

Our Quechua global design centre is based in Passy, at the foot of Mont Blanc in Haute-Savoie, France. This location is ideal for our teams and outdoor sports enthusiasts. It’s the perfect spot for designing our mountain hiking products.

Product design: our outdoor experts

The most important thing is to try on several sizes and styles to find the one most suited to you. 
Choosing one size up from your usual size means your toes won’t bump the toe box when going downhill, as long as you still have the proper support to prevent friction.
Tip: keep your toenails short and, before a long descent, check that your laces are tight enough to keep your foot from sliding forward in the shoe.

What size should I choose?

Some Decathlon stores have a test trail.

1. Try on both boots, standing up, while wearing your hiking socks. 2. Tighten the laces evenly.
3. Check two points:
- your heel doesn’t lift up before the shoe does 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.

Blisters generally develop when the skin is weakened by friction. To prevent blistering, we recommend the following:
- Choose a shoe in your size.
- Wear suitable socks.
- Tie and tighten your shoes properly.
- Make sure you tighten or loosen your laces, especially before starting a climb or a descent.

- Wear your shoes on a short trip for the first use.

How to prevent blisters

Waterproof shoes are less breathable than non-waterproof shoes. Ideally, wear mid-length socks like the MH 500, MH 520, or MH 900 hiking socks to wick away perspiration and reduce friction.

Which socks?

The original insole in your shoes is designed to accommodate most feet. Changing the insole may provide:

1. Improved support: some soles 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.

Optimize your shoes: replace your insoles

- 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.

quechua

Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes, MH 500 Mid