How often do you hike and at what intensity?
Our products are classified based on performance and features for 3 mountain hiking 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.
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 these tests, we have a panel of representative testers evaluate our soles out in the mountains across 500 km.
Warning: these boots need a few kilometres of use before reaching peak grip performance.
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 the boots will stay dry.
This is validated in the field and in the rain to ensure consistent results.
Making waterproofing last longer
To keep feet dry, use a waterproof gaiter or mini-gaiter to protect the top of your 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) to help to restore original water-repellent qualities and 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
Some 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 in the boot 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.
How to avoid blisters
Blisters generally develop when the skin is weakened by friction. To prevent blistering, we recommend the following:
- Choose a boot in your size (consult the size guide)
- Wear the right type of socks
- Lace up and tighten your boot properly
- When you wear your boots for the first time, keep the outing short
Which socks should I wear?
Waterproof boots are less breathable than non-waterproof boots. Ideally, wear mid-length socks like the MH 500, MH 520, or MH 900 Socks to wick away perspiration and reduce friction.
Optimize your boots: 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 boots by replacing the insole each season.
Lab tests
Laboratory tests were conducted to test the following elements: attachment of eyelets and webbing, assembly, toxicology, UV resistance, sole and upper component abrasion, accelerated aging.
How to care for your boots
- 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
Our environmental approach
To help preserve nature, Quechua is committed to limiting the environmental impact of its products.
While not yet eco-designed, we work every day to make this product even more environmentally responsible: eco-design, repairability, and sustainability drive our development efforts.
