Can you be sure that your shoes are warm enough for your winter hikes?
We have selected warm and insulating materials for this shoe, providing good protection against snow and cold. We have tested it in the laboratory and in the field with our user representatives. We checked the temperature up to which it stays comfortable when you're stationary and when you're walking, as this varies a lot: -4°c when at rest and -16°C when moving. And we took into account how temperature is felt differently by men and women.
How do your shoes protect you from outdoor conditions?
Your shoes have been designed with a membrane to ensure optimal water-resistance. A membrane is a very thin component (5 to 25 micrometres) affixed to the inside of a fabric that prevents water from entering while allowing moisture to escape. While you stay warm in your shoes, your feet will also stay dry. The sole insulates from the cold coming from contact with snow.
How can you be sure that your shoes are 100% waterproof?
We made sure that your shoes are waterproof by conducting laboratory tests to simulate walking with the boots half submerged in water. We also conducted field tests to measure wear and aging. During the waterproofing test, we test 3 levels of waterproofing: 2000 flexes (approx. 4 km walk), 4000 flexes (approx. 8 km walk), and 8000 flexes (approx. 16 km walk). This model of shoe has been tested with up to 8000 flexes, which is equivalent to 16 km of walking.
Breathable shoes for optimal thermal comfort.
Thermal comfort is a balance between the warmth of the boots and their ability to allow the foot to breathe. With too much heat or not enough breathability, moisture accumulates and cold can set in. We have designed your shoes with your activity in mind, regular and sometimes intense, with a membrane whose role is to prevent water from entering on one side while allowing moisture to escape on the other.
What is the difference between traction and grip?
The traction of the shoes depends on the number and shape of the lugs. The grip is dependent on the materials of the sole and the tread pattern, like the tires of your car. Traction optimizes propulsion, prevents the boot from slipping backwards when going uphill, and stabilizes the boot.
Grip prevents the shoe from slipping and skidding on smooth ground or in demanding conditions (rain, snow, ice) by giving grip to the sole.
What is the purpose of the SNOWCONTACT technology on the soles of your shoes?
The SNOWCONTACT soles are designed using a specific component and lug pattern (5 mm) to provide the best possible grip and traction. SNOWCONTACT soles are more effective than traditional soles on snow. When walking on ice, the only way to ensure optimum safety is to add non-slip grips to your boots.
Why is it important to be supported in a hiking boot?
The support provided by your shoe is essential for your comfort when walking. Indeed, good support optimizes your steps on hilly terrain (ascent and descent), prevents your foot from sliding in the shoe, and reduces the occurrence of blisters. There is less loss in the transmission of your energy to the shoe and therefore less fatigue. This is especially important when you are snowshoeing.
Are your shoes suitable for snowshoeing?
We designed these shoes for hiking on snow, with or without snowshoes. The upper of the shoe (mid-height type) combined with gaiters (external or integrated into the pants), provides good protection against snow getting in. Waterproof and warm, their support and rigidity are more suitable for walking with snowshoes.
Will your shoes withstand regular use over the long-term?
Our engineers conduct laboratory tests to fully guarantee your satisfaction in use. We validate the following elements among other things: strength of the eyelets and straps, strength of the glued assemblies, toxicology, UV resistance, abrasion resistance of the sole and upper components, and accelerated aging.
How to choose the right footwear for winter hiking?
To be well equipped in winter, we recommend that you follow these principles:
Warmth: increase heat with warm socks (ideally with a suitable % of wool)
Breathability: Choose your socks depending on the intensity of the hike and wear breathable models to limit dampness.
Height of the boots: adapt the height of the socks to the height of the upper and choose hi-top styles if you need more protection.
How should you preserve the technical qualities of your shoes?
The water-repellency of a fabric is its ability to let the water slide off its surface, without absorbing it. In this way, the fabric does not soak up water and therefore remains lightweight, breathable, and warm. Water-repellency is obtained by a treatment applied on the outer surface of the fabric. This treatment needs to be renewed during the lifetime of the garment. Products (spray or liquid) designed specifically for this purpose are available in our stores.
The perfect outfit for hiking in cold weather.
We designed these shoes as one of the elements of the perfect set for your cold-weather hikes: the SH500 set. Equipped with your pants, your SH500 fleece, SH520 shoes, and your SH500 snowshoes, you will be able to enjoy your snow excursions whatever the weather, or almost. In any case, there's no need to wait for perfect conditions or to take everything with you in your backpack, but you can travel light and well-equipped!
How does the product warranty work?
This product is guaranteed for 2 years from the date shown on the sales receipt. A product covered by the warranty will be exchanged free of charge. The warranty covers product defects, excluding those resulting from normal wear and tear and improper use.
A score for comparing the products’ environmental impact.
The product's environmental footprint is calculated over its entire lifespan using various indicators. A score is assigned, from A to E, to help you easily identify the products with the best environmental performance by comparing products of the same type with one another. Decathlon is committed to this approach. All our actions for sustainability can be found at: http://developpement-durable.decathlon.com/
