Tread with grip
Certified sole grip. To be awarded this certification, footwear must pass laboratory tests to assess their traction on different surfaces (Smooth, Rugged, Dry, Wet). To validate these tests, we assess the quality of our soles in the field and in the mountains over 500 km using a panel of representative testers.
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.
- 2,000 flexes, about 30 minutes of hiking
- 10,000 flexes, about 3 hours
- 30,000 flexes, about 8 hours
- 50,000 flexes, about 12 hours
We then take the shoe outside in the rain to confirm it holds up as expected.
Making waterproofing last longer
To keep your feet dry, we suggest wearing gaiters or mini-gaiters to protect the tops of your shoes and keep out water, along with pebbles and sand
We recommend re-waterproofing your shoes twice a year using a waterproofing agent (search for "waterproofing" on www.decathlon.ca), which will help you restore the original water-repellent qualities and help ward off stains.
What shoe size should you choose?
‘The most important thing is to try on several styles of footwear to find the one most suited to 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 the proper support to prevent friction.
Tip: keep your toenails short and, before heading downhill, check that your lacing prevents your foot from sliding forwards inside the shoe."
Buying tips / How do you try your shoes on?
Some Decathlon stores have a test trail.
1. Try on both shoes, while standing, wearing your hiking socks. 2. Tighten the laces evenly.
3. Check two points:
- 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.
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 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 your shoes' support and comfort by replacing the insole each season.
How to avoid blisters
See all our tips here:
Field tests
Hikers who don't work for Decathlon test all our shoes for initial comfort and comfort in use under the same conditions you encounter when hiking. This is done to further develop the product and evaluate it as objectively as possible, for your total satisfaction.
Laboratory tests
Other laboratory tests are also conducted to validate the following elements: tearing of eyelets and straps, adhesion, toxicology, UV resistance, abrasion of the sole and upper components, accelerated ageing.
