Soles with good grip for nature trails
Extensive lab research went into the design of this sole. We chose a specific rubber formula that optimizes grip and resistance. Since requirements differ for every person, we systematically seek the best balance for hiking on nature trails with loose ground, such as forest paths.
Designed for nature trails.
Our hiking shoes are designed for walking on nature trails. The components of our shoes' sole and upper were chosen and tested to ensure they're perfectly suited to walking on loose trails (unpaved forest paths) and rocky trails (coastal paths). Walking on pavement may cause premature wear and discomfort. They're not suitable for mountain hiking.
Waterproofing test
These lab- and field-tested shoes have a membrane that ensures optimal water-resistance and breathability. The shoe is immersed in water while internal air pressure is applied to check that no bubbles form on its surface. Next, the shoes are placed on a mechanical arm that simulates walking and are half immersed in water to test that the inside remains perfectly dry.
Three levels of water resistance
During the waterproofing test, we test 3 levels of water resistance:
2000 flexes, about 2 hours of hiking
- 4000 flexes, about 4 hours of hiking
- 8000 flexes, about 8 hours of hiking
The women's NH150 Mid WP shoes were lab tested with 2000 flexes. This means they're waterproof for 2 hours of hiking.
Of course, as soon as the shoes are dry, they recover their original water resistance.
Maintaining the water resistance of your shoes
We recommend using a waterproofing spray several times per year to restore the original water repellency and to prevent staining.
Lab tested
Lab tests are conducted to check the following elements: secure attachment of eyelets and straps, adhesion, toxicology, UV resistance, abrasion of the sole and upper components, and accelerated ageing. We use these tests to improve the quality of our products and prevent the premature wear of our hiking shoes.
Choosing the right hiking shoe size
Try both shoes on, wearing your hiking socks, and stand up. Try several models and several sizes if necessary. Check two comfort points:
- the heel seating
- the front of the foot when going downhill
Avoid all pressure points when trying them on. Feel free to walk around the store. Break in your shoes gradually on your first few hikes to adapt them to your foot.
The shoe/sock combination plays an important role
There are multiple factors that can cause blisters when walking: rubbing, a crease in a sock, moisture, a shoe size that is too small or too big, etc. It's therefore important to choose the right size and to have socks made of the right material for your walking shoes.
Choosing the right hiking sock size
You need to choose the right sock size for your foot to avoid any additional creasing in the sock: if your socks are too big, wrinkles will rub and may cause blisters. If the socks are too small, they may create pressure points and sock slippage.
Choosing the right hiking sock fabric
Moisture must be effectively managed when walking: Everyone sweats—it’s bound to happen. If your shoes are breathable, they'll wick away the moisture from your perspiration. So, you need to choose light and breathable socks too. If your shoes are relatively waterproof for rain protection, you'll want to make a different choice: you need to pick socks that will absorb your perspiration and wick it as far away as possible from your feet.
Which socks should you wear with the NH150 MID WP shoes?
Although these shoes have a breathable waterproof membrane, they don't wick away moisture from perspiration as effectively as a ventilated shoe. You should choose NH100 high socks: they contain moisture-absorbing cotton and have a reverse terry-knit structure underneath that wicks moisture away from your foot. They're high enough to protect your ankles from the shoes. It's an excellent combination for reducing the chance of blisters.
Guarantee
Our hiking shoes are guaranteed for 2 years.
Our commitment? To offer you long-lasting products that you can use on all your nature hikes and walks. Because our favourite products are the ones that have lived through many adventures with many more to come!
