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Hiking shoes needed?

Hello all!
I'm planning to visit Zermatt, then followed by Grindelwald this September 2014 to hike up those gorgeous mountains.
I am not a hiker but am relatively fit. I am thinking of taking easy-to-moderate hike.
I was wondering if I'd better to buy and bring hiking boots instead of my sneakers...
Could you kindly share your thoughts?

Thank you!!

Jackie

Posted by
12040 posts

I haven't hiked in Grindelwald (only done the skiing), but I have in Zermatt. The trail I took was very uneven, I wouldn't try it without adequate ankle support.

Posted by
8963 posts

Compromise between hiking boots and sneakers: walking shoes, e.g., Merrells.

Posted by
32350 posts

chia,

I've been managing fine for light hikes by using ECCO Trac II Low. They have a robust construction and are designed for outdoor use, although this particular model doesn't provide any ankle support. So far those have worked well for hiking in a variety of countries in Europe, including the area you'll be travelling in Switzerland. If I was doing extensive hiking in more challenging conditions, I'd probably use the ECCO Trac II High version.

I agree with the previous reply that something between full hiking and boots and sneakers would be the best idea, such as the shoes Iisted above.

Posted by
2 posts

Thank you all for your advice.
I will definitely look into those shoes and wear them long before I head to the Swiss moutains!

Chiaki

Posted by
50 posts

We are doing the same plus Chamonix Mont Blanc. I am using Chaco Bulloos. Last summer in the Alps, I used Vasque hiking sneakers and have also used Teva hiking sneakers. As a Coloradan, I do a fair amount of hiking and I am pretty shoe crazy. So...I can say with conviction that these Chacos are the BEST ever! They are a hiking shoe/sneaker, not a boot. Check out sierra trading post online for good prices and a good selection.