With a carry-on only philosophy, I am unsure which shoe for hiking in the BO and Zermatt, even after reading older posts. I will use walking sticks, which will be especially helpful on moderate trails. I have high arches and rare bouts of plantar fasciitis so know how to ameliorate that. I will bring arched flip flops for post hike time. So, Hokas or Moabs?
Posted by
Bellingham, WA
1854 posts
I take it "Moabs" are Merrell Moab hiking shoes? I should think that if you need walking sticks, you'd want the better tread that I expect the Merrells offer over the Hokas. Really, only you can determine what shoes will work best for your feet.
Posted by
Switzerland
433 posts
Wear footwear designed for hiking. As mentioned above, traction is key, and the tread on your shoes or boots makes a big difference. Hoka makes some footwear for hiking, so if you mean those then great, but I would stay away from runners (other than trail runners). It is just too easy to slip when you have inadequate tread and a twisted ankle can ruin your hike/day or even your whole holiday.
Posted by
470 posts
A solid tread pattern is only half the story…
For long hikes on rocky terrain, a semi stiff midsole is required to protect the bottom of the feet from the strain of repeated contact with sharp rocks and strain on the foot while climbing uphill. This is only found on light hiking shoes. Trail runners, like my Hokas, will be much more flexible but offer much less protection and support, which will result in sore feet at the end of the day. Given your history, I would not take any of the Hokas I have ever seen on anything but the smoothest trails.
A good guide is to try and flex the shoe (while off, of course). If you can easily bend the toe backwards, it may be too light. If you can bend the toe backwards a third of the way, it should be okay for hiking. Compare this with a heavy hiking boot where you have to strain to move the toe at all.
The Moab hiking shoe (as opposed to the Moab Speed runner) has been one of the most popular hiking shoe for nearly 20 years now, and for good reason. If it fits, go for it.
I would also recommend getting a solid pair of after market insoles that match your foot’s arch to further reduce the risk of a flare up of your PF. I swear by Treadlabs and have five pairs. In fact, their light hiker is my current favorite shoe.
https://treadlabs.com/products/mens-dover?variant=45873970905246
Finally, consider taking a small foot roller or therapy ball. I always take one on every hiking vacation we go on and it has helped greatly to relieve the stress on the foot tendons and muscles at the end of the day.
Posted by
OP
6 posts
Thank you, Everyone, for your thoughtful advice. Jason, you in particular covered all aspects. I will wear my Moabs with my podiatrist’s recommended gel insole addition. Happy hiking to all!