Are men's walking shoes comfortable for long hikes?

A pair of men's walking trainers could easily keep you comfortable through a long hike but you'll need to think about a few other factors too.

Most importantly, the type of terrain you'll be walking on should influence your choice. If you're planning to walk on trails that run through mountain valleys and streams, trainers might not be sufficient. If there's a risk of heavy rainfall, meanwhile, you should consider buying some waterproof walking boots.

On a long hike on a relatively flat and dry route, you should be perfectly comfortable in walking shoes. But traversing challenging rocky terrain or dealing with hazardous conditions underfoot could even call for mountaineering boots.

Which walking shoes are best for me?

It's important to remember that everyday trainers for walking are designed to be more lightweight and a little bit less technical than the shoes you'd typically find in our range of men's walking boots.

If you're ready for shorter adventures or would like to keep a reliable pair of trainers on hand for your daily errands, these walking shoes could be just right. A few of the most popular styles include:

·         Hiking shoes: For the casual hiker, slimline shoes and trainers might be the preferred choice. Some pairs offer waterproof technologies and extra features, too, including Merrell and Salewa shoes.

·         Trainers for walking: Men's trainers designed specifically for walking make an excellent companion for daily adventures on any terrain. From dusty forest paths to the city streets, a sturdy pair of walking trainers will last you through the years.

·         Trail running shoes: It's a matter of preference but trail shoes could also make great walking trainers for men seeking everyday comfort and agility. You'll find a range of options by brands including Adidas Terrex and On Running.

When you visit our team of shoe fitting experts in store, we'll go through everything you need to know about choosing the most suitable pair of walking trainers. We'll listen closely to your requirements and make sure that you only choose a pair of shoes you're completely happy with.

Which brands sell the best walking shoes for men?

We work with tried and tested brands to provide only the best-quality walking trainers for men.

·         If you're looking for something versatile, you could find the perfect pair in our range of Adidas Terrex walking shoes. Options include waterproof Gore-Tex shoes in a striking array of colours and materials.

·         For a more sustainable choice, you should look out for brands that use recycled fabrics or natural fibres in their men's shoes for walking. Some of our favourite eco-friendly pairs are Merrel walking trainers and Scarpa hiking shoes.

Are walking trainers better than boots?

Walking trainers could be the best option for everyday use and easy hiking.

Walking boots tend to be more robust and supportive, which means they could help to protect your feet and ankles when you tackle longer distances. However, they're also heavier than trainers – so, if you're looking to keep things light, opt for a pair of trainers for walking.

Finding the right pair of shoes is only the first step, too; choosing comfortable walking socks could also make a surprising difference to your overall experience on your next adventures.

Can you walk up Ben Nevis in trainers?

If you already find your everyday walking trainers comfortable, there's no reason why they shouldn't support you on a steady ascent of Ben Nevis. Before summiting any peak in trainers, though, the most important thing to consider is your grip.

Mountain trails are renowned for being rocky, loose and slippery, especially in wet weather. Many of our walking trainers for men still feature the same technical features as more advanced boots, just in a slimmer and lighter package. But you'll need to make sure that your shoes give you enough grip underfoot to keep you stable, especially if you're carrying a rucksack.

Even if you're a beginner, technical walking boots could be the most sensible choice if you have ambitious plans in the mountains – and, no matter which type of walking shoes you've chosen, you should always break them in before your summit!

How to choose the right shoes for walking

The quickest and easiest way to choose the most suitable pair of walking shoes is to visit your nearest Tiso store and speak to our team. Once we've listened to your plans and any problem areas you might have, we'll use our experience to recommend some of the most suitable men's walking trainers in our selection.

We know a thing or two about choosing quality outdoor gear and we'll happily help guide you towards the best pair of men's walking shoes for your next adventure – no matter how small it starts.

If you're shopping online, don't hesitate to get in touch with the team for advice. We're also big on sharing our adventures on the Tiso Instagram, where you can find in-depth reviews and top tips on outdoor gear too.