The right hiking shoes depend on three things: the trail, the weather and the weight you carry. For a dry day hike like Margalla Hills, light low-cut shoes are enough. For wet, rocky or multi-day routes around Murree, Naran or Fairy Meadows, mid-cut waterproof shoes or boots protect your feet better. This guide covers the types, whether you need waterproof shoes, how to check the fit and what hiking shoes cost in Pakistan. You can also browse our hiking collection.
What are the main types of hiking shoes?
There are four main types. Low-cut hiking or trail shoes are best for dry day hikes, a fast pace and light packs, though they give less ankle support. Mid-cut hiking shoes suit rocky, uneven trails with a medium pack, and they are heavier and warmer. Hiking boots are made for long treks, heavy packs, cold weather and snow, but they are the heaviest and take the longest to break in. Water shoes work for stream crossings and wet rocks, but they give little support on long climbs.
If most of your walking is on dry paths, a good pair from our running shoes can handle easy trails. They lack the grip and toe protection of dedicated hiking shoes, though.
Do you need waterproof hiking shoes in Pakistan?
You need waterproof hiking shoes only if you expect rain, mud, snow or stream crossings. That covers monsoon walks in Murree and the Galyat, and winter trails in the north. For dry, hot hikes, a breathable non-waterproof shoe runs cooler and dries faster.
Waterproof shoes have a membrane that keeps water out, but it also reduces airflow, so feet can sweat in summer. If water gets in over the ankle, a waterproof shoe also dries slowly. “Water-resistant” is a lighter coating that only handles splashes, so read the product details carefully.
What should you look for in hiking shoes for men?
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Outsole grip: deep, widely spaced lugs bite into mud and loose stone.
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Midsole cushioning: it absorbs the shock of long descents.
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Toe cap: a rubber toe guard protects against rocks.
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Upper material: mesh is light and breathable, while suede and leather are tougher.
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Weight and ankle height: lighter shoes tire your legs less, while mid or high cuts help if you carry weight on rough ground.
Our men’s sizes run from EUR 40 to EUR 46, and you can browse more in our men’s collection.
How should hiking shoes fit?
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Try them in the evening, when your feet are slightly swollen from the day.
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Leave a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
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Check the heel. It should stay put when you walk uphill, without rubbing.
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Wear hiking socks. Cotton holds sweat, so choose proper socks for long walks.
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Test the downhill. Your toes shouldn’t hit the front on a slope, and short walks before a big trek help break the shoes in.
If you need extra arch support, our insoles can help.
What do hiking shoes cost in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, hiking shoes cost from about Rs 4,500 for used pairs to Rs 47,000 for specialist outdoor brands, and premium-grade pairs sit in between at roughly Rs 10,000 to Rs 23,000.
Outdoor specialist brands such as Hi-Tec waterproof shoes and the Merrell Moab 3 Mid are listed at about Rs 25,500 to Rs 47,000. A budget waterproof option like the Urban Sole is about Rs 17,999, and a sports-brand shoe such as the Under Armour Charged Maven Trek was seen on sale at about Rs 23,400. Used pairs from brands like Karrimor, Adidas Terrex and Haglöfs sell for Rs 4,500 to Rs 19,500, while premium-grade Terrex, ACG and Under Armour styles cost about Rs 10,000 to Rs 23,000.
Premium-grade pairs are not official brand stock. One practical warning: a “waterproof” claim on a premium-grade pair can’t be verified. Pour water over the seams before a long trek, or choose a non-waterproof shoe and carry spare socks. Always ask a seller which grade you are buying.
Which shoes suit which trail?
For Margalla Hills in Islamabad, low-cut hiking or trail shoes are usually enough. Around Murree and the Galyat in monsoon, go for mid-cut waterproof shoes with a strong grip. Naran, Saif-ul-Malook and Fairy Meadows are rockier and can be wet, so mid-cut shoes or boots are the safer choice. In winter in the north, boots, warm socks and a waterproof upper make the biggest difference.
How do you care for hiking shoes?
Brush off mud after each hike, take the insoles out and dry the shoes at room temperature. Don’t put them in strong sun or near a heater, because heat can damage the glue and the upper. Re-apply a water-repellent spray when water stops beading on the surface.
We deliver across Pakistan, free above Rs 5,000, with cash on delivery or bank transfer, and our store is in Bahadurabad, Karachi. Read our returns and exchange policy before ordering, check new arrivals, or contact us for sizing advice. More guides are on our blog.
