Our relationship with the great outdoors has changed massively over the past couple of years, for obvious reasons. First, we cherished the one hour we were allowed out each day, and as that time expanded and lockdowns gradually eased, we spent longer and longer in nature. According to a government survey, by the summer of 2020, 40% of people were walking outdoors more than they were before the pandemic. And in the same year, the number of British people that considered themselves ‘ramblers’ rose from 16% to 25%.
Perhaps you’re one of these born again ramblers? If so, you’ll know that a regular pair of trainers simply won’t cut it. You need grip, you need stability and you need to keep the elements out. However, there is a risk of overkill, and if you’re just going for walk up a hill, then a pair of shin-high, Everest-ready boots might be a bit much. YouTuber and Hiking expert Kraig Adams rambled for thousands miles across the world over the past few years and he swears by Brooks’ Cascade Trail Shoe.
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So what should you be on the lookout for? Well more than anything, they need to be comfortable, and that’s more likely with a pair of hybrid hiking trainers. Something like Salomon’s Cross Over Chukka is super light, but sturdy, and will give your ankles support, which is especially important on loose terrain, or on descents. And breathability is key, even in cold weather. A Gore-Tex liner, like that in Danner’s Trail 2650, will stop water getting into the shoe while allowing sweat to evaporate out. Finally, and it’s probably the least important thing, but you want them to look good, too. There’s a big trend for chunky, brightly coloured trail shoes like Hoka’s Challenger ATR, and you might as well invest in something that looks as good at the pub as it does at the top of Snowdon.
Take a look at the coolest menswear of the week here.
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