Bday Hike 2024

So I'd recommend you look for sales on the following options: TNF Hedgehog / Adidas Terrex / Keen (at CUM) / Merrel and Salamon mid boots (mostly more expensive though).

I also see Decathlon has some well priced products and seem to back up their products but I don't know their boots from experience. The main thing is fit for your footshape because manufacturers don't use the same design principals so you have to try before you buy, even if you check them out in store then buy cheaper online if available.

NB. I wouldn't touch KWay or Hitech with somebody elses feet or money.

 NB. I wouldn't touch KWay or Hitech with somebody elses feet or money.

Their quality is not the best. Better to avoid them.

As Riaang said, everyone has an opinion - I personally have been well served by Hitec boots in the high Berg and, I'd say, on the budget side of things they're some of your better options. Their current vibram soled offerings are well made and I expect my relatively new pair to equal the 800+ km of their predecessors - off trail & on technical ground.

If you're not planning on carrying particularly heavy loads then it's also worth considering using trail shoes (as Riaang mentioned) - cooler and more breathable (less blister issues), and probably cheaper. If most of your hiking is popular Berg passes and reasonable paths then this may be a good choice.

On the budget shoe front you're also not going to get anything waterproof (ignore any claims to the contrary) - this is a good thing. Unless you're walking in snow - waterproof = hot = blisters. For this reason I am a little wary of the Decathlon offerings as it's unclear what climate they're designed for (if they are "European waterproof" I'd think they'll be too warm).

Whatever shoes you get budget for some decent replacement insoles as well - the ones most manufactures supply are shot within a proper hike or 3.