Europe woke up under a thick white blanket this week. While the landscapes are magical and invite you to pull out the SityTrail app to rediscover our favorite trails, a crucial question arises before stepping out the door: what do I put on my feet?
Hiking boots and après-ski wear are now hitting the city streets purely as a fashion trend. But for us hikers, it's not about style, it's about survival (and comfort)! Between "Canadian-style" lined boots, classic hiking boots, or technical winter boots, here is how to make the right choice in the face of this heavy snow.
1. The "3-Season" Hiking Boot (Your Usual Footwear)
It's the #1 temptation: keeping your classic walking shoes.
The verdict: It works... but be careful.
Why? Most summer or mid-season boots lack thermal insulation. Even if they are Gore-Tex (waterproof), the cold will eventually seep through, especially if you stop moving. Furthermore, the rubber sole hardens in the cold, losing its grip (the "soap bar" effect).
The SityTrail Solution: Okay for a short walk on packed snow, provided you wear thick merino wool socks and absolutely must wear gaiters to stop snow from getting in from the top.
2. The "Canadian" Boot (Sorel or Kamik style)
This is the big lined boot, often with a rubber shell over the foot and a leather or nylon upper.
The verdict: Ideal for standing still and deep snow, less so for active walking.
Why? It's the champion of warmth (often tested down to -30°C). Perfect for playing with the kids or walking through 30 cm of fresh powder.
The downside: Ankle support is often "soft" and the boot is heavy. For a 10km hike with elevation gain, you might feel like you're dragging cinder blocks and lack precision in your footing.
3. The "Holy Grail": The Winter Hiking Boot
This is the category to prioritize if you want to walk seriously this winter. It looks like a hiking boot but on steroids.
The verdict: The best choice for the active hiker.
Technical features to look for:
Integrated thermal insulation: Look for mentions of Primaloft, Thinsulate, or Gore-Tex Insulated. Unlike a simple fur lining, these fibers trap heat even if damp.
High Cut: Essential to prevent snow intrusion.
"Winter" Sole: Look underneath! The best soles (like Vibram Arctic Grip) have specific components that stay flexible in extreme cold and grip on ice.
4. The 2 Accessories That Change Everything (and Save the Trip)
If you don't want to buy a specific pair of boots for just a few days of snow a year, bet everything on accessories:
1. Micro-Spikes (or "Snow Chains for Shoes")
With temperature fluctuations (freezing at night, thawing by day), snow quickly turns into an ice rink.
Tip: Slip a pair of forest micro-spikes (small metal spikes connected by rubber) into your backpack. They slip onto any shoe in 10 seconds and guarantee 4x4 traction, even on black ice.
2. Gaiters
This is the most underrated accessory. Even the best waterproof boot is useless if snow goes over your ankle and melts into your sock. A pair of waterproof gaiters transforms a low or mid-cut shoe into a true snow boot.
5. In Summary: Which Strategy to Adopt?
For a photo walk or family outing in powder: Bring out the lined Canadian boots. Priority on warmth and fun.
For a Sport or Health Hike (1h to 4h): Opt for winter hiking boots or your classic boots equipped with gaiters and thick socks.
In the city (on slippery sidewalks): As the trend suggests, hiking boots are accepted! But rinse them well upon returning: road salt is the worst enemy of leather and technical membranes.
Ready to face the powder? Check the weather, choose your track on SityTrail, and remember: there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear!
