Junior Hiking Shoes

Outdoor footwear uses the Mondopoint system, i.e. foot length in centimetres. To measure: place your foot on a sheet on a flat, rigid surface, mark the heel end and the tip of the longest toe, then measure the distance between the marks.

Repeat on both feet and use the larger measurement. Compare it with the brand's conversion chart (Mondopoint / UK / EU / USA). As a guide: 26 cm ≈ EU 41, 27 cm ≈ EU 42, 28 cm ≈ EU 43.

If your foot measurement falls between two sizes, choose the larger size. In trekking footwear a little room at the toe is useful: on descents the foot pushes forward, and a too-tight shoe causes pain to toes and nails.

Make sure, though, that the heel stays firmly in place without slipping: the shoe needs room at the toe but a secure hold at the back.

The four types differ in structure, weight and terrain:

• Light hiking: lightly built, lightweight shoes for day walks on easy trails with a light pack.
• Trekking: structured boots, stiffer sole and more protection, for demanding and multi-day hikes with a heavy pack.
• Fast hiking: light, responsive footwear derived from trail running, for fast walking; shorter lifespan due to lighter materials.
• Approach: sole with a climbing zone at the toe, sensitivity and grip on rock, made to reach crags and via ferrata.

The choice depends on terrain, duration and load carried.

The cut depends on terrain and load:

• High cut: supports the ankle and adds stability with heavy packs or on rough, uneven ground. Recommended for multi-day treks and high mountains.
• Low or mid cut: lighter and freer, suited to day hikes, established trails and light loads.

On easy routes the low cut is more comfortable; where the risk of sprains rises (unstable ground, heavy pack), the high cut protects more.

A waterproof membrane (such as Gore-Tex) is a layer between the upper and the lining that stops water entering while letting vapour out, keeping the foot dry and breathable.

It helps in wet conditions, rain, mud or snow. In hot, dry climates a non-membrane, more ventilated shoe can feel cooler. Untreated leather is breathable but not waterproof: when treated it becomes water-repellent, protecting only in light conditions.

The sole affects grip, durability and comfort. Things to assess:

• Compound: rubbers like Vibram Megagrip give high grip even on wet rock; harder compounds last longer but grip less.
• Lug pattern: deep, spaced lugs for mud and soft ground; a denser pattern for beaten trails and rock.
• Stiffness: a stiff sole for rough terrain and heavy loads; more flexible for fast walking and comfort.

It is not only about size or looks. Women's models usually have a narrower fit at the heel and in overall volume, a shape based on an average slimmer foot, and sometimes cushioning tuned to a different body weight.

A woman with a robust foot may fit well in a men's model and vice versa: the reference is the actual fit, not the label. Men's and women's size charts have separate conversions.

For a child, lightness, a flexible sole with good grip and a little toe protection matter most. Low or mid cut suits most hikes; high cut is only needed on truly demanding terrain.

Check the size often as the foot grows: a little toe room is better, without the heel slipping. Size is taken in centimetres (Mondopoint) as for adults.

There is no fixed expiry: it depends on use and wear. Signs to replace are a worn lug pattern (reduced grip, dangerous on descents and wet ground), a membrane that no longer holds water, a compressed midsole that no longer cushions, or sole delamination.

Correct care and dry storage significantly extend the footwear's life.

After use, remove mud and grit with a brush and let them dry away from direct heat (which dries and cracks leather and glues). Do not store them damp.

For waterproofing, use products suited to the material: waxes and greases for leather, water-repellent sprays for fabrics and suede. Membrane shoes should be treated only on the outside, without blocking breathability.

39SPORT stocks outdoor footwear from brands such as Aku, Kayland and Trezeta, with models for trekking, hiking, fast hiking and approach, in men's, women's and junior versions.

Each brand has its own size chart and fit: the product page shows the sizes available for the specific model.