Red Wing boots are a popular choice for hikers, but are they the right choice for you? That likely depends on the type of hiker that you are.
If you are an occasional hiker who usually goes out in fair weather, Red Wing boots will hold up well and provide you with good ankle support. However, if you are a serious hiker who hikes in all types of weather conditions, then you may need something more durable that can handle the tougher terrain.
In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of using Red Wing boots for hiking, and help you decide if they are the right option for your next hike.
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Are Red Wing Boots for Hiking?
If you’re going to use a pair of Red Wing boots for hiking, the manufacturer recommends that you pick a pair from their Vasque boot Collection. These shoes were specifically developed to provide comfort, durability, and performance to the hiker.
This design is currently in its third generation and is available as the Vasque Breeze III. Its the lightest boot ever created by the Red Wing brand and comes in men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes. It is designed with a strong rubber grip and a breathable mesh upper which will keep your feet cool and dry while you hike. It also offers fairly good arch support as well as ankle stabilisation.
The Vasque Breeze III is not a waterproof boot, but it will provide you with some protection from the rain. If you are looking for a waterproof hiking shoe, Red Wing also offers the Storm King which is made with Gore-Tex, a waterproof technology that will keep your feet dry in wet weather conditions.
The downside to the Vasque Breeze III is that it doesn’t have a lot of insulation, so if you are hiking in cold weather conditions, your feet may get cold. It’s also not as durable as some of the other hiking boots on the market, so it may not be the best choice for the serious hiker.
Is The Classic Moc Boot Good for Hiking?
The Classic Moc is the most popular Red Wing boot, and it is often used as a work boot. It is not designed for hiking, but some people do use it for this purpose. The main downside to using the Classic Moc for hiking is that it is made with an oiled full-grain leather that is not as durable as some of the other materials used in hiking boots. It is also a heavier boot, so it may not be the best option if you are looking for a lightweight hiking boot.
Overall, the Classic Moc boot is not the best choice for hikers, but it can be used if you are only going to hike occasionally. This will help to preserve the life of your boots and keep you comfortable on those short hikes.
If you are looking for a more durable hiking boot that can handle tougher terrain, then we recommend checking out some of the other options available on the market. However, if you are only going to be hiking in fair weather conditions, Red Wing boots will work just fine.
Hiking Tips For Red Wing Boots
If you are new to hiking or are using Red Wing boots for the first time, here are a few tips to help make your hike more enjoyable:
- Make sure that you break your boots in before going on a long hike. This will help to prevent blisters and ensure that your boots are comfortable.
- Wear socks that fit well and are made from a moisture-wicking material. This will help to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- Try to hike on dry trails whenever possible. This will help to prevent your boots from getting wet and muddy.
- Consider bringing an additional set of shoes with you on your hike in case your boots get wet or muddy.
- Inspect and clean your shoes after a hike so that they stay in the best shape possible. Make sure to take a look at the soles to see if they are wearing down.
If you follow these tips, you will be able to enjoy your hike and keep your Red Wing boots in great shape!
The Pros of Hiking in Red Wing Boots
There are many reasons why you should consider hiking in Red Wing boots:
They Are Comfortable
Red Wing boots are designed to be comfortable, and they will help to prevent blisters from forming. They are made of high-quality materials, so you can rest assured that your feet will be well-protected on your hike.
They Are Durable
Red Wing boots are some of the most durable boots on the market. They are made with strong materials that can handle a variety of terrain, primarily made out of leather. This makes them perfect for hikers who want a boot that can handle a lot of wear and tear.
They Offer Good Arch Support
The boots have a good arch support system that will keep your feet healthy on long hikes. Arch support is important because it helps to distribute the weight of your body evenly across your feet, preventing pain and fatigue.
They Are Water-Resistant
Red Wing boots are also water-resistant, which is perfect for hikers who want a boot that can handle wet weather conditions. Certain Red Wing boots are made with GoreTex material, which will keep your feet dry even if they get wet.
The Cons of Hiking in Red Wing Boots
While there are many benefits to hiking in Red Wing boots, there are also a few drawbacks:
They Are Not as Lightweight As Other Options
Red Wing boots are not as lightweight as some of the other options on the market. If you are looking for a boot that is easy to carry around, then you may want to look into other brands, as well as minimal hiking shoes.
The Soles Lacks Stability
Some hikers have complained that the soles of Red Wing boots lack stability. They don’t come with shanks like some of the other hiking boots, which can make them less stable on difficult terrain.
They’re Expensive
Red Wing boots can be a bit on the expensive side, so they may not be ideal for hikers who are on a tight budget. These boots tend to last 2 to 3 years with frequent use, so you may want to consider investing in a pair if you are a frequent hiker.
Can Red Wings Get Wet?
Red Wing boots are not waterproof but they will resist water and can be used in wet weather conditions. If you don’t submerge them for an extended period of time, the material will resist the moisture and mostly wick it away.
Are Red Wings Worth It?
Red Wing boots are a great investment for workers and can also occasionally be used as hiking boots. They are durable, comfortable, and offer good arch support. While they may be a bit on the expensive side, they will last you for years with frequent use.
They can also be repaired if needed, so you can get a lot of use out of them. Several people have kept their Red Wing boots in good shape for over a decade. If you are looking for a durable and comfortable work boot that is occasionally used for hiking, then Red Wing boots may be the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts
While Red Wing boots may not be the most lightweight or stable hiking boots on the market, they are a great option for hikers who want a durable and comfortable boot.
If hiking is an occasional activity or you regularly take hikes along fairly paved surfaces, then Red Wing boots will hold up over a long period of time.
Make sure to take a look at the different types of boots that this manufacturer carries to find which ones are best for you. As mentioned above, the Vasque Breeze III is designed for hikers and may be the best option.
Whichever boot you choose, make sure to break them in slowly before embarking on a major hike so you can get a feel for them first