Hybrid walking? Fast Hiking? Experience the comfort of a running shoe with the sturdiness of a hiking shoe.
What is “fast hiking,” “hybrid walking”?
Where do these terms come from? Is there a link to mountaineering? What trend do we notice among the various major brands?
Eddy, purchasing manager Runners’ lab:
“It is common knowledge that mountain athletes are always looking for lightweight materials. Down to the smallest details, attention is paid to the grams in order to ascend as easily as possible. With the advent of modern synthetic materials, we are also seeing a real evolution in footwear. It is therefore easier to have less weight on your feet with each step uphill. The rise of trail running has certainly accelerated this process. More and more lighter materials from running shoes are being used in hiking shoes. But vice versa, too. So we see running shoes being reinforced for certain conditions with Vibram wear soles, kevlar elements or a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, for example. So a nice interaction!”
Walking boring? No way!
Walking is often associated with boring and old-fashioned. Nothing could be further from the truth! The daily hustle and bustle increases the need for rest and relaxation. Back to basics. Enjoying nature on a walk during these busy times can be really rewarding.
Runners’ lab also for walkers!
Okay, the name doesn’t cover it in this case. We are aware of that. What does cover it is our method and vision. Our goal is for everyone to enjoy their favorite sport or hobby injury-free. That’s why our shoe advice since 1980 has been based on one central fact – the foot. Everyone has a unique roll-off pattern or type of foot. Some people have narrow feet, while others have wider feet. Our consultants take the same approach to fitting hiking shoes as they do to fitting personalized custom running shoes.
Hybrid hiking boots
Hiking shoes inspired by running and trailrunning shoes? For many, this will still sound strange to their ears, as hiking boots have remained unchanged for decades.
“Nowadays a good walking shoe does not have to be a brown leather shoe. The first customers who came to that realization were also the courageous ones who ventured, for example, to the 100km of Bornem (Dodentocht) or the Nijmegen Wandel Vierdaagse. During these extreme distances and conditions, keywords such as light and comfort certainly come into their own.” – Eddy
With today’s manufacturing technology, running, walking and trail-running models easily blend together. Add to a running shoe a little more grip, possibly a rock plate in the sole and a reinforced upper. Waterproof or water repellent? And Voilà. The hybrid walking shoe was born. Well, in theory it is a little more complex than that but this category offers numerous possibilities. A hiker now enjoys the comfort and flexibility of a running shoe but with the sturdiness of a walking shoe. Moreover, they also come in beautiful fresh colors.
Hybrid walking range
Our selection of hybrid walking models is mainly tailored to the Belgian landscape. Ideal for on paved or unpaved walkways, cobblestones, tree stumps, … Why? Because the heavy models of mountain boots you need in the Alps (or some rocky areas in the Ardennes) are usually unnecessary. Walking the dog or a weekend getaway? Hybrid walking shoes are multifunctional.
What does a hiker wear best?
Here we start from the basics; a good pair of hiking socks, preferably Merino wool. The moisture-wicking ability keeps your feet nice and dry. Blistering has virtually no chance this way. As with walking, a hiker best dresses according to the 3-layer system.
Technical underwear (baselayer) as basic protection, to stay dry and warm in all weather conditions, is recommended. Depending on the temperature, a breathable and insulating second layer keeps you comfortably warm. Is it blowing or raining? Then add a third layer through a lightweight wind- or waterproof jacket.
While hiking, it is always nice to have a backpack (with soft flask or water tank) with you. The backpacks from e.g. Salomon or Camelbak allow you to comfortably carry all your gear without the shoulder straps of the backpack constantly slipping off.
Experience central
In our 4 stores, experience is key. Each store is equipped with a 20-35m long test track, giving the runner/hiker more than enough space to test shoes. A real test track was recently constructed at the Zwijndrecht branch, where you can experience the sturdiness and comfort of the shoe on different surfaces (rock, tree trunk & gravel). This is because there is a lot of difference in, for example, the type of sole of a shoe. By testing a shoe on an irregular surface, you can better compare comfort between different shoes.
Stop by and be advised
No idea what all you need for your next adventure? Then stop by our consultants for comprehensive advice.
Would you like to have your current hiking boots checked? You can! Bring them to the store so our advisors can review your wear patterns.
Your friends at Runners’ lab
