Preparing Footwear for South American Excursions: Hiking Footgear
Exploring South America: The Importance of Durable and Waterproof Hiking Shoes
When planning a trip to South America, packing the right footwear is crucial. A well-equipped traveller needs shoes that are not only durable and hardwearing but also breathable and waterproof, capable of withstanding the diverse climates and terrains that the continent offers.
Recent expert reviews have highlighted several models as recommended options for South America travel. Among them are the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX, Columbia Peakfreak II Mid OutDry, Merrell Moab Speed 2 Leather Waterproof, and Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex.
The Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX offers exceptional stability, comparable to hiking boots, with its sturdy torsional rigidity and superior waterproofing via a tightly woven membrane. Its sticky soft rubber lugs provide excellent grip on mixed terrain, making it a reliable choice for various South American terrains. However, it may feel warm in hot weather and requires a break-in period.
The Columbia Peakfreak II Mid OutDry stands out for its excellent breathability and reliable waterproofing, thanks to Columbia’s proprietary OutDry membrane bonded directly to the upper. It is very lightweight and provides impressive traction in wet conditions. Yet, it is less durable than some competitors and offers poor ankle support, which may be a consideration depending on walking conditions.
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 Leather Waterproof combines rugged leather with synthetics for very good waterproofing, suitable even in very wet conditions often encountered in South America. It offers a comfortable, sneaker-like fit with supportive cushioning. While the leather upper is less breathable than synthetics, it provides excellent durability and protection.
Lastly, the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex is widely regarded for its comfort, durability, and on-trail performance in waterproof hiking footwear. This option provides more ankle support with good waterproof Gore-Tex lining, making it suitable for more rugged terrain or longer hikes.
To help make the best choice for your South America adventure, consider the following:
- For wetter, cooler, or rugged mountainous areas, opt for the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX or Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex for their sturdiness, waterproofness, and ankle support.
- For warmer, faster hikes on less technical terrain, choose the Columbia Peakfreak II Mid OutDry for its breathability and lightness.
- For versatile, highly durable use with good waterproofing but less breathable, select the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Leather Waterproof.
Remember to break in your shoes before the trip, and consider gaiters or socks suited for varying climates to complement the footwear’s performance.
In addition to these recommendations, the Field Men's Shoes and Pebble Extreme Women's Shoes from Mountain Warehouse have also gained recognition for their durability in South America. These shoes feature IsoDry technology for waterproofing, materials like suede and mesh that are breathable, lightweight, and hardwearing, and cushioned midsoles for added comfort.
When asked about the one thing they couldn't live without on a trip, the author, who has travelled extensively in South America, answered with their hiking shoes. It's clear that, in the diverse and challenging landscapes of South America, a pair of sturdy walking shoes can make all the difference.
[1] Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX Review [2] Columbia Peakfreak II Mid OutDry Review [3] Merrell Moab Speed 2 Leather Waterproof Review [4] Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex Review [5] Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex Video Review
In the diverse landscapes of South America, a traveler might find the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX appealing, offering exceptional stability and waterproofing for treacherous terrains. Such a lifestyle choice could greatly enhance one's hiking experiences during their journey.
For those prioritizing lightweight and breathable footwear in pursuit of an optimal travel lifestyle, the Columbia Peakfreak II Mid OutDry, with its proprietary OutDry membrane and excellent traction, may be a suitable option.
