Trekking Shoe & Boot Buying Guide for Nepal

# Trekking Shoe & Boot Buying Guide for Nepal

Footwear makes or breaks a trek. Blisters and sore feet are the #1 reason trekkers turn back. Here is how to choose footwear for a Nepal trek.

## Boot vs Shoe vs Trail Runner

– **Boots** — best ankle support for rocky, uneven Himalayan trails and high passes. Recommended for EBC, Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu.
– **Approach/hiking shoes** — fine for shorter, lower treks like Poon Hill and Ghorepani.
– **Trail runners** — only for experienced, light-footpackers on well-maintained lower trails.

## Waterproofing

Gore-Tex or equivalent waterproofing is worth it. Mountain streams, rain and dew will wet non-waterproof shoes quickly.

## Fit and Break-In

– Buy a half size larger than street shoes (feet swell on long descents)
– Wear trekking socks when trying on
– Break them in for at least 50km before the trek — never fly to Nepal with brand-new boots

## Socks

Merino wool trekking socks. Two pairs rotated, plus liner socks if you are blister-prone.

## Bring, Don’t Rent

Boots are personal and must fit your feet. We do not recommend renting boots. Bring broken-in boots from home. Rent everything else (jacket, bag, poles) in Kathmandu or Pokhara.