ChezaBreaks is supported by its readers. If you purchase through a link on my site, I may earn a commission. Learn more
Finding the Best Hiking Shoes for Slippery Terrain: A Comprehensive Guide
I think we can all agree that losing your footing and falling while hiking is probably the most common injury that hikers and climbers can sustain. (I mean, it’s happened to me before and it’s not fun.)
There are just so many different ways that a hiker can lose their balance and take a tumble. It could be something as simple as uneven terrain, tripping on a rock, slippery surfaces or even just a misstep. It’s really important to be extra careful and watch your step, especially on slippery surfaces.
Hiking on slippery surfaces can be quite a challenge, but with the right footwear, it can also be a super rewarding and enjoyable experience. Wearing a pair of shoes with a good grip on slippery surfaces and terrains is one of the greatest methods to avoid a fall and prevent a potential injury.
In order to maintain your balance and stability, as well as to protect your feet from the elements, it’s crucial to choose the best hiking shoes for slippery surfaces. (I mean, no one wants to fall and get all muddy, right?)
In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth look at the factors to consider when choosing hiking shoes for slippery surfaces, and we’ll highlight some of the top picks on the market.
Trust me, (as someone who’s been there) these hiking shoes will keep your footing secure and keep you safe. (I can’t stress enough how important it is to have good shoes on slippery trails!) So, if you want to tackle wet and slippery rock faces or muddy trails without a problem, keep reading to discover the best hiking shoes for the job.
Top 10 Best Hiking Shoes For Slippery Surfaces
Here are our Top 3 Best shoes.
No products found.
1. SALOMON XA PRO 3D – Premium Pick
Are you in the market for a new pair of shoes for tackling slippery terrain? Well, the SALOMON XA PRO 3D hiking shoes might be worth checking out. These shoes are pretty popular among hikers who need a reliable and versatile option for wet and muddy trails.
Here’s one choice by Salomon, the Xa Pro 3D. Salomon makes amazing, lightweight hiking shoes. They’re just a bit heavier than the Salomon X Ultra 2 below, weighing right at a pound.
The appearance and styling appear to be very similar to the Ultra 2. Salomon has produced another excellent hiking shoe.
One of the standout features of these shoes is their aggressive outsole. It’s made of a durable, non-marking rubber that provides a ton of grip on slippery surfaces.
The outsole has a 3D Advanced Chassis design that helps to provide stability and support as you move over uneven terrain. Oh, and they’re water-resistant too, thanks to their Quick-Drying Breathable Mesh upper. That’ll come in handy on those wet and muddy trails.
Now, as far as comfort goes, these shoes have a padded tongue and collar, as well as an OrthoLite sockliner that helps to reduce foot fatigue. So, your feet should stay pretty comfy on long hikes.
Okay, so what are the pros of these shoes? Well, for starters, they’re versatile. You can wear them on a variety of trails, from muddy ones to rocky ones. Plus, they’re relatively lightweight, which is always a plus for long hikes or backpacking trips.
But, there are a couple of potential cons to consider. First off, these shoes tend to run narrow, so they might not be the best choice for those with wide feet. Additionally, some users have reported that they don’t provide enough support for those with flat feet or overpronation.
All things considered, the SALOMON XA PRO 3D hiking shoes are a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable and versatile shoe for slippery terrain.
They provide excellent traction and stability on wet and muddy trails, and they’re water-resistant too. Just keep in mind that they may not be the best fit for those with wide feet or specific foot support needs.
Features:
- Contagrip’s aggressive lug design offers traction on all surfaces and terrain types.
- According to several reviewers, these work well on slick rocks.
- Water-resistant
- Made from a reputable manufacturer, this item is extremely long-lasting and of high quality.
- Fits true to size and is comfortable.
No products found.
2. MERRELL MOAB 2 WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES – Best Overall
When I think of hiking shoes, I think of Merrell, and when I think of Merrell, I think of the MOAB 2 hiking shoes.
If you’re in the market for a new pair of shoes for tackling slippery terrain? Well, the MERRELL MOAB 2 WATERPROOF hiking shoes are worth considering.
These shoes are pretty popular among hikers who need a reliable and comfortable option for wet and muddy trails as they give excellent traction on slick areas, look terrific, and are comfortable to wear daily.
One of the standout features of these shoes is their waterproof membrane. It helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable on wet trails, which is always a plus. Plus, the shoes have a breathable mesh upper that helps to reduce sweat and moisture buildup.
In terms of durability, these shoes are made of high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the wear and tear of hiking on slippery surfaces. The durable rubber outsole provides good traction on wet and muddy trails, too.
Okay, so what are the pros of these shoes? For starters, they’re pretty comfy. They’re designed with hikers in mind and are well-cushioned and supportive, making them a good choice for long hikes or backpacking trips.
But, there are a couple of potential cons to consider. Firstly, these shoes may not provide as much support for those with flat feet or overpronation. Additionally, some users have reported that they’re not as breathable as other options on the market, which can lead to sweaty feet on hot days.
All things considered, the MERRELL MOAB 2 WATERPROOF hiking shoes are a solid choice for hikers looking for reliable and comfortable shoes for slippery terrain. With their waterproof membrane and durable construction, these shoes are well-suited for wet and muddy trails. Just keep in mind that they may not be the best fit for those with specific foot support needs or who need a highly breathable shoe. Happy hiking!
Features:
- Great grip on all surfaces, be careful on mud
- Excellent tread and traction
- Completely waterproof
- 100% Performance Suede Leather and Mesh
- Merrell fit true to size and make very comfortable hiking shoes
No products found.
3. SALOMON X ULTRA 2 GTX Hiking Shoes
Salomon brings hiking shoes and trail runners together in the X Ultra 2 GTX hiking shoe. The shoe is extremely lightweight weighing in at just 14.5oz, compared to the Merrell MOAB above, which are 17.6oz.
These bad boys are super-lightweight and are designed with traction, stability, and comfort in mind, and they offer a range of features that make them well-suited for hiking on wet and muddy trails. In addition, they look pretty cool and are very popular on Amazon.
One of the standout features of the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 shoes is their aggressive outsole, which is made of a durable, non-marking rubber that provides excellent grip on slippery surfaces. The outsole also features a 3D Advanced Chassis design, which helps to provide stability and support as you move over uneven terrain. And the best part? These shoes are waterproof, thanks to their Gore-Tex lining. So, no more wet, soggy feet on those rainy hikes!
In terms of comfort, the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 shoes are equipped with a padded tongue and collar, as well as an OrthoLite sockliner that helps to reduce foot fatigue. The shoes are also relatively lightweight, making them a good choice for long hikes or backpacking trips.
One of the main pros of the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 shoes is their versatility. These shoes are suitable for a wide range of hiking environments, from muddy trails to rocky paths. They’re also water-resistant, which is always a plus on wet and muddy trails.
One potential con of the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 shoes is that they tend to run narrow, so they may not be the best choice for those with wide feet. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoes may not provide enough support for those with flat feet or overpronation.
Overall, the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Gore-TEX hiking shoes are a solid choice for hikers looking for a reliable and versatile shoe for tackling slippery terrain. With their aggressive outsole, 3D Advanced Chassis design, and waterproof Gore-Tex lining, these shoes provide excellent traction, stability, and comfort on wet and muddy trails. Just keep in mind that they may not be the best fit for those with wide feet or specific foot support needs. Happy hiking!
Features:
- 100% GORE-TEX®
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- Phenomenal grip
No products found.
Factors to consider when choosing hiking shoes for slippery surfaces
Hey there fellow hikers! So, you’re looking for the best shoes for tackling slippery surfaces, huh? Well, there are definitely a few key things to consider when choosing the perfect pair of hiking shoes for slippery terrain.
- Look for shoes with good traction. I mean, let’s be real, if your shoes don’t grip the ground, you’re gonna fall (been there, done that). Look for shoes with deep, aggressive lugs or patterns on the soles that will keep you from slipping and sliding on wet or muddy trails.
- Next up, waterproofing. If you’re going to be hiking on wet surfaces, you definitely want shoes that will keep your feet dry. Wet feet equals slippery feet, so it’s worth it to invest in a pair of shoes with a waterproof membrane or water-resistant upper. And while we’re on the subject of keeping your feet dry, it’s also a good idea to look for shoes with breathable materials. No one wants sweaty, soggy feet (trust me, I know from experience).
- Support is another important factor to consider. Good arch support and a secure fit can really make a difference when you’re tackling slippery terrain. Look for shoes with a padded insole and a lace-up or velcro closure for a snug fit.
- Fit is crucial too. You don’t want shoes that are too tight or too loose – that’s just asking for blisters and a lack of balance on slippery terrain. Make sure the shoes fit well and feel comfy on your feet.
- Breathability is a plus as well. Shoes that are made of breathable materials will help keep your feet cool and dry, which is always a good thing.
- Durability is key too. Slippery surfaces can be tough on your shoes, so you want a pair that’s built to last. Choose shoes made of durable materials that can stand up to the wear and tear.
- Weight is something to consider as well. Heavier shoes can be tiring to wear and may not be as suitable for slippery terrain.
- Toe protection is a good idea if you’ll be hiking on rocky or rough terrain. Look for shoes with a reinforced toe cap or bumper to protect your toes from impacts.
- Ankle support is a plus too. Shoes with a higher ankle collar can provide additional support and stability on slippery terrain.
- And last but not least, price is something to consider. There are a wide range of prices when it comes to hiking shoes, so you’ll need to decide how much you’re willing to spend.
By keeping all of these factors in mind, you can find the perfect pair of shoes that will provide the traction, support, and durability you need on slippery terrain.
Maximizing Comfort and Safety: Extra Tips for Hiking on Slippery Terrain
So, you’re gearing up for a hike on slippery terrain, huh? Well, in addition to having the right hiking shoes, let us discuss a few other things you can do to maximize your comfort and safety on the trail.
- First and foremost, make sure you’re wearing the right socks. Moisture-wicking socks are a must to help keep your feet dry and prevent slippage. And trust me, you don’t want to be stuck out on the trail with blisters (been there, done that).
- Another great tip is to use trekking poles. These can provide extra stability and support on slippery terrain, and they can also help reduce the impact on your joints as you navigate muddy or uneven trails. Just be sure to use them properly and adjust the length to suit your height.
- it’s also important to watch your step when hiking on slippery surfaces. Take your time and pay attention to your footing. There’s no need to rush or take unnecessary risks. And while we’re on the subject of safety, be sure to stay hydrated and bring plenty of water with you. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and make it harder to maintain your balance on slippery terrain.
- In terms of clothing, it’s important to choose something that’s appropriate for the weather and the trail conditions. Avoid wearing clothes that are too loose or bulky, as they can impede your movement and make it harder to maintain your balance.
- Don’t forget to protect your skin! If you’ll be hiking in sunny or insect-infested areas, be sure to wear sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Finally, it’s important to know your limits and respect your own abilities. If you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a particular section of the trail, it’s okay to turn back or seek guidance from a more experienced hiker. Better to be cautious and prepared than to take unnecessary risks.
How to avoid sliding and falling when walking on wet and slippery surfaces
Rock climbing shoes use a particularly soft sole that almost allows you to walk straight up 5,12 walls (obvious exaggeration).
Hiking and trekking boots often have VIBRAM bottoms (which are quite firm and long-lasting and have never failed me down on slick granite), but it’s the layer of micro-thin vegetation or some other stuff that’s grown over the top (moss? lichen?) that’s causing the problem.
As a general rule, the sole material will not prevent a slip and fall by itself while adding to a shoe’s or boot’s longevity. Pretend you’re stepping on eggs or driving on ice… Caution and alertness generally save the day. There will be no abrupt movements. Make sure you don’t break any of the eggs you’re treading on!
Staying Safe and Comfortable on Slippery Terrain: Final Thoughts
Alright fellow hikers! So, you’ve made it to the end of our article on Best Hiking Shoes for Slippery Surfaces. I hope you’ve found it helpful! Before we wrap things up, I just wanted to leave you with a few final thoughts.
As we’ve discussed, having the right hiking shoes is absolutely essential for tackling slippery trails. Look for shoes with good traction, waterproofing, and support, and make sure they fit well and feel comfy on your feet. Trust me, your feet (and your whole body) will thank you.
But it’s not just about the shoes. There are a few other things you can do to maximize your comfort and safety on slippery terrain. Wear proper socks (moisture-wicking socks are a must), use trekking poles (they can provide extra stability and support), and watch your step (take your time and pay attention to your footing).
Stay hydrated (bring plenty of water) and wear the right clothing (nothing too loose or bulky). And don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun and insects (sunscreen and insect repellent are your friends).
And finally, it’s important to know your limits and respect your own abilities. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable about a particular section of the trail, it’s okay to turn back or seek guidance from a more experienced hiker. Better to be cautious and prepared than to take unnecessary risks.
So, there you have it – some final thoughts on staying safe and comfortable on slippery terrain. With the right preparation and equipment, you can enjoy the beauty and challenge of hiking on slippery trails. Happy trails, and happy hiking!
