Preparing Footwear for South America Trip: Hiking Footwear Essential
## The Importance of the Right Walking Shoes for a South America Adventure
When embarking on a journey to South America, a traveller's footwear plays a crucial role in navigating the diverse terrains that the continent offers. From city exploration to hiking, jungle treks, and cobblestone streets, the right shoes can make all the difference.
### Key Features to Consider
When selecting shoes for a South America trip, prioritise comfort, support, protection, and adaptability. Look for shoes with substantial arch support and cushioning to absorb the impact of long days on uneven surfaces, reducing fatigue and preventing foot pain during extended walks. A rugged, textured outsole provides reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces, essential for navigating slick sidewalks, muddy paths, and rocky trails. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for most activities, especially if hiking, walking through rural areas, or in regions with biting insects or debris.
### Recommended Shoe Types
Trail running shoes offer a balance of cushioning, support, and grip, and are often lighter than traditional hiking boots. Supportive sandals, such as Chaco Z/1, are great for travel days, beaches, and casual walking, but lack toe protection and are best paired with closed shoes for more rugged activities. Lightweight sneakers with good cushioning are suitable for urban exploration and shorter walks. Water shoes, lightweight and quick-drying, are useful for water activities and can double as casual walking shoes in a pinch.
### Additional Tips
Ensure a secure fit—adjustable straps or laces help accommodate swelling during long travel days. Check for reinforced areas around the toe and heel to withstand rough use. Wear new shoes extensively before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort.
### The Author's Experience
During her South America trip, the author packed only three pairs of shoes: flip flops, a very lightweight pair of plimsolls, and her walking boots. However, she strongly recommends taking a pair of walking shoes. The hiking shoes she wore were worn extensively and were almost destroyed after five months, primarily during the Machu Picchu trek. After her trip, she found replacements for her hiking shoes, which featured a Vibram outsole.
When testing the Pebble Extreme Women's Waterproof Shoe from Mountain Warehouse on a walk in the Lake District, the author was impressed with the grip provided by the high-traction outsole. The Extreme range from Mountain Warehouse is designed to survive the harshest elements, combining comfort with high-quality technical performance. The author wishes she had the Pebble Extreme shoes during the Colca Canyon trek in South America.
In an interview for Just A Pack travel blog, the author highlighted the importance of hiking shoes for a trip to South America, stating that they are the one thing she couldn't live without. The Pebble Extreme Women's Shoes and the Field Men's Shoes from Mountain Warehouse are designed to withstand harsh South American terrains and climates. The Field shoes for men have rubber bumpers on the toes for additional reinforcement against impact, while the Pebble Extreme shoes have IsoDry technology to keep feet dry in various South American climates. The shoes also boast a Phylon midsole for comfort, added support, and cushioning from impact. The author's father has the same type of hiking shoes and they have been serving him well for over a year.
By choosing shoes with these features, travellers can ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment as they explore the diverse landscapes of South America.
- For a comfortable and safe South America adventure, consider investing in travel shoes that provide not only flexibility for urban exploration but also durability for hiking, jungle treks, and walks on varied terrains.
- The right lifestyle choice for a South America journey can significantly boost your travel experience, as shoes with features like substantial arch support, rugged outsoles, and waterproof capacities will help navigate diverse terrains with ease and confidence.
