Prepare yourself for Kilimanjaro hiking by choosing the best boots for this!
If you want to go hiking on Kilimanjaro, you definitely know that you need to prepare for this. Besides other aspects, such as practicing hiking regularly and getting used to the mountains, you must pay particular attention to your equipment. In fact, the entire trip may depend on this. More important, your safety is strongly linked with the equipment you choose. This article’s purpose is to present some of the best choices when it comes to hiking boots for Kilimanjaro, providing the readers with relevant details about them. So if you plan to conquer this mount, read further to discover the best hiking boots for climbing Kilimanjaro!
1. What To Look for When Getting Kilimanjaro Hiking Boots
1.1. Fit
First and foremost, you should pay attention to this critical element: fit. If your boots don’t fit right, your hiking trip will become a torture.
When you go shopping for hiking boots for Kilimanjaro, make sure you wear some sports sock, preferably average cushioned. Place your foot in the boot and then push it forward, until your toes hit the front of it. Then, put your index finger between your heel and the boot. It should fit comfortably. If it doesn’t feel like it fits there cozily, then the pair of footwear you have chosen is too small for you, and hiking is going to be a painful experience if you buy these boots. Try a bigger pair.
1.2. Quality
Quality is another key aspect, but good quality doesn’t necessarily means expensive boots. Actually, you can buy a pair of affordable hiking boots that are high quality. You need to pay attention to a few elements.
As you want your ankle to be safe, opt for medium to high ankle support. However, you should remember that the higher the trekking boots, the heavier they will be. They also need to have a sole with high rubber content, as well as deep lugs, for better grip. Of course, waterproof is a must for any pair of high-quality boots for climbing Kilimanjaro. Also, opt for fast lacing trekking boots, with a lacing system that incorporates speed hooks and D-strings.
1.3. Use
Don’t make the huge mistake of wearing your trekking boots on Kilimanjaro for the first time. Once you have bought a new pair of boots, wear them as often as possible before you reach Kilimanjaro. Also, don’t walk in them only for short distance treks, but for long distance ones. For example, try them in treks that take 5-6 hours a day. This way, you will get them well worn in, as the inner soles of the hiking boots will counter the bottom of your foot.
2. Best 5 Kilimanjaro Hiking Boots for Men
2.1. Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX Boot
Asolo is one of the best brands when it comes to trekking boots, and their products are high-quality ones. Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX boots are excellent for climbing Kilimanjaro, as they are designed for long distance hiking. A great advantage is that they can be used both in winter and summer, as they provide both waterproofing and breathability. Moreover, they offer ankle support, but they’re still very light. If you are looking for the best hiking boots for Kilimanjaro, you should undoubtedly take these ones into consideration as they can be the perfect ally for any mount climber, no matter the weather.
Pros:
- Waterproofing and breathability
- Lightweight
- Excellent grip
Cons:
- You must replace them after a couple of years of good trekking
- Their price can reach $250
2.2. Asolo Men’s TPS 520 GV Hiking Boots
These leather hiking shoes from Asolo will definitely take you to Kilimanjaro and back in great comfort. They are suitable for rainy weather thanks to their waterproof leather, as well as GoreTex lining. Moreover, they provide great ankle support, but they are also mid-weight. Even though the price can be a little high, ranging from $200 to $300, you can be sure that this is an excellent investment, as they will last for long treks and long years.
Pros:
- Waterproof leather
- Deep Lugs
- Great Durability
Cons:
- The price of these boots can go up to $300
2.3. Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Mid Hiking Boot
If you are looking for affordability, but also all-around performance, Timberland Chocorua trekking boots may be the right choice for you. You can get them for a price ranging from $70 to $150. The best part is that this pair of boots is generally used on long distance treks, so Kilimanjaro and similar destinations are not a challenge for them. Moreover, they provide great comfort all day long, especially due to their exclusive anti-fatigue comfort technology.
Pros:
- Great for long distance treks
- GoreTex membrane for waterproof breathability
- Anti-fatigue comfort technology
Cons:
- They don’t last too long. After a couple of years of trekking they need to be replaced.
2.4. Scarpa Men’s R-Evolution Gore-Tex
Scarpa Men’s R-Evolution Gore-Tex boots are also some of the best boots for climbing Kilimanjaro, mainly because they provide great comfort for long distance treks and because they have a sole with a high rubber content and deep lugs. On a mount such as Kilimanjaro, you will definitely need some deep grooves that provide good grip and better traction.
Pros:
- Deep lugs
- Great ankle support
- A brand new fit system which assures you comfort during the entire day
Cons:
- Laces can be too short for some persons
- Synthetic
2.5. Hi-Tec Altitude VI Waterproof Hiking Boots
The prices range, but you should be able to buy them for $100 or even less, and then enjoy your treks in comfort. Compared to the other boots, these ones are getting comfortable immediately, in about a day. So you don’t need to wear them for weeks in so that their inner soles to contour your foot. Moreover, they offer ankle support without being heavy. This is definitely a big plus for any hiking boots for Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Very light boots
- Great comfort
- Durability
Cons:
- Laces get easily over-worn by the eye hooks
3. Best 5 Kilimanjaro Hiking Boots for Women
3.1. Asolo Women’s Stynger GTX Light Hiker – Hiking Boot
Our first recommendation for women’s hiking boots for Kilimanjaro is Asolo Women’s Stynger GTX Light Hiker – Hiking Boot. This pair of trekking shoes is comfortable and durable, perfect for long distance treks.
Pros:
- Lug sole
- Gore-Tex lining
- Water-resistant leather
Cons:
- The price can be too high for some mountain lovers.
3.2. Scarpa Women’s R-Evolution GTX Hiking Boot
Offering great comfort and being very resistant, Scarpa Women’s R-Evolution GTX Hiking Boot are our next recommendation for those women who want to go hiking on Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Very comfortable
- Cushioned hi-flex footbed
- Waterproof and breathable
Cons:
- The price can go up to $240.
3.3. Timberland Women’s Chocorua Trail Boot
With a great price-quality ratio, you can buy these trekking boots for only $85, and then enjoy an amazing hiking experience on Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Rubber sole
- Waterproof protection – Gore-Tex membrane
- Very comfortable
Cons:
- They are water resistant, but this doesn’t last for a long time.
3.4. Asolo Revert GV Women’s Walking Boots – AW15
If you aim for quality, this pair of trekking shoes is what you’re looking for. Durable and comfortable, these boots offer you ankle support and keep your foot dry all the time.
Pros:
- Very comfortable
- Lug sole
- Waterproof leather
Cons:
- Their price can go up to $250
3.5. Hi-Tec Altitude Ultra I WP Women’s Hiking Shoe – SS16
This pair of hiking shoes has a lightweight design, which is perfect for long distance treks. Comfortable and water resistant, they are a great choice for Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Deep lugs
- Waterproof and breathable technology
- Durability
Cons:
- Their laces are not very durable
4. Best 5 Kilimanjaro Hiking Shoes under $100
4.1. Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Mid Hiking Boot
As described in the section “best five Kilimanjaro hiking boots”, this is also one of the greatest choices when it comes to price. Even though their price may go up to $150, you can easily find them on Amazon for only $75 or even less. So do a quick research and look for the best price and enjoy the comfort offered by Timberland Man’s Chocorua Trail Mid Hiking Boot when climbing on Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Great comfort thanks to a brand new anti-fatigue technology
- Waterproof
- Breathability
Cons:
- Durability – After a few years of good trekking you will need to replace them
4.2. Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude V I WP Wide Hiking Boot
The second recommendation for hiking boots under $100 also belongs to the category of “best 5 options”. In fact, this pair of trekking shoes has an excellent price-quality ratio, as it provides you comfort and durability for a great price. On Amazon, you can buy them for $100 or less, and then enjoy an unforgettable hiking experience on Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Great Comfort
- Ankle support, but also very light boot
- Durability
Cons:
- The laces get over-worn quite quickly, so you better buy a pair for replacement, too.
4.3. Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot
This pair of boots is also great for hiking on Kilimanjaro, and it combines comfort with affordability, as you can buy it for only $70 on Amazon.
Pros:
- Excellent ankle support
- Long lasting
- Rubber sole
Cons:
- You may experience a little discomfort on long distance treks
4.4. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot
A comfortable pair of hiking shoes, with rubber sole, at only $55 – what else could you wish? Even though their price can go up to $90, they are affordable and high-quality.
Pros:
- Rubber sole with deep lugs
- Waterproof
- Breathability
Cons:
- You will have to replace them in a couple of years
4.5. Hi-Tec Men’s Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
You can buy these hiking shoes for only $35 or less, can you believe it? Still, they have plenty of characteristics which assure you a safe and comfortable trip to Kilimanjaro.
Pros:
- Rubber sole
- Traction rubber cup sole
- Steel shank which offers support and stability
Cons:
- Laces are not resistant
5. Best Accessories for Kilimanjaro Hiking Boots
5.1. Best Laces – Round Outdoors Trekking Boots Laces
As it was already mentioned, many laces are not too resistant. However, having your laces over-worn in the middle of your trekking session is a problem. So, if you plan to hike on Kilimanjaro, make sure you take some extra laces with you.
Pros:
- Durable
- Washable
Cons:
- They may be too thick for some shoes, but not for trekking boots
5.2. Best Gaiters – Trekmates Cairngorm Gore-Tex Gaiter
Gaiters are designed to keep your legs warm and dry. Even though you are an experienced hiker, you know that rain is something you can’t avoid on a mountain. If you want to keep your legs away from humidity and mud, don’t forget your gaiters.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Strong and Durable
- One-touch cord closure
Cons:
- Your legs won’t breathe quite well
5.3. Best Thermal Socks – Premium Merino Wool Crew Hiking Socks
If you spend the night on the mountain, you will undoubtedly need some thermal socks to keep you warm. Moreover, you can take an extra pair of thermal socks to cover your water bottle.
Pros:
- Australian Merino Wool
- Medium thickness
- Reinforced toe and heel
Cons:
- They don’t last too long
5.4. Best Hiking Socks – Wigwam Men’s Hiking/Outdoor Pro Length Sock
When choosing your hiking socks, avoid cotton, because it retains and even absorbs moisture. If you don’t want to have a damp sensation all day long, go with specially designed trekking socks.
Pros:
- Abrasions resistant Achilles cradle
- Machine wash
- Comfortable all day long
Cons:
- They don’t last too long
6. Maintaining Your Kilimanjaro Boots
If not properly maintained, your trekking boots will need to be replaced sooner. Each time you come back from a trek, clean your shoes thoroughly, but never in a washing machine. A soft brush or a smooth sponge and some hot water make the perfect combination for this action. The sole can be cleaned with a hard brush. Never dry them near to a radiator, fireplace or any other heat source.
Extra tip: stuff your boots with newspapers in order to absorb the moisture.
7. Kilimanjaro Shoes Recommendations & Conclusions
A high price is not always the synonym for good quality. When seeking the best boots for climbing Kilimanjaro, you should look for ankle support, deep lugs, comfort, and choose the right size. Then, try them before you go hiking on Kilimanjaro, in several long distance treks. Maintaining them well can also prolong their life, so take good care of your boots if you want to have them for years to come.
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- Safari Planning Recommendations: Best Safari Camera and Safari Camera Accessories, Best Safari Binoculars, Shoes for Safari, Safari Wear
- For Your Birding needs while on Safari: Bird Watching Binoculars, Bird Watching Camera, Birding Scopes
- Kilimanjaro Climbing Recommendations: Backpack for Kilimanjaro, Sleeping Bags for Kilimanjaro, Best Hiking Boots for Kilimanjaro Climb
- Checkout Safari resources for destination guides and FAQ for better planning.
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*Link to Amazon website. Please see disclosure around our affiliate relationship.
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Tags: Duffle bags, Hiking Boots, Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro Footwear
