Glossary

Areas of Use

	Category A This shoe type comprises light hiking shoes or low-cut shoes with flexible soles and minimal cushioning. As hiking shoes, they are suitable for use on mostly firm and flat forest and meadow trails, for short day trips with light luggage, or for sports activities in daily life, such as Nordic walking or trail running.
	Category A/B Hiking boots in category A/B are hiking boots for predominantly paved paths with ascents. Their high shaft supports the ankle during extended day trips or overnight tours. The sole of the boot is comparatively stiff and thick, but still flexible. Luggage should not exceed a weight of 35 liters.
	Category B This category includes classic, rather light trekking shoes and boots for mountainous and sometimes rough terrain with established routes, which can also be used with microspikes. These boots are usually made of leather, can be resoled, and have a torsion-resistant sole with a thick midsole. They are suitable for multi-day tours with a trekking backpack – the weight should be between 40 and 70 liters.
	Category B/C Category B/C includes heavy trekking boots with high lacing and a stable shaft for use on steep, difficult terrain without a direct route, and for short winter tours in freezing weather. They can also be used for via ferratas between 3,000 and 4,000 meters. The sole is stiff, has a deep tread, and can be fitted with microspikes and crampons with a double basket binding.
	Category C These are extremely robust, heavy mountaineering boots for use on rough and icy terrain. These alpine boots have a high shaft, additional insulation, and a deep tread. They are suitable for altitudes up to about 5,000 meters, making them ideal for multi-day winter tours. An edge at the heel allows for the use of semi-automatic crampons.
	Category D Hiking boots in category D are, so to speak, the SUVs among hiking boots and are among the strongest and most stable hiking boots available. Also referred to as expedition boots, they are the right footwear for extreme mountaineers or expedition participants. They feature a removable, insulated inner boot and are fully crampon-compatible.

 

 

Wide Hiking Boots

Wide hiking boots are ideal for people with wide feet who often don't find adequate comfort in conventional models. A good fit is crucial to prevent blisters and pressure points while hiking. Manufacturers like Lowa, Meindl, and Hanwag therefore offer various fits. Meindl has developed the "Comfort Fit" line, while Lowa labels wider models as "wide." Hanwag also offers special lasts, such as "Wide" and "SF Extra," for wide feet.

	Comfort Fit – Meindl Compared to trekking lasts, "Comfort Fit" lasts offer more space in the forefoot area and firm support in the heel. You stand on a broader base. A more pronounced roll enables easier push-off.
	Wide – Hanwag Hanwag's Wide lasts are wider in the forefoot and ball area than standard lasts. This increases the volume inside the shoe, providing ample space for wider feet.
	Bunion – Hanwag Hanwag's Bunion lasts were specially developed for people with bunions. They are significantly wider at the big toe joint and have an elevated toe box.
	Narrow – Hanwag Hanwag's Narrow lasts are slightly narrower in the forefoot and midfoot areas than standard lasts. This provides better support for people with rather slender feet.
	Straight Fit Extra – Hanwag Hanwag's Straightfit Extra lasts are cut wider in the forefoot and also provide more space for the big toe, allowing it to stand straight forward – comfortable for the feet on long distances.
	Wide – Lowa For Lowa's W-lasts (Wide last shape), the volume in the forefoot area is wider than with normal lasts. The ball circumference is increased for this purpose.
	Small – Lowa For Lowa's S-lasts (Narrow last shape), the volume in the forefoot area is smaller than with normal lasts. For this purpose, the ball circumference is reduced.

 

 

 

Technologies

	Air Revolution – Meindl The tongue, which rests against the foot, is a combination of 3D mesh and a permanently cushioning, reticulated, perforated foam. The Air Revolution tongue extends beyond the shaft end and allows for air circulation. It is only selectively fixed at the front in the forefoot and instep to support circulation.
	MFS (Memory Foam System) – Meindl Perfect adaptation to the foot thanks to the Memory Foam System (MFS) – The specially developed foam combination in the shaft area is deformed by body heat and takes on the exact shape of the foot. There is no more pinching or pressure in these shoes; this is the highest level of wearing comfort!
	MFS Vacuum – Meindl The MFS Vacuum models combine a stable outer shaft for safety with a soft, adaptable inner shaft. The special foam conforms to the foot, while the seamless GORE-TEX Stretch lining in the heel area provides additional comfort. The memory foam footbed ensures good support and individual adaptation.
	variofix System – Meindl The variofix lacing system ensures a perfect fit in the heel area. A freely encircling "Speed wire" band tightens evenly around the heel when lacing up. This creates the best possible heel support for your foot.
	Monowrap Technology – Lowa Monowrap refers to the construction of the shoe sole, where a side frame is pulled up from the midsole. This frame provides grip on uneven surfaces and ensures stability. Additionally, the Monowrap sole supports the natural rolling motion of the foot.
	Vibram Sole Durable Vibram soles are known for their outstanding traction and stability. They provide secure grip on uneven, rocky, or slippery surfaces and support the foot during demanding tours – ideal for any terrain and weather conditions.
	GORE-TEX The waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX membrane reliably protects your feet from wetness without sacrificing comfort. The material wicks moisture outwards, ensuring a pleasant climate – whether in rain, snow, or during intense activity.

 

 

 

Special Features

	Breathable Breathable hiking boots are ideal for hikes in warm or changeable weather conditions. They are made from special materials such as mesh fabric or Gore-Tex membranes, which wick sweat and moisture away from the inside out, while remaining waterproof. This keeps the foot climate comfortable even during strenuous tours, and the feet are protected from overheating or wetness.
	Crampon-compatible Crampon-compatible hiking boots are specifically designed for use in challenging terrain, such as glacier hikes or alpine tours. They feature a stiff sole suitable for attaching crampons and are made of robust materials that withstand high stresses. These shoes provide optimal grip and stability on slippery or icy surfaces.
	Waterproof Waterproof shoes are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay active in any weather. They are specially designed to prevent water from entering, keeping your feet dry and comfortable whether you're walking through rain, snow, or wet conditions. The shoes are equipped with the GORE-TEX membrane, which fulfills the GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY promise and is particularly breathable.
	Resolable Resolable hiking boots offer the advantage that they can be renewed after intensive use and wear of the sole, without having to replace the entire shoe. This is particularly sustainable and cost-effective, as the durable upper materials, such as leather or high-quality synthetics, continue to be used.