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  • How We Tested Hiking Shoes

    Table of Contents

    Where we Test

    All of our tests when it comes to hiking shoes (and all gear in general) happen outdoors, in the same places you will experience them. All of us at This Expansive Adventure are avid hikers, live and breathe the outdoors and get excited (geeky) about testing gear to the limit.

    We want you to feel safe when you buy through one of our recommendations and trust that the information we’re giving you is correct. Of course, our reviews and tests are based on our opinions, but we’ve clocked a lot of miles to give you our round up of the best hiking shoes out there for all budgets and preferences.

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our guide to the best hiking shoes, be sure to check out the rest of this guide for our top buying tips:

    Testing Metrics

    As with all our reviews, we go through a full-on testing process outdoors. We test in a huge variety of different weathers and conditions to make sure everything is up to scratch before we make our recommendations. There are a range of areas that are particularly important to us in the testing process though, and these can be categorized as the following.

    Type and Style

    With every hiking shoe we review, we take into consideration the type of shoe it is and what it is intended for. Some shoes are more intended for fast packing and are a kind of trail runner hybrid. These are obviously lighter, often more flexible than a traditional, often ‘harder’ hiking shoe. It is important to us that we don’t just pass off one shoe because it is intended for something else and instead, we look at the whole piece holistically.

    Not everybody wants a hiking shoe for the same purpose exactly, so it’s important for us that we don’t ‘rank things down’ by not fully looking at their intended purpose.

    Price

    We believe price can be one of the biggest barriers to the outdoors for a lot of people. If you’ve been in the scene for quite a while, you’ll likely be in a position where you’re looking to upgrade to something better than your previous version. That doesn’t mean you have an endless budget though!

    Likewise, if you are just starting out, you might not know where you want to go with your adventures and be reluctant (or not have the funds) to spend on something that could be pretty expensive, and an investment. You want to know you’re going to get plenty of use out of something before you go ahead and buy.

    In our reviews, we’ve recommended a whole range of price points, and you’ll typically see a wide range of prices for products offered. When testing, we take into consideration the price point versus what you’re actually getting for that – and some brands provide a hiking shoe that punches well above its weight in terms of price.

    Traction

    Traction is one of the most important areas for us when it comes to testing the hiking shoes, we’ve recommended to you. Traction can vary massively from shoe to shoe so we always look at what a shoe’s ideal use would be when testing. Some shoes are better suited to slippery, rocky terrain whereas others are more suited to sand, desert etc. and some more slick rock or alpine surfaces.

    As above, we look at this holistically, and offer our opinions taking into consideration what the shoe is intended for – which makes it easier for you to make the right decision for your needs.

    Breathability

    Breathability varies from shoe to shoe, with some making use of synthetic systems and materials that offer greater breathability than others. Generally, you will experience greater breathability in a hiking shoe that isn’t waterproof, but that isn’t always the case.

    We test breathability in a number of settings and extremes, from really hot summer days where you can expect your feet to get really sweaty all the way through to very rainy conditions where you might expect to experience sweating too. We’re looking for how this impacts longer term wear and if this leads to any blistering, discomfort or sore spots on the feet. Oh, and wet socks!

    Ankle Support

    Of course, hiking shoes don’t give the same level of ankle support that you can expect from a more traditional hiking boot. This is purely down to the fact that there isn’t really much provided around the ankle. That said, there are also various sock style designs on the market now, which provide more ankle support, some of which we’ve included in our reviews. When it comes to ankle support when testing, we’re looking at how well what is actually there helps against any rolls of the ankle, but also the freedom it provides and the steadiness and confidence you feel whilst wearing them.

    Arch Support

    Most hiking shoes come with a fairly standard arch support system, apart from a few brands who specifically look at a more orthopedic style fit (Hoka, for example, offer shoes in fits that are recommended by some orthopedic doctors). The general thing we test when it comes to arch support is how the shoe feels to wear for longer periods, is there any tiredness or fatigue, and does the specific fit of the arch make a difference there?

    Fit

    Fit is a really individual thing when it comes to hiking shoes – as we all have quite different fits and feels with our feet. Like many other shoes, hiking shoes are sometimes offered in a wider fit. However, much of the time, hiking shoes are offered in a standard fit, which can sometimes be a true standard, and can sometimes run narrower. We make a point of assessing how the various hiking shoes we’ve tested feel on a variety of width feet for longer periods of time. The fit is probably one of the most crucial aspects of a hiking shoe, so you need to get this right. We also rank for what the various brands return policies are, and also point out which shoes are offered in a wider or narrower fit.

    Materials

    Whilst it can be overwhelming looking at the various different materials offered for hiking shoes, it really only boils down to one thing – how does it fair on the trail? When taking into consideration materials in our tests, we’re looking for how well the various materials durability weighs out. We’re looking at how well the waterproofing works, if there are any snag points, any rigid areas which don’t fit right and how comfortable, light and robust they are over extended wear.

    Appearance

    Appearance is quite a divisive thing when it comes to hiking shoes – similar to people’s taste in fashion, hiking footwear is no different. You might be someone who cares a great deal how their hiking shoes look, you might also not. We try to be as objective as possible when it comes to the appearance of the hiking shoes we recommend to you – because our personal taste won’t exactly be yours. We just try to make you aware of anything that may get in the way with your hiking shoes, and actually cause problems where we don’t think they should.

    Durability

    Of course, no shoe is going to last forever, and if you’re hitting the trail a lot, then of course they will not last as long as a hiker who gets out less frequently. Aside from this, we are testing for how well made each shoe is, how the materials used could affect durability and if any durability concerns come up quickly. We test the shoes we recommend for as long as possible to allow us to feel confident in commenting on each shoe’s durability.

    Sustainability

    We do our research to find out what each brand is doing to encourage and take on more sustainable production practices and sourcing their materials. We’re also looking at how the durability of the hiking shoes recommended affects their longevity – as buying less is one of the most impactful ways we can help sustainability.

    Water Resistance

    Not every hiking shoe is water resistant, waterproof or water repellent, in fact some of the more fast and light shoes on the market cut out most of their waterproof nature in order to save weight and opt for more lightweight mesh fabrics. When testing waterproofing, we fully understand each brand’s claims before testing, and test to see if the shoe actually lives up to what it says it is supposed to be. For more on this, we’d recommend reading our article on the differences between waterproof, water resistant and water repellent.

    Weight

    Weight is quite an important testing metric for us – as the weight you have on your feet can lead to fatigue on the trail, especially with a heavier load to carry. When testing and making our recommendations, we are looking at how the shoes make use of different fabrics to create their lightweight feel (or not so lightweight feel) and how this actually feels after a long time on the trail. We also look at weight with durability in mind too, as a lightweight shoe is brilliant, but if it isn’t going to stand the test of time, it’s maybe not the perfect solution!

    Insoles

    Most hiking shoes come with a fairly standard insole, so we’re testing to see if this insole helps at all or takes away from the comfort you can expect to find in your hiking shoe. We also investigate if specific concern insoles are available from the manufacturer, or if this is needed for general wear.

    Break-in Period

    A long break in period can be a real bore when it comes to hiking shoes – the idea that you might not really be able to wear them for a while can scupper your plans. We do a lot of our testing around how quickly the shoes are trail ready – and really trail ready. It’s one thing to feel they are ready straight away, but if you aren’t confident in it, wear them for a long trail and then end up getting blisters, that can be the difference between completing a hike or not.

    Lacing System

    There are various lacing systems available now – from standard systems to BOA style closures, elastic lacing etc., each one has its own strong point (and weakness too). Particularly when it comes to BOA fastenings, we like to consider and test how this feels to operate on the trail in colder conditions – sometimes the laces on these can be a lot thinner and the feeling of something cutting into your hands when you are cold isn’t the nicest! We also look for how well the laces can be adjusted for the perfect, and very individual fit and how that affects the overall user experience of the hiking shoe.

    Toe Protection

    Toe protection can really help against bumps and knocks on the trail that otherwise could lead to toe injuries. Some hiking shoes have better protection than others – ones that favor a lot of mesh and a fast and light approach, may be less protective than, say, an approach shoe. We tend to try and take a holistic approach when it comes to testing toe protection and look at the intended use of a shoe before rating it to give you a real world understanding of just what you’ll be getting if you purchase that product.

    Conclusion

    When testing hiking shoes, we test in the outdoors – there is no better place to test than by doing the things we love! There is simply no better way than to see any potential problems that might arise in the environments you’re going to wear them. As we’ve said various times, we always take a holistic approach and look at what the shoe is intended for, rather than seeing it in a different way and marking it down. We’re geeky about what we recommend and the shoes you see on in our reviews have had lots of miles of testing poured into them!

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • How to Choose the Right Hiking Shoes

    What kind of hiking shoes do you need for your particular type of hiking? Aren’t they all the same anyway? You’d be surprised to learn that there are so many differences between the different hiking shoes on the market.

    With this in mind, it is important to make your decision based on various factors. Where you plan to hike – are most of the surfaces you’ll be hiking on slippery with heavy tree roots or rocks? Will you be backpacking lightweight and want to move quickly over the trail?

    What kind of weather conditions will you experience? Do you have any previous injuries that are of concern? Below, we take a look at the different things to consider when buying a pair of hiking shoes, to help you make the right decision for your needs out on the trail and to find a pair you’re really happy with.

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our guide to the best hiking shoes, be sure to check out the rest of this guide for our top buying tips:

    Table of Contents

    Types of Hiking Shoes

    There are so many different types and styles of hiking shoes on the market that it can feel a little overwhelming to find the right pair – or know if you’ve made an investment in a pair that are right for your time outdoors.

    Whilst manufacturers information is there to be helpful, it often doesn’t contain the information you need to make a confident decision, and it’s really more about their practical application.

    Budget Hiking Shoes

    There are a wide variety of hiking shoes that fall into the budget end of the market. These are great if you’re newer to hiking and aren’t sure of the kind of hiking you plan to do just yet.

    They’re also great if you’re on a budget (as the name might suggest). They often get a bad reputation, in favor of more expensive options, but this shouldn’t be the case.

    They often pack well above their weight. For example, the Columbia Facet 75 Outdry and the Regatta Vendeavour Pro are options that provide incredible comfort and durability for a fraction of the cost of many of their competitors.

    What you may need to expect is that budget hiking shoes won’t be the lightest or often most breathable on the market – one of the ways that many manufacturers can cut down on price is by reducing state of the art material usage.

    They can also have slightly less rigid or chunky sole patterns which can hinder long term durability. Though, depending on how much you wear your hiking shoes, it really is worth keeping in mind that no shoe is built to last forever!

    Ultralight Hiking Shoes

    Ultralight hiking shoes have made a place for themselves in the outdoor footwear market mainly intended for those wanting to move fast and light. These kinds of hiking shoes are often favored by fastpacking backpackers.

    They often make use of cutting edge materials, similar to that of top end backpacking tents to offer reductions in weight. You may also find that these will not offer the greatest level of waterproofing either.

    They typically don’t do as well on paved surfaces as they do on softer trails and can wear down faster than chunkier tread hiking shoes. The Altra Lone Peak 7, which we’ve reviewed is a good example of an ultralight hiking shoe.

    Trail Running Shoes

    Capturing the hybrid between a traditional running shoe and a hiking shoe, the trail running shoe offers good facets from both worlds and depending on the kind of hiking you intend to do, may be right for you – but they are not perfect in all circumstances.

    If you’re planning to do a lot of fastpacking or fast hiking, then a trail running shoe is designed with speed in mind. You’ll often find lightweight materials used and an ergonomic design in both the heel and toe to provide added bounce. If you know you’ll be spending time off trail or in rocky terrain, they may not be the right approach and are best suited to well-maintained, well-defined trails that see good footfall.

    Approach Shoes

    An approach shoe is often used by hikers who will be tackling steep rocks or intend to hike in to a climb. You’ll usually find approach shoes will be defined by their stronger toe cap and a heavier rubber slug around the foot.

    This is to help protect your feet from any serious knocks and bumps you might expect to encounter when tackling steep surfaces and protect from any slips as you move. That said, they also have developed a following outside of these specific uses – they might not be the lightest, but they are often robust and durable, providing extra protection if you know you’ll be exploring a lot from undefined trails or in areas without heavy footfall.

    They’re also a great option if you know you aren’t the most foot savvy and want that extra level of confidence against toe injuries. The Black Diamond Mission Low is an excellent approach shoe for all round use, that are also waterproof.

    Hiking Sandals

    Hiking sandals have exploded in popularity in recent years – and they are a great option. Though we don’t think they should be your only pair of hiking shoes.

    Hiking sandals allow your feet and toes to breathe whilst offering a chunky sole that protects the base of the foot in the same way as a hiking shoe would. They’re great for camp in the evening, for wearing straight after a lake swim and are excellent for water crossings and desert terrain.

    However, if you know you’re going to be doing anything like bush whacking or traveling through tall grasses or rough surfaces they might not be great for you. We particularly like the Terrex Hydroterra Sandals in this category – we’ve found them extremely well ventilated, quick drying and comfortable for longer journeys.

    Hiking Boots

    The old faithful hiking boot, still loved by many as the only option you’ll need outdoors and offered in a multitude of different fits, finishes and intentions, a bullet proof hiking boot will keep your feet protected. For general hiking, alpine trails, rough terrain, deep boggy locations and for keeping your feet warm whatever the conditions, hiking boots are still likely a good option.

    That said, they can be overkill in some scenarios, and this is where hiking shoes come into their own. Firstly, since they offer a lot more in terms of protection, they can be a lot heavier than hiking shoes. This, over time, can lead to fatigue.

    But it’s also important to keep in mind that a hiking boot can be the best option for your knees and back when hiking with a heavier load. They can also get quite hot in the summer, which, if not properly ventilated can lead to blisters from sweat. So, it’s worth looking at what you intend to do outdoors to make the best decision.

    Generally, we find we use hiking shoes more so in warmer months or warmer climates and hiking boots in the thick of winter when it is cold and wet, and we are likely to come across more boggy areas where hiking shoes might not stand up so well. 

    Which Walking Shoes are Best for Different Types of Hikes?

    Whilst you might think that every hiking shoe can be used for all the different types of hiking you might expect to do, there are certain types of shoes that are better for different scenarios than others.

    Long-Distance Trails

    For longer distance trails, you want something you know can be really comfortable over a protracted period of time. Whilst a lot of people may suggest you opt for something that is fast and light here, we’d actually suggest going for a hiking shoe that is a good all-rounder.

    Something that is going to work just as well for rocky surfaces as it will for wetter conditions, as it will for forest, desert or anything in-between. The Danner Trail 2650 are one of our favorite picks in this category due to their versatility on the trail. We also love the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX for their rigidity and streamline look and feel.  

    Backpacking

    For backpacking, many hikers will favor a lightweight shoe – this can help minimize fatigue and improve comfort, which cannot be discounted when it comes to those longer distances! There are two main options in this area – one is to go for a shoe intended for trail running, this will prioritize fast and light. Whilst they are generally the most lightweight on the market, they do compromise a little on the traditional hiking ‘tread’ you will expect to see on the sole of the shoe.

    The other option is a more traditional hiking shoe that offers more support and can handle a greater load and may be more comfortable over difficult terrain. Generally, though it is worth keeping in mind that hiking shoes and fastpacking shoes are designed more for light to medium loads when it comes to backpacking and they’ll work great on well-maintained surfaces and trails.

    If you intend to wear hiking shoes for backpacking, you’ll want to look for a pair that offers more cushioning in the midsole to help with shock and weight from a heavier pack. For most instances, you’ll want to consider more traditional hiking boots for much heavier packs to avoid any knee, back and hip problems.

    Day Hiking

    With a hiking shoe that is best for day hiking, you can be a lot more flexible in what you choose. Since you generally won’t be hiking as far, or with as heavy a backpack, a shoe with good support around the toe and ankle is a good choice.

    You can opt for either a more traditional hiking shoe or something more like a trail running shoe. It’s wise to keep in mind where you’ll plan to hike – for example if you know it’s likely to be wet, you may be best looking for a waterproof hiking shoe

    City Walking

    You may think you can easily transfer your hiking shoes to walking on pavement and in the city or more urbanized areas. That is true – hiking shoes can really be worn anywhere of course, but it’s important to remember that the soles of many hiking shoes are specifically designed to be worn on softer surfaces, with the grip and traction designed for this.

    This means that the soles are often made of softer rubber. Over time and if worn a lot on harder surfaces for long periods, your hiking shoes can wear out more quickly than if they were worn just on hiking trails. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear them for this, it’s just something to keep in mind.

    If most of your hiking will involve city walks, opting for a pair of trail runners may be the best option for you – these are a sort of hybrid running shoe or traditional sports shoe or trainer. They are more specifically designed to tackle a range of surfaces, and whilst they may not be perfect for difficult terrain in the outdoors, they can be perfect for compact, hard surfaces. We recommend the Altra Lone Peak 7 as one of the best options for urban and city walking.

    Speed Hiking

    Speed hiking, or fast packing as it’s also referred to means you’re moving as quickly as possible on the trail – think a hybrid between running and hiking. With this, your best shoe will be designed to move quickly, and you would be best suited to a shoe intended for trail running or similar.

    You want to prioritize lightness too – and some of the lighter shoes in our roundup (which you can use our comparison table to view side by side) would be well suited to speed hiking.

    Trail Running

    A trail running shoe is very much similar to the above (speed hiking) – it is more of a traditional trainer style that is intended to bounce fast and light from the ground with excellent shock absorption to help protect the knees and hips. We love the Merrell Moab Speed, which is an excellent combination of durability, comfort, weight and excellent composure on the trail.

    Materials Used

    Whichever hiking shoe you go for, there are a whole range of different materials used in their production to help you get the best experience whilst wearing them. They can be categorized in the following areas.

    Fabrics

    You can expect that most, if not all hiking shoes will make use of a number of different fabrics – this allows manufacturers to make the most of specific qualities to make the best shoe possible. Nylon is used pretty frequently and is great for giving durability to the shoes as well as water resistance. Gore-Tex is often used in this context too, or the brands own in house design and technology as an alternative.

    Mesh is also used fairly extensively and this helps with airflow – which keeps feet cooler when needed and can really help for avoiding painful blisters that can really impact your enjoyment of a hike. You will also find that leather is still used fairly extensively when it comes to hiking shoes – it is still considered a premium material and becomes much more comfortable over time, making them last well.

    Uppers

    The upper of your hiking shoes is where you will most likely see leather or suede used, if they are on that model and this is generally to help with the shoe’s overall durability and the water resistance it can offer. Some also make use of synthetics here, especially more breathable models. The materials used here are usually chosen to help withstand the pressure they are under when constantly hiking and also help to give extra comfort.

    Insoles

    Most hiking shoes come with a fairly standard insole – this should suit most hikers, but if you have any specific concerns about the insoles provided, it is very easy to change these out for a specific pair suited to your needs. Certain brands, like Hoka do offer some of their hiking shoes with a fit tailored to certain concerns and are even approved by some doctors – so this may be worth bearing in mind if you have specific wants or needs from your insoles.  

    Soles

    When it comes to the soles on your hiking shoes, there are a few options that are widely used and that you can look out for depending on the kind of terrain you’ll be experiencing and your personal preference. Vibram is a really popular name when it comes to hiking footwear. They are really well respected for the grip they give and they are really good at handling challenging terrain.

    Another brand you will likely have heard of here are Continental. They make rubber soles that do really well in wet conditions, and make light work of slippery surfaces. You will likely see EVA foam used in more fastpacking focused or ultra-lightweight shoes. This is great at giving flexibility and cushioning whilst also keeping the weight down.

    It’s also possible to get soles with a hybrid construction to get the best of both worlds. Depending on where you hike, you’ll want to keep an eye on the kid of lug or tread pattern offered on the hiking shoe you go for. Naturally, deeper lugs are generally better for slippery or muddy surfaces.

    Breathability

    Breathability is an important area to think about when buying your new pair of hiking shoes. This helps to stop any build up of moisture so you will feel more comfortable on the trail. Ultimately, hiking shoes that aren’t waterproof are always going to be more breathable than hiking shoes that are. Purely because they make use of mesh as opposed to ‘closed off’ materials.

    You will want to think about the climate and places you’ll be hiking to make a decision here. For hotter locations a breathable pair will be better for you. Whereas if you’re hiking in wetter conditions, you will be better suited to a waterproof pair, even if they are less breathable.

    Durability

    It’s important to remember that hiking shoes, like any shoes that are worn well, won’t last forever. That said, it’s important to look at a hiking shoe’s durability when buying. This is determined by the quality of the materials used and the construction. Don’t always be fooled into thinking the ultra-expensive pairs are the most durable – they aren’t always!

    A sturdy outsole is also another important aspect of a good hiking shoe. You also want to look for a shoe that has a sturdy toe cap which is usually made of rubber. The materials used can also help with longer term durability – materials like leather and suede generally stand the test of time, but do need more upkeep than a synthetic shoe. 

    Water Resistance

    Most hiking shoes will give you some level of water resistance, but with some, they offer a fully waterproof option. Hiking shoes that are waterproof use a number of processes to get there, such as Gore-Tex, which gives the shoe a waterproof membrane. This essentially laminates the shoe’s inside and stops water from getting in whilst letting moisture out.

    Some shoes instead just make use of a waterproof coating on the outer materials – this is generally referred to as durable water repellency (DWR). You may also find that certain seam sealing methods are used to help stop water from seeping in. Anywhere there is a seam is a potential area for water logging.

    Sustainability

    Sustainability is a hot topic in the outdoor world at the moment, and it is a banded around marketing term, but it is also forcing brands to become more ethical with their practices, manufacturing and in turn, products. You can expect to see the use of recycled materials more and more now in synthetic areas.

    Plant based or more environmentally friendly products are also being used more commonly on previously harmful and microplastic heavy practices – such as DWR coatings. BlueSign is also a good thing to look out for – these credentials are a good indication of how a brand fairs with its environmental standpoint.  

    Is There a Difference Between Men and Women’s Hiking Shoes?

    Whilst we firmly believe that gendering in outdoors products is often outdated, there are some reasons why you will still see a men’s or a women’s fit in hiking shoes. This isn’t just because of what some people in a board room have dreamt up, and not just because they want to try and provide a pink option for women, these are usually made up of some generalizations about the differences in shape between men’s and women’s feet. It’s still a very binary way of thinking, and hopefully we will see some changes on this soon in the outdoors industry.

    Whilst we don’t really like gendering in this sphere and believe that there should be a move to unisex where possible, we think it’s important to look at the information in a different way. Rather than viewing the options available as a ‘men’s’ and ‘women’s’ to look instead at them as ‘option one’, or ‘option two’, as essentially outdoor brands are providing two fit options to suit wearers.

    There is no shame in deciding to buy one fit over another – it is more about what works for you best. Some people will fit the generalizations about certain genders better than others and some people will feel that one fit gives them more room than the other. We advise to look aside from the gendered names and get the fit that suits you best and works for your feet. Your comfort is the most important thing here.

    You can use the information below on the differences between what you’ll usually see in a women’s versus men’s fit to help you decide which would be right for your next hiking shoe. That also means that even if we have selected a hiking shoe in our main guide to the best hiking shoes as a ‘men’s’ or ‘women’s’, you will be able to click through and find the alternate option to that one too.

    Width

    One of the key differences that you can often see very noticeably as soon as you take a men’s or women’s version of a hiking shoe and put them side by side is the width. With a women’s fit, you’ll see that most offer a wider toe section (or toe box) which tapers down to a narrower heel. A men’s shoe is usually much more uniform in its shape all the way down the shoe and wider than a women’s fit for the entirety of the shoe.

    Weight

    There can be a slight weight saving when it comes to the differences between a men’s and women’s hiking shoe. This is generally because a women’s variant will be offered with a slightly different mid sole. The generalization made by the outdoors industry is that women weigh less than men, so not as much support is needed in the mid sole.

    The lesser impact means that they can remove some cushioning, which does take down the weight. This may only be a small amount in terms of weight savings – we are only talking a few grams, but if every gram is important to you, this is something to keep in mind!

    Support

    Due to the differences in width distribution along a men’s versus a women’s hiking shoe, you will see some differences in support too. For example, if you have narrower ankles, but go for a men’s fit, you may find that your ankle moves around more and that your feet slip a little on your hike.

    Therefore, you may find a women’s fit better for you as it will ‘grip’ to your foot better. Likewise, with men’s shoes offering more in terms of arch support generally, you may also find that if you are heavier, that a men’s fit suits you.

    Grip

    You may find that because women’s fit hiking shoes are generally a little lighter than a men’s fit hiking shoe, that brands will add deeper lugs on the outsole. This will even out the grip differences you’d expect to see between a men’s and women’s fit shoe – with the assumption being that men are heavier than women. A men’s fit will generally have a smaller or shallower lug on the outsole than a women’s fit. 

    Appearance

    If we put aside some of the absolutely comical color ways offered in women’s fit hiking shoes versus men’s, there are some differences to be aware off right off the mark.

    The main one is that you will notice a difference usually in the width – women’s have an almost shapelier feel, whereas a men’s fit has a more boxy, straight feel. You’ll see this in the toe box being wider and the heel or arch being narrower on a women’s fit.

    Sizes

    It is assumed that with a men’s fit, they will go up to larger sizes than a women’s fit. You can expect a women’s fit to typically stop at around roughly a 10 US/9 UK/45 EU.

    Whereas a men’s fit will go up to roughly 12/13 US/11/12 UK/50 EU. Though this does vary from brand to brand. If you have petite feet, you might find a women’s fit shoe will start at much smaller sizes than men’s fit – usually a 5 US/4 UK/35 EU.

    Support

    Support is really important when buying hiking shoes – after all they are what keep you going on the trail! The support you get from your hiking shoes will come from a few areas.

    Look for a sturdy and flexible sole – this will provide good arch support and cushioning as well as protection against shock from your movements. Reinforced toe caps and ankle support help to protect the foot from any injuries. The grip is also crucial when it comes to support – check for suitable lugs which will help on the slipperiest of surfaces. 

    Ankle Support

    Whilst some models do offer a little more in terms of ankle support, there generally isn’t a lot in it from shoe to shoe, and most are low cut just below the ankle bone. 

    They are of course not going to protect you as well on more full on trails, but for well looked after trails and in good conditions, they should give you a perfectly good level of protection from injuries. 

    If you want to get the best of both worlds, we’d suggest looking at something more of a mid cut which can give you that bit more protection. This should and will be completely personal based on the level of support you feel you need and also your confidence level. 

    Arch Support

    Some hiking shoes will have a more shaped or molded footbed than others. Some will make more use of arch support inserts that work with your foot’s natural shape to give you better support where you might need it. 

    Most shoes come with a standard arch support which will be perfect for most hikers, but if arch support is a primary concern for you, it is always best to look at the shape of the shoe more closely and look at the specific cushioning offered here.

    Flexibility

    Some hiking shoes are generally more rigid than others. Usually this will come from the materials used on the outer of the hiking shoe. For example, if the hiking shoe you’re looking to buy is fully waterproof, you can expect more robust materials to be used than those on a trail runner.

    Some hikers prefer more flexibility in their hiking shoe than others. Within our testing team, some prefer a more flexible sole and feel throughout the shoe to ‘feel’ their way around the trail. Others, who are maybe more prone to ‘trail clumsiness’ as they put it, prefer a more rigid shoe.

    Stability

    The hiking shoes that you decide to buy should protect your feet from all of the different terrains that you will be hiking in and should leave you feeling confident. Depending on where you hike, a firm and slightly flexible sole with a supportive mid and robust lacing system will be the best option. If you do have any stability concerns, a slightly wider shoe can help as it gives you better contact with the ground and can help against any ankle rolls or twists.

    Traction

    The traction offered by a hiking shoe can make a difference depending on the kind of terrain you’ll be covering. If you know you’re going to be taking on challenging terrain, slippery surfaces, or tough rocks, then the traction offered needs to be important to you. If this is the case, look for deep, multi directional lugs on the outsole.

    These will help in a multitude of scenarios, including muddy, wet, rocky, and slippery surfaces. A sticky rubber compound on the sole is also helpful when it comes to slippery surfaces and will improve your confidence.

    Comfort

    We think comfort should be a top consideration when choosing your next pair of hiking shoes – we hope the reasons go without saying really, but overall comfort to us is more important than how ‘fast’ a shoe is, or how lightweight it is.

    The main areas to consider here are fit – if you have a wider foot, look out for our recommendations for wider fits. We also generally make note in our reviews of if a shoe is considered more suitable for a narrow foot or just normal. Some manufacturers are great at providing extra info on wide fit models, others aren’t. If you choose wrong here, you could be putting up with blisters and toe discomfort.

    Choose based on where you plan to wear your shoes – if you hike in hot places with little chance of rain, opt for a pair which prioritizes breathability to keep your feet cool and dry. If you hike in rainier or wetter places, opt for a pair that offer waterproofing.

    Lacing System

    Lacing systems are more important than you might think for hiking shoes. You should consider the lacing system of the model you’re looking at and its compatibility with your foot shape.

    You should also pay attention to whether it will offer you enough support or adjustability. There is a lot you can do to improve your shoe fit to general foot concerns by lacing differently. You should check out our article on this to see how you can better improve the comfort of your hiking shoe lacing style

    There are a number of lacing styles that are used on hiking shoes and these allow you to get a really tailored fit to your foot. Quick lacing systems are becoming more popular – for example BOA systems give you a precise adjustment. They have also improved over time and are now as widely respected as traditional laces.

    Toe Protection

    Toe protection is an important consideration for hiking shoes – you are likely to come up against surfaces that could harm your feet if you stub into them and so reinforced toe caps that are made of synthetic materials like rubber are well used.

    You should, as with many areas, consider the level of protection you need based on where you intend to hike and the potential hazards you’re likely to come up against. You should also make sure that when your shoes arrive, that the toe box provides a good level of roominess for toe splay – this will help massively with discomfort and prevent blisters or even worse, black toenails. A snug fit around your toes is also important, as this will help to avoid any movement whilst hiking and maintain a snug fit.

    Weight

    The amount of weight that you have on your feet is really important when you’re hiking. Get it wrong and you can experience trail fatigue, and this can really impact your energy over a longer period and make your time outdoors less fun.

    Going for a lighter shoe will help reduce fatigue on longer trails, but it does have a positive impact on day hiking too. A lighter hiking shoe can sometimes be less durable than a heavier hiking shoe though. Generally, a heavier shoe makes use of more durable or tougher materials which are naturally heavier.

    How to Use and Care for Your Trekking Shoes

    If you take care of your shoes, you can expect them to last a really long time, and this is an important step in keeping them looking and feeling good for a long time. Keeping your shoes as clean as possible is a good first step, and you can use something like a gentle brush with a very mild detergent to get rid of any dirt.

    This will help keep the waterproofing working as it should do and will also stop materials like leather or suede from deteriorating. You should also look to use a waterproofing treatment spray for shoes every few months, this will help keep them doing their job for longer. When it comes to storage, keep them somewhere cool and dry to stop any nasty smells or mold and mildew.

    Break-in Period

    No hiking shoe is good to wear straight out of the box, even though it might feel like it is. It is important, even if your new hiking shoes feel comfortable straight away, to take them for a few test walks. This can be locally, and you can build up very gradually. You should just know when you feel confident enough to take them out on longer trails. There should be no parts that pinch or rub by this point.

    Some shoes do have a longer break in period than others – generally those made of leather can take a little longer to wear in, but the break in period should not deter you from buying a pair of hiking shoes – and many times, the ones that take a while to bed in can be the most comfortable ones.

    Cleaning

    To clean and care for your hiking shoes well, you should remove any dirt or debris from them before anything further – you can do this with a soft brush, or you may find a damp cloth also does well here too.

    You can either make use of a shoe cleaner or a mild detergent to get rid of any stains – you can also use something called a spot treatment for more stubborn stains. Once washed, allow your hiking shoes to air dry – this is the best way to keep them looking and feeling their best for wear. You should try and avoid drying your hiking shoes in a washing machine as this can encourage shrinkage and a change in the fabric dynamics.

    Weatherproofing

    Many waterproof hiking shoes will not stay as waterproof forever as you might want them to. This is nothing to do with how well designed the hiking shoe is, and more likely that the waterproof treatment (DWR) isn’t working so well and needs a reapplication treatment.

    The reason they may not feel so waterproof anymore is usually more to do with sweat wicking than anything else, as if the waterproof membrane is not working correctly, and not allowing for sufficient transfer, you may notice lesser latency to water. This can be rectified by using a waterproofing treatment on your hiking shoes regularly.

    Maintenance

    Maintaining your hiking shoes really just involves taking into consideration the points listed above – keeping them free from dirt and debris as much as possible, keeping them clean and making sure any DWR coatings are looked after.

    Another way you can really increase the longevity of your hiking shoes is to make sure you untie them and retie then between putting them on and taking them off. It may seem like the easiest option to slip them off, but this can really damage the heal of the foot and shorten their lifespan.

    Storage

    To keep your hiking shoes looking and feeling their best for as long as possible, keep them in a dry location – this will help to avoid any mold or mildew build up. With that in mind, it is always best to store them indoors – a garage is a only a good idea if it is dry and free from damp.

    Conclusion

    There is a lot to consider when buying the best hiking shoes – and with there being so many options on the market now, it can feel pretty overwhelming to choose. Really, it’s about looking at your intended use and where you plan to go hiking that are the biggest deciding factors for your purchase.

    You should also be looking at if you have any previous injury concerns and how a particular design might affect comfort as well. We hope this guide has made it easier to get a handle on what you need to consider when buying your next pair of hiking shoes – with the right pair, you’ll enjoy the trails comfortably, so you can focus on what you enjoy more!

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight Review

    The Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight from The North Face offer a great combination of low weight, water resistance, breathability and comfort, making them an attractive option for hiking and trail running.

    Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.

    Pros / Reasons to Buy

    • Very comfortable
    • Low weight

    Cons / Reasons to Avoid

    • Limited choice of colors
    • Potential long-term durability issues

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our guide to the best hiking shoes, be sure to check out the rest of this guide for our top buying tips:

    The North Face are a well-respected brand in the outdoor scene. In recent years they’ve branched into fashion, but the Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight shoes are still, first and foremost, hiking shoes. These shoes pack a lot of The Nort Face’s technology into their design including their in-house Futurelight water-repellent but breathable membrane and their distinctive Vectiv rocker-style soles. Combined with the comfort The North Face’s footwear is renowned for, these shoes are an attractive choice. However, there are some concerns with their long-term durability that potential buyers should keep in mind.

    Compare to Similar Products: 

    Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking

    Columbia Facet 75 Outdry

    Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX

    KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof

    Hoka Men’s Anacapa Aero Low

    La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots

    Nike Pegasus Trail 3

    Danner Panorama Mid

    Black Diamond Mens Mission Leather Low Waterproof Approach Shoes

    Lowa Renegade GTX LO

    Regatta Vendeavour Pro

    Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

    La Sportiva Mens TX Hike GTX Hiking Shoes

    The North Face Men’s Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight Track Shoe

    Vasque Men’s Juxt Hiking Shoe

    Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Men's Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes

    Columbia Men's Facet 75 Outdry, Black/Fiery Red, 7

    adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes Men's, Purple, Size 7

    KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes, Black Olive/Golden Brown, 10.5

    HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 6 Mens Shoes Size 10, Color: Black/White

    La Sportiva Mens Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Wide Hiking Boots, Black/Clay, 10.5 Wide

    Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Mens Running Trainers DA8697 Sneakers Shoes (UK 6 US 6.5 EU 39, Black Green Strike asken Slate 004)

    Danner Panorama 6” Waterproof Hiking Boots for Men with Rich Suede Upper, Breathable Danner Dry Barrier, Comfort Footbed, and Traction Outsole, Black Olive - 9.5 D

    Black Diamond Equipment Men's Mission Leather Low Wp Approach Shoes - Amber-Cafe Brown - 8

    Lowa Mens Renegade GTX Lo Nubuck Leather Black Graphite Shoes 10.5 US

    Regatta Men's Walking Hiking Shoe, Black Granite, 8

    Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Granite 10.5 W

    La Sportiva TX Hike GTX - Men's Charcoal/Moss 41

    THE NORTH FACE Men's VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT Hiking Shoe, Meld Grey/Summit Navy, 7

    Vasque Men's Juxt Hiking Shoe, Aluminum/Chili Pepper (P), 7 Medium

    Buying Options

    Our Ratings

    Best Overall Men’s

    Best Budget

    Most Versatile

    Most Comfortable

    Best for Summer

    Best for Technical Trails

    Best Appearance

    Pros

    Robust whilst feeling light and aerodynamic, excellent traction

    Great value. Breathable and water resistant

    Striking Design. Makes use of recycled material

    Comfortable. Very durable

    Light weight. Extremely comfortable and quick to bed in

    Relatively lightweight. Good support

    Very lightweight. Very comfortable

    Rugged build. Clean, minimal sytling

    Very low weight. They look great!

    short break in, comofrtable, tread grip is substantial

    Bargain price. Well made

    Reputaton for comfort. Resaonably priced

    Relatively light weight. They Look Good

    Very comfortable. Low weight

    Durable build. Extremely comfortable

    Cons

    Fast lacing system won’t be for everyone

    Not the lightest. They might look a little plain for some

    Pricey. Sole material can look tatty with time

    Dated design. Pricey

    Not as water resistant as some competitors. Divisive Styling

    Styling may not be to eveyone’s taste. Pricey

    Not as durable as some competitors. Not suitable for very cold or wet conditions

    Took a little while to break in. We wish there was a little more ankle support

    Pricey. Soft rubber sole may wear quickly

    Limited range of colors. Long term durability concerns

    Limited Color choices. Not the Lightest

    No the lightest design and color choices may seem dated to some

    Slightly vague sustainability credentials. Sizing guidance is confusing

    Limited choice of colors. Potential long-term durability issues

    No waterproofing. Limited color choice

    Traction

    Very good

    Good

    Continental outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Full rubber outsole with deep thread pattern

    Very Good

    Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Very Good

    Full rubber sole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Rubber outsole with deep thread pattern. Uses ‘Black Label’ Sticky rubber for better grip.

    Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern.

    Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern.

    Very Good

    Very Good

    Very Good

    Breathability

    Very good

    Good

    Fine mesh upper with Gore-Tex membrane

    Mesh sections on upper backed with waterproof membrane

    Very Good

    Breathable mesh upper with Gore-Tex

    Very good

    Minimal use of mesh, and unvented leather in main body of shoe but there is a Gore-tex membrane the boot is not insulated.

    Breathable ‘BD.dry’ waterproof lining with some mesh sections. However unperforated leather will limit breathability.

    Mesh lining backed with Gore Tex membrande

    Breathable mesh upper with ‘Isotex’ waterproof membrane.

    Breathable mesh upper with waterproof membrane

    Good

    Good

    Very Good

    Ankle Support

    Minimal but feels supported

    Minimal

    Medium – Mid height boot. Support can be adjusted via lacing

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal

    Good – Mid height design with adjustable tensioning via laces

    Minimal

    Medium – Mid height boot. Support can be adjusted via lacing

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Good – Mid-height design with ankle collar adjustment via laces.

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Arch support

    Regular

    Regular

    Gently moulded arch support in insoles

    Subtle arch support

    Very good

    Subtle arch support

    Regular

    Subtly shaped inner section offers gentle arch support

    Subtle arch support

    Subtle arch support

    Moulded nylon arch shank

    Regular

    Regular, but rocker-style sole may help comfort for some wearers

    Regular

    Fit

    Fits true to size – regular

    Regular – can run slightly large

    Available in sizes from US 6/UK 5.5/ EU 38.6 up to US 15/UK 14.5/EU 50.6. Suitable for normal to wide feet. Runs small, so recommended to buy a slightly larger than normal size.

    Meant to be very comfortable for a slighhtly wider foot – with lots of toe room. Available in sizes from US 7/uk 6/EU 39.5 up to US 16/UK 16/EU 49

    Regular

    Availalble in standard and wide versions. Available in sizes from US 5.5/UK 5 /EU 38 up to US 14/UK 13.5/ EU 49.5

    Regular

    Available in standard and wide fit. Standard is good for narrow/normal width feet. Available in sizes from US 7/ UK 6.5/EU 40 up to US 15/UK 14.5/ EU 50.6

    Typically suitable for normal width feet. Some reports indicate it’s wise to size up a little. Availalble in sizes from US 6/UK 5/EU 38 to US 14/ UK 13/ EU 48.5

    Santadard – nothing to note, can be good for wide feet and standard feet may be a bit wide for narrow feet. Available in sizes from US7.5/UK 6.5/EU40 to US 16/UK 15/ EU 51

    Suitable for normal to wide feet. Available in sizes from US6.5/UK 6/EU 39.3 to US 12.5/UK 12/EU 48

    Suitable for normal width feet – have a reputation for out-of-the-box comfort. Also available in a wide version. Available in sizes from US 7/UK 6.5/ EU 40 up to US 16/ UK 15/EU 51

    Regular – can run a little small

    Regular to narrow fit

    Regular and Wide versions available

    Materials

    Synthetic

    Fully synthetic

    Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane. Minimum of 50% recycled material used in upper. High density foam sole can degrade with time.

    Nubuck Leather and synthetic upper with Waterproof Membrane

    Synthetic and nubuck leather

    Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane

    Fully synthetic

    Suede and synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane

    Nubuck leather and synthetic

    Nubuck Leather and synthetic upper with Gore-Tex Membrane

    Fully synthetic with waterproof Isotex membrane

    Pig suede and synthetic. Mesh lining, laces and webbing are made from 100% recycled materials.

    Fully synthetic

    Fully Synthetic

    Suede leather and synthetic

    Appearance

    Modern, grippy hiking shoe

    Modern hiking shoe

    Ultra-contemporary style with a wide range of colour ways – many are quite vivid

    Slightly dated styling compared some newer designs

    Modern hiking shoe with oversized sole

    Contemporary styling. Available in a number of colour ways ranging from neutral to very striking.

    Modern running shoe

    The sytling is reminiscent of a hi-top basketball boot, but with with a clear modern interpretation.

    Contemporary styling referencing classic sports shoe. Available in two colour ways

    Design inspired by traditional hiking shoes. Limited color choices

    Unintrusive styling. Available in a range of colours – some with vivid colour accents.

    Unintrusive styling. Available in a range of colour options – mostly muted, ‘earthy’ colours.

    Modern hiking shoe

    Modern hiking shoe with oversized sole

    Modern hiking shoe in earthy colors

    Durability

    Very good

    Good

    Medium to high

    High

    Good

    Medium to high

    Good

    High

    High

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Very good

    Good

    Excellent

    Weight (pair)

    800g/1lb 11.2oz (pair)

    833g/1lb 14oz (pair)

    910g/2lb

    861g/1lb.14.8oz

    706g/1lb 9oz (pair)

    940g/2lb 1oz

    642.8g/1lb 7oz (pair)

    1048g/2lb 5oz

    666g/1lb 7oz

    950g/2lb 1.5oz

    1080g/2lb 6oz

    900g/2lb

    790g/1lb 12oz (pair)

    646g/1lb 7oz

    822g/1lb 13oz (pair)

    Insoles

    Padded removable insole

    Padded removable insole

    Removable insoles

    Removable, dual-density EVA footbeds cushion your stride

    Padded removable insole

    Removable insoles

    Padded removable insole

    Removable three-layer cushioned insoles

    Removable insoles

    Removable insoles

    Removable foam insoles

    Removable insoles

    Padded removable insole

    Padded removable insole

    Padded removable insole

    Break-in Period

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Straight away

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Medium

    Minimal

    Meant to be able to wear straight out the box

    Minimal to medium

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Lacing system

    Quick lacing system

    Regular laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Regular laces

    Multizone lacing system allows control over fit

    Regular laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Multizone lacing system allows for precise fit control

    Standard Laces

    Regular laces

    Regular laces

    Regular laces

    Toe Protection

    Reinforced rubber rand on toe

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Hardened rubber toe cap and thin but full boot rand.

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Hardened rubber toe cap and full boot rand.

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Hardened rubber toe cap and rand on front section

    Hardened rubber toe cap and rand on front section

    Reinforced rubber rand at front

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Reinforced rubber rand and toe cap

    Table of Contents

    Analysis and Test Results

    The North Face have a tremendous reputation in the outdoor community and not without justification. For a very long time, their Hedgehog hiking shoes were our personal favorites and the shoe we would always recommend. However, time moves on, technology improves and the Vectiv family is now The North Face’s flagship hiking and trail running shoes. These shoes pack a lot of technological innovation into their design, and for many hikers they will be an absolutely perfect choice, combining a great combination of ventilation, water resistance and excellent comfort – helped by their innovative Vectiv sole design.

     

    Performance Comparison

     

    Traction

    These shoes feature a sole made from a soft rubber compound with deep lugs. This combination gives great traction – even in less than ideal weather conditions (though very wet rocks or grass, mud and ice will still thwart the grip of these shoes). However, there is a trade-off involved in this and it’s worth bearing in mind that softer rubber soles like these are not as durable as the harder rubber soles found on some competitor’s shoes. This means you can expect the thread on these to wear down quicker than on some other shoes – especially if you spend a lot of time walking on hard surfaces.

    Breathability

    The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight feature a mesh upper section that offers excellent breathability. They are not as well ventilated as some of the other shoes we have assessed, and the Futurelight membrane surely does compromise the breathability further. If you are only hiking in very warm and dry environments, a shoe without a waterproof membrane may be a better choice, but, if you encounter rain in your hikes, the performance here, coupled with the water resistance offered by the Futurelight membrane is generally excellent.

    Ankle Support

    These are hiking shoes and, as such, they don’t offer any direct ankle support. It used to be a given that you’d wear boots for hiking, but that logic has been truly upended and, whilst boots are still the preferred choice for technical hiking and mountaineering, hiking shoes like this are a great option for general hiking, walking and trail running. For those who would rather have the extra ankle support, these Vectiv Fastpack Futurelights are also offered as mid-high boots.

    Arch Support

    The first thing you’ll notice about these shoes – and indeed all the shoes in The North Face’s Vectiv family – is the distinct, curved, oversized sole. This is a type of ‘rocker sole’. Rocker soles have been around for a very long time, but they were popularized in mainstream footwear by the brand MBT in the early 2000s. There are many positive claims associated with this type of sole, including that they encourage good posture in the wearer, can alleviate pressure spots and even improve moving efficiency. It’s difficult to quantify a lot of these claims, and different wearers will have very different experiences, but it’s worth bearing in mind that rocker-style soles are claimed to provide increased comfort for people who generally need extra arch support. If the arch support they offer still isn’t enough, the neutral insoles provided with these shoes can easily be swapped out for a more heavily shaped insole to increase arch support as needed.

    Fit

    These Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight shoes are offered in a single width and are generally true to size (in keeping with the rest of The North Face’s footwear range). These shoes are offered in sizes ranging from US 7/UK 6/EU 39 through to US 14/UK 13/EU48, going in half size increments. These shoes are generally considered better for people with regular to slightly narrow feet and they can pinch somewhat on wider feet.

    Materials

    The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight are fully synthetic shoes. The use of synthetic materials helps these shoes hit their impressive low weight whilst still maintaining their water resistance.

    Appearance

    These are basically modern synthetic hiking shoes – and they certainly look the part, with the design making a feature of the contrasts in texture between the different materials used in the shoe. They are offered in a number of color ways – all dark, neutral and earthy. Whilst the shoes are absolutely modern in their styling they also are not too over the top or in your face and we think that many prospective buyers will appreciate this. We also can’t talk about these shoes without mentioning the oversized, distinctively curved sole – the Vectiv part of the shoe’s name refers to the sole. The appearance of the sole may not be to everyone’s taste, but it’s not just there for looks and the shape and thickness of it are integral to the ergonomics of these shoes.

    Durability

    Generally, footwear from The North Face has a great reputation for durability. However, if you read online reviews, there’s plenty of reports that the latest footwear from the brand – including these Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight shoes – is not as durable as their products used to be, with the mesh upper fraying and the soft rubber in the sole wearing down relatively quickly. But let’s put this into perspective: Our reviewer previously had a pair of Fastpack Futurelight shoes without the Vectiv sole and did experience all of these wear issues, however they took well over a year of very regular use to begin to manifest and, even then, were purely cosmetic. These shoes still provided several years of good use before they eventually wore out and given the similarities between those shoes and these one, we see no reason why they shouldn’t be equally durable.

    Sustainability

    Like all major manufacturers, The North Face is dedicated to improving their sustainability credentials. They are committed to reducing waste during production, moving towards using more recycled material and also reduce the environmental footprint of their suppliers and retailers. This all sounds great, but the information they’ve published on this topic is, sadly, vague on details and it’s difficult to find breakdowns of recycled materials used in specific products, for instance. Given the size and market influence of this brand, it would have been great to see more progress here.

    Water Resistance

    These shoes feature a Futurelight membrane. Futurelight is The North Face’s in-house waterproof, breathable membrane that has replaced Gore-Tex in many of their products (though it’s worth noting that the two materials have slightly different properties, and The North Face still offers plenty of products that use Gore-Tex). The Futurelight membrane does a great job of keeping your feet dry in wet conditions, though it’s still possible to flood the shoes if water gets in over the heel cuff or around the tongue.

    Weight

     The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelights weigh in at an impressive 646g per pair – putting them at the lighter end of shoes we’ve assessed. This will certainly make these shoes appeal to hikers who value light weight gear and, even if this isn’t your main priority, it’s worth bearing in mind that weight carried on your feet causes disproportionate fatigue on longer hikes: put simply, you’ll feel more benefit from wearing a lighter pair of shoes than you will from reducing the weight of, for instance, your backpack by the same amount.

    Insoles

    These shoes come with a fairly generic pair of padded insoles. These are in line with what most manufacturers offer and for most hikers, these will be absolutely fine. However, if you want to fine-tune the fit of your shoes or add extra arch support, then swapping out your insoles is a great and inexpensive way to achieve just this.

    Break-in Period

    The North Face’s footwear is well known for its comfort straight from the box and these Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight shoes are no exception. No shoes are completely free from a breaking-in period, but we’d say these come very close and for most people, they’ll be good to wear out on a long hike after a few shorter local walks or a day spent wearing them around your home.

    Lacing System

    These shoes use regular, old-fashioned laces. It may not seem like there’s much to write about laces, but many hikers and walkers don’t realize how much flexibility they give in terms of being able to fine-tune the fit of your shoes. You can also change your lacing pattern to further refine the fit.

    Toe Protection

    In common with most other hiking shoes, these Vectiv shoes have a reinforced rubber toe cap formed by the extension of the thread pattern. On these shoes, this is backed up by a rubber rand around the toes. This won’t provide the same level of toe protection as you’d find on more heavy-duty hiking boots, but it’s still enough to absorb and deflect many of the sort of knocks you’ll likely encounter on the trail.

     

    Conclusion

    There’s a lot to like about The North Face’s Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight. They pack in a lot of cutting-edge footwear technology to deliver a lightweight, comfortable hiking shoe that’s still breathable and water-proof. On top of all of this, these shoes are often also available at a very attractive price point. However, it’s not all positive and the shoes may not be comfortable for those with wider feet and there are also some concerns about the long-term durability of some of the materials used. None the less, these are impressive hiking shoes, and we think that many hikers and trail runners would be very happy with these.

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • Columbia Facet 75 Outdry Review

    Our Award: Best Budget

    The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry are great-value walking shoes from a well-respected industry player. They boast an attractive combination of features and would be a great choice for many hikers.

    Great news: This shoe is also available in a women’s fit.

    Pros / Reasons to Buy

    • Great value
    • Breathable and water resistant

    Cons / Reasons to Avoid

    • Not the lightest
    • They might look a little plain for some

    See the Columbia Facet 75 Outdry in more detail: 

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our guide to the best hiking shoes, be sure to check out the rest of this guide for our top buying tips:

    The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry is a product that we think will appeal to a lot of hikers. It offers a great mix of breathability and water-resistance at a reasonable price point – all from a well-established brand that many hikers will know and trust making it one of the best walking shoes in our round up. They may not be the absolute lightest or most visually striking shoes in our round up, but their balanced combination of features none the less hits a lot of the right notes and we think these shoes would make an excellent choice for general hiking and trail walking in varied weather conditions for at least some, and maybe even all of the year depending on where you like to hike.

    Compare to Similar Products: 

    Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking

    Columbia Facet 75 Outdry

    Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX

    KEEN Targhee 3 Waterproof

    Hoka Men’s Anacapa Aero Low

    La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots

    Nike Pegasus Trail 3

    Danner Panorama Mid

    Black Diamond Mens Mission Leather Low Waterproof Approach Shoes

    Lowa Renegade GTX LO

    Regatta Vendeavour Pro

    Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

    La Sportiva Mens TX Hike GTX Hiking Shoes

    The North Face Men’s Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight Track Shoe

    Vasque Men’s Juxt Hiking Shoe

    Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Men's Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes

    Columbia Men's Facet 75 Outdry, Black/Fiery Red, 7

    adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes Men's, Purple, Size 7

    KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes, Black Olive/Golden Brown, 10.5

    HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 6 Mens Shoes Size 10, Color: Black/White

    La Sportiva Mens Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Wide Hiking Boots, Black/Clay, 10.5 Wide

    Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Mens Running Trainers DA8697 Sneakers Shoes (UK 6 US 6.5 EU 39, Black Green Strike asken Slate 004)

    Danner Panorama 6” Waterproof Hiking Boots for Men with Rich Suede Upper, Breathable Danner Dry Barrier, Comfort Footbed, and Traction Outsole, Black Olive - 9.5 D

    Black Diamond Equipment Men's Mission Leather Low Wp Approach Shoes - Amber-Cafe Brown - 8

    Lowa Mens Renegade GTX Lo Nubuck Leather Black Graphite Shoes 10.5 US

    Regatta Men's Walking Hiking Shoe, Black Granite, 8

    Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Granite 10.5 W

    La Sportiva TX Hike GTX - Men's Charcoal/Moss 41

    THE NORTH FACE Men's VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT Hiking Shoe, Meld Grey/Summit Navy, 7

    Vasque Men's Juxt Hiking Shoe, Aluminum/Chili Pepper (P), 7 Medium

    Buying Options

    Our Ratings

    Best Overall Men’s

    Best Budget

    Most Versatile

    Most Comfortable

    Best for Summer

    Best for Technical Trails

    Best Appearance

    Pros

    Robust whilst feeling light and aerodynamic, excellent traction

    Great value. Breathable and water resistant

    Striking Design. Makes use of recycled material

    Comfortable. Very durable

    Light weight. Extremely comfortable and quick to bed in

    Relatively lightweight. Good support

    Very lightweight. Very comfortable

    Rugged build. Clean, minimal sytling

    Very low weight. They look great!

    short break in, comofrtable, tread grip is substantial

    Bargain price. Well made

    Reputaton for comfort. Resaonably priced

    Relatively light weight. They Look Good

    Very comfortable. Low weight

    Durable build. Extremely comfortable

    Cons

    Fast lacing system won’t be for everyone

    Not the lightest. They might look a little plain for some

    Pricey. Sole material can look tatty with time

    Dated design. Pricey

    Not as water resistant as some competitors. Divisive Styling

    Styling may not be to eveyone’s taste. Pricey

    Not as durable as some competitors. Not suitable for very cold or wet conditions

    Took a little while to break in. We wish there was a little more ankle support

    Pricey. Soft rubber sole may wear quickly

    Limited range of colors. Long term durability concerns

    Limited Color choices. Not the Lightest

    No the lightest design and color choices may seem dated to some

    Slightly vague sustainability credentials. Sizing guidance is confusing

    Limited choice of colors. Potential long-term durability issues

    No waterproofing. Limited color choice

    Traction

    Very good

    Good

    Continental outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Full rubber outsole with deep thread pattern

    Very Good

    Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Very Good

    Full rubber sole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Rubber outsole with deep thread pattern. Uses ‘Black Label’ Sticky rubber for better grip.

    Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern.

    Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern.

    Very Good

    Very Good

    Very Good

    Breathability

    Very good

    Good

    Fine mesh upper with Gore-Tex membrane

    Mesh sections on upper backed with waterproof membrane

    Very Good

    Breathable mesh upper with Gore-Tex

    Very good

    Minimal use of mesh, and unvented leather in main body of shoe but there is a Gore-tex membrane the boot is not insulated.

    Breathable ‘BD.dry’ waterproof lining with some mesh sections. However unperforated leather will limit breathability.

    Mesh lining backed with Gore Tex membrande

    Breathable mesh upper with ‘Isotex’ waterproof membrane.

    Breathable mesh upper with waterproof membrane

    Good

    Good

    Very Good

    Ankle Support

    Minimal but feels supported

    Minimal

    Medium – Mid height boot. Support can be adjusted via lacing

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal

    Good – Mid height design with adjustable tensioning via laces

    Minimal

    Medium – Mid height boot. Support can be adjusted via lacing

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Good – Mid-height design with ankle collar adjustment via laces.

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Arch support

    Regular

    Regular

    Gently moulded arch support in insoles

    Subtle arch support

    Very good

    Subtle arch support

    Regular

    Subtly shaped inner section offers gentle arch support

    Subtle arch support

    Subtle arch support

    Moulded nylon arch shank

    Regular

    Regular, but rocker-style sole may help comfort for some wearers

    Regular

    Fit

    Fits true to size – regular

    Regular – can run slightly large

    Available in sizes from US 6/UK 5.5/ EU 38.6 up to US 15/UK 14.5/EU 50.6. Suitable for normal to wide feet. Runs small, so recommended to buy a slightly larger than normal size.

    Meant to be very comfortable for a slighhtly wider foot – with lots of toe room. Available in sizes from US 7/uk 6/EU 39.5 up to US 16/UK 16/EU 49

    Regular

    Availalble in standard and wide versions. Available in sizes from US 5.5/UK 5 /EU 38 up to US 14/UK 13.5/ EU 49.5

    Regular

    Available in standard and wide fit. Standard is good for narrow/normal width feet. Available in sizes from US 7/ UK 6.5/EU 40 up to US 15/UK 14.5/ EU 50.6

    Typically suitable for normal width feet. Some reports indicate it’s wise to size up a little. Availalble in sizes from US 6/UK 5/EU 38 to US 14/ UK 13/ EU 48.5

    Santadard – nothing to note, can be good for wide feet and standard feet may be a bit wide for narrow feet. Available in sizes from US7.5/UK 6.5/EU40 to US 16/UK 15/ EU 51

    Suitable for normal to wide feet. Available in sizes from US6.5/UK 6/EU 39.3 to US 12.5/UK 12/EU 48

    Suitable for normal width feet – have a reputation for out-of-the-box comfort. Also available in a wide version. Available in sizes from US 7/UK 6.5/ EU 40 up to US 16/ UK 15/EU 51

    Regular – can run a little small

    Regular to narrow fit

    Regular and Wide versions available

    Materials

    Synthetic

    Fully synthetic

    Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane. Minimum of 50% recycled material used in upper. High density foam sole can degrade with time.

    Nubuck Leather and synthetic upper with Waterproof Membrane

    Synthetic and nubuck leather

    Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane

    Fully synthetic

    Suede and synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane

    Nubuck leather and synthetic

    Nubuck Leather and synthetic upper with Gore-Tex Membrane

    Fully synthetic with waterproof Isotex membrane

    Pig suede and synthetic. Mesh lining, laces and webbing are made from 100% recycled materials.

    Fully synthetic

    Fully Synthetic

    Suede leather and synthetic

    Appearance

    Modern, grippy hiking shoe

    Modern hiking shoe

    Ultra-contemporary style with a wide range of colour ways – many are quite vivid

    Slightly dated styling compared some newer designs

    Modern hiking shoe with oversized sole

    Contemporary styling. Available in a number of colour ways ranging from neutral to very striking.

    Modern running shoe

    The sytling is reminiscent of a hi-top basketball boot, but with with a clear modern interpretation.

    Contemporary styling referencing classic sports shoe. Available in two colour ways

    Design inspired by traditional hiking shoes. Limited color choices

    Unintrusive styling. Available in a range of colours – some with vivid colour accents.

    Unintrusive styling. Available in a range of colour options – mostly muted, ‘earthy’ colours.

    Modern hiking shoe

    Modern hiking shoe with oversized sole

    Modern hiking shoe in earthy colors

    Durability

    Very good

    Good

    Medium to high

    High

    Good

    Medium to high

    Good

    High

    High

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Very good

    Good

    Excellent

    Weight (pair)

    800g/1lb 11.2oz (pair)

    833g/1lb 14oz (pair)

    910g/2lb

    861g/1lb.14.8oz

    706g/1lb 9oz (pair)

    940g/2lb 1oz

    642.8g/1lb 7oz (pair)

    1048g/2lb 5oz

    666g/1lb 7oz

    950g/2lb 1.5oz

    1080g/2lb 6oz

    900g/2lb

    790g/1lb 12oz (pair)

    646g/1lb 7oz

    822g/1lb 13oz (pair)

    Insoles

    Padded removable insole

    Padded removable insole

    Removable insoles

    Removable, dual-density EVA footbeds cushion your stride

    Padded removable insole

    Removable insoles

    Padded removable insole

    Removable three-layer cushioned insoles

    Removable insoles

    Removable insoles

    Removable foam insoles

    Removable insoles

    Padded removable insole

    Padded removable insole

    Padded removable insole

    Break-in Period

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Straight away

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Medium

    Minimal

    Meant to be able to wear straight out the box

    Minimal to medium

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Lacing system

    Quick lacing system

    Regular laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Regular laces

    Multizone lacing system allows control over fit

    Regular laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Multizone lacing system allows for precise fit control

    Standard Laces

    Regular laces

    Regular laces

    Regular laces

    Toe Protection

    Reinforced rubber rand on toe

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Hardened rubber toe cap and thin but full boot rand.

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Hardened rubber toe cap and full boot rand.

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Hardened rubber toe cap and rand on front section

    Hardened rubber toe cap and rand on front section

    Reinforced rubber rand at front

    Reinforced rubber cap on toe

    Reinforced rubber rand and toe cap

    Table of Contents

    Analysis and Test Results

    Columbia are a very well-respected brand in the outdoor industry and many hikers will know and trust their products. These shoes offer a well-balanced package of features at a very attractive price point and, as such, we imagine that a lot of hikers and walkers would be happy to add a pair to their equipment collection.  These shoes won’t be suitable for hiking in really cold or wet conditions, but for many they will make a fine pair of two or three season walking shoes that will provide dependable service for a long time to come.

    Performance Comparison

    Traction

    The Facet 75 OutDry shoes feature Columbia’s own rubber sole with a medium-deep thread pattern. Whilst the thread isn’t as deep as on some of the other shoes we’ve assessed, it’s still more than adequate to give good grip an all but the most slippery of surfaces.

    Breathability

    The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry features large panels of ventilated material in their upper section. These shoes are not as well ventilated as some others in this round up – such as the Hoka Anacapa Breeze Low – but they do strike a good balance between breathability and water resistance which will be a very desirable trait for many buyers. 

    Ankle Support

    The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry is a hiking shoe rather than a boot and, as such it doesn’t offer any direct ankle support. Whilst boots are still the preferred option for technical mountaineering, for general hiking, the choice between hiking boots and shoes really comes down to personal preference and many hikers will be happy to forego the additional ankle support offered by boots for the increased movement and lower weight allowed by shoes.  For those who prefer extra ankle support, the Facet 75 OutDry is also offered as a mid-high boot.

    Arch Support

    These shoes come with an insole that offers gentle arch support. Most buyers will be perfectly happy with this, and it’s in line with what most manufacturers offer. However, if you find that you benefit from increased arch support, swapping out the provided insole with a third-party replacement is a great way to fine-tune the fit and comfort of your shoes – for some hikers this can make a world of difference. 

    Fit

    Columbia offers the Facet 75 OutDry in a wider range of sizes, with the men’s version going from US 7/UK 6/EU 40 all the way up to US15/UK 14/EU 48. If a smaller size is needed, the Women’s version of the shoes goes down to a size US 5/UK 3/EU 36. Columbia recommend that their sizing can run on the large size, so if you are between sizes, they advise ordering the smaller size. The shoes are suitable for those with regular to slightly wider width feet.

    Materials

    These shoes – in common with many other modern lightweight hiking shoes and boots – make 100% use of synthetic materials in their construction. Whilst leather was long the favored material in hiking and walking shoes, synthetics are now well-proven and have distinct advantages in terms of weight, breathability and even durability too.

    Appearance

    The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry has a minimal, clean, modern look. The shoes are offered in a rage of different color ways and whilst there are some outwardly bold color combinations offered, they’re all slightly muted so as not to be too garish. The design also makes nice use of contrasting textures in the different materials used.

    Durability

    As mentioned above, the Columbia Facet 75 Outdry is a fully synthetic shoe, and the materials used have a good reputation for durability. There’s no reason to doubt that they won’t deliver many years of wear in typical use.

    Sustainability

    Outwardly, it’s difficult the pinpoint the sustainability credentials of these shoes. Columbia do not make as big a deal about the recycled content of the materials they use when compared to other manufacturers. However, look a little deeper and you’ll discover that Columbia has committed to greatly reducing the amount of water they use in manufacturing, integrating fabrics made from recycled plastic into their products and they also state that their OutDry water resistant membrane is their first such product that does not integrate ‘forever chemical’ PFCs.

    Water Resistance

    Columbia describes these shoes as ‘waterproof’ and the ‘OutDry’ part of this product’s name relates to Columbia’s own in-house waterproof, breathable membrane – effectively, it’s their house-brand alternative to Gore-Tex! Whilst the shoes can’t be said to be fully waterproof – they’d certainly let if water if crossing a shallow stream and submerged for more than a few moments – the OutDry membrane does a good job of keep your feet dry even in heavy rain. This can also be improved by adding a gaiter to increase waterproofing further up the leg. Do remember that in heavy rain, water can soak through your socks even if your shoes are doing a great job of keeping the rain out.

    Weight

    Weighing in at 833g/1lb 14oz for a pair, the Columbia facet 75 OutDry are not the lightest shoes we’ve assessed in this roundup; however they are also far from heavy and we do not think their weight will be an issue to all but the most ultra-lightweight focused hikers and trail runners.

    Insoles

    The Columbia Facet 75 OutDry come with a fairly generic, removable padded insole. We think that most buyers will be perfectly happy with this. However, if you need extra arch support or improved cushioning, swapping out the insole is a great and inexpensive way to fine-tune the fit of your shoes. Replacement insoles are available from drug stores, outdoors shops and even larger grocery stores. 

    Break-in Period

    No shoes can be said to be without a breaking in period – and that’s certainly still the case. However, the days of rigid old walking boots taking days or weeks to bed in are long-gone, and these Columbia Facet 75 shoes will be ready for a long trek after a short period of bedding in: one or two shorter local walks, or wearing them around the house for the day should do the job for most people.  Remember too that your choice of socks can have a large impact on shoe comfort, so wearing these with thicker or more heavily padded socks in the first instance isn’t a bad idea to help with bedding them in.

    Lacing System

    The Columbia Facet 75 Out Dry uses regular laces. That might not seem very exciting, but laces allow an enormous amount of flexibility in terms of adjustment and therefore fine-tuning of fit. Tightening or loosening up the laces at different eyelets is a great way to ease rubbing and pressure points respectively.  Also, the pattern you use to lace your shoes can make a big difference too – we have a guide to this that’s well-worth checking out. 

    Toe Protection

    The sole of these shoes extends up on the front to form a reinforced rubber toe cap. It’s not fully rigid and does not offer the same level of toe protection you’d find on, say, heavy-weight mountaineering boots, but it is par for the course when compared to Columbia’s rivals and will certainly save a few stubbed toes and broken nails should you accidentally kick into a rock or trip on the trail.

    Conclusion

    Columbia are a long-established and well-respected brand in the outdoor industry. They’re known for making dependable, no-nonsense products and these walking shoes fit that bill nicely. They offer a well-balanced package of breathability, water-resistance and comfort in a reasonably priced product – that will surely make them a very attractive proposition to a lot of potential buyers.

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Review

    If you’re looking for a good all round hiking shoe that comes in at a low price point, then check out the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm further – it tested exceptionally well! In fact, we had to question the retail price, though it does have some breathability concerns in warmer weather and is more suited to colder, wetter or spring like weather. 

    Great news: This shoe is also available in a men’s fit.

    Pros / Reasons to Buy

    • Low price point but packed full of features we’d expect to see on a much pricier model
    • Excellent grip and innovative design handles very well on steep ascents and descents

    Cons / Reasons to Avoid

    • Columbia’s Omni-Tech technology is not the most breathable and these shoes can feel very sweaty in warmer conditions
    • Runs small so you may need to buy a bigger size

    See the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm in more detail: 

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our guide to the best hiking shoes, be sure to check out the rest of this guide for our top buying tips:

    We were very impressed with the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm shoes, considering their price point, you really can’t go wrong and if looked after well, should last you a really long time. What we were particularly impressed with was the multi directional design Columbia have used for the lugs. This performed very well on climbs but also on varying terrain – grass, mud, snow and everything in-between. They’re comfortable and fit the foot nicely from front to back – a really good trail shoe that hits a hybrid between a trail runner and traditional hiking shoe.

    Compare to Similar Products: 

    Product

    Danner Womens Trail 2650

    Adidas Terrex Tracerocker 2

    Columbia Women’s Trailstorm

    Hoka Speedgoat 5

    Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex

    Keen Zionic Speed

    Altra Lone Peak 7

    Adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes

    Keen NXIS EVO Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoe

    La Sportiva Spire GTX

    Merrell Moab Speed

    Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof

    On Cloudwander Waterproof

    Merrell Siren Edge 3

    Helly Hansen Women’s Skyhawk Trail Running Shoes

    Danner Trail 2650 3” Hiking Shoes for Women - Durable Suede & Textile Upper with Breathable Mesh Lining, OrthoLite Footbed & Vibram Traction Outsole, Gray/Blue/Spectra Yellow - 6 M

    adidas Men's Terrex Tracerocker 2 Trekking Shoes, Olive Strata Core Black Green Spark, 10.5

    Columbia Women's Trailstorm Waterproof Hiking Boot

    HOKA Women's Running Shoes, Scuba Blue Black, 8.5

    adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes Women's, Grey, Size 9.5

    KEEN Women's Zionic Low Height Waterproof All Terrain Hiking Shoes, Desert Sage/Ember Glow, 5

    ALTRA Women's AL0A7R7G Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe, Light Gray - 5.5 M US

    adidas Women's Terrex AX4 Primegreen Hiking Shoe, Magic Grey/Dash Grey/Acid Red - 5

    KEEN Women's NXIS Evo Low Height Waterproof Fast Packing Hiking Shoes, Sea Moss/Ipanema, 11

    La Sportiva Womens Spire GTX Low Profile Hiking Boot, Clay/Celery, 8.5

    Merrell Women's Flat Sneaker, Black, 5

    Oboz Sawtooth X Low B-Dry Hiking Shoe - Women's Slate - 5 Medium

    ON Womens Cloudwander Waterproof Textile Synthetic Black Eclipse Trainers 8.5 US

    Merrell womens Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe, Rock/Bluestone, 5 US

    Helly-Hansen Skyhawk Trail Running Shoes for Women - Lightweight, Cushioned, High Energy Return, Protective Toe & Heel Caps, 489 Cactus - 8.5F

    Buying Options

    Our Ratings

    Best Overall Women’s

    Best Stylish and Versatile

    Best Budget

    Best Lightweight

    Best for Winter

    Best for Long Distances

    Best for Trail Running

    Pros

    Durable build. Extremely comfortable

    Looks Stylish. Well built

    Exceptionally good hiking shoe for the price point. Clever traction design in the lugs

    Extremely well cushioned and comfortable fit. Deep lugs offer good traction on slippery surfaces

    Well protected and durable. Great traction and feels very grippy

    A great fast and light shoe. Roomy toe box, and comfortable for wider feet

    Roomy toe box. Excellent traction.

    Striking design. Makes use of recycled material

    Light weight. Good environmental credentials

    Light Weight. Ultra breathable

    Lightweight. Iconic Moab fit and comfort

    Durable build. Good water resistance

    Excellent balance of weight and waterproofing. Stiffer design gives a more technical feel

    Very light. Often very reasonably priced

    Very cool design. Very breathable and comfortable

    Cons

    Not the cheapest. We found they didn’t keep our feet warm in wet conditions

    Hikers with wider feet will struggle. Very rigid

    Breathability concerns in warmer temperatures

    Colorways are divisive. lacking in stiffness between outsole and midsole

    Pretty rigid – not the most fast and light shoe on the market, can feel a little big

    Not waterproof. Durability concerns on the sole

    Less durable. Pricey

    Looks may be too much for some. Slightly narrow fit may be unsuitalbe for wider feet.

    May not be best fit for narrower feet. A bit pricey

    Pricey. Some may prefer a more rigid shoe

    Not most supportive. More expensive than the regular Moab

    Heavy. Longer break-in period

    Some may find them too stiff. Can be pricey.

    Not Waterproof. Some durability concerns

    Not Waterproof. Their looks won’t be to all tastes.

    Traction

    Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Medium thread

    Extremely good

    Very good

    Extremely good

    Average

    Full rubber outsole with medium/deep thread pattern

    Continental outsole with medium deep thread depth

    Full rubber outsole with medium thread depth

    Vibram outsole with deep thread pattern

    Vibram outsole with medium/deep thread pattern.

    Very good

    Very good

    Good

    Good

    Breathability

    Perforated suede outer with breathable mesh inner

    Good

    Not so great

    Good

    Good, but Gore-Tex membrane does play in here

    Excellent

    Full mesh upper

    Breathable mesh upper with Core-Tex membrane

    Breathable mesh upper and lining with anti-odor treatment

    Breathable mesh upper with Gore-Tex

    Full mesh upper

    Average

    Good

    Very good

    Exceptionally good

    Ankle Support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal – Low top shoe with minimal ankle support

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Arch support

    Gentle arch support

    Gentle

    Regular

    Regular

    Regular

    Minimal

    Gentle

    Subtle arch support

    Gentle arch support

    Gentle arch support

    Gentle

    Good

    Regular

    Regular

    Regular

    Fit

    Available in medium width and in sizes from US 5/ UK 3.5/ EU 36 up to US 11/ UK 9.5/ EU 44

    Not suited for wider feet. True to size

    Regular

    Standard/slightly wide

    Regular/wide

    Standard/slightly wide

    Roomy and good for wider feet with natural movement. Available in sizes from US 5.5/UK 3.5/EU 36 to US 12/UK 10/EU 44.5

    Available in sizes from US 5/ UK 3.5 /EU 36 up to US 12/ UK 10.5/ EU 45.3

    Iconic Keen fit’ – Wider fit with extra space at forefoot. Available in sizes from US 5/ UK 3.5/ EU 36 up to US 12/ UK 9/ EU 43

    Fits true. Typically suitable for normal to narrow feet. Available in sizes from US 5/ UK 3/EU 36 up to US 11/ UK 9/ EU 42

    Similar to the Moab 3 – but a little more narrow but still suitable for most hikers. Available in sizes from US 5/UK 2.5/EU 35 to US 11.5/UK 9/EU 43

    Normal and wide verisons available

    Standard/slightly narrow

    Normal and wide versions available

    Standard – suitable for wider feet

    Materials

    Suede and synthetic

    50% recycled material. EVA midsole

    Synthetic

    Synthetic

    Synthetic with 50% recycled upper

    Synthetic

    Fully synthetic

    Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane. Adidas claims upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled material

    Fully synthetic with waterproof ‘KEEN.DRY’ membrane

    Fully synthetic with Gore-Tex membrane

    Fully synthetic. Merrell claim these sheos are vegan.

    Synthetic and leather

    Synthetic

    Synthetic

    Synthetic

    Appearance

    Modern design with classic elements and materials. Available in a wide range of colour ways.

    Trail runner/hiker hybrid

    Modern cross between hiking shoe and trail runner

    Trail running shoe

    Modern hiking shoe

    Trail running shoe

    A really nice looking shoe that could work well for multiple purposes such as hiking and trail running – with a variety of striking color designs

    Striking angluar design available in a wide rang eof colour ways

    Distinctive good looks available in multiple colour ways

    Available in multiple colour ways with striking styling, typical of La Sportiva.

    Does something inbetween a hiking shoe and trail runner and comes in a variety of striking colourways

    Modern hiking shoe

    Modern hiking shoe

    Modern hiking shoe

    Modern trail runner

    Durability

    Very high

    High

    Considering the price point, seems durable

    Average

    Rip resistant synethetic finish with durable Continental sole

    Longer term durability concerns

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Medium to high

    Excellent

    Good

    Some durability concerns

    Good

    Weight (pair)

    680g/1lb 08oz

    748g/1.6lb

    500g/1lb 3oz

    460g/1lb

    700g/1lb 7oz

    544g/1lb 2oz

    635g/1lb 4.5oz

    758g/1lb 11oz

    644g/1lb 6oz

    740g/1lb 10oz

    640g/1lb5oz

    800g/1lb 12oz

    640g/1lb 7oz

    560g/1lb 4oz

    N/A

    Insoles

    Removable three-layer cushioned insoles

    Standard insole

    Standard insole

    Standard insole

    Standard insole

    Standard insole

    Removable padded insole

    Removable insoles

    Removable padded insole

    Removable padded insole

    Removable padded insole

    Paded, shaped ‘O FIT’ insole

    Standard insole

    Standard insole

    Standard insole

    Break-in Period

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal break in

    Minimal

    Minimal break in

    Minimal break in

    Very minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Minimal

    Very minimal

    Short break in period

    Short break in period

    Very minimal

    Very minimal

    Lacing system

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Ghillie lacing

    Standard lacing system

    Traditional laces

    Traditional laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Standard laces

    Toe Protection

    Rubeerized, semi-rigid toe cap with rubber rand around front section of shoe

    Rubber toe rand

    Rubber toe rand

    Rubber toe rand

    Rubber toe rand

    Minimal rubber toe rand

    Hard but not solid

    Rubberized, reinforced, but non-rigid toe and front section

    Hard, but not solid, rubber toe cap.

    Non-rigid PU ‘TechLite’ toe cap

    Hardened rubber toe cap

    Reinforced toe

    Rubber toe rand and small toe cap

    Reinforced toe

    Reinforced toe

    Table of Contents

    Analysis and Test Results

    These hiking shoes performed very well on the trail and they felt pretty much comfortable straight out of the box. We initially thought that these were going to be more suitable for lighter trails or extremely well-maintained paths, but we were wrong – they hold themselves really well in a whole range of conditions.

    We felt just as confident with these shoes in alpine as we did in boggy, wet conditions. They handled scrambles well, slippery rocks and loose scree on trails perfectly. For the price, we thought they actually offered more value for money than some of the top competitors on the market and would make a great beginner shoe if you’re new to hiking or simply don’t have the budget to spend on a pricier shoe. We feel you would be spending your money wisely if you decide to buy the Trailstorm and they ranked highly in our best shoes for walking round up.

    Performance Comparison

    Traction

    One of the areas that impressed us the most was the Adapt Trax™ outsole. The directional lugs were extremely helpful when it came to ascending and descending and offered something that felt as grippy as some of the more full-on mountain boots we’ve tested. This is very impressive for such a low price point. We felt confident with very slippery surfaces too – they actually handled really well on a snow descent with some slippery stream rock crossings too.

    Breathability

    One area we did feel was a little bit of a let down on the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm was the breathability. These shoes make use of Columbia’s in house Omni-tech technology, which is similar to Gore-Tex. We feel this may be where the price point becomes a little more obvious. On warmer days, these shoes feel quite sweaty, and you might find them overkill if you’re looking for a hiking shoe for desert hikes or warmer climates. If you can forego this and want a pair of hiking shoes that suits colder temperatures or wetter places, then you will likely be happy to make the trade off, especially if the price point is right for you.

    Ankle Support

    As with pretty much all hiking shoes with a below ankle finish, the support offered around the ankle is fairly minimal. If you need something with better support around the ankle, you would be better looking for a hiking boot, but if you’re happy with the support offered with a hiking shoe, then these shoes offer a similar level of support to a lot of other models on the market.

    Arch Support

    The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm offer a regular amount of support in the arch – this will be suitable for most hikers. Our tester had no concerns at all (and doesn’t have any problems in the arch or back).

    Fit

    Columbia notes that their fit on these hiking shoes runs a little small. With that in mind, we ordered the next size up and we found them to be about right. If you didn’t know that you may have a surprise if they turn up and are too small. If you have a narrow foot, there’s a good chance your actual size will fit you well. However, if your foot is a little wider, you may run into problems, and the back of the shoe may feel too roomy and long for you. However, the Navic Fit System™ and Ghillie lacing offers much more control in terms of the mid foot, so in terms of foot security on the trail, once you’ve found your perfect fit, you will find these shoes very comfortable.

    Materials

    The Trailstorm’s use mesh on the upper, Techlite+™ Foam for the midsole and Adapt Trax™ for the outsole. This means that the entire shoe is constructed of synthetic, durable materials.

    Appearance

    Looks aren’t everything, but one area we found these hiking shoes had a bit of a downside was their appearance. They just weren’t particularly exciting to look at. Of course, this is personal opinion and everyone’s taste in hiking shoes is different, but there are so many interesting designs on the market now that we would have liked to have seen Columbia offer something a little bolder with this shoe.

    Durability

    After testing, we had no real concerns about the durability of these hiking shoes. On close inspection, the seam sealing is incredibly strong and there has been quite a bit of effort put into areas that could traditionally be seen as ‘weak’ points such as the heel, toe and mid. The laces will likely need replacing over time, but that’s an easy change. The only area that may start to look a little tired after repeated use would be the mesh pattern on the upper. Whilst we did test this area’s durability, this could be subject to tears in the right circumstances over time (though this seems unlikely).

    Sustainability

    Columbia don’t make any specific notes about the sustainability credentials of these particular hiking shoes, however due to their well-built nature, you’d likely have these hiking shoes for a long time. This of course helps to avoid buying multiple times.

    Water Resistance

    These hiking shoes are marketed as waterproof and make use of Columbia’s Omni Tech waterproofing technology. This is essentially their in-house version of Gore-Tex. A hiking shoe is never going to be fully waterproof on its own as it can let water in over the top, and if you plan to use them as such, you’ll want to make use of gaiters to give you a strong, waterproof finish. However, these are fine for light snow, light puddles, and rainy days. But we’d avoid big, deep puddles and boggy ground without a stronger system added to these.

    Weight

    The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm has quite an impressive weight at 500g/1lb 3oz. Considering they’re waterproof too, this is actually at the lower end of the scale in terms of the hiking shoes we’ve tested and reviewed. They feel exceptionally light to wear and do not have a ‘clumpy’ or heavy feel – aiding lightness on the trail.

    Insoles

    The Trailstorm hiking shoes come with a fairly standard insole, similar to most off the peg hiking shoes. For most hikers, this will be more than adequate for the majority of uses. However, these hiking shoes can have their insoles swapped out easily if you need for a more specialist or tailored insole for your needs.

    Break-in Period

    The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm have virtually no break-in period. We never like to say that a shoe is good to wear straight away, as you can never trust it fully until you’ve worn it out on the trail on a few test hikes to get a feel for if there are any sore spots or rubbing points you need to know about. However these hiking shoes were good to go extremely quickly and after one test hike, we felt they were ready to take out on the trail with no problems afterwards at all. 

    Lacing System

    These hiking shoes use a ghillie lacing system, which is slightly different to a standard lace. This allows for a really adjustable fit over the whole foot, with tension able to be created easily at the points where you need it. Over time, there could be some sustainability or durability concerns as the lacing system is made with synthetic materials (similar to the laces) rather than traditional eyelets, so these could break. That said, they look extremely well made and robust, so we don’t think this is likely unless you really hammer these shoes around.

    Toe Protection

    A fairly chunky rubberized toe rand is used to protect the feet from any knocks and bumps. We found this to be more than adequate on scrambles, protecting our toes similarly to some of the much pricier options on the market. This shoe gives more than good enough toe protection from most of the conditions you’re likely to need them in. 

    Conclusion

    The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm is a great hiking shoe. For the price, even better. We were repeatedly impressed by its performance against some of the pricier models on the market right now and if this shoe is in your budget, or if you’re new to hiking and want a solid product that is likely to last you a good amount of time, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed with this shoe.

    It packs some pretty impressive tech, and whilst the breathability isn’t the best, for a budget waterproof shoe, used in the right circumstances, we think you’ll be impressed by its performance.

     

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • Can You Bring Make-up on a Plane?

    Make-up is surely high on many people’s packing lists when getting ready for a trip or holiday. So, can make-up be carried on a plane? The short answer is yes, but, as you might expect, there are certain caveats to this. Make-up isn’t a single product, but rather a catch-all term for a wide range of different products that have very different physical forms and ingredients.

    As such, there isn’t really one clear answer when it comes to the question of whether you can take make-up on a plane – it really depends on what sort of make-up you’re talking about!

    The most obvious restrictions on make-up relate to those that come in liquid form – this is obvious enough for things like foundation, lip gloss and mascara, but is not so clear-cut for products like lipstick and compressed powders like eyeshadow. These are clearly not liquids, and whilst security at some airports will not treat them as such, others will and will expect them to be present in your liquids bag if carried in hand luggage. 

    None of this is helpful to the traveler and it can be extremely frustrating when inconsistency in definitions leads to expensive products being confiscated. 

    Table of Contents

    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Make-up in Carry-On Luggage?

    Many make-ups are considered to be liquids and whilst this is fairly obvious with some types of make-up, airport security can be quite ‘elastic’ with this definition which can lead to them confiscating products that really are not liquids at all. Powdered make-up can also arouse suspicion if it’s not totally clear what it is or if you are carrying large quantities of it.

    Will security treat your make-up as a liquid?  Security at many airports will treat items like lipstick and even compressed powder like eyeshadow as liquids. This means they’ll be subject to the same restrictions as other liquids: no containers over 100ml/3.4oz – that won’t be an issue for many items of make-up – and they must also all fit in a single clear plastic bag – that could be an issue if your liquids bag is already full up with other items such as aerosol, toothpaste and sunscreen.

    Is it obvious what your make-up is? This is especially the case with powders. If you have decanted some powder into a small bag, or are travelling with a large amount of powder, it’ll instantly arouse the suspicion of security and it may result in the item being confiscated. 

    So, Can I Bring Make-up on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Yes you can, but to avoid having costly products confiscated, the best course of action is to assume that apart from really obviously solid items like eyeliner pencils and loose dry powder that airport security will treat your make-up as liquids.  So, ensure your make up meets the requirements for liquids in hand luggage: that means no individual containers larger than 100ml/3.4oz and all of your liquid containers must fit in a single, resealable clear plastic bag sized 20x20cm or with a volume of 1l/1quart. Remember that make-up brushes and sponges do not need to go into this bag.

    This can be a frustrating limit for many travelers as it limits the amount of other liquids that may be carried in their hand luggage. However, this overly cautious approach is the best way to ensure you aren’t caught out be inconsistencies in airport security and, especially if you have high-value products, it’s the best way to ensure that they don’t’ wind up in the bin at the security check. 

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Make-up?

    If you’re traveling to the US, the TSA clearly states that bringing makeup in you carry-on baggage needs to fit within the liquids regulations. They make clear information available on the 3-1-1 rules you need to stick by. This essentially means 3.4oz or 100ml and 1 2x20cm clear plastic bag. This has to be sealable, and you are only allowed to bring one per person.

    If you have powder compacts and other powder formulations within your makeup, you can generally keep these in another bag, but you should always make sure you keep them well stored so that they don’t break.  

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Make-up in Hand Luggage?

    Similar to the US, the UK also has restrictions on the liquid elements of your makeup that you’ll need to follow to travel with them in your hand baggage. Liquids must be up to or under 100ml. The containers these are in can’t be any bigger than this and everything that is a liquid needs to be in a clear plastic bag. You are only allowed one per person and ideally, this should be 20x20cm in size.

    This bag must seal and should not be knotted. You will generally have no problem traveling with a powder and they are not subject to the same restrictions, however you should make sure any fragile items are protected during travel.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Make-up?

    As you might expect the guidelines in the EU are similar to those in the US and UK. You need to make sure that no make up that is a liquid that you bring is over 100ml. These all need to be within a clear plastic bag that can be inspected by security and easily go through the scanner. This should be 20x20cm. Powders are generally ok to be kept outside your liquids bag with other products like perfume, but you should make sure they’re well protected for the journey to stop them breaking.

    Anything that is a paste does need to be included in your liquids bag, however.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Make-up?

    As with all countries, in Australia, restrictions apply to carrying makeup in your carry-on baggage. If your make up is a liquid, it must comply with the 100ml limit and be packed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. This is limited to one per customer and needs to be 20x20cm in size. Powders are generally permitted but should be secured to prevent breakage – so you could consider taking your makeup bag for these items.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Make-up?

    The rules in New Zealand are much the same as other areas around the world – if your make up is a liquid, it must be in a container no bigger than 100ml. This must be stored in a clear plastic bag, no bigger than 20x20cm and needs to be sealable. You are only allowed one per customer. If your item is a paste, it is still included in this, similarly to if it is an aerosol. If it is a powder, you are generally ok to not include this in your liquids bag.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Make-up?

    Canada adopts the same policy as most other countries; you are allowed to travel with makeup provided each container is under 100ml and is taken through security screenings in a clear plastic bag no larger than 20x20cm.

    The Rest of the World

    As most countries adopt the rules and regulations around 100ml or less liquids for carry-on baggage, it is important to assume that this applies to anywhere you travel. Whilst some of the rules around liquid sizes are being phased out, this is a marginally small number of places and it is best not to get stuck with different rules in your outbound versus return destination. Though it is advisable to check directly with your airline or country of travel beforehand just to be certain. 

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Make-up?

    The best advice when packing make-up is to assume that airport security may stretch the definition of a liquid which has caught out many travelers over the years, so air on the side of caution if you don’t want your make-up confiscated! Also bear in mind that a make-up spillage can ruin other items in your luggage and potentially destroy electronics, so it’s wise to always pack make-up in something that can contain a spillage.  A knotted plastic bag is a simple, light and effective solution to this problem.  

    What Happens If Your Make-up Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    It’s airport security’s job to be on the lookout for anything they consider suspicious, or which breaks the rules of what can be carried. If your make-up is flagged, it’s likely because something about it doesn’t look right to security. It may be that they simply want loose items of makeup packed into a liquids bag.

    Remember that security has the final say on whether an item is allowed to fly or not so, to minimize the chances of having your products confiscated and to avoid potential delays to yourself and other travelers at security, it’s always a good move to ere on the side of caution when packing your make-up in hand luggage and assume that most items will be treated like liquids by security.

    How to Pack Make-up in Your Luggage

    Make-up is generally very easy to pack. With hand luggage, the key concern is that you are in compliance with liquid quantity restrictions and in hold luggage, the concern is that you pack to minimize any problems cause by accidental spillage. 

    Packing Make-up in Carry-On Luggage

    You should assume that security will treat most of your make-up like liquids and as such, it will need to be in containers no larger than 100ml/3.4oz and all your makeup and other liquids will need to be placed in a single, resealable plastic bag measuring 20x20cm or having a capacity of no more than 1l/1quart. Make-up brushes, sponges and items like eyeliner pencils do not need to go in the liquid bag. Also use common sense with powders: if you decant fine powder into a smaller bag, this can look very suspicious to security!

    Packing Make-up in Hold Luggage

    Makeup stored in hold luggage is not subject to the same restrictions as make-up in hand luggage.  However, it’s worth bearing in mind that a make-up spillage can damage or ruin clothing or electronic equipment in your luggage. With this in mind, it’s worth packing makeup in a sealed bag – either a dedicated makeup case or simply a knotted plastic bag – to contain nay spills.  Remember that checked hold luggage can be subjected to knocks and bumps during handling, so it’s wise to pack fragile plastic make-up cases in the center of your bag surrounded by clothes to help absorb any shocks and bumps. 

    Conclusion

    Generally speaking, it’s fine to travel by air with makeup. Airlines and security do not usually have a problem carrying it and countless travelers transport make-up by air every day.  However, problems can crop up when airport security classifies solid make-up as liquid – and this unfortunately happens regularly. With this in mind, it’s always a smart move to be cautious when packing your make-up and assume that security will treat all but the most obviously solid items as if they are liquids.  This is frustrating for sure, but it’s the best way to ensure your products don’t wind up in a bin at the security gate. 

  • Can You Bring Aerosol on a Plane?

    Aerosols are a common and convenient way of packaging and dispensing liquids and are often used in makeup and toiletry products including hairspray, and some types of sunscreen.

    Aerosols are also used in a range of non-cosmetic products such as spray-paint, mechanical lubricant and certain types of food products like aerosol cream.

    Aerosols make use of compressed gas and are often labelled as ‘Highly Flammable’. Given that there are restrictions about carrying compressed gas on flights and the very fact that they are labelled as a fire hazard, it’s understandable that travelers may be cautious about packing aerosols.

    The good news is that aerosols that are considered as cosmetics or toiletries are allowed on planes as are any aerosols that are specifically labelled as ‘Non-Flammable’ (that includes edible aerosol cream!) – though airlines do treat these products as liquids, so they will be subject to liquid restrictions in hand luggage.

    However, it isn’t all good news, and non-cosmetic, flammable aerosols, including spray paint, mechanical spray lubricants, WD-40 and aerosol cooking oil are forbidden on planes.

    Insect repellents/bug sprays often also use aerosols and there can be special requirements associated with these if they contain hazardous chemicals.

    Aerosols are also used in various defensive weapons such as pepper spray or Mace and bear spray and these are generally not permitted on aircraft at all.

    One notable exception is that America’s FAA does permit small canisters of Mace to be carried in hold luggage – though individual carriers can override this and if you’re travelling internationally from the USA, carrying a spray like this could land you in very serious trouble at your destination.

    Table of Contents

    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Aerosol in Carry-On Luggage?

    Aerosols are generally very safe: The technology has been used in consumer products for close to a hundred years. However, the fact remains that aerosols make use of compressed gas and are also typically highly flammable.

    With this in mind, there are several reasons why you might not be allowed to board a flight with an aerosol in your hand luggage:

    Damaged aerosols present a real explosive or fire hazard. If an aerosol can is visibly damaged – if it’s dented or if the nozzle is broken – then airport security could very reasonably say that it presents an unacceptable risk or exploding or catching fire.

    Non-cosmetic aerosols are not permitted on flights. If you are carrying an aerosol that isn’t considered a cosmetic or toiletry item, then it will not be allowed to fly. Examples of cosmetic aerosol products include hairspray, shaving cream or aerosol sunscreen.

    Aerosols are subject to liquid quantity limits in hand luggage. Airport security treats aerosols as liquids, so they are subject to the same hand luggage restrictions as other liquids, meaning that you cannot carry a single aerosol container greater than 100ml/3.4oz in your hand luggage. 

    So, Can I Bring Aerosol on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    The short answer is yes, provided it’s an aerosol that can be considered a cosmetic or toiletry item such as hairspray, shaving cream or aerosol sunscreen and also provided that it complies with liquid quantity restrictions – so no single aerosol container can exceed 100ml/3.4oz in capacity and it must also fit along with your other liquids in a single clear resealable plastic bag measuring 20x20cm or having a volume not exceeding 1l/1 quart. 

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Aerosol?

    America’s TSA and FAA have extensive guidance on carrying aerosols. Generally, cosmetic or toiletry aerosols are fine to carry in either hand or hold luggage, though they are subject to quantity limits in hand luggage – no single container can be above 100ml/3.4oz.

    Aerosol insect repellents must be carried in hold luggage and cannot be labelled as ‘HAZMAT’ and non-cosmetic aerosols are generally not permitted at all, though, perhaps oddly, the TSA makes an exception for small cans of self-defense spray carried in hold luggage – bear in mind that these self-defense sprays are illegal in a lot of the world and bringing one out of the USA could land you in serious trouble! Non-flammable aerosols of any kind are allowed. There are quantity limits for aerosols – even in hold luggage.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Aerosols in Hand Luggage?

    The UK’s CAA has the following regulations on aerosols: Cosmetic or toiletry aerosols and any non-flammable aerosols are allowed in either hand or hold luggage, though those in hand luggage are limited to containers sized 100ml/3.4oz or below.

    There’s an upper limit of 2l/70oz per passenger for aerosols carried in hold luggage.  Flammable non cosmetic aerosols such as spray paint are not permitted to fly.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Aerosols?

    The EU’s guidance on aerosols is in line with the UK and America’s: Aerosols in hand luggage are limited to 100ml/3.4oz per container. Flammable, non-cosmetic aerosols are not permitted.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Aerosols?

    Australia’s guidance on aerosols is in alignment with the rest of the world. Cosmetic and non-flammable aerosols may be carried and are subject to the 100ml/3.4oz per container limit if carried in hand luggage. 

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Aerosol?

    New Zealand has very clear restrictions on which types of aerosols may be carried – essentially, you are limited to medical, cosmetic and non-flammable aerosols and they helpfully define cosmetic aerosols as products intended to be applied directly to the skin or hair.  

    Those carried in hand luggage are subject to the 100ml/3.4oz per container limit and there is an upper size limit of 500ml per container and 2l in total per passenger for aerosols in checked luggage. 

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Aerosol?

    The Canadian restrictions on aerosols are in line with the rest of the world: cosmetic aerosols may be carried and are subject to liquid limits of 100ml/3.4oz if carried in hand luggage. Non-cosmetic flammable aerosols are generally not permitted. 

    The Rest of the World

    Exact restrictions vary from country to country and from airline to airline, but by and large, restrictions on aerosols follow the same pattern around the world: provided the aerosol product can be classed as a cosmetic or toiletry, then it’s fine to carry it. The same goes for non-flammable aerosols.  Flammable, non-cosmetic aerosols are not permitted.  

    There is often a (generous!) allowance for the maximum number of aerosols each passenger can carry in their checked luggage.  Note that there is some variance in these restrictions – for example, Emirates officially only allows aerosols to be carried in checked hold luggage and not in carry-on. It’s always worth checking with your specific carrier to see if they have specific restrictions.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Aerosol?

    Generally cosmetic or toiletry products that use aerosols are fine to fly with. That includes things like hairspray, shaving cream and aerosol sunscreen. It’s usually fine to carry these products in either your cabin or hold luggage, but if you do carry them in your hand luggage, remember that they will be subject to liquid quantity restrictions – so, no individual containers above 100ml/3.4oz. It’s also important to ensure that any aerosols you have are secured against accidental discharge – so make sure the cap is on the can!

    Non-cosmetic and non-flammable aerosols – such as edible aerosol whipped cream and certain electronic cleaning sprays – are also fine to carry, though they’ll also be subject to liquid quantity restrictions if you plan to carry them in your hand luggage and for certain products that simply aren’t available in these relatively small packaging sizes, this might make them impossible to carry in hand luggage. 

    Non-cosmetic, flammable aerosols – that includes things like spray paint and WD-40 spray – are generally not permitted on aircraft at all.

    What Happens If Your Aerosol Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    It’s generally fine to carry cosmetic or toiletry aerosols in your luggage, however there are none the less various reasons why security may flag your aerosols. First of all, they may want to double check that an aerosol is the type permitted for travel. They may also want to physically inspect the can for damage or to see if its cap is present – both of these are grounds for security to confiscate an aerosol.

    Airport security has the final say on whether an item is allowed to travel, and they have a legal right to confiscate items they consider unsafe.  If they do flag an aerosol in your luggage, it can lead to extra security checks and delays not just for you but also for other passengers too so it’s always best to ensure you are as compliant as you can be with regulations before you travel.

    How to Pack Aerosol in Your Luggage

    First of all, check the types of aerosols you are planning to carry. Anything that isn’t a cosmetic or toiletry product and is also marked with a flammable warning is not permitted on aircraft – so don’t pack it!

    Ensure that your aerosol cans are not damaged and have their caps on to prevent the spray form being activated if they get knocked in transit.  It’s also worth placing aerosols in a plastic bag or similar, to contain any spillage should they leak or get activated during travel.

    Packing Aerosol in Carry-On Luggage

    Aerosols carried in hand luggage are subject to liquid quantity restrictions.  This means that no individual aerosol can exceed 100ml/3.4oz. As you can’t really decant aerosols into smaller containers, that means you’ll be limited to carrying travel-sized miniatures.

    Be sure that any aerosols you carry are undamaged – no dents or deep scratches in the cans and that the nozzles are intact – and that they all have their caps on. Any aerosols you carry in hand luggage must fit alongside any other liquids in a single clear plastic, resealable bag. 

    Packing Aerosol in Hold Luggage

    Checked hold luggage can be knocked and bashed around during handing, so it’s wise to pack aerosols in the center of your luggage, surrounded by clothing to provide padding – this will help prevent the cans from getting damaged should your bag receive a sharp knock.

    It’s wise to ensure that any aerosol cans have their caps fitted to prevent the spray from being accidentally triggered and it’s also a smart move to place aerosol cans in a knotted plastic bag to contain any leaks that might occur. 

    What Are the Different Types of Aerosols?

    Aerosols are a convenient way of dispensing products that use high pressure gas to turn a liquid into a directional mist (as is the case with hairspray or spray paint) or to produce a foam (such as with shaving cream or aerosol edible whipped cream).

    They are widely used in many different types of products. Most aerosols make use of highly flammable gas – like butane – though some – notably edible products – use non-flammable gas like nitrogen or carbon dioxide. 

    From the point of view of the traveler and airport security, the key types of aerosol are cosmetic and non-cosmetic and flammable and non-flammable. 

    The only flammable aerosols you are generally allowed to carry by air are those that can be considered cosmetic or toiletry products and the only non-cosmetic aerosols you can carry are generally those that are non-flammable.

    There are some special exceptions to this: For example, aerosol bug spray or insect repellant could reasonably be considered a toiletry item, but it can sometimes contain other hazardous substances that mean certain brands cannot be carried on a plane or are limited to checked hold baggage.

    Conclusion

    Aerosols are used in a wide range of products and as such, there are often more than one set of restrictions that dictate whether they can be taken on a plane.

    For most travelers, though, the question is whether they can bring cosmetic or toiletry aerosols with them – that might include things like hair spray or mousse, shaving cream and aerosol sunscreen. 

    The good news is that these products are absolutely fine to fly with, though, if you choose to carry them in your hand luggage, they will be subject to liquid quantity restrictions – which basically means you’ll need to use specific travel-sized products as decanting an aerosol into a smaller container is not a realistic option.

    One potential grey area is with aerosol insect repellants or bug sprays. These can reasonably be classed as toiletry products, but it’s worth bearing in mind that they can also contain hazardous substances that are restricted for air travel. The restrictions can vary from product to product, so it’s worth researching the specific product if you wish to carry them. 

  • Can You Bring Sunscreen on a Plane?

    Sunscreen or sunblock is an absolutely essential item to pack for many trips abroad – even if you’re not going somewhere that’s particularly sunny.

    However, sunscreen is a liquid and if you’ve travelled by air anytime since 2006, you’ll be well-aware that there is a strictly enforced size limit of 100ml (3.4oz) on containers of liquid carried in hand luggage.

    This limit came about after UK authorities uncovered a terrorist plot to down Trans-Atlantic flights using explosives smuggled onboard disguised as drinks.

    This threat was deemed credible enough to introduce a global restriction on the size of containers of liquid that could be carried in hand luggage and it’s a rule that even regular travelers fall foul of. 

    The good news is that close to twenty years after the introduction of this restriction, improvements in security screening technology mean the days of the 100ml liquid limit are numbered and several airports around the world have already dropped it.

    However, air travelers are still likely to encounter this limit for the foreseeable future and it will absolutely impact how we can pack and carry sunscreen.

    Table of Contents

    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Sunscreen in Carry-On Luggage?

    On the surface of it, there’s no reason why you can’t take sunscreen in your carry-on luggage. Airlines have no problem with you carrying it, however, as sunscreen is classed as a liquid, there are various strictly enforced restrictions about carrying it in your hand luggage:

    You are carrying more than 100ml/3.4oz of it in a single container. This restriction is obvious enough: No single container of liquid carried in hand luggage is allowed to be larger than 100ml/3.4oz. If you carry a larger bottle, it will almost certainly be confiscated.

    The bottle is physically too large to fit in your liquids bag. All liquids carried in hand luggage must also fit in a small (no larger than 20x20cm and with a volume under 1l/1 quart), resealable clear plastic bag. If the bottle is physically too large to fit in the bag – or if other liquid containers in the bag mean you can’t close the bag – then your sunscreen may be confiscated by security.

    So, Can I Bring Sunscreen on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Yes, you absolutely can! Provided, that is, that you don’t carry more than 100ml/3.4oz of it in a single container and that this container fits – alongside any other liquids, gels and pastes you’re carrying – into a single clear plastic bag not exceeding 20x20cm or a capacity of 1l/1 quart.

    100ml of sunscreen isn’t very much – especially if you’re travelling somewhere sunny – so bear in mind that a larger bottle can be decanted into several smaller bottles provided they all still fit into the same clear plastic bag. Remember that you can bring full-sized bottles of sunscreen in your checked hold luggage.    

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Sunscreen?

    America’s TSA have clear guidance on travelling with sunscreen. In hand luggage, you’re limited to containers sized 100ml or 3.4oz or below. In checked luggage, you can carry any single bottle of liquid up to 500ml/17oz and the total liquids you can carry must not exceed 2l/68oz.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Sunscreen in Hand Luggage?

    The UK is actively phasing out the 100ml liquid restriction for hand luggage and it’s anticipated that more and more UK airports will drop this requirement as security scanning equipment is upgraded. However, at the time of writing, most UK airports still require liquids in hand luggage to be in containers no larger than 100ml.  

    The UK government do not publish specific restrictions on liquids in checked luggage, but it’s worth checking with your carrier to see fi they have any specific restrictions – especially if you anticipate carrying a lot of liquids.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Sunscreen?

    The EU follows the same guidance as the UK and USA with regards to sunscreen in hand luggage: it’s considered a liquid so cannot be transported in containers over 100ml/3.4oz. 

    In common with the UK, EU airports are starting to phase out the 100ml limit as new scanning equipment is introduced, but at the time of writing, these airports are a minority.

    Full-sized bottles are permitted in hold luggage and there are no specific guidelines on the maximum amount of liquids you can carry – so it would be wise to check with your airline if you plan to carry large amounts.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Sunscreen?

    The Australian Government’s guidelines classify sunscreen as a liquid and their guidelines for international flights are in line with the rest of the world for hand luggage: containers over 100ml are not permitted and they must fit into a bag with combined dimensions not exceeding 80cm.

    There are no explicit quantity limits on liquids in checked luggage.  Domestic flights are not subject to any restrictions unless traveling from an international terminal such as in Sydney or Melbourne. 

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Sunscreen?

    New Zealand’s guidelines class sunscreen as a liquid and, in common with the rest of the world, these are limited to containers of 100ml/3.4oz r less which must be presented for security inspection in a clear, resealable plastic bag measuring 20x20cm or less. Larger containers can go in checked hold luggage. 

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Sunscreen?

    The Canadian guidelines on traveling with sunscreen are short and to the point: bottle of 100ml/3.4oz or below are permitted in cabin luggage and anything larger must go in checked hold luggage. 

    The Rest of the World

    The restrictions on liquids in hand luggage came into effect following the discovery of a terrorist plot to hide explosives in liquids in 2006. 

    The restrictions on liquid quantities in hand luggage were globally adopted and, whilst they can be frustrating, it makes them easy to follow: Basically, in hand luggage, liquids including sunscreen cannot be carried in containers larger than 100ml/3.4oz. in turn, these containers must fit in a single 20x20cm/1-quart resealable, clear plastic bag. 

    Larger containers of sunscreen can generally be carried in checked hold luggage without problems. As always, it’s smart to do your research before you travel and check if your carrier or the country you plan to travel to has any specific restrictions. 

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Sunscreen?

    It’s perfectly OK to travel with sunscreen. The only limitations come into play because it’s a liquid and therefore subject to liquid restrictions applicable to hand luggage.

    With this in mind, if you have checked hold luggage booked for your flight, it makes sense to pack your sunscreen in here (along with any other full-sized toiletries you may have), where there are no size restrictions.

    If you plan to do this, it makes sense to ensure that your sunscreen is packed in something that can help contain any leaks if the packaging opens or is ruptured during transit – a knotted plastic bag is a great solution here.

    If you are only travelling with hand luggage, then make sure that you meet the carry-on liquid requirements of one 20x20cm/1 quart  clear bag containing no single bottle above 100ml/3.4oz.

    Airport security strictly enforce these limits, though, so do remember that. You can decant a larger bottle of sunscreen into several 100ml or smaller bottles.

    What Happens If Your Sunscreen Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    Your sunscreen is most likely to be flagged by airport security if it’s in your hand luggage either in a container greater than 100ml or not in the clear plastic liquid bag. It’s not uncommon to see travelers who’ve accidentally left full-sized bottles of sunscreen in their day bag which they then use as their carry-on bag. 

    If sunscreen is flagged by airport security, the simplest solution may be to abandon it: it’s unlikely you’ll be able to decant a larger container into smaller ones at the security gate and airport staff have the final say and a legal responsibility to enforce liquid limits. 

    It’s far less likely that sunscreen in your checked luggage will be flagged, but this may happen if a container leaks and this subsequently spills out of your luggage.

    Having your luggage flagged can cause delays to both you and other travelers, so it’s always best to do what you can to minimize the chances of this happening in the first place. 

    How to Pack Sunscreen in Your Luggage

    Sunscreen is essentially a safe substance to travel with. However, if it spills, it can stain clothes and luggage and damage electronic equipment.  Cabin pressure changes during air travel can also cause containers to pop open so it’s a smart choice to pack sunscreen and other liquids, gels and pasts like toothpaste, perfume and makeup in something that can contain a potential spill – a knotted plastic bag is a low tech but also very effective solution here!

    Packing Sunscreen in Carry-On Luggage

    The key point to remember when packing sunscreen in hand luggage is that you are aware of carry-on liquid allowances.  These are simple: no single container of liquid can exceed 100ml/3.4oz and all of your liquids must fit into a single, clear resealable plastic bag no larger than 20x20cm/1 quart.

    Remember that the size limit relates to the container and not the volume of liquid it contains – so a quarter-full 200ml bottle of sunscreen will not be permitted in hand luggage. 

    The good news is that new security screening methods mean that the 100ml hand luggage liquid limit is being phased out, however, there are still more airports that enforce than not, and just because, say, the airport you use on the outbound leg of your journey has dropped the requirement, it doesn’t mean that the airport you use on the return leg of your journey or that you might transfer through will have done so too – so, for now, it’s good to assume the limit will be in place. 

    Packing Sunscreen in Hold Luggage

    Generally, you’re free to pack full-sized bottles of sunscreen in your hold luggage and this is by and large the best way to transport it.  In some territories, there are restrictions on the total amount of liquids you can carry in your checked luggage, but these limits are usually high and won’t impact someone travelling with a few full-sized toiletries including sunscreen.

    Remember that hold luggage is subject to knocks and jolts during transit and changes in cabin pressure during flights can also cause bottles to pop open. A sunscreen spillage can ruin clothing and electronics, so it’s always smart to pack sunscreen – along with any other liquid toiletries – in something that can contain a leak if it happens. A toiletries bag with a zipper or even just a knotted plastic bag is all you need here and can save some real hassle if a leak occurs. 

    If you head out on holiday with a full bottle of sunscreen and return with it mostly empty, remember that the hand-luggage liquid size limit relates to the container size and not the volume of product inside, so if the bottle is over 100ml/3.4oz, it can’t go in hand luggage, regardless of how little actual product it contains!

    What Are the Different Types of Sunscreen?

    Whilst most people think of the different SPF values as the main differentiating factors for sunblock, we should also consider the different ways it can be packaged. Sunscreen is available as a gloopy paste or cream; a liquid that sprays on and in a solid form for application to lips. Whilst these are all different – and in the case of the solid form, push the boundaries of what can be considered a liquid – airline security will consider all types to be liquid. 

    Conclusion

    Sunscreen or sunblock is an essential item on many traveler’s packing lists. Airlines generally have no problem carrying it – it’s as safe as any cosmetic or toiletry after all.

    However, since the discovery in 2006 of a terrorist plot to smuggle explosives onto aircraft disguised as liquids, the quantities of sunscreen and other liquids you can carry in hand luggage have been restricted globally – and this is one restriction that airport security do strictly enforce. 

    Whilst new scanning technology at airport security gates means that this liquid limit will eventually be phased out (and indeed this is starting to happen already at certain airports in the UK and EU), we will likely still have to live with this restriction for many years to come.

    Until then, remember that sunscreen of all types is considered a liquid by airport security and must be limited to containers of 100ml/3.4oz or below and placed in your liquid bag if you are carrying it in your hand luggage.

    No such limits apply to checked luggage (though some territories – notably the USA – do place a high maximum limit on the amount of liquids you can carry), and in many cases, securely packing sunscreen in your hold luggage (wrapped up to minimize any damage that can be caused by spills, of course!) is by far the best option. 

  • Can You Bring Portable Chargers on a Plane?

    Portable Chargers, or Power Banks are undoubtedly a useful accessory. They are a great way to keep your phone, tablet or laptop charged on a long journey, so it’s no wonder they are high on many traveler’s holiday packing lists. 

    Ultimately, a portable charger is a big battery with a few charging ports – usually USB ports – built in, and as such they are subject to the same restrictions airlines have regarding carrying batteries on board. 

    Most portable chargers make use of lithium batteries. Whilst lithium batteries make high-capacity, relatively small and lightweight portable chargers possible, they are also subject to the strictest regulations in terms of air travel, similar to electric toothbrushes.

    This is because damaged or overheating lithium batteries can present a very real fire hazard and after several well publicized cases in recent years, airlines are understandably keen to impose extra safety checks.

    The good news is that the overwhelming majority of consumer level portable chargers are absolutely fine to carry on aircraft, though you may be required to bring them in hand luggage and there may also be restrictions on their use during flights. 

    Only the very largest portable chargers exceed the limits of what’s allowable on planes. 

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Portable Chargers in Carry-On Luggage?

    Portable chargers and lithium batteries are usually built around mature, well-proven and safe technology. However, airlines apply restrictions to lithium batteries for a number of reasons:

    • Lithium batteries can be a fire hazard. Damaged lithium batteries can present a very real fire hazard and there have been cases of lithium battery fires causing flights to be diverted and grounded.
    • Lithium battery fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish. Lithium battery fires generate their own oxygen (one of the sides of the fire triangle that’s often targeted when fighting fires) and can flare up again even when they seem to have been safely extinguished. Battling a lithium fire in a confined aircraft is especially difficult. 
    • Terrorist groups have disguised explosives as batteries. In the past, terrorists have disguised explosives as battery packs to smuggle them onto planes.

    So, Can I Bring Portable Chargers on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    This depends on the capacity of your portable charger – measured in Watt-hours (Wh) and typically printed on the case of the charger. Chargers below 100Wh are almost always fine to carry.

    Chargers rated between 100-160Wh may require advanced approval from the airline and you may also be limited to the number of chargers you can carry (the limits are usually two per passenger). Chargers above 160Wh are generally not allowed on commercial flights. 

    The good news is that the capacity of the vast majority of portable chargers falls well below the 100Wh threshold. Whilst it is possible to get portable chargers that exceed the airline limit of 160Wh, these tend to be physically very large and heavy units – not what you’d normally carry in your bag to keep your phone or tablet charged!

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Portable Chargers?

    America’s TSA has extensive guidelines on battery-powered devices, including portable chargers. Portable chargers containing smaller lithium batteries are OK to carry either in checked or hold luggage.

    Restrictions do apply to portable chargers containing very high-capacity lithium batteries (those over 100 Wh) which are limited to carry-on luggage only and also subject to a limit of two per passenger.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Portable Chargers in Hand Luggage?

    The UK’s gov.uk website has broadly similar guidelines on portable chargers to America’s TSA. The gov.uk website also usefully details how to calculate the Watt-hour value of your battery if it’s not printed on it.

    The lithium batteries in most portable chargers are fine to carry in either checked or hand luggage. Restrictions come into play with chargers based on very high-capacity lithium batteries – those over 100 Watt-hour – which must be carried in hand luggage and are limited to two per passenger. 

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Portable Chargers?

    The EU/EASA’s has extensive guidance on devices such as portable chargers that contain lithium batteries and their regulations are in line with those of the USA and UK.

    Devices built around smaller batteries are fine to carry, but devices containing very high-capacity lithium batteries – those over 100 Watt-hour – are limited to carry-on luggage only and limited to two per passenger.

    Portable chargers containing lithium batteries of 160 Watt-hour and above are not permitted on flights in the EU. The EU guidance recommends that all devices powered by lithium batteries should be carried in hand luggage, though this is not legally required.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Portable Chargers?

    The Australian CASA guidelines closely follow those issued by Europe, America and the UK.  Power banks containing low-capacity lithium batteries can go in hold luggage but portable chargers containing higher-capacity lithium are required to be packed in hand luggage.

    CASA has a Dangerous Goods web app which allows you to search different types of equipment including portable chargers to learn about any specific restrictions that apply.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Portable Chargers?

    New Zealand has stricter regulations on carrying battery than other countries. Portable chargers are not permitted in hold luggage and there are restrictions on carrying devices with higher-capacity batteries too. 

    The New Zealand Government’s website has thorough information on the subject and this is well worth researching if you intend to travel to or through New Zealand. 

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Portable Chargers?

    Canada’s guidelines on carrying battery powered devices – including portable chargers – fall mostly in line with those of America, Europe and the UK.

    The Canadian government site also clearly states that individual airlines may enforce stricter guidelines on what may be carried – so it’s always good to check with your carrier too.

    The Rest of the World

    The guidelines for portable chargers issued by other countries and global carriers broadly fall into line with what’s been discussed above. 

    However, the details can differ, so it’s always worth researching to see if there are any specific restrictions relevant to journey you plan to take before you travel.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Portable Chargers?

    Most small and medium portable chargers are absolutely fine to travel with. It’s generally best practice to carry them in hand luggage – though in many cases, they can also go in your hold luggage too.

    Before travelling, ensure your portable charger is not physically damaged and that any text on the unit that states its capacity (either in watt hours or voltage and milliamp hours) is legible – these will be the key things that security will check if your portable charger is flagged. 

    Remember that whilst you are generally not permitted to used portable chargers during a flight, like all battery-powered devices, you should travel with them charged up enough to be able to switch them on and show that they are working safely and correctly if requested to do so by airport security.

    If a device is deemed unfit to fly and confiscated by security, there’s little you can do – though it is worth seeing what can be done about retrieving the device – it might be possible to have it forwarded to your home address at a cost.  

    What Happens If Your Portable Chargers Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    Airport security has the final say on whether an item is allowed to fly or not. It’s their job to investigate any items that seem suspicious, or which appear unsafe.  Portable chargers contain batteries, and especially with larger units, security may want to take a closer look.

    If security flags your charger, they may want to check its condition, capacity and correct function, so, before you travel, it’s important to check that your portable charger is undamaged – and that includes any wear that can make the printed capacity of the unit illegible – and that it has sufficient charge to power on and be seen to be working.

    If you are carrying several portable chargers, or a larger than usual unit (even if you know it’s permitted to travel), be aware that security may flag your baggage. This can result in delays at security so, if you think your items may be flagged, it’s best to allow extra time to clear security when checking in. 

    How to Pack Portable Chargers in Your Luggage

    Whilst you’ll generally have no problems travelling with portable chargers or power banks, it’s worth remembering that airlines do have rules and restrictions about carrying lithium batteries and it’s important to follow these if you want to avoid delays at security or having your equipment confiscated. 

    Even if your portable charger does not contain lithium batteries, airport security will likely assume it does as this battery type is used in many power banks. 

    Remember that whilst many airlines will not allow you to use portable chargers or power banks during a flight, airport security may ask you to power up a device to prove that it is functioning correctly and safely before they clear it, so always ensure that your portable charger is at least partially charged and able to power on before travelling.

    Packing Portable Chargers in Carry-On Luggage

    Hand luggage is generally the best way to transport portable chargers as the least number of restrictions relating to lithium batteries apply here. 

    Check the capacity of your portable charger – this should be printed on the device – those below 100Wh are generally subject to no restrictions whilst those between 100Wh and 160Wh will likely need permission from the airline to carry.

    Portable chargers that are visibly damaged are likely to be confiscated as damaged batteries pose the highest safety risk. If the printed text stating the charger’s capacity has rubbed or worn off, this can be considered damage too – airport security may want to see this as proof of the charger’s capacity. 

    Be sure that the charger is switched off during transit – most airlines do not allow portable chargers to be used during flights – but it should also be sufficiently charged to be able to be switched on and demonstrated to be working correctly if requested by security.

    Packing Portable Chargers in Hold Luggage

    In many cases, it is possible to transport portable chargers in hold luggage, though it’s worth noting that some airlines and countries have prohibited carriage of all lithium batteries in hold luggage, which will impact portable chargers as the vast majority of these devices contain lithium batteries. 

    Check your airline’s restrictions to see if they will impact the devices you wish to travel with. In broad terms, power banks with capacities below 100Wh are fine to carry in hold luggage.

    Devices should be powered off (but also sufficiently charged that you can show they are functioning correctly if requested by security). They should also be packed in such a way to minimize any chance of them powering on accidentally.

    What Are the Different Types of Portable Chargers?

    A portable charger is basically just a battery – almost always a high-capacity rechargeable lithium battery – in an enclosure with some ports for powering and charging devices – almost always USB ports, but sometimes also DC out ports or even domestic wall-sockets that provide AC current.

    The different types of portable charger really just relate to the size or capacity of the battery which in turn relates directly to the physical size of the unit. At one end of the scale, a small charger might have one or two USB ports, easily fit in a coat pocket or small bag or purse and contain a battery that can recharge your phone once or twice. 

    At the other end of the scale, there are much larger units intended for car or RV-based camping trips, construction site work or for providing emergency home power during blackouts.

    These units can be massive and heavy and aren’t really portable in the sense that they can easily be carried by a single person, but will often also feature wall sockets for powering domestic appliances or tools – these units are generally too heavy for cabin luggage and will typically also have batteries of too-high capacity (above 160Wh) to be permitted on planes. 

    In between, there are mid-size units, broadly lunchbox sized and weighing under a kilo or a few pounds that can recharge a laptop or tablet several times, or keep your camera batteries charged on location. Some portable chargers can be connected to solar panels making them a great accessory for camping trips. 

    Conclusion

    Portable chargers are very useful devices and particularly so for travelers: whilst their use is generally not permitted during flights, they are a great way to keep your battery-powered devices running on long travel days at airport terminals or on long bus or rail transfers.  However, portable chargers are ultimately just batteries and more specifically, mostly lithium batteries.

    Following a spate of well-publicized incidents with lithium batteries catching fire during flights, there are, understandably, restrictions in place on their carriage on flights. The restrictions may seem complex and it doesn’t help that they vary slightly from country to country and from airline to airline, but the good news for most travelers is that the small and medium sized consumer-level portable chargers most people use are still absolutely fine to travel with.

    As always, it’s worth doing your homework on any restrictions the country you’re travelling to or the carrier you’re flying with may have, but by and large, you’re good to go with the overwhelming majority of these devices.  

  • Can You Bring Perfume on a Plane?

    If you’re going on holiday or traveling and know you’ll be going out for special occasions, you want to feel nice, and for many people, that includes bringing their favorite perfume with them.

    However, people are generally unsure of how to pack perfume, especially if you are only traveling with hand luggage. There are strict rules around bringing perfume on a plane, as it is a liquid and will generally need to fit within your liquids allowance.

    Whilst each country has a fairly similar rule around liquids, there can be differences from place to place. It’s also worth noting that if you do decide to buy perfume at duty free, as many do, that if you are catching a connecting flight, you may have to rescan your bag. If the perfume you’ve purchased is over 100ml and not in a clear, sealed plastic bag, you may be denied entry with it.

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Perfume in Carry-On Luggage?

    Whilst perfume is a fairly obvious, day to day item you would want to take in your luggage, if you get it wrong, there can be various reasons why you would be denied through security with it.

    The bottle is larger than your liquids allowance. A lot of perfumes will naturally fall under the generally observed 100ml liquids allowance, however if you have a particularly large bottle of perfume or are using a body mist as opposed to a perfume, you may find that this is actually over 100ml, so it’s always worth checking this before you fly to make sure.

    It doesn’t fit in your liquids bag. Similar to aerosols, toothpaste and make up, any liquid that you take with you in your hand luggage needs to fit within your liquids bag allowance. This is generally one 20x20cm plastic, sealable bag per person. If all of your liquids do not fit within this bag, and it can’t be sealed, then you will not be allowed to travel with your perfume.

    They can be hazardous. Whilst perfumes aren’t usually considered a hazardous substance, they can be dangerous when traveling on a plane as they are classed as flammable. Because of this, you will likely find (depending on country of departure) that you are only allowed to bring a maximum of 1 liter of liquids with you in your liquids bag.

    So, Can I Bring Perfume on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Generally, the answer to the question of if you can bring perfume on a plane with you is yes, but it does come with restrictions. Below, we’ve outlined country by country what those restrictions are and if they differ to help you make the best decision for traveling with perfume on a flight.

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Perfume?

    The TSA website lists perfume as an item that is allowed in your carry-on, but it has to be within the 100ml/3.4oz limit. You should generally follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule for flights from the United States.

    This means that you can carry up to 3.4oz or 100ml of liquid and is limited to 1 quart sized or 20x20cm see through plastic bag. Your perfume must fit into this bag, and it must be sealed or you will be denied entry with it. If you decide to bring a solid perfume, this does not count within your liquids allowance.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Perfume in Hand Luggage?

    The gov.uk website clearly says that liquids are allowed in your carry-on baggage, but they need to be within a container that is no larger than 100ml. So naturally, liquid perfume falls into this category.

    You need to keep this in a small transparent plastic bag that can be sealed and should not be bigger than 20x20cm. This is limited to one per traveler.

    If you have a container that was originally over 100ml but now contains under 100ml of liquid, you will not be able to travel with this. If you are traveling with solid perfume that is not a liquid, it will not fall within this allowance, and you would be fine to travel with this separately.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Perfume?

    The EU have similar rules to both the USA and UK when it comes to bringing perfume – so the answer is yes you can bring perfume on a plane in the EU. You will be subject to the same restrictions of 100ml of perfume in your hand luggage and it needs to fit into your 20x20cm clear plastic bag which must be able to seal shut.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Perfume?

    If you’re wanting to bring perfume in your carry-on luggage in Australia, the ABF state, similar to other countries, that this will need to be no larger than 100ml (and the bottle containing can be no bigger than this). It will also need to be sealed in a clear plastic bag around 20x20cm in size.

    However, if you are traveling domestically within Australia, there are no restrictions on the amount of liquids (such as perfume), aerosols, gels, and powders you can bring. Unless you are traveling out of an international terminal, such as T1 in Sydney or T2 in Melbourne, where you will need to adhere to the 100ml restrictions.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Perfume?

    According to the CAA, you will need to make sure that any perfume you bring in your carry-on is within a 100ml container. This must be sealed in a see-through plastic bag no larger than 20x20cm.

    You are also not allowed to carry liquids in your carry-on that exceed 1 liter in total, and anything that exceeds this will not be allowed to travel with you.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Perfume?

    If traveling through Canada, the rules set out by the CBSA state that you are able to carry a small container of perfume, up to 100ml in your carry-on.

    As with all liquids passing through Canada in your carry-on baggage, you’ll need to make sure it fits within a small, clear, sealable plastic bag around 20x20cm in size.

    The Rest of the World

    Generally, the rules around the world are similar in terms of carrying perfume – as most locations have a similar view on taking liquids in your carry-on luggage.

    If you adhere to the policy of 100ml that will fit into your clear plastic liquids bag, and is no larger than 20x20cm, you should be safe to travel. Though it is wise to just check your country of travel to make sure there are no adjustments or changes to this rule before you fly.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Perfume?

    Perfume can be an expensive purchase, so making sure you can actually travel with it and not have to leave it at security is very important to avoid any nasty surprises.

    Make sure it’s under 100ml. This is the biggest thing to keep in mind when traveling with perfume in your carry-on. Generally, a standard sized perfume will be below this amount, but you do need to check in advance.

    Are you buying from duty free or similar and transferring to another flight? If you are, you will need to make sure you know the rules of your mid-point country. You may need to have your bags taken through the scanner again, and therefore, the perfume you’ve bought will need to fit into your clear plastic liquids bag.

    If possible, travel with a solid perfume. Not only do they take up less space meaning you need to take less with you, but a solid perfume also doesn’t count within your liquids allowance and can therefore be carried separately.

    Make sure your liquids bag closes. You will need to make sure everything in your liquids bag can close inside it when going through.

    Make sure it can’t leak. Make sure any lids are fastened on securely and that it is packaged well inside your liquids bag, in your carry-on to avoid any leaking.

    What Happens If Your Perfume Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    If your perfume is flagged by security at the airport, it is important to stay calm. If your perfume is flagged by the scanner, there could be a good reason why. It is a good idea to stay as nice as possible as the security officer is just doing their job and they are there to help you and other passengers travel safely.

    Of course, it can be frustrating, but practicing patience is the best thing here, but if you are running late for your flight, try to have a word with them and notify them of this. They may not be able to let you cut ahead but depending on wait times and whether the airport is busy, they may let you if there is a chance you’ll miss your flight otherwise.

    One of the main reasons for having liquids flagged by security is if the plastic bag that you have put everything in isn’t of a standard size in line with that country’s restrictions, or if it won’t fasten.

    If you have used a bag from home which is too big, you will likely be asked to take everything out and repack in a standardized one. If this is the case, you may lose some of your liquids, so you should always make sure you’re using a 20x20cm bag in advance.

    If you answer any questions and adhere, the security officer should have you on your way quickly without fuss, hopefully with your perfume intact.

    How to Pack Perfume in Your Luggage

    Nobody wants to arrive at their destination with their personal items ruined due to not packing as well as they could have. One of the worst items to have this happen with is perfume, as not only does it soil your items, but it’ll also have you smelling very strongly too – not nice especially if this is your outbound flight!

    Packing Perfume in Carry-On Luggage

    The first thing you need to do when packing your perfume in your carry-on luggage is to make sure that the lid fits well onto the bottle – this will prevent it from depressing in your liquids bag and causing it to leak. Not only can this mean you lose your perfume and spoil your personal items, but it can also be an expensive mistake.

    You will also need to make sure that your perfume fits well into your 20x20cm clear plastic bag to take it through the airport scanner. You should make sure that you have easy access to this for when you need to take your items out to go through the x-ray machine.

    Once you’ve been through security, you can of course unpack your liquids bag if this makes things easier, but it is always a good idea to make sure you don’t overpack your liquids bag to prevent anything from bursting our causing a problem.

    Packing Perfume in Hold Luggage

    There is much less in terms of restrictions when it comes to packing perfume in your hold luggage – and you can take a perfume of any size with you here.

    The main thing to take into consideration is to make sure it is secure. If possible, and depending on if you have bought the perfume in destination, carry it in the box it came in. If not, it is just a good idea to make sure that the lid is securely fastened.

    Generally, you’ll want to make sure you transport your perfume in a wash bag or a packing cube that is well stuffed. In your suitcase, you’ll want to make sure your wash bag or the bag containing your perfume is well packaged – this could be as simple as wrapping it in clothes, so it is not moving around.

    What Are the Different Types of Perfume?

    For traveling, there are two main different types of perfume.

    Liquid perfume. This is generally the most used type of perfume you’ll see available for purchase and one that most manufacturers will offer. Because it is a liquid, it can be harder to transport through the airport, and you need to make sure that it is up to 100ml and no larger in size.

    Solid perfume. This can be a great option to travel with – and because it doesn’t contain any water, it is not classed as a liquid. It is therefore not subject to the same restrictions as liquid perfume. It can also be a good option as the scent is likely to last longer, the tub longer in general as you need less and also because it can be put anywhere in your luggage so is less likely to leak.

    Conclusion

    Perfume is an item you are likely to want to bring with you when traveling, so it is important to understand how the rules around liquids will affect you when wanting to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.

    Generally speaking, most countries adopt the 100ml liquids in hand luggage rule, meaning that if you bring a liquid perfume with you, the container it is in will need to be up to or under 100ml in order to make it through security.

    It is always a good idea to check in advance and don’t just assume that the perfume you want to bring is at this size, and if it isn’t, to decant it into a smaller bottle.

    If you buy perfume at duty free or similar and you are to catch a connecting flight, you will also need to see if you need to recheck and rescan your bags at your intermediate airport, as this will have you subject to the 100ml hand luggage rule again.