Most trekkers on Kilimanjaro stay in tents, as only one route provides hut accommodation. Here, we’ll guide you through what to expect at night on the mountain, from the campsites to the challenges of sleeping at high altitude.
Selecting the right pair of hiking boots for Kilimanjaro isn’t about focusing on brand — there are many excellent options available. Instead, it’s about considering two key factors:
We’ll start by answering the first question, explaining why hiking boots (not hiking shoes) are essential for climbing Kilimanjaro.
Next, we’ll explore the anatomy and characteristics of a good hiking boot to help you find the perfect fit for your trek.
Finally, we’ll discuss whether crampons are necessary and what type of bootlaces are best for your hike.
You’re on the right track by taking the time to thoroughly research your hiking boots! It’s important to choose a pair well in advance, so you have plenty of time to break them in before your trek.
Selecting the right pair of hiking boots for Kilimanjaro isn’t about focusing on brand — there are many excellent options available. Instead, it’s about considering two key factors:
We’ll start by answering the first question, explaining why hiking boots (not hiking shoes) are essential for climbing Kilimanjaro.
Next, we’ll explore the anatomy and characteristics of a good hiking boot to help you find the perfect fit for your trek.
Finally, we’ll discuss whether crampons are necessary and what type of bootlaces are best for your hike.
Understanding basic hiking boot terminology is essential when selecting the best pair for your Kilimanjaro trek. To help you make an informed choice, check out the hiking boot infographic below, which outlines the key components of a standard hiking boot.
Selecting the right hiking boots for Kilimanjaro is a crucial step in your preparation for the climb.
With countless brands and styles available both in-store and online, shopping for hiking boots can feel overwhelming. To make the process easier, it’s helpful to approach it with a few key principles in mind.
Below, we break down the essential factors to consider when shopping for hiking boots for Kilimanjaro, focusing on three main categories:
Before diving in, a quick note: just like nutrition experts have differing views on the best diet, hiking boot specialists also offer varying opinions on what boots are best for your feet. It can be confusing, but that’s just the nature of the industry.
As research continues to evolve, new advice and standards may emerge. In light of this, we’ve included both sides of the debate where differences exist, so you can make an informed decision for your needs.
When you have the right hiking boots, you can forget about your feet and fully focus on the climb and the stunning scenery around you — exactly how it should be!
Synthetic boots are made from man-made materials like synthetic leather, nylon, or polyester. Many Kilimanjaro trekkers choose synthetic boots for their comfort and performance on the mountain, and they generally find them to be an excellent option.
It’s important to understand the difference between these terms, as they are often confused.
When trekking on Kilimanjaro, you’ll pass through rainforests and, in some areas, encounter ice and snow. A waterproof boot is highly beneficial, but a water-repellent one is generally sufficient for most conditions.
“Water-resistant” is different from “water-repellent,” and both are distinct from “waterproof.”
Both leather and synthetic hiking boots are suitable for climbing Kilimanjaro, but your choice will depend on your specific needs. If you tend to have sweaty feet or are prone to blistering, synthetic boots may be a better option due to their superior breathability. Keep in mind that leather boots, while durable, become less breathable the more they are waxed.
While Kilimanjaro is not an extremely wet climb, the lower part of the mountain, which you’ll hike during the first couple of days, features a rainforest climate with considerable rainfall, especially during certain seasons.
At the summit, you’ll face potential ice and snow, so water-repellent boots are crucial. Staying dry is essential, especially in the arctic conditions near the peak, as wet feet can lead to discomfort or even frostbite.
When choosing boots for your Kilimanjaro trek, it’s important to avoid those that are too heavy to walk comfortably in for extended periods. Each day involves hours of hiking, often with significant uphill climbs.
Leather boots tend to be heavier than synthetic options, so it’s essential to try on different pairs and test their weight. Walk around the store, lunge, squat, and even do some air kicks to get a feel for the boot’s weight and comfort.
Some stores offer treadmills for testing boots, which can be a great way to simulate real hiking conditions. Take advantage of this feature to assess the boots thoroughly.
Remember that a boot might feel lightweight while standing in the store, but after hours of hiking, it could feel much heavier. Don’t hesitate to ask the sales clerk for advice on selecting the right weight for your needs.
A toe cap (or toe shield) is a hard material that wraps around the front edge of the toe box, and in some cases, it may be made of steel. This feature is crucial for protecting your toes and the boot fabric from hazards like falling rocks, thorns, and rough terrain.
Not all hiking boots come with toe caps, as certain tough materials, like leather, may not require them. However, if you’re buying boots made from softer materials like Gore-Tex, make sure they have durable toe caps for added protection.
The interior lining of your hiking boots plays a crucial role in keeping your feet warm during your trek, especially on Kilimanjaro, where temperatures can drop significantly, particularly near the summit, which reaches an arctic climate.
Boot linings are made from a variety of materials, including leather, microfibre, and insulated or vegan-friendly options. While synthetic linings are lightweight, they can sometimes cause excessive sweating and unpleasant odors.
Winter hiking boots often feature warm lambskin or additional insulation, but these are not necessary for Kilimanjaro. Such boots would be excessive for most of the climb. With thermal socks, a standard hiking boot with a regular lining will be sufficient for summit day.
However, if you plan to tackle future treks in extremely cold conditions, winter hiking boots might be a good investment. Just remember to bring lighter footwear for the lower regions of Kilimanjaro, where temperatures are milder.
When choosing hiking boots for Kilimanjaro, ankle support is crucial. An injury to your ankle could end your climb, so it’s important to select boots that provide good stability. Many climbers recommend high-cut hiking boots for this reason.
Joel Ott, a member of our Great Image Expedition team, swears by his Meindl boots, which kept him comfortable throughout his Kilimanjaro climb.
High-cut boots feature a collar that wraps around your ankles for added support. Look for boots with a well-padded collar, as this will provide extra comfort for both your ankles and lower legs.
If you’re not used to high-cut boots, be aware that they can take some time to get accustomed to. That’s why it’s essential to spend plenty of time breaking in your boots before taking on the slopes of Kilimanjaro.
The most effective ankle support comes from strong ligaments and muscles in the feet and lower legs.
Some hikers advocate for a more “natural” approach to footwear, arguing that artificial ankle support in boots may not be as helpful as it seems. They point out that no boot can fully immobilize the ankle to prevent sprains or fractures, and this level of restriction isn’t necessarily beneficial for your mobility.
This perspective will likely resonate with those who prefer low-cut boots over high-cut models. However, if you opt for low-cut boots, make sure you choose proper hiking boots, not regular trainers. Good hiking boots should still include essential features like insulation and protective toe caps to keep your feet safe and comfortable on the trail.
The fit of your hiking boots is essential when preparing for Kilimanjaro. You’ll be spending many hours in them each day, so it’s crucial that your boots fit comfortably and properly.
While it might be tempting to shop online, especially when you find a great deal, buying boots this way means you’re left to determine the fit on your own once they arrive. It’s much better to have an expert help you find the perfect pair.
We strongly recommend visiting a reputable outdoor store to find the best hiking boots for you. When considering fit, pay attention to both the boot size and the toe box. It’s also a good idea to try on boots after you’ve been walking for a few hours, as your feet will have swollen a bit by then, just like they will on the trek.
When shopping for hiking boots, don’t get too attached to your usual shoe size. Keep an open mind, as sizing can vary by brand, and you may need a larger size than your normal shoes. Here’s what to keep in mind:
A useful way to find the right boot size is the index finger test. With the boots on and laced up, you should be able to fit your index finger between your sock-clad foot and the back of the boot. This ensures the boot protects your feet without being too tight. Ideally, it should allow for slight movement while still offering protection and stability on uneven terrain.
When shopping for boots, bring your hiking socks with you. For Kilimanjaro, you’ll need sock liners, thermal socks, and regular hiking socks. If you don’t have them, ask the store staff for appropriate pairs to try on. Make sure your boots have enough room to accommodate these socks, as boots that fit comfortably without socks may feel too tight once the additional layers are added. Often, you may need to buy boots a half size larger to accommodate the socks.
Many people have slightly different sized feet—about two-thirds of the population! If one foot is half a size larger, it’s best to buy shoes that fit the larger foot. This will prevent discomfort and ensure a better overall fit.
The toe box refers to the front part of the boot where your toes sit. Traditionally, hiking boots have narrow, tapered toe boxes that keep the toes together. However, many now recommend boots with a wider toe box that allows for natural toe splay—the way your toes spread out when you walk barefoot. Toe splay is important for balance and stability on uneven ground.
Narrow toe boxes can sometimes cause problems like ingrown toenails, neuromas, or even dead toenails. Regardless of the toe box shape, ensure there’s enough space so your toes don’t touch the front of the boot. Ideally, there should be about a finger’s width of space between your toes and the boot. If your toes can’t move, the boot is too small; if they’re pressed against the sides, it’s also too tight.
The soles of your hiking boots are a crucial factor in ensuring a successful trek. You’ll want soles that offer excellent tread, waterproofing, comfort, and durability.
When it comes to the ideal thickness of a hiking boot sole, there are two main perspectives. The traditional view is that the thicker the sole, the more protection it provides. A thick sole helps shield your feet from sharp objects, like rocks, and generally lasts longer. It also offers more durability when carrying heavy loads, which is why military boots often feature thick soles—soldiers carry heavy equipment, after all.
For Kilimanjaro, however, you’re only carrying a lightweight slackpack with personal items, as porters handle the bulk of the weight, including food and camping gear.
On the other hand, some argue that a thick sole is too rigid and restricts your foot’s natural ability to adjust to varying terrain. Advocates of this viewpoint suggest that a thinner sole allows your feet to feel the ground and make micro-adjustments, improving balance. After all, as Leonardo da Vinci famously said, the “human foot is a masterpiece of engineering.” Should we let our feet do more of the work when hiking, rather than relying entirely on the boot?
As we discussed in the anatomy of hiking boots, the sole of a boot is made up of three parts: the insole, midsole, and outsole. When examining the outsole, it’s important to choose one that is wide, particularly in the front half, to ensure good balance.
The lugs on the outsole provide traction, helping to prevent slips. If you’re planning to hike across surfaces like grass, streams, scree, or ice, you’ll need solid traction to stay stable. This is especially important when climbing Kilimanjaro, where the forest floor can be muddy and ice and snow are present near the summit.
Outsoles can be made from materials like polyurethane, plastic, or rubber. For hiking, you’ll want an outsole that’s both waterproof and durable. Vibram is a well-known brand that offers high-quality outsoles ideal for hiking boots. Their outsoles are abrasion-resistant and tough, making them perfect for challenging terrains like Kilimanjaro.
Keep in mind that outsoles often wear out faster than other parts of the boot due to their heavy use. The good news is that many boots can be resoled, so you don’t have to replace the entire pair when the outsole wears down.
The tread pattern created by the lugs on a boot’s outsole plays a crucial role in its grip. For optimal traction, look for deep lugs with sufficient spacing between them. This design helps provide a secure footing as you walk. Lug depth is also important, as regular use will cause them to wear down over time. While most hiking boots come with lugs, make sure they cover both the ball of the boot and the heel for enhanced stability.
Many trekkers prefer insoles with memory foam. As your feet warm up during the trek, the memory foam molds to their shape, providing personalized comfort. It’s also important to choose insoles that offer good arch support. Women, in particular, may have higher insteps, and inadequate arch support can lead to foot issues over time.
If you have specific foot concerns, such as problematic arches, it’s best to consult a podiatrist. They can provide custom-made insoles if necessary. If you use orthotics, make sure the hiking boots you choose have removable insoles, as you’ll likely need the extra space to fit both the orthotics and the boot itself.
Crampons are metal frames with spikes that attach to the bottom of your boots, providing excellent traction when walking on snow and ice. While climbers on challenging peaks like Mount Everest use heavy-duty crampons, Kilimanjaro requires only lightweight versions for most hikers.
In general, crampons aren’t necessary for the Kilimanjaro climb. However, they can be useful if conditions are particularly icy at the summit.
If you do need crampons, you can easily rent strap-on versions in Tanzania before starting your trek. If you’re traveling with Great Image Expedition, we’ll assess the conditions and, if our mountain team recommends them, help you rent a pair upon arrival.
Crampons are compatible with most hiking boots, so you can easily clip them on for extra support when needed.
Bootlaces often don’t get much attention — most of us simply stick with the laces that come with our boots. For the most part, they work perfectly well. However, if you’re curious about what makes an ideal pair of bootlaces, keep reading!
When it comes to hiking boots, we recommend using round bootlaces over flat ones. Round laces are more durable and better suited for strong knots and tugs, making them ideal for rugged conditions.
Opt for laces made from polyester or nylon, as they are more durable and water-resistant than cotton. Braided or paracord nylon laces are especially strong and an excellent choice for hiking. While nylon laces may cost slightly more, they offer exceptional longevity.
Look for laces with aglets — the plastic-coated ends that make threading through eyelets easier. Aglets also help prevent fraying, ensuring your laces stay intact during your adventures.
Lastly, ensure your laces are long enough to reach the top hooks or eyelets of your boots. While the laces that come with your boots should fit, it’s crucial to measure or bring them along if you need a replacement. This ensures you purchase the correct length for a secure and comfortable fit.
A good pair of hiking boots is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. With the right boots, you can focus on the beauty and challenges of the climb without worrying about your feet. However, with the wrong pair, your expedition can quickly turn uncomfortable—or even hazardous.
Don’t treat your hiking boots as an afterthought in your Kilimanjaro preparation. Rushed purchases often lead to regret, so take your time to find a pair that fits well and suits your needs. Shop early and explore your options to secure the best combination of comfort, quality, and value.
Breaking in your boots is just as important as choosing the right pair. Start by wearing them around the house or for short outings, like running errands. Gradually increase the distance and intensity of your walks, moving on to longer hikes with a backpack.
We recommend covering at least 100 km in your boots before your Kilimanjaro climb. This helps you avoid blisters and discomfort, which can ruin your trekking experience. Leather boots, in particular, require extra time to break in, so plan your preparation well in advance.
High-quality hiking boots aren’t cheap, but they’re an investment that pays off in comfort and longevity. A well-made pair can last for years, sometimes decades. When choosing boots, think beyond Kilimanjaro and consider other treks you might want to tackle in the future. Take into account the climate, terrain, and conditions of those adventures to ensure your boots serve you well for years to come.
Some people suggest quick fixes for breaking in boots, like soaking them in water, but these methods are not recommended. The best way to break in your boots is simply to spend time wearing them. This process ensures your boots mold to your feet naturally, providing the comfort and support you’ll need on the mountain.
Properly broken-in hiking boots can make all the difference in your Kilimanjaro experience. Take your time to prepare, and prioritize your footwear—your feet will thank you! Breaking in your boots is so important that it’s one of our top tips for climbing and summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro.
If your toes feel sore, develop blisters, or your toenails take a beating while breaking in your hiking boots (or even after they’re broken in), toe caps might be a helpful solution. Unlike the top caps found on synthetic hiking boots, these toe caps are gel sleeves designed to slide over individual toes. They reduce friction and offer extra cushioning to protect your toes during long treks.
However, it’s essential to try toe caps well before your Kilimanjaro climb. Experiment with them during your training hikes to ensure they’re effective and don’t cause any unexpected issues. This preparation will help you avoid discomfort on the mountain.
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