From snow to flower meadows: The right shoe for changeable spring conditions
Spring brings a special challenge for hikers: in a single day, you can experience muddy paths, remnants of snow and dry trails. These changeable conditions require well thought-out footwear. Unlike in summer or winter, in spring you need flexible companions that can cope with different surfaces. Here you can find out what is important when choosing shoes for the transitional period.
Muddy spring paths: waterproof shoes with a good profile
Melting snow and spring rain turn many paths into muddy trails. You need two essential properties for this: Waterproofness and grip. A waterproof upper keeps your feet dry, even when walking through puddles or mud. A deep, grippy outsole with pronounced lugs gives you a secure grip on slippery surfaces.
Snow residues and transition zones: Stability and insulation
At medium altitudes, you may still encounter snow fields in late spring. A hiking boot with sufficient stability and insulation is important here. A boot with a higher shaft offers more ankle stability and prevents snow from penetrating. For longer sections of snow, gaiters are also recommended to prevent moisture from getting between the trouser leg and the shoe.
Dry sections: Flexibility and lightness
Sunny slopes and open meadows dry out quickly in spring. Lighter, more flexible shoes are more comfortable here. Hiking boots that are too heavy or stiff can be tiring on dry paths. A flexible shoe adapts better to the ground and enables more natural rolling behaviour. Breathability is particularly important on dry, sunny trails to prevent your feet from overheating.
Temperature changes: the natural equalisation of merino wool
Temperatures often fluctuate greatly in spring. Cool in the morning, warm at midday - you should take these changes into account when choosing your shoes. Hiking boots with a merino wool lining offer a decisive advantage here. The fine wool absorbs excess heat and stores it. When it gets colder, it releases this heat again and protects your feet from cooling down. Merino wool hiking socks complement this effect perfectly. They regulate the foot climate in a natural way and can absorb up to 30% of their own weight in moisture without feeling wet. Merino wool is also naturally odour-inhibiting - ideal for longer tours.
Our recommendations for spring hikes
For particularly changeable spring conditions, there are two models that optimally fulfil all of the above requirements:
The Merino Leather Alpine combines high-quality leather with a Merino wool lining. The waterproof leather resists even persistent wetness, while the Merino wool ensures an optimal foot climate in changing temperatures. The grippy tread sole provides secure grip on slippery paths. The mid-cut shaft offers additional stability - ideal for uneven spring paths with snow residue.
The Wool Cross X Alpine is recommended for sportier hikes. Its lightweight, breathable design with a water-repellent outer material makes it the perfect companion on dry to slightly damp trails. The Merino wool lining also ensures natural temperature regulation. The flexible sole enables natural rolling behaviour and still provides grip on demanding terrain.
Conclusion: the all-rounder for spring
The ideal spring hiking boot is an all-rounder for different conditions. It offers waterproofness for muddy sections, sufficient stability for snow residue and is also light and flexible enough for dry paths. A mid-cut, waterproof hiking boot with a grippy sole, good breathability and Merino wool lining offers the best compromise for the diverse requirements of spring. With the right choice, you can enjoy the diversity of the season to the full - from the first flowers in the valley to the last snowfields on the mountain.
Ready for your spring adventure?
Spring is calling - and with it countless trails that are just waiting to be discovered by you! Lace up your hiking boots and experience how nature awakens to new life. Whether forest paths with fresh greenery, blooming alpine meadows or the last snow fields with breathtaking views - with the right equipment on your feet, nothing stands in the way of your hiking pleasure.
Start the most beautiful hiking season of the year now!
