What are the Best Shoes for Rucking?

The fact that rucking involves walking long distances carrying weight, also means it puts a lot of stress on your feet and legs. Therefore, having proper footwear is essential. You might be asking whether you need special shoes or what should you look for when purchasing shoes for rucking. Well, you are in the right place, as we have compiled some of the important features you should consider, as well as several brands on the market that will help your feet remain safe while rucking:

Important Characteristics to Bear in Mind

Traction

Traction is one of the most important features of rucking shoes. The outsoles need to grip the terrain well to prevent slipping, especially if you'll be rucking on uneven or wet surfaces. Lugged rubber outsoles provide the best traction. Look for deep lugs with multi-directional patterns to maintain stability on various terrains. Vibram is a popular brand that makes high-quality rubber soles. Some top shoes with excellent traction include:

• Salomon XA Pro 3D

• Inov-8 Roclite 345 GTX

• Merrell Moab 2 Mid

Cushioning

With the added weight of a rucksack, cushioning is vital to absorb impact and reduce fatigue. Cushioning foam in the midsole cushions your feet and provides shock absorption. EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) and EVA blends are lightweight and responsive. Some well-cushioned options include:

• Altra Lone Peak 5

• HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4

• Salomon X Ultra 3

Look for a contoured footbed as well for extra arch support.

Weight

Lighter shoes will help prevent your feet from getting tired as quickly. Look for shoes made of lightweight materials, such as mesh uppers. Some lightweight options weigh 15 ounces or less:

• Inov-8 Roclite 290 - 10.1 oz

• Salomon Sense Ride 3 - 10.2 oz

• Saucony Peregrine 11 - 11.9 oz

Breathability

Proper ventilation keeps your feet cool and dry during long rucks. Breathable mesh uppers allow airflow to your feet. Some shoes with good breathability:

• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX

• Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator

• Altra Superior 4.5

Durability

Your shoes need to hold up to the grueling demands of rucking. Abrasion-resistant uppers will resist damage from rough terrain. Materials like synthetic leather and ballistic mesh are durable. Reinforced toe caps protect against impact. Look for shoes with a rubber toe cap or rand. Shoes known for their durability:

• Garmont T8 Extreme GTX

• Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

• Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Fit

The shoes must fit well and remain comfortable even with miles of walking under load.

• Try shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are largest.

• Wear the same socks you'll use when rucking.

• Ensure a thumb's width between the longest toe and the end of the shoe.

• Lace the shoes snugly but not too tight.

Stability

Stability keeps your foot aligned properly during each step. Shoes with a wide, reinforced base provide a stable platform. Features that add stability:

• Wide shank - firm midsole shape

• Heel counters - cups the heel

• Ankle padding - extra support

Some stable options:

• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX

• Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX

• Oboz Bridger Mid BDry

Water Resistance

If you'll be rucking in wet conditions, waterproof shoes keep your feet dry. Look for waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex. Some waterproof models:

• Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

• Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

• Oboz Sawtooth II Mid BDry

Best Rucking Shoes by Brand: Top Models for Every Rucker

Choosing the right shoes for rucking can significantly impact your performance and overall experience. To make your decision easier, we've compiled a table comparing some of the best rucking shoes available from leading brands. This table highlights key features, benefits, and ideal use cases for each model, helping you find the perfect pair to match your rucking needs.

This table provides a quick reference to help you compare and choose the best rucking shoes based on your specific needs, terrain preferences, and budget. Whether you're looking for durability, lightweight design, or superior traction, there's a perfect pair waiting to elevate your rucking experience.

Sneakers and Similar Types of Shoes

A common question we get is whether sneakers are suitable for rucking. This is a natural question, considering sneakers are widely available and are owned by most people. The short answer is yes, but we'd recommend to read our article that specifically covers the sneakers topic.

Final Considerations: Choosing the Perfect Rucking Shoes for Your Needs

Selecting the right shoes for rucking is a crucial step toward ensuring a safe, comfortable, and effective rucking experience. Beyond the key characteristics of traction, cushioning, weight, breathability, durability, fit, stability, and water resistance, here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:

Proper Fit and Sizing

A well-fitting pair of rucking shoes is essential to prevent blisters, discomfort, and injuries. When trying on shoes, make sure there's about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Your feet can swell during long rucks, so it's important to have enough room to accommodate this natural expansion. Always wear the same type of socks you plan to use while rucking to ensure the best fit.

Breaking In Your Shoes

Before embarking on long rucking sessions, it's vital to break in your new shoes. Start with shorter rucks to allow your feet to adjust to the new footwear, gradually increasing the distance as the shoes mold to your feet. This process helps prevent blisters and discomfort during more strenuous rucks.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your rucking shoes. Clean them regularly to remove dirt and debris, and dry them thoroughly after use, especially if they've been exposed to wet conditions. Replace worn-out soles or insoles to maintain optimal support and performance.

Budget and Quality

While it's possible to find decent rucking shoes at various price points, investing in a higher-quality pair can offer better durability, support, and comfort. Consider your rucking frequency and the terrains you'll be tackling when deciding how much to invest in your footwear.

Personal Foot Health

If you have specific foot issues, such as flat feet, high arches, or plantar fasciitis, consider consulting with a podiatrist before selecting rucking shoes. Custom orthotics or specialized footwear may be necessary to address these concerns and ensure a comfortable rucking experience.

By taking the time to carefully select and maintain the right shoes for rucking, you set yourself up for success on every trek. The right footwear not only enhances your performance but also protects your feet from the rigors of loaded walking, allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of rucking safely and comfortably.