December 7

Are Timberlands Good for Hiking?

Are Timberlands Good for Hiking? Maybe!

You know and love the rugged style and can recognize that iconic yellow anywhere… but are Timberlands good for hiking?

What’s the final verdict? Sometimes! While the classic Timberland we all recognize may not be ideal for hiking, one of the options in their line of hiking shoes and boots could be a great choice!

Timberland History

When you think of Timberland, you are probably picturing the iconic yellow boots. In 1973 The Abington Shoe Company invented the “Timberland” style boot. They were more waterproof than any shoe out there and built to withstand the elements unlike ever before. Hikers and fashionistas alike rocked this one-of-a-kind footwear. They were so popular and innovative that in 1978 The Abington Shoe Company rebranded as Timberland and the rest is history!

Can you hike in Timberland

Are those iconic boots good for hiking? Not so much! The “typical” Timberland boots, listed nowadays as “Premium 6-inch Waterproof Boots” weigh a lot and are designed to keep your feet warm.

Are Timberlands Good for Hiking

What’s wrong with a nice heavy shoe that will keep your tootsies warm? Well, nothing...if you’re wearing them to work in the elements (or to look cute yet rugged!). But, each premium 6-inch boot weighs on average 1lb 13oz, or 2lbs 16 oz per pair.

As the old saying goes “a pound on your feet equals five pounds on your back.” While the math may be a little off, the main idea remains true- carrying something on your feet takes more energy than on your back. 

Of their heft, according to the Timberland website, 400 grams of that is PrimaLoft® insulation. Sounds cozy, right? Yes! But, when considering hiking boots, if you plan to hike during all seasons or in different climates, you might want to consider doubling up on socks for the colder hikes and not being stuck with boots that will make you sweat on a warm day. 

Hiking in Timberland-Pros

Timberlands are made for the fashion:

Yes, the classic yellow Timberland boots will surely draw attention to you, and why not trek in style? Timberland's work boot series provides toughness, of these qualities, as well as the waterproofing, are suitable for short trips.

Stable for short hikes:

Even though a pair of Timberland hiking classic boots can be useful for a short period of time, its flaws become noticeable on longer hikes, but if you're going on  short and easy hike where there isn't a lot of hardship and you aren't hiking in difficult rote of the trail, they will perform just fine.

Timberland boots are waterproof:

Indeed, Timberland boots are built of waterproof Nubuck leather or full-grain leather, which is an absolute must for decent hiking boots.

Price:

Timberland is also very affordable, so if you’re a bit on tight budget It might be a good option for you,

On sale, you may even get a pair for very fair price.

Hiking in Timberland-cons

Weight:

Most current hiking shoes are tough, but they're also a lot lighter, but like mentioned earlier the Timberland classic leather boots are very heavy for hiking, and if you're an experienced hiker you'll find that packing minimal and going light is the way to go.

Materials:

Leather remains the preferred boot material, although it’s often combined with lighter synthetic materials, the best leather is full-grain leather. Lightweight boots may also have this mixed construction like Merrell Moab or Salomon X, These qualities are not present in classic Timberlands.

Likely to crack against the elements:

Yes, when it comes to hiking, it means you'll be wearing the boots on rough, slick, routs, wet terrains, and Timberland boots won't last long in these situations and will quickly break down.

Are Timberlands waterproof?

Many of Timberland models today, if not all, include some type of water resistance, if not outright proofing. In this line, the brand exclusively uses the highest-grade materials, which are designed to withstand heavy, lengthy usage in damp situations.

Timberlands

not all boots made by Timberland are waterproof. If they are, then it’ll be highlighted in the company’s product description, so check before you select.

What other options Timberland offer

Ok- classic Timberlands might not be great for a hike, but there’s good news! The brand offers a line of shoes and boots specifically designed with hiker’s needs in mind. Based on their style preference and hiking needs, Timberland enthusiasts have a wide variety of hiking footwear options to choose from.

Are you someone who has been hiking for a while and tends to go out on a difficult trail or for days at a time? Are you new to the scene or a casual hiker that is in it for the views and the trail mix? Does hiking mean following a paved path to the café?

Timberland’s website has a helpful guide to help you answer the question on the mind of every sole searcher: Which hiking boots are right for me?

Timberland breaks it down into three categories:

  1. Waterproof hiking boots and shoes
  2. Day hiking boots and shoes
  3. Hiking-inspired style

Timberland’s waterproof hiking boots and shoes are geared toward the “hardcore hiker”.

Are Timberlands Good for Hiking?

Timberland describes these waterproof options as having “Gore-Tex® or other waterproof membranes” and “outsoles designed for ultimate wilderness traction and all-day hikes.”

Highlighting the fact that serious hikers will likely wear these boots all day, “breathability is key”, yet “these boots are also sealed against moisture so you can power through streams and over rough terrain in comfort.”

Up next, the day hiking boots and shoes.

Timberlands

These options are suggested for more casual hikers that plan to be out for a few hours on the trail and are designed with comfort, motion, and traction in mind.

Finally, the hiking-inspired style options.

Timberlands hiking-inspired style

Boots and shoes in this category pull from the style of hiking boots and shoes, The Garrison Trail shoe is designed for city folks who want a shoe that can do it all. Hikes in the park, Short hiking in your local trails , a quiet hikes.

Below are some of the most popular styles of Timberland’s hiking shoes and boots!


Mt. Maddsen

This style is one of the highest-rated of the brand hiking options. They feature Timberdry Waterproof and anti-fatigue technology, plus braking, supporting, flexing, and propelling efficiency.

Chocorua Trail

This style is known as the best Timberland boot for hiking. These boots feature recycled rubber, waterproof and anti-fatigue technology, and have a Gore-Tex membrane. According to Timberland’s website, “Gore-Tex® membrane is built into the boot or shoe to create a waterproof and breathable barrier. The Gore-Tex® membrane keeps feet dry and protected while allowing moisture vapor from sweat to pass through.”

Earthkeepers

While Timberland strives to be eco-conscious at all times, their Earthkeepers line represents their “highest level of eco-innovation”. They are made with ReBOTL material, material containing at least 50% recycled PET. PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate, commonly used in water bottles and food packaging.

They also utilize regenerative leather, leather “sourced from farms that use regenerative agricultural practices.” Regenerative practices “give the land a rest so it can absorb carbon, retain water and restore biodiversity to the pastures where the cattle graze.”

FAQs

Timberland’s website also includes a FAQs section for those new to (or curious about) shopping for hiking footwear! Even if you don’t end up with Timberland as your brand of choice, these questions are important for everyone to ask themselves.

How do I pick the right hiking boots?

The right hiking boots should be the ultimate balance of comfort, durability, and support. Doing your research (like reading this article!) and trial and error will be your best tools.

Think about what hiking means to you and refer back to Timberland's three categories. Are you really going to hike on rough terrain if you’re just starting out? Does it make sense to invest in something more expensive right off the bat or to be sure you’re going to stick to it before diving into a pricey pair?

The options can be overwhelming: tie laces or bungees? Do you need them to be waterproof? Do you want them to keep you warm or will you only be hiking in warm weather?

Don’t be discouraged if your first pair isn’t the winner or be afraid to try on lots of pairs. Do take the time to break them in and even exchange them if the pair you thought was perfect needs to get the boot.

How should my hiking boots fit?

Hiking boots should fit comfortably, yet snug. You won’t want to have too much room where your feet slide around, but you also want to be able to wear them with your favorite thick hiking socks. Be sure to try hiking shoes on later in the day, when your feet are most swollen, and with socks similar to what you’ll wear when hiking (not just those disposable pantyhose socks at the store!)

Most importantly, hiking boots should fit the way you want them to! Any boot that makes you feel supported and safe can be a good fit.

How do I break in hiking boots?

The most obvious yet overlooked answer… wear them! Throw on your hiking socks and lace-up those bad boys while you’re doing chores around the house or running into the grocery store. It’s much better to be uncomfortable breaking in your boots when you can easily take them off than when you’re two miles into a ten-mile hike.

It is recommended that you buy any new hiking shoes or boots a few weeks before going out on a big hike!

P.S. Timberland’s FAQs are all about hiking boots, but don’t forget hiking shoes or trail shoes can be a great option too!

You’ve asked yourself the hiking footwear FAQs and don’t think Timberland has a hiking boot or shoe for you? Never fear- there are plenty of other brands to choose from. Other great brands include Salomon, Merrell, Vasque. Below is a quick breakdown of some of their most popular styles.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low GTX

These hiking shoes are a great balance of lightweight, durable and supportive. But, note they do not have much ankle support.

Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP

These shoes are durable, yet don’t take long to break in, making them excellent for last minute purchases when you need to hike ASAP!

Vasque St. Elias GTX

These boots have a classic look and traditional style. Make sure to leave yourself ample time to break these in, the traditional leather looks great and is durable, but can be quite stiff!

Conclusion

When searching for the perfect footwear for hiking the most important thing is determining what hiking means to you and doing your research!

While the classic Timberland boot isn’t ideal for any hiker, they offer a variety of hiking shoes and boots to choose from to fit your personal hiking needs!

If you don’t fall in love with any of the Timberland options, don’t be discouraged. There are plenty of options out there!

This was our take on the question “Are Timberlands good for hiking?”, and we hope our article helped you in understanding the pros and cons!

About the Author

Author

Hussain is a passionate hiker and traveler that love the outdoor and enjoys what nature has to give, whenever he can he love to write and give tips & honest reviews to help others get out there and just seek more unforgettable experiences.

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