How many times have you planned to take a hike, looked at your feet, and then called off the plan because you don’t want to wear those wet boots for hours?
Cloud shoes are supposed be the perfect solution for this problem. Yet everyone seems to have mixed feelings about these waterproof shoes that let your feet air out when they get sweaty from wearing them all day. Although both men and women might benefit from wearing cloud shoes, dos and don’ts vary.
There are pros and cons to the cloud-shoe lifestyle. Some people think the benefits outweigh the risks, while others say it’s a bad idea. Knowing what they’re good for will help you decide if cloud shoes are right for you.
Are Cloud Shoes Good For Hiking?
Most people who wear cloud shoes (or “waterproof” shoes) are looking for different things. Some want to wear these walking shoes all the time, and some are looking for something that will keep their feet dry during rainy or snowy weather. Cloud-shoe users say that the benefits of wearing these waterproof shoes outweigh the risks.
When you’re talking about hiking, it’s common to want something that has:
Durability: These shoes are definitely not going to be worn on rough, rocky terrain. They are meant to keep your feet dry and clean during much more mild weather. In some cases, you’ll need a sturdy pair of hiking shoes all the time, but for most people these are going to be an occasional occurrence (such as when it rains).
Keep your feet dry: You want something that can withstand a small amount of moisture and will keep your feet and toes warm. That way, you won’t end up wearing wet and cold socks. Given that these shoes are more of a novelty than anything, you need something that doesn’t hold any water. Most cloud shoes (such as Keen’s) even have a designated area for your feet to air out when they get sweaty.
Comfort: If you’re looking for something warm and easy to walk in, you don’t want to wear leather-soled shoes all the time. Cloud-shoes are often made of synthetic material like neoprene or rubber, which are oh-so-cushy. Most people use them as an occasional accessory to their shoes, but they don’t want to wear them all the time.
Why Choose Cloud Shoes?
The many benefits of these shoes are why you might consider purchasing one for your next hike (or even just walking around town). Here’s what the pros and cons look like:
Pros
Cloud-shoes are perfect for those who plan on wearing waterproof boots on the trail. Instead of having to take off your boots and socks, you can simply slip on the cloud-sneaker, close it, and get back on your hike. Also – why wear a thick sock when it’s cold? These shoes are much more lightweight than any other shoe.
Great for rainy days or snowy hikes: Cloud-shoes keep your feet dry during rain and snowstorms. That way, you can wear the same shoes all year without having to switch them up depending on the weather each day.
Super comfortable: If you’re used to wearing lightweight shoes anyway, the cloud-shoe is going to be a very welcome addition. And it’s waterproof, so it even keeps your feet dry. You can walk in these all day and not worry about stinky wet feet.
Cons
The cons of wearing cloud shoes are minor and often depend on what kind of wear they’re intended for. It’s not so much that these shoes will ruin your hiking experience (although there are a few reviewers who claim this). But, if you want to take them on an intense hike (like in the mountains), you’re going to want better shoes that can handle all the rough terrain.
Cost: Cloud-shoes are going to be more expensive than regular shoes – and not because they’re made of waterproof materials. Most of these shoes have a very limited life, so they don’t hold up well over time. If you intend on switching them out with regular hiking shoes when the time comes, they’ll be expensive.
Durability: Even if you can afford to buy new cloud-shoes, they aren’t going to last very long. These shoes are not made to withstand the elements like hiking boots or other more durable walking shoes. If you use them too much, the ties will break, or they’ll simply wear out. Some people say they’ve used their cloud-sneakers for a week before the rubber started poking through and tearing away at the fabric.
Final Thought: Are Cloud Shoes Good For Hiking?
When it comes down to it, cloud shoes aren’t meant for hiking or rugged terrain. However, if you’re looking for something that can keep your feet dry on a walk in the rain or a hike on flat terrain – then absolutely! These shoes have a lot of benefits and can be used in every type of weather. If you don’t need something waterproof for long hikes filled with rough terrain, then you should consider purchasing cloud-shoes.
What do you think? Do you have any experience with cloud or waterproof shoes? Let us know in the comments below!