QUESTION: I’m trying to decide between the men’s size 8 or the women’s size 9 of the Salomon Quest 4D hiking boot, and am having a hard time seeing what the difference is between them. Do you know if there is any kind of difference, other than the men’s boot weighs a few more ounces?
-Carolyn
ANSWER:
Salomon Quest 4D Women's hiking boots
Excellent question, Carolyn!
Generally there are more noticeable differences between the men’s and women’s version of a hiking boot, but in this case they are very similar.
The most important difference between men’s and women’s boots are the “last”, the form that shoemakers use to create the fit and style of the shoe or boot.
Historically, almost all hiking boots, and mountaineering boots in particular, were made on men’s lasts. Now companies have realized that women’s feet are different from men’s, and many are using women specific lasts!
For the Salomon Quest 4Ds, I don’t know if they are using a women’s specific last on their boot. Comparing the length and width of the soles is a good start, but also be sure to take out the insoles and compare them.
Salomon Quest 4D Men's hiking boots
The general differences between Men’s and Women’s hiking boots:
- Last size. Men’s boots are usually made on a larger last, to account for the additional size and volume of a man’s foot.
- Weight. Men’s boots usually weigh more.
- Higher ankle support. Usually the men’s version comes up higher on the ankle.
- Colors! Designers tend to make men’s boots earth tones, and recently they’ve started to add some unique colors to women’s hiking boots!
The most important thing for you is fit. Generally I recommend that women wear women’s specific boots, but if you have a particular foot shape that makes the men’s version more comfortable for you, go with that!
The best thing to do would be to test each of them on a moderate distance hike, as long as the store you bought them from has a return policy that allows dirty shoes to come back! Otherwise, wear them on carpeting – walk up and down steps to mimic hiking hills, and see if you notice a difference.
Happy trails!
Hiking Lady
Do you have a question for the Hiking Lady?
Hi-
I am obsessed and confused. Just bought a pair of men’s Lowa Timoks size 9 reg.
They are too long and narrow. I usually wear mens shoes because my feet are just like my dad’s- wide forefoot, high arch.I’m 5’9″ 115lbs., but have heavy bones and I’m very hard on my gear. I also walk on the outside of my foot
and feel comfortable with it. I need boots that are not high on the outer
edge of the footbed. I’m really impressed with what I hear about the men’s Lowa Ranger and Trekker. Based on what I’ve told you, do you think either of these would work for me? If I’ve not made the situation clear, please contact me for more specifics. I really want to get this one right.
Thank you very much, I look forward to your reply.
forgot to specify that I was referring to a ranger or trekker in a men’s 8.5 wide.
Hi Helen,
Thank you for the very detailed question. The Lowa brand has a great reputation, and they are known for high quality hiking boots. As far as how they’ll fit your foot, I recommend that you try to find an outdoor retail store near you that may have both models in stock so you can try them out. Alternatively, order them online at a store that offers a generous return policy so you can really test them out. Good luck!
For more tips on how to get the best fit once you’re at the store, please check out these 10 Tips for Hiking Boot Shopping.