I'm a running shoes every day kind of guy, so it was natural to me to get trail running shoes when I got more serious about time on the trails.
There have been times though, where I have wondered if perhaps I should be wearing hiking boots instead of trail running shoes. My research led to an interesting comparison, and there is no correct answer, like most things it comes down to a personal preference.
Trail Running Shoes vs. Hiking Shoes: Which Should You Wear on Arizona Trails?
Arizona’s trails offer everything from flat desert paths to rugged mountain ascents. Choosing the right footwear can make the difference between a great hike and a painful one. For many hikers, the big question comes down to this: trail running shoes or hiking shoes/boots?
Let’s break down the differences so you can decide what’s best for your next adventure.
Weight and Flexibility
Trail Running Shoes: Lightweight and flexible, designed for speed and agility. They allow your foot to move more naturally, which can feel less tiring on shorter hikes or when covering many miles.
Hiking Shoes/Boots: Heavier and stiffer, built for support. While this extra weight can slow you down, it provides more stability on uneven, rocky ground.
Support and Protection
Trail Running Shoes: Offer moderate cushioning and some rock protection, but their low-cut design provides minimal ankle support. Great for well-maintained trails, but risky on steep or loose terrain.
Hiking Shoes/Boots: Come in low, mid, and high cuts. Mid and high boots give better ankle stability, which is especially helpful when carrying a backpack or hiking over jagged rocks and boulders common in Arizona.
Traction and Durability
Trail Running Shoes: Their rubber outsoles grip dirt and gravel well, but they wear out faster, especially on rocky desert trails like Camelback or South Mountain.
Hiking Shoes/Boots: Built with tougher materials and deeper lugs for long-term durability. They hold up better against sharp desert rocks, thorns, and constant sun exposure.
Comfort and Breathability
Trail Running Shoes: Generally more breathable, keeping your feet cooler in Arizona’s heat. They dry faster if you cross streams or get caught in summer monsoon rain.
Hiking Shoes/Boots: Often warmer, but many come in breathable mesh versions. Waterproof boots can be overkill in the desert heat, though handy for higher-elevation hikes like the Mogollon Rim or Flagstaff.
Best Uses in Arizona
Choose Trail Running Shoes if:
You’re doing short day hikes or fast hikes.
You’re sticking to well-worn trails with less rock scrambling.
You value lightweight comfort over rugged protection.
Choose Hiking Shoes/Boots if:
You’re carrying a heavy pack on a longer trek.
You’re hiking rougher terrain like the Superstitions, Grand Canyon, or Four Peaks.
You want more durability and ankle support.
The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Many Arizona hikers actually own both: trail runners for quick outings and hiking shoes/boots for longer, more rugged adventures.
If you’re just starting out, think about the trails you’ll hike most often. For easy valley trails like Thunderbird Conservation Park or Papago, trail runners may be plenty. But for steep, rocky climbs like Piestewa Peak or Humphreys Trail, a sturdy hiking shoe or boot is worth the extra weight.
👉 Pro tip: Try them both. Your feet will tell you what works best.
What is your preferred type of shoe for hiking?
