Outdoor footwear at Recon Company – walking shoes and trekking boots for all terrains

Outdoor footwear determines whether a trip is enjoyable or turns into an ordeal. With over 30 years’ experience as a supplier to public authorities, we select every model according to the same rigorous criteria that apply in professional settings. Our range extends from lightweight hiking shoes for day trips to insulated winter boots for arctic temperatures.

Walking shoes, hiking shoes or trekking boots – which type is right for you?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different types of footwear. Walking shoes are low-cut, flat shoes designed for paved paths and moderate inclines. Hiking shoes offer a higher shaft and a sturdier sole for unpaved trails. Trekking boots are the most robust option: high shaft, stiff sole, designed for multi-day tours with heavy luggage over challenging terrain. If you want to travel lighter, hiking boots offer a good compromise between stability and weight.

The shaft height is not just a comfort feature. It determines ankle stability. On flat forest tracks, you don’t need a high shaft – it just adds weight and restricts movement. However, as soon as you’re walking across scree slopes with a 15 kg rucksack, a mid-cut or high shaft protects against twisting your ankle. You can find further information on the entire footwear category in our overview of footwear for operational and service use.

Waterproof outdoor boots: with or without a membrane?

Gore-Tex and similar membranes keep moisture out, but they always reduce breathability. For hikes in changeable weather in Central Europe, waterproof outdoor shoes with a membrane are the safer choice. In hot, dry regions or for use exclusively in summer, a shoe without a membrane may be the better option. It dries faster and wicks away sweat more effectively.

The upper material is also a key factor. Full-leather shoes naturally offer a certain degree of protection against moisture and can be re-waterproofed. Synthetic materials are lighter and dry faster, but offer little protection against persistent rain without a membrane. Many trekking shoes combine both: leather in high-wear areas, synthetic material on the rest of the upper.

Winter boots for the outdoors – grip and insulation on ice and snow

Winter boots differ from trekking boots in that they have an additional layer of insulation and a sole that provides grip on ice and snow. Manufacturers such as Meindl and Hanwag use Thinsulate or PrimaLoft as insulation in their winter models – both keep you warm even when wet, unlike traditional down.

When choosing winter boots , pay attention to the sole construction. Arctic-Grip tread patterns offer significantly more traction on icy surfaces than standard hiking treads. If you also plan to use your winter boots for snowshoe hiking, you’ll also need a stiffer sole to accommodate the bindings.

What to look out for when buying outdoor footwear

The most common mistake: choosing outdoor footwear based on appearance rather than intended use. Ask yourself three questions beforehand. How heavy is your kit? Hiking boots are sufficient for loads up to 8 kg. For loads of 12 kg or more, you’ll need trekking boots with a stiffer sole. What sort of terrain will you be walking on? Paved paths call for a low-cut boot; scree and roots call for a mid-cut or high-cut boot. And what climate zone will you be in? A boot with a membrane for Central Europe; without a membrane for hot weather; winter boots for sub-zero temperatures.

Always try on outdoor shoes in the afternoon – your feet swell as the day goes on. Test them with the socks you’ll actually wear on your trip. And take a few steps on a sloping surface: if your toes bump against the front, the shoe is too short for long descents.

Our range of outdoor footwear covers the entire spectrum: from lightweight hiking boots for a Sunday stroll to insulated winter boots for expedition conditions. If you’re unsure which boot suits your activity profile, you can get expert advice online or in person at our shop in Salzgitter.

• 10% discount for public sector staff and their families on the entire range.
• Worldwide field post delivery – even to remote locations.
• Personalised expert advice from our team: online, by telephone or in person in Salzgitter.
• Verified process quality through ISO 9001 certification – from procurement to delivery.