The High Tatras, part of the Carpathian mountain range, are relatively young mountains with an incredibly diverse landscape. In a single day, you can move from damp forests to steep, rocky peaks. The weather is just as unpredictable: sunshine in the morning can quickly turn into rain and strong winds by midday. That’s why choosing the right footwear is essential — both for comfort and for safety.

The Tatras are the closest mountains to Vilnius, and I had been dreaming of visiting them for a long time. I only had three days, so I packed two pairs of shoes: Keen Newport H2 sandals with a protective rubber toe, and La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II trail running shoes.

Keen Newport H2 sandals became my primary choice for nearly 80% of the routes. They were perfect for everyday walking and lighter trails. Thanks to the wide sole design, weight is distributed evenly — something that really matters on longer distances. The rubber toe cap protected my feet from morning dew as well as accidental knocks against rocks.

For more demanding sections, I switched to La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II shoes. They feature a Gore-Tex membrane that protects against snow, water, and moisture. A reinforced toe and solid construction make them suitable even for light scrambling.

On the first day, I covered 22 km, on the second — 30 km, and on the third — 24 km. The terrain of the Tatras is truly diverse, ranging from green meadows to sharp mountain ridges. Along the way, I encountered tangled roots, mountain streams, and rocky trails — a true endurance test for both the body and the footwear.

After completing the Orla Perć trail, I learned a great deal. The adrenaline, physical effort, and psychological test of endurance pushed me to my limits. On trails like these, every step matters, and the right gear can determine success or failure. That’s why I approached footwear selection in a practical way. Up to the base of the mountain, I wore Keen H2 sandals, but once I started moving along the ridges, Ultra Raptors became my main choice. They provided stability on all demanding sections and proved especially useful where light scrambling was required.

On hikes, shoes are not just about comfort — functionality matters just as much. They need to distribute weight evenly, provide stability across changing surfaces, and protect against moisture. Gore-Tex membranes offer excellent protection from water, though they can become warm on hotter days. In rocky terrain, where you’re constantly balancing on uneven ground, proper ankle support also becomes crucial.

One more important tip: always protect your skin from the sun. Sunscreen is essential for all exposed areas to prevent sunburn or heat exhaustion. Don’t forget about socks either — the best choice is seamless hiking or running socks made from moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials. These socks support the foot, reduce friction, and help prevent blisters.

Another detail that’s often overlooked is shoe width. Even slight pressure can cause discomfort or lead to injury. Today’s footwear options make it possible to find shoes that fit perfectly — whether for sandy trails or demanding mountain routes.

Properly chosen footwear means comfort and safety. Visit our store, and our specialists will help you find the right pair for your next adventure.