There certainly should be. Women typically have a narrower heel and taller arch than a man. So, a boot that is billed as suitable for women should be built on a last (the mold used to form the boot) that reflects these characteristics, rather than simply taking a man’s boot and down-sizing it.
So, let’s start exploring the factors that separate them in detail.
1. Size
In terms of size, men’s vs women’s hiking boots have the biggest difference. By nature, men have larger feet than women. So, for this reason, the men’s boots are built to be larger and wider. Normally, women are short than men, so they have shorter and more narrow feet. If you look at the two same sizes of women’s and men’s hiking footwear, then you notice that women’s sizes are smaller than the others.
2. Variety of Colours
Manufacturers are building the boots with different colours and for this, their boots come in many unique colours for their marketing purposes. For men, hiking boots normally come in earth tones and there is nothing significant in terms of colour. With that said, colour is another way to differentiate between them.
3. Weight
Women’s hiking boots will be lighter compared to men’s, which usually weigh more.
4. Feet Security
The hiking boot’s main purpose is to support the foot or ankle from injuries or pain. Women’s arches are usually higher than men’s and their feet are also more flexible than men’s, meaning they need more protection and support for the ankle or foot. Many brands offer high-quality ankle or Plantar Fasciitis supporting hiking boots for both women and men.
5. A little Comfort
As women’s feet are usually more flexible and softer, they need more services to save their feet and allow for comfortable walking. Otherwise, they can face Achilles injury or heel pain. For this reason, many manufacturers make their boots with extra padding and an added midsole insert to ensure a secure and comfortable boot.
6. Price
Based on some footwear brands and users, there is a difference in price between women’s and men’s boots. Women’s footwear is usually a little higher priced than men’s.
Conclusion.
So, from the facts above, what’s your opinion? Are there enough points to make women’s and men’s boots two separate products which should be sold and advertised differently?
Their design and purpose are the same, therefore I think that they should be sold as such.
