Though summer has given way to fall this year, there is still plenty of time to go on an outdoor adventure! In fact, autumn is the perfect season for brisk hiking. The colors of the season allow for gorgeous views and the cooler temperature can help stave off the exhaustion that comes with hiking and other cardiovascular activity.

But if you’re going on a fall hiking trip, it’s important to have the right gear for the trek. And what better gear for an adventure than adventure shoes? Depending on the location, duration, and forecast of the trip, different types of boots might be necessary. Let’s break down the different kinds of footwear for fall hiking. Keep in mind that some of these categories can be combined with one another.

Casual Hiking Boots

These boots are both functional and fashionable. Indeed, the casual hiking boot can be worn on just about any casual occasion, especially in the fall when boots are the most trendy. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these boots also work as adventure shoes for the moderate trekker. It might not be best to hike up extremely steep or rocky hills in this more casual footwear, but most casual boots and comfortable walking boots easily handle any average trail.

Lightweight Boots

While we want durable boots for tough terrain, too much heavy material can actually be a big bummer on an extended hike. Just as they sound, lightweight boots won’t be as much of a burden on your feet. While we usually think of the weight on our backs when considering the load we carry on a long hike, the weight on our feet plays a major role on long walks and runs. Experienced hikers even say that as a general rule, every extra pound on your feet equals about five pounds on your back. Therefore it’s important to strike a balance between durability and comfortable weight when picking out adventure shoes.

Waterproof Boots

Most high end boots that you purchase will be waterproof, but some boots are specifically designed with moisture in mind. Fall, like Spring, tends to be a rainy season, so even if you’ll be hiking in a particularly dry area, it’s good to be prepared for possible rainfall. The rain itself can damage boots not designed to combat water, and beyond that, the rain makes for muddy, slick trails that can be dangerous to walk on without the proper footwear. Most hiking trails will encounter water at some point anyway, whether it be a stream or swampy area, so it’s best to invest in waterproof hiking boots regardless of how dry you envision the trek to be.

Hiking Sandals

These two words almost seem to contradict one another. After all, how can sandals, which are designed to be open an extremely flexible, protect your feet from rocky, uneven terrain? Well, they aren’t meant for long or rough hikes, but are useful for mild exploration of easier trails. Plus hiking sandals offer ventilation and some protection, which is the best of both worlds on the hotter days.

There’s still plenty of time left this season to get a good hike or two in with some friends. If your old boots are worn out or it’s time for a new pair, consider these types of shoes for your next outdoor trek! One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to this decision, but you know your feet better than anyone else.