Once, I saw my hiking boots only as tools for trails and mountains. Then, a friend showed me a game-changer: pairing hiking boots with jeans for a cool, casual look.
This sparked my interest in exploring this versatile trend, which I discovered was quite popular among hikers and friends.
That led me to explore the stylish fusion of hiking boots with jeans. Although I wouldn’t suggest hiking in jeans, pairing them with hiking boots for casual outings can be quite fashionable.
Make sure to read to the very last word to learn how to make hiking boots and jeans work together.
Can You Wear Hiking Boots With Jeans?
Yes, you can wear hiking boots with jeans, making it a stylish outfit designed for your lifestyle. A classic hiking boot makes a good choice, and the style complements everyone.
In fact, there are numerous ways to fashionably wear hiking boots with jeans. I’ve even utilized them as rain boots on occasion.
Beyond casual outfits, I often pair my jeans with hiking boots for moderate cold-weather hikes. However, it’s important to note that I wouldn’t opt for this combination in hot temperatures or for strenuous hikes in any weather.
The heavy material can induce sweating and result in an uncomfortable experience.
6 Things to Consider When Wearing Jeans With Hiking Boots
Wearing hiking boots with jeans as part of your everyday casual look depends on factors such as length, fabric, cut, color, and material. It’s also worth considering weather conditions.
The Length Of The Jeans
Hiking boots don’t pair well with jeans that are either too short or too long.
Shorter inseams, unless intentionally cropped, can create an awkward gap between the jeans and the hiking boots. This gap leaves your ankles exposed, making tucking them into the boots impossible.
Conversely, overly long jeans present their own set of issues. In my early experiences, I made the mistake of wearing longer jeans with my hiking boots.
This resulted in excess fabric bunching up at the top of the boots, which a friend pointed out didn’t look good. Tucking in such excess material wasn’t comfortable or neat.
The ideal jean length for wearing with hiking boots strikes a balance. It should be long enough to tuck into the boots comfortably but not excessively long, preventing extra material from bunching up around your ankles.
The Color Of The Jeans And Your Hiking Boots
Jeans come in more colors than just blue and can be matched with most hiking boots. Blue jeans go with all shoe colors, and black jeans look good with boots, but not with black ones due to less contrast.
Usually, the jeans you have will fit with your hiking boots, like they do with mine.
The Ankle Fit Of The Jeans
I must confess, I hadn’t previously given much thought to the ankle fit of jeans.
Yet, I’ve come to realize that the ankle fit plays a significant role in how well they complement boots.
For women, versatile choices like leggings, skinny jeans, and boyfriend jeans work exceptionally well.
Additionally, cropped jeans often pair nicely with ankle boots, thanks to their hemline that comfortably aligns with the boot’s height.
As for men, opting for straight-leg jeans or a comfortable bootcut style that accommodates walking shoes is advisable. It’s best to avoid jeans with overly wide legs when pairing them with boots.
The Fabric Of The Jeans
Considering the rugged appearance of hiking boots, selecting jeans made from thicker denim is essential for achieving the best look. The heaviness of your typical hiking boot doesn’t align well with lightweight jeans, commonly worn in summer.
The Socks You Will Wear With The Jeans
If you’re planning on tucking your jeans into your hiking boots, you’ll want to opt for longer hiking socks. Ankle-length ones will end up rubbing against your skin as you walk, which could cause discomfort.
Here is a list of the best hiking socks of 2024.
The Weather Conditions
Wearing jeans with hiking boots during warm months, such as spring or summer, can lead to discomfort.
Personally, I find it more suitable to reserve these outfit combinations for the fall or spring. Additionally, jeans may not be ideal when faced with snow, rain, or water, as they become uncomfortable when wet.
In hot temperatures, opting for denim cut-offs is a viable alternative.
How To Wear Hiking Boots With Skinny Jeans?
When pairing skinny jeans with hiking boots, tuck them into the boots’ tops. Ensure that your socks cover the area where the jeans will be tucked to minimize friction while walking. It might be necessary to create a pin roll initially to achieve a proper fit inside the boots.
FAQs
While skinny jeans may not offer the desired comfort and mobility, bootcut jeans can be a good choice to wear with hiking boots. Their slightly wider leg opening allows for easier fitting over the boots compared to tight-fitting jeans.
Wear straight-leg jeans outside of the hiking boots. Make sure they are long enough to cover the ankle of the boot, but not too long that they bunch up while you wear them.
Skinny, cropped, straight-leg, and boot-cut jeans go well with hiking boots. Stay away from wide-leg trousers, as they don’t style really well with this type of shoe.
