Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid While Buying Trekking Shoes

Buying trekking shoes is not the same as buying casual or sports shoes. Many beginners (and even experienced trekkers) make mistakes that lead to discomfort, injuries, or ruined treks. To make your trek safe and enjoyable, here are the 7 biggest mistakes to avoid when buying trekking shoes — and the best waterproof CTR models you can choose instead.

❌ Mistake 1: Buying Normal Sports Shoes for Trekking

Sports shoes slip on wet rocks, don’t protect ankles, and wear out quickly.

✅ Solution: All CTR trekking shoes (RUB-50, OD-4, RUB-600, RUB-700, Sherpa-1, TREK-2) are water-resistant and anti-skid, specially designed for Indian trekking conditions.

❌ Mistake 2: Choosing the Wrong Ankle Height

• Low-ankle shoes = flexibility but less support.
• High-ankle shoes = more protection on rocks, snow, and steep trails.

✅ Solution:

• CTR RUB-700 & TREK-2 → Lightweight, low-ankle, water-resistant.
• CTR RUB-50, Sherpa-1, RUB-600, OD-4 → High-ankle, waterproof, best for monsoon and snow.

❌ Mistake 3: Ignoring Waterproofing

Wet feet = blisters + discomfort + infection risk.

✅ Solution: Every CTR model is water-resistant:

• RUB-50 & Sherpa-1 → Best for snow and monsoon treks.
• OD-4 & RUB-600 → Rugged, waterproof, built for long Himalayan expeditions.
• RUB-700 & TREK-2 → Lightweight, low-ankle, water-resistant for short or summer treks.

❌ Mistake 4: Choosing the Wrong Size

Tight shoes = blisters, loose shoes = no grip.

✅ Pro Tip: Buy trekking shoes one size bigger than your normal shoe size, because you’ll wear thick socks. All CTR models come in standard UK sizes.

❌ Mistake 5: Ignoring Sole Grip

Flat soles = slipping in mud and snow.

✅ Solution: CTR trekking shoes use gum rubber anti-skid soles with deep lugs for maximum grip on Indian terrains.

❌ Mistake 6: Buying Only for Looks or Price

Cheap stylish shoes may last only one trek.

✅ Solution: CTR shoes balance value and durability.

• OD-4 → Heavy-duty build with unmatched durability and grip.
• RUB-600 → Rugged waterproof shoe for tough expeditions.
• TREK-2 → Lightweight low-ankle model for comfort.
• RUB-50 → All-rounder waterproof high-ankle option.

❌ Mistake 7: Not Matching Shoes to Trek Type

Each trek needs different footwear.

✅ Best CTR Options by Trek Type:

• For beginners & summer treks → CTR TREK-2 (lightweight, low-ankle)
• For rough Sahyadri trails → CTR OD-4 (heavy, durable grip)
• For snow & monsoon → CTR RUB-50 (all-rounder waterproof)
• For tough Himalayan expeditions → CTR Sherpa-1 & RUB-600 (rugged, snow-proof)
• For short treks & casual hiking → CTR RUB-700 (low-ankle, water-resistant)

⭐ Final Words

The right trekking shoes are the foundation of every safe and successful adventure. Don’t make the common mistakes most trekkers do—choose CTR trekking shoes, trusted across India for being waterproof, anti-skid, durable, and comfortable.