Jack Wolfskin, the hiker's paw
The hiking shoes Jack Wolfskin page brings together models from the German brand with the wolf's paw: low shoes for easy trails and travel, mid-cut boots for rocky terrains, Texapore waterproof versions for rain and wet grass. It caters to day hikers as well as travellers who want a single pair from trail to town.
Shoes designed for both hiking and travelling.
Jack London, wolves and a paw turned logo
Jack Wolfskin was founded in 1981 in Frankfurt by Ulrich Dausien. The name comes from an expedition in Western Canada, along the Klondike River and the Chilkoot Trail: Dausien thinks of Jack London's novels, the writer of the Great North, and meets wild wolves for the first time. The wolf paw becomes the brand's logo, now visible on its jackets as well as its shoes. Jack Wolfskin has built its reputation on equipment that can withstand bad weather, a specialty extended by its hiking, trekking, and travel shoes.
Texapore: the in-house technology facing the rain
Texapore is the waterproof and breathable technology developed by Jack Wolfskin, designed with climber Mischa Saleki and sled dog racing champion Aleksander Lwow. In a shoe, the membrane, placed between the upper and the lining, blocks outside water while allowing some of the steam produced by the foot to escape. Texapore models often combine a sturdy suede leather with breathable textile inserts, on an EVA midsole that cushions long walks. In the middle of summer on a dry trail, an unlined version stays cooler.
Low or high cut depending on the terrain and the bag
The low shoe is suited for well-marked trails, forest walks, and travel: lighter and more flexible, it keeps the ankle free and can be worn all day, including in the city. The high cut envelops the ankle and protects against twists on rocky paths, roots, and steep descents, especially with a bag weighing several kilos on your back. In between, a mid-high upper offers a popular compromise in low mountains. For sizing, try your shoes at the end of the day, with your hiking socks, and leave about a centimetre in front of your toes: when going downhill, your foot moves forward and would otherwise hit the front.
Other brands and audiences
Shoes are also available by audience, men, women, children, and at Meindl, Helly Hansen, on the hiking shoes page.
Good deals and new arrivals
The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, the promos feature discounted items, and the clearance offers end-of-line products. The items shipped in 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Do Jack Wolfskin shoes run large or small?
They generally fit true to size. Try them on with hiking socks, which are thicker than city socks, and check that your heel stays in place when you go down a slope or stairs.
How to dry wet Texapore shoes?
Remove the insole, loosen the laces, and stuff the shoe with newspaper, changing it every two hours. Leave to dry at room temperature, away from a radiator or fire that would harden the leather and damage the membrane.
Should you waterproof shoes with a membrane?
Yes, because the membrane protects the inside but not the upper. A spray suitable for leather or textile causes water to bead on the surface: an upper that doesn’t soak up water stays lighter and allows the membrane to wick away sweat.
How to lace hiking shoes for downhill?
Pull tighter on the last hooks before starting the descent to secure the heel at the back of the shoe. Your toes won’t hit the front anymore; when going uphill, loosen the top slightly to allow the ankle to flex.
Do you need to break in new hiking shoes?
Yes, especially for a high leather model. Wear them first in the city and then on short walks: the upper will soften, and you'll identify any friction points before a long day of walking.
