What Shoes Should I Wear to Hike the Narrows?

When planning a hike through Zion National Park’s famous Narrows, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right footwear. The Narrows is a unique slot canyon where the trail is the river itself, making it essential to wear the proper shoes to stay safe, comfortable, and efficient on the hike. This guide will help you choose the best footwear for your Narrows adventure, explaining the factors to consider and the different types of shoes suitable for this challenging hike.

Understanding the Terrain of The Narrows

Before diving into specific shoe recommendations, it’s important to understand the terrain you’ll be encountering. The Narrows trail is actually the Virgin River, meaning you will be walking through water for most of the hike. The river is usually knee-deep, though it can get higher depending on water levels and weather conditions.

The riverbed is rocky, uneven, and often slippery. There are areas with smooth stones, while other sections feature loose gravel or even sharp rocks. This means you need shoes that provide stability, traction, and comfort, particularly when walking through the river for long distances.

Types of Shoes for Hiking the Narrows

There are several types of shoes to consider for the Narrows, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on your personal preference and the time of year you plan to hike.

Water Shoes

Water shoes are a popular choice for hiking the Narrows, especially if you want to prioritize comfort and foot protection in the water. These shoes are designed to drain water quickly and provide a good amount of traction on wet surfaces.

Advantages:

• Lightweight and comfortable
• Drain quickly, preventing water from weighing you down
• Provide decent traction on wet rocks
• Often have adjustable straps for a secure fit

Disadvantages:

• May not offer as much ankle support as other shoes
• Provide less insulation, which can be uncomfortable in colder weather
• Some models may not have as much durability on rough, rocky terrain

Water shoes are an excellent choice for summer hikes when water temperatures are warmer, and you’ll be walking through the river most of the time. Look for water shoes with a thick rubber sole that provides excellent grip on slippery rocks.

Hiking Sandals

Hiking sandals are another great option for the Narrows, offering a good balance between comfort and support. These sandals are especially popular in warmer weather when you want to avoid your feet getting too hot inside closed shoes.

Advantages:

• Breathable and lightweight
• Good for hot weather, as they allow your feet to cool down
• Quick-drying, so you won’t be bogged down by wet shoes
• Provide good traction on rocks

Disadvantages:

• Limited protection against sharp rocks or debris
• May not offer as much ankle support as hiking boots
• Can be less comfortable for long hikes if straps rub

Hiking sandals are perfect if you want to keep your feet cool while providing decent support for the rocky terrain. Look for sandals with adjustable straps and a grippy rubber sole to help you navigate through the water with ease.

Water-Resistant Hiking Shoes

Water-resistant hiking shoes are designed for trails that may have wet sections, making them another suitable option for hiking the Narrows. These shoes typically offer better ankle support and protection from rough terrain compared to water shoes or sandals.

Advantages:

• Provide more ankle support than water shoes or sandals
• Better protection from sharp rocks and debris
• Comfortable for longer hikes
• Waterproof or water-resistant uppers keep your feet dry for longer

Disadvantages:

• They can become heavy when soaked with water, making your feet tired
• May not drain as quickly as water shoes
• Can be less breathable, especially in hot weather

Water-resistant hiking shoes are great if you prefer more foot protection and support while navigating the rocky terrain of the Narrows. Opt for shoes with a quick-drying mesh upper, so your feet won’t stay wet for too long.

River-Specific Shoes

River-specific shoes are designed explicitly for wet conditions, with features such as drainage holes, a quick-drying material, and a sturdy, slip-resistant sole. These shoes are tailored to provide comfort and safety in water, making them a perfect option for the Narrows.

Advantages:

• Made for wet conditions, so they drain quickly
• Slip-resistant soles that grip wet rocks well
• Designed to be lightweight and breathable
• Often more comfortable for long hikes through water

Disadvantages:

• May not provide the same level of ankle support as boots
• Less durable than hiking boots on rocky terrain

River-specific shoes are perfect for hikers who will be spending the majority of the time in the water. These shoes will keep your feet comfortable, dry, and safe, as they are designed for wet environments.

What to Look for When Choosing Shoes for the Narrows

Choosing the right shoes for the Narrows requires paying attention to several key factors. Let’s take a closer look at the most important features to consider.

Traction and Grip

The riverbed in the Narrows can be treacherous, with rocks and algae that make it slippery. You need shoes that provide excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces. Look for shoes with a sticky, rubber sole that’s designed for slippery conditions.

Vibram soles, which are commonly found in hiking shoes, are an excellent option for the Narrows, as they provide outstanding grip. Shoes with a deeper tread pattern will also help you maintain stability while walking in the river.

Comfort and Fit

You’ll be walking through the river for hours, so comfort is key. Look for shoes that fit well and have enough room to allow your feet to swell without causing discomfort.

When trying on shoes, make sure they are snug but not tight. Pay attention to how they feel around your toes, heel, and ankle. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, while shoes that are too loose can lead to slipping inside the shoe.

Durability

The Narrows is a rocky, rugged trail, and your shoes will need to withstand constant impact from rough terrain. Look for shoes that are built to last, with durable soles and reinforced uppers. Shoes with mesh or synthetic uppers dry faster than leather, which can be heavy when wet.

Drainage

Since you’ll be in the water for much of the hike, drainage is an important factor. Shoes with drainage holes or breathable mesh uppers will allow water to flow out, helping to prevent your shoes from becoming waterlogged.

Protection from Debris

While the river is the primary challenge in the Narrows, there’s also the possibility of encountering sharp rocks, sticks, or other debris. Shoes with a closed-toe design provide better protection for your feet than sandals or open-toe water shoes. If you choose sandals, be mindful of the rocks and make sure the sandals are made with thicker straps that won’t cause discomfort.

Additional Considerations for Hiking the Narrows

Aside from the shoes, there are a few other things to keep in mind when hiking the Narrows:

Season and Water Conditions

The time of year can influence the conditions in the Narrows. During the summer, water levels tend to be lower, and the weather is warmer, making water shoes, sandals, or light hiking shoes a good choice. However, if you’re hiking in cooler months, you might want to opt for a more insulated option.

Check the weather forecast before your hike, and make sure the water levels are safe. Flash floods can be a real danger in the Narrows, so always check the trail conditions with the Zion National Park website or visitor center before setting off.

Consider Your Pack and Other Gear

You’ll likely be carrying a day pack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. A lightweight shoe is preferable to avoid added weight, but ensure it’s still durable enough to handle the hike.

Renting Shoes

If you don’t have the right shoes, or don’t want to invest in a pair, you can rent river shoes from local outfitters near Zion National Park. Many shops offer shoes specifically designed for hiking the Narrows, so you can get the right footwear for the trail.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shoes for hiking the Narrows is an important decision that can impact the comfort, safety, and enjoyment of your hike. Whether you opt for water shoes, hiking sandals, water-resistant hiking shoes, or river-specific footwear, make sure your shoes provide excellent traction, comfort, durability, and drainage.

By understanding the terrain, considering the season and water conditions, and selecting shoes with the right features, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable hike through one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.