10 common myths about bogshoe hikes
(and why they’re actually not true)
Sometimes it feels like almost every Estonian has been on a canoe trip. A bogshoe hike, on the other hand, is a bit more unfamiliar for many, even though bogs are ancient landscapes. So the idea of a bogshoe hike may sound wild, extreme, or even a little unsettling for some — as if a bog were a dangerous place where you might sink in.
In reality, a bogshoe hike is one of the most beginner-friendly and enjoyable ways to explore Estonia’s unique nature.
To clear up common misconceptions, today we’ll explain how a bogshoe hike and moving through a bog actually work. Read on to see whether any of the following ten myths match something you’ve believed until now.
1. But you’ll sink into the bog, right?
This myth probably comes from old scare stories. The truth is that most bog surfaces are firm enough to walk on comfortably with bogshoes. You should avoid the softer spots — hollows — but your guide will always lead you safely around them.
2. Bogshoes are meant for walking on snow — they don’t belong in a bog.
In fact, bogshoes are suitable for every season, because in a bog you almost always need them for walking. There is, however, one time of year when you shouldn’t go into the bog with bogshoes. This is the spring bogshoe-rest period, when people take a break from moving around in the bog so that birds can nest there undisturbed. Bogshoe-rest lasts from late April to late June. You don’t need to remember this yourself — it’s the guide’s responsibility.
3. Walking with bogshoes is clumsy and difficult.
On the contrary! Walking in a bog is even harder without bogshoes. The first few minutes might feel a bit funny, since you step slightly wider with bogshoes, but you get used to it quickly.
4. A bogshoe hike requires good physical fitness.
Not at all. Most bogshoe hikes are at a relaxed pace and are suitable for beginners. If you can manage a regular walk, you can handle a bogshoe hike too.
5. They don’t have my size of bogshoes. All bogshoes are the same.
Wrong. Bogshoes have an adjustable binding system and fit a wide range of shoe sizes. Our bogshoes fit shoes from size 36 to 50, and their weight capacity is 50–120 kg. And best of all, we now also have bogshoes suitable for children! This means that the bog experience is no longer just a privilege for big feet. Children’s bogshoes fit sizes 30–40 and weights 20–50 kg, which generally suits kids from around 7 years old.
6. Bogshoes are dangerous because you can easily fall while wearing them.
In reality, it’s the opposite — bogshoes actually add stability when walking in a bog.
7. A bogshoe hike is always wet and cold.
With the right equipment and clothing, you’ll come back from the bog dry. In addition to bogshoes, we also provide gaiters for hikers, which protect your pant legs from splashing water. A reliable choice for a bogshoe hike is either a waterproof hiking boot or a rubber boot.
8. A winter bog is boring
A winter bog is one of Estonia’s most magical landscapes. The trees are frosted, if the ice is strong enough you can cross the bog pools, and the only sound you hear is the crunchy snow under your feet. It can feel like a scene from a fairy tale.
9. Bogshoes damage the bog.
Quite the opposite. Bogshoes distribute your weight and are more environmentally friendly than boots alone. Additionally, the guide manages the impact on the bog by removing sharp claws from the bog shoes during the snow-free period, by asking the group to spread out during the hike, and by avoiding using the same trail repeatedly.
10. A bogshoe hike is too long and exhausting.
The length, duration, and pace of the bogshoe hike can be adjusted according to your wishes.
With bogshoes, you can reach places that boots can’t
Experience doesn’t lie: here’s what our clients really think about bogshoe hikes
“I was very happy with the autumn bogshoe hike. Although the weather was rainy, it didn’t bother me at all — with the right equipment, any weather is perfect for a hike! I really appreciated that every detail was thought through from start to finish: a helpful reminder email before the hike, a warm welcome on arrival, the option to use extra gear (walking poles, gaiters), a tea and cookie break, and a well-organized and guided hike. I felt welcomed and cared for throughout the entire experience. I warmly recommend Wanderlust.ee to anyone who values a well-organized, heartfelt hiking experience!” – Annemai Mägi
Now that your team or friend group has no more doubts, we look forward to taking you on a bogshoe hike with us this autumn–winter season. Contact us!
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