What shoes are safest for Mt. Rinjani?

The safest footwear for Rinjani is a pair of sturdy, ankle-high hiking boots with aggressive tread designed for loose and uneven terrain. Unlike well-maintained forest trails, the upper slopes are composed of sharp volcanic rock, loose gravel, and deep scree that shifts constantly underfoot. It’s a totally different kind of walking.

Hiking boots provide the ankle support, sole rigidity, and toe protection that give you confidence on terrain where running shoes and sneakers fail. The summit push in particular, which starts in the dark and climbs over unstable volcanic ash, is where the difference becomes stark. You’ll feel every rock through thin soles.

Waterproofing is a secondary benefit. It’s not because it rains heavily during dry season, but because morning dew and occasional stream crossings can leave your feet damp, and damp feet are prone to blisters. Nobody wants blisters on day one.

At Lombok-Indonesia.org, the team explicitly advises against running shoes, casual sneakers, and absolutely prohibits sandals, because these offer no protection against the abrasive volcanic surface and no stability on steep descents. If you don’t own proper hiking boots, invest in a pair well before your trip and break them in. Your boots are your most important piece of personal gear on Rinjani, and choosing the right pair is a direct investment in your safety and comfort. Don’t cheap out on this.