About Nikolai R. Christensen

Nikolai R. Christensen is Senior Product Manager in the Performance Division at ECCO. He is responsible for the development of all outdoor and walking shoes. He is an enthusiastic hiker who gets his inspiration for new products from his own varied hiking adventures. The fact that Nikolai tests ECCO products on his own feet whether it be in rain, snow or bright sunshine - and he has more than 5 years experience with footwear development which makes him an expert in his field.

You can ask Nikolai a question about hiking footwear just by filling in the mandatory fields below.


Answered questions

I have Xplorer Ecco Hiking Boots and they are very comfortable, but there is only one problem; how to prevent YAK leather against sometime havy rain water?
You should treat the Yak leather with a care package from the store you bought the products, they should have informed you how to treat the products this is an extra item you should buy to get the most out of your product.
I would like to purchase a good winter boot (X-SERIES). I do not want to buy a boot to play in the snow. Just a boot to get around in the city with 3-8 inches of snow. I have tried the xpedition (Art no. 68074-51052) but found them too warm. Which one would you recommend: xplorer, x-factor or xpedition (Art. no. 68034-00709)? Having a difficult time figuring out the advantages of one over the other.
The build is like this Xpedition is built for hiking (Shorter trips), Xplorer is for trekking (longer treks over more days) and X-Factor is for mountaineering at altitude. If you do find the Xpedtion too warm I would recommend the Rugged Terrain series instead which is one insulation level below the Xpedition.
I am not sure what to choose of boots: Expediton model low or the higher model.Next year I will take a long travel in Asia starting with Mongolia, I am planning a deal of hiking. I also want a boot for every day in Norway in winter, some mountainhiking, town, bicycling.I am not sure eiteher to chooose moel for men or women, I have a wide forfot and often pressure on my big toe and little toe. Lokked at model: 68043-54899 or 68044-50374 in size 41, what is the difference between men and women? What is the weight of the 2 models?

For the trip I would definitely choose the hi version, it will give more protection and stabilty on your journey. The difference between men's an ladies is a wider forefoot, which could be agood tihing for you if you have experienced problems in the past. The weight is about 1.3 kg for one pair - however, it will var a bit depending in the size.

I always have trouble coming down a steep mountain with my toes hurting. I've tried buying bigger than normal shoes but this doesn't help. Have any helpful tips? Also, I like the Ecco Xplorer in womens but can't find in the USA. Can you help me?

I don't believe the answer is to buy bigger boots, you need to have a snug fit around your ancle instep and free feeling around your toes, I would propose you try the Xpedition sereis were we only have positive  feedback on the fit and comfort. You will need to visit http://www.eccousa.com/ in order to find out where to purchase the shoes in the US:

i am looking for a shoe that are suitable for very low temperatures and snow. Which should i go for?
I would suggest you to go and try our X-Factor boots which is having the highest level of insulation in our range, but if this is too stiff and rigid a second proposal could be the Xpedition series.
I have heard that the Offroad sandals are "water friendly", but can they get wet such as being worn while crossing a stream or stepping in puddles? Also, why are not care instructions provided along with the footware?

The offroad sandal is not built for water activities but getting it wet will only result in you need to dry it afterwards they shouldn't be damaged. You are absolutely right on the care issue this should have been explained to you in the store of purchase

I am going to Morocco what boot do you recommend I have a pair of TRACK. Can they be re-soled as they have been with me in all my travels. They have been on six of the seven continent and i need it for no. 7

It is not possible to resole the Track you have because the midsole and outsole is injected on the upper, but a good shoemaker would be able to put a different sole on. But I would like to inform you that we have further modified the Track series into a new innovative group called Xpedition which is built with our unique YAK leather which is 3 times stronger than other leathers, plus the new group is featuring a Vibram outsole and lightweight PU midsole. Check it out on-line at http://www.ecco.com/int/en/collection/men/outdoor/index.jsp

Hi, I am looking for suitable walking/trekking boots with following criteria; should be suitable for walking in the city as well as on forest-trails, be comfortable in temperatures between +20 to -5 degrees celsius, fit my narrow and low volume feet (I will put in an archsuppporting insole, though), be waterproof, be comfortable and look smart! Is this possible to find?

Of  course it is possible to find this type of product. In our Xpedition Series we have a semi-mid cut boot which is equipped with a Vibram outsole and a Gore-Tex membrane making it 100 % waterproof and very comfortable on all terrains including inside the city.68043-50363 Xpedition Kolyma Semi-Mid GTX. Hope this is what you are looking for :-)

Yesterday the "rubber tech" sole(s) pealed off my GORE-TEX boots while I was hiking. (I got them slightly wet and walked for about three hours on pavement the last time I wore them.) I'm going to ask the shoe repairman to glue the soles back on as they are hardly worn. Do you think they will peal off again?
I would bring this pair back to the store and ask for their evaluation of this issue.
I am planning to buy a pair of your boots and have actually tried two models that seem to have capacities for my intentions the x-factor and xpedition. For light trekking and for occasional long hiking with a heavy backpack will the xpedition be adequate for most situations support wise? Which would you personally reccommend?

I am completely assured that you have choosen the the correct products, exsactly as you are stating the Xpedition for the hiking both shorter and longer trips are no problem, it has a limited support but allows the the foot to move and thereby providing comfort, and then our premium product the X-Factor with a narrow last which really provided maximum support and stability. All the best on you travels:-)

Where can I buy Ecco shoes in the Dallas, Texas?
On http://www.eccousa.com/ you will be able to find places where you can buy ECCO shoes - they also have an online shop.
My Ecco Comfort boots soles have worn through after very little use. Can they be repaired?

I'm sorry to hear that - if you contact the shop where you've bought the boot they will be able to help you. Hope this works out for you!

What do you recommend for a light women's walking shoe for the Sierra de Tramuntana, Majorca? What do you recommend for a tough women's walking boot for Scotland, very wet conditions usually, live on the Isle of Skye?
Majorca - Here I would recommend our Offroad LX group, it is coming without Gore-Tex and is therefore more breathable in Majorca where the temperature is higher.
Scotland - In this case I have the perfect product for you. ECCO Xpedition mid-cut with Gore-Tex providing perfect support for your ankles and is 100 % waterproof.
I have just purchased a pair ecco yak leather xpedition shoes.At first I found them a little too tight and warm but having removed the insole they are more comfortable and cooler,but can they be worn normally without the insole and will this compromise the shoes in any way?

I wouldn't say that the shoes will be damaged from being worn without inlaysoles.... But I wouldn't expect them to be super comfortable. We have engineered them so the optimal comfort comes from the product as a unit, this includes the inlaysoles

I am planning to go to Sumatra island very soon and I know it would be a lot of hiking ect. Which boots I have to choose? I want the X-pedition serie boots, but I am afraid that it will be too hot in them. What you can reccomend?

You have picked the right product for the trip, and you mention the heat, which is a very fair point. This is unfortunately one thing were a compromise is necessary.
Warmer feet before getting wet and cold feet, the bacteria's in jungles are very critical if they enter your boots therefore I will go with warm feet instead of wet or infected feet. The Xpedition boot is the best product in our line for this kind of activity. Hope this helps out, and finds you having a great trip to Sumatra :-)

I'm wondering if Ecco Hiking Boots would suit me. I have just bought a $200 pair of hiking boots size 7.5 womens. For normal shoes I wear size 6 or 6.5. At first I thought the hiking boots would be too big but a long walk on a hot day made my feet swell and the boots seemed too small. The biggest problems were the heel seemed too loose and the boot was too tight across the top of my arch and my toes were touching the front of the boot. I was fitted by a sales person who seemed to know what he was doing so I'm assuming it's my weird feet that are the problem. Can Ecco boots help?

In this case I would say that you have gotten a pair which are too small for you. It is critical that you have room especially in front of your toes in hiking / trekking products, exactly because feet have a tendency to swell after longer hikes and treks. I hope you will stop by an ECCO shop and they will be able to guide you in a professional way.

How do you look after ecco goretex boots?

In the store where you bought the products, they should be able to give you the exact care program for you shoe/boots. It is key that it is specifcally engineered for Gore-Tex footwear, but this is also something the store can inform you about.

Please, i Want to Know the right shoes for me. The Xseries (xpedition), or terrain (offroad LX). I`m going to Africa, on work, to the jungle?

If I was going to Africa I would absolutely take the Xpedition Semi-mid cut GTX because of the extra ankle protection and the GTX membrane which will keep moisture out and provide the best inner climate for you feet. Hope this finds your travels to Africa pleasant.

Hi, I am going to be hiking up Kilimanjaro soon followed by a trekking safari in tanzania. Could you tell me which boot you would advise out of the Explorer (orange) or the Xpedition?? Also, here in the UK I can find the Xpidition boots but i am unable to find any of the Explorer boots....do you know if any of your stores stock them or will be able to order them in so that i can try them.

I would buy the Xpedition boots if I was hiking Kili, it is not a difficult climb but rather a longer hike therefore the Xpedition is giving more comfort through out the hike the Xplorer is a tad more stiff and harder in the absorbation. In regards to your second question then you will be able to find a customer service number on ecco.com/uk/ that will help guide you to the shoes: Safe travels to Afric:-)

Do I need to buy a pair of xpedition boots in a size larger than I usually wear for use with hiking socks? I usually wear ladies 8, and have bought a mans 8 but am not sure if this is the correct size for walking the Camino de Santiago in northern spain.
Men's shoes are wider than ladies show, however, the length is the same. If you are wearing thick socks it is recommended to try a size larger to see if it fits better. It seems that a size 8 mens would be okay for you - however, please remember that your heel should not be slipping when you walk and you must have a nails room in the forefoot.
Hi am thinking of buying me a pair of Xpedition or Explorer, Since they have Goretex fabric i wonder how these will stand against cold weather, do I need to go up a size in order to use a extra sock.

GORE-TEX is a membrande placed between the leather upper and the lining. It prevents water from penetrating the shoe while letting your foot's natural moisture pass through the membrane. This means that you will have a perfect inner climate no matter if it is cold or warm outside :-) However, I do recommend that you also wear appropriate hiking socks!

Is the UltraTerraiin 1.1 Savu 69223 54310 meant to be worn in the water? For example rafting or hiking thru streams? I noticed that while the sides are mesh the tongue has fabric. The saleperson at a store made it sound like the shoe was meant for such activities, but looking at it, it seems it's meant for hiking/walking. I'd love your take on it.

The ECCO Aqua range is made from fast-drying materials which means that they can be used in both fresh and salt water. Please note that the shoe will only be waterproof if it has a GORE-TEX label on it. The outsole is made from slip-resistant material which would be helpful for rafting - or short trips in or around water. However, for longer hiking trails I recomment one of our tougher hiking boots made from YAK leather.

Receptor ultra x-treme terrain, 25614-52569. Marc, does this shoe have a wide toe box or full forefoot area that will accommodate my large bunions? I have been using the Ecco x-treme Jane sling back which has a wide toe box and my feet have been very happy. I am looking for another such well fitting shoe but want something more closed.

ECCO shoes are build around a term called Freedom Fit. It means that the shoe is snug in the heel to the instep - and not on the ball of the foot. It follows the natural shape of the human foot, allows toes to move freely and gives a natural bloodflow. The Ultra X-Treme Terrian should be able to give you the desired comfort you are looking for!

I am going on a tour in europe and I will be walking 10 hours a day. Which ecco sandal would you recommend so that I won't have foot pain while standing and walking so many hours or get the burning on my heel that I get from so many other shoes when I walk alot. Also would the Ecco "offroad" sandals be good?

Absolutely, the OFFROAD is what I would recommend – This is our no. 1 sandal in the line. It is built with the unique direct injected midsole technology that only ECCO can do, this means no glue to make the shoe stiff. We call it comfort out of the box… There is no breaking these sandals in, they are ready to go immediately.

I am going to Iceland later this month. I was wondering which ecco model you would choose to hike in gletchers.

I am assuming that you would need a boot that is comfortable, warm and waterproof. Therefore, I recomment the ECCO Xpedition, with the unique direct injected midsole from ECCO and YAK leather for maximum durability. It has GORE-TEX lining which will ensure your feet stay dry and warm.

I am going to China in November beginning in Beijing but going through the Datong area, Pingyao, Kaili and ending in Hong Kong. There will be bus travel, air, train, and local hiking. Which boot would you recommend. I like comfort but need to stay warm.

If comfortable is the way you like to travel the product is ECCO Xpedition, with the unique direct injected midsole from ECCO and YAK leather for maximum durability. If you wear the correct hiking socks you should have no problem keeping your feet warm in these boots :-)

We dont want boots, have them from Greenland. Now going to Australia we will ask for a suggestion for shoes, for walking in sand, rocks and woods, and maybe sit in the plane?

The Ultra Terrain II series are built for high ventialation and foot comfort in hot climates, and elastic lacing system which will custom fit you everytime you take a step. Great for planes, easy on and off and airport friendly, no metal shank.

I weigh 315 lbs and have flat feet. I want a good outdoor walking shoe that will give support and stability. I walk for fitness. Any suggestions?

I would propose 2 products – City walking and mall-waling I would go for the A-Traction, but if you are doing forest and sometimes hiking then the product woudl be the Xpedition range. Both groups are with ECCO’s unique direct injected midsole technology, no glue which means more flexible products.

I have just bought Ecco Light II walking shoes. I am going to Montana USA - will it be okay for walking in cities as well as in the National Parks? And mostly - are they water proof. I cant find a GoreTex label on it? The man who sold it to me said it is with Gore, but is it correct?

The products are perfect for city and forest walking, I would tough invest in a pair of hiking boots when hiking or trekking offroad. A recommendation could be the Xpedition series with YAK leathers.

In regards to the Gore-Tex this not possible because we are not having anything with Gore-Tex in the Light II line, I believe the clerk could be mis-informed, if you would let me know the store then I will send them some info immediately to clear the misunderstanding.

I was looking at the expedition, and the rxp trail. I am looking primarily for a hiking shoe, but I am intrigued by trail running, and was thinking of buying some that can be used for both. I just wanted to know if you can recommend something to satisfy both?

I am not a believer in products doing different sports, it is key that the product is tailor made for the individual activity. Therefore I would get a pair of light-weight RXP 1000 (light trail running product) with the trail out and a pair of Xpedition Sayan when doing hiking.

I have just purchased a pair of Country GTX Boots, Coffee-Black-Coffee No. 40074-55102. My questions is do I use a shoe polish on these shoes to help protect them. And if I do what kind would you recommend.

All our sales personnel is trained in knowing how to take care of ECCO shoes and our shoes come with a coat of protection from the production - but it never hurts to take care of your shoes! Therefore, I recommend that you contact your nearest ECCO outlet who can advice you - also here you can purchase the shoe care products developed especially for ECCO products.

What is the difference between the Xpidition and Xplorers? Are they intended for different types of trekking??

The Xpedition is more a comfort hiker and the Xplorer is the the technical direct version. I would personally go for the Xpedition on any longer trek

I am going to be hiking up Kilimanjaro soon followed by a trekking safari in tanzania. Could you tell me which boot you would advise out of the Explorer (orange) or the Xpedition?

I would go for the Xpedition boot it is a tad more flexible than the Xplorer and I have only positive experiences with it… There is a bit more PU in the midsole of the Xpedition boot which provides extra comfort when walking long stretches. The xplorer boot is a bit more technical, but this gives a more direct ground contact.

I saw a commercial about ecco athletic shoes with drawings on the heel end and I can't remember the name or find them in a store or on the web site. Please help me.


The athletic or Performance line of ECCO is built around the Receptor Technology, but are called ECCO Performance - they have colour on the heel area. Products are ranging from Aqua and mulitu-sport to hiking, trekking and mountaineering. Fitness products for gym or running. You can find the products in most ECCO shops are in some sporting goods distributors. Please go to this link  http://www.ecco.com/int/en/service/contact/index.jsp - here you will find a number that can guide you to distributing shops.

I recently purchased a pair of ecco expedition hiking boots size 42 for men (I think). The code on the boot says 98034 42C 521144 I usually take a size 42 ladies in ecco. How do I tell the difference between mens and womens boots, and do you think that the 42 is big enough in the hiking boot for me to go hiking wearing thick socks. At the moment they feel good in the house, if a little clumpy, (perhaps ladies fit might be a little less so), but when I get on the trail and my feet get hot, will they feel a little tight?

I can see from the article number that you have purchased a size 42 mens. I would try the boots with exactly the socks you would be wearing during the hike, and then I would make sure they still feel roomy especially in the forefoot area, it is critical that the boots are snug in the heel in order not to have abrasion soars. Hope this helps out!

I recently ordered a pair of Dakota Vibram shoes (size 48) from my local dealer (Englins, Indianapolis), but was told tonight that they're having problems getting them. I'm going on a walking tour in Europe and really wanted the Vibram soles. What would you suggest?
Unfortunately I don't have good news for you. We only have the A-Traction up to size 47, also in the global or European range. But if you are looking for comfortable and light shoes for walking through Europe I would like to suggest you the Expedition Low. Please check it out :-)
In October I will go on vacation to Jordain. Wich outdoor shoes of Ecco would you recommend?
Jordania sounds for me like you are going to do more moderate hiking trips. In this case I would recommend an Xpedition High. The shoes are comfortable and light and gives you enough protection and stability for moderate hiking tours.
I live in the USA, however I want to buy 4 pairs of size 43 Rugged Terrain V in brown and can not find them.Please advise, when and were I can get them. Thank you.
Thanks for your question. In this case you have to contact our colleguages from the US to figure out where to buy exactly. Try Calling them toll free at 1-877-240-2365(M-F 8:00 am - 5:00 pm EST)ór email them at eccousa@ecco.com
I am going for an 8 days journey. Trekking in Italian mountains, up to 2.000 meters,. Small rough paths. Up to 7 hours trekking a day. Only with a one-day-backpacker.Please tell me, what kind of boots would you prefer?
If you are hiking really serious paths with maybe fixed rope route sections I would go for the X-Factor. If the path is a more common hiking route I would for the Explorer.
Why is YAK leather used so much in your hiking products?
Based on the natural structure of Yak leather, Yak leather is 3 times stronger then ordinary leather. This is definitely a key benefit for hiking shoes where durability plays a major role.
What kind of sole material should I look for when I go hiking in really hot climates?
If you are going hiking even in hot climates, good grip and protection is the key. Therefore all our hiking shoes in the mountain segment are built and designed together with vibram to provide perfect grip and protection.
Why do you use the Vibram®Hike Outsole on so many of your outdoor shoes?
The Vibram® provides great traction and grip as well as extra durability and longevity. The outsole is made especially for ECCO and can perform at any temperature and on almost all surfaces. It is my preferred outsole for a good hiking boot.
How heavy is the Xpedition boot that all the Sherpas wear?
A pair of Xpedition boots weigh about 1.44 Kg