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What to Consider When Buying a Pair of Hiking Boots
What to Consider When Buying a Pair of Hiking Boots
Choosing the right footwear is key to your hiking experience. Hiking boots offer support and protection while on the trail, allowing you to trek long distances with confidence. The type of hiking you plan on doing and the terrain you will encounter will influence the type of hiking boot that is best for your needs. From rugged and rocky trails to wet and muddy conditions, there is a hiking boot to accommodate most terrains.
Hiking boots are designed to be thicker and stiffer than most shoes. This is because they are meant to support the weight of a backpack and protect your feet from sharp rocks and other trail debris that you may stumble upon. In return, they take longer to break in than most shoes and can be heavier to wear on the feet. However, many people find that hiking boots are more comfortable than sneakers or tennis shoes when they are paired with the proper socks.
What to consider when buying a pair of hiking boots
The first thing that you should do when trying on a new pair of boots is walk around in them. This will give you a feel for how they fit and whether the soles are too rigid. You should also try a few different pairs to see which ones are best for your feet. Oftentimes, a store will allow you to return footwear if it isn’t the perfect fit.
If you are planning on a day hike with minimal traction challenges, most sneakers or cross trainers will be adequate for the task. If you are looking for a pair of boots that will be suitable for overnight hiking or challenging traction trails, then look at boots that have been rated waterproof or that include a durable rubber outsole.
You should always wear the socks that you will be hiking in when trying on boots. Avoid cotton socks and choose a synthetic or wool sock that will help wick moisture away from the skin. In addition, a good sock will prevent blisters.
One of the biggest mistakes that hikers make is wearing shoes that are too tight on their feet. If the boots are too snug, it can cause blisters and chafing on the feet, which can lead to fatigue and even plantar fasciitis.
Another important factor when choosing a pair of hiking boots is ensuring that they have sufficient tread and ankle support. The tread on a hiking boot is made up of knurled knobs of rubber called lugs. The shape and arrangement of these lugs will determine how well the boot grips the trail. For example, shallow and wide shaped lugs are better for smooth surfaces like sandstone or granite slabs while deep and narrow lugs will have a better grip on loose dirt or snow.
The final consideration when purchasing a pair of hiking boots is the amount of break-in time that you can expect. Some boots, especially those that are made of leather, require a substantial break-in period and can be uncomfortable at first. Other boots, such as those made of a more flexible material, can be worn on the trail immediately.
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