Obtaining the Right Hiking Boots

Obtaining the Right Hiking Boots

Obtaining the Right Hiking Boots

If you are a walker, or if you're contemplating taking up walking for a hobby, then getting the proper footwear is critical. So what do you need and how do you set about obtaining it.

The kind of shoe or boot

Firstly you should determine on the type of walking that intend to do. Are you looking at short walks of up to 5 miles (2 hours), medium walks of up to about 12 miles (4 to 5 hours), or far more extended walks that take a day or even longer.

Secondly, what kind of terrain do you intend to walk on? Will you be hiking on excellent quality paths and fairly level ground, or do you intend to take on the challenge of rough terrain and steep slopes where the footing is uneven and also the path is rough.

If your walking will probably be of a short to medium duration and you only intend to walk on good high quality paths, then you might be OK with what is occasionally referred to as a "day hiker".

This is additional of a shoe than a boot and, although it has a stiffer sole, a much more contoured tread and enhanced support, it looks some thing like a sneaker (trainer). This type of shoe is comfortable and fine for general walking.

If you intend to take on longer walks and walks where the ground will throw up an uneven surface, loose rocks or inclines and declines, then you want a hiking boot.

A hiking boot has a pretty stiff sole, an "upper" that extends to (and sometimes beyond) the ankle and a structural shank (the part of the shoe that runs up above the heel). This kind of footwear provides a high level of support to the feet and makes walking of a longer duration, or walking on uneven ground, a lot much more comfortable.

Material

Not too long ago leather was the only alternative for severe walking shoes and hiking boots, but right now you'll find a range of unique synthetic fabrics that provide waterproof protection plus high levels of breathe-ability.

The advantages of a waterproof shoe are pretty obvious, but having shoes that not just keep water out, but which also let water vapour (sweat) escape can improve foot comfort considerably. These shoes use unique fabrics and, when combined with thick breathable walking socks, they ensure that the feet are kept fresh and dry which in turn prevents blisters and soreness.

Shoe size

Purchasing walking boots or hikers which are the right size is crucial and here you should be guided by how they feel rather than how they look or your "regular" shoe size (measurement).

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