A good pair of boots can last for years, protecting your feet and keeping them comfortable by providing the support that you need. Trying to find the perfect pair of boots, however, can quickly become overwhelming. There are countless different styles available on the market, making it difficult to know which option is best.
Luckily, the tips and information contained in this guide should make the process a lot easier. By the time you are done reading, you should have a good grasp on how to get the ideal fit as well as on how to choose the right materials and style for your needs.
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Think About The Type Of Ground That You Cover
Different types of terrain require different styles of boots. Certain features such as the thickness and stiffness of the sole as well as the height of the boot around the ankle are important considerations when deciding whether or not a particular pair of boots is appropriate for a specific type of terrain.
For instance, if you primarily walk on smooth, level ground or well-groomed trails, you can most likely get by with lightweight, flexible boots. In some cases, you may even be able to get by with hiking shoes. These types of shoes and boots are ideal for smooth terrain since they allow your foot to bend naturally as you walk, providing a comfortable experience.
On the other hand, if you plan on hiking on uneven terrain where you may encounter rocks, sticks, and other obstacles, you will need to look for a sturdier pair of boots. Boots for rugged terrain should have a thick sole that is a bit more rigid. They should also cover your ankles, providing protection and support. Although stiff soles won’t flex as easily with your foot, they will provide you with additional stability on the trail. Thicker soles can also help protect your feet from getting injured if you step on sharp rocks or other potentially dangerous items.
Most people fall somewhere in the middle, spending their time walking on a combination of easy trails and more challenging trails. The important thing to keep in mind when choosing boots is that the pair you select should be sturdy enough to protect your feet and supportive enough to keep your feet feeling great throughout your hike.
How To Ensure A Proper Fit
Even the best boots in the world won’t be comfortable or provide the support you need if they don’t fit correctly. Getting a proper fit involves more than just choosing the right shoe size. You also need to pick boots that work well with the shape of your feet. That means that the boot needs to fit the length of your foot as well as the width of your foot, all the way from your heel up to the tips of your toes.
Because so many factors go into getting a good fit, the best option is to visit a boot shop in person to have your feet measured by an expert. The people who work in these shops are extremely knowledgeable about boots and can help you find a pair that is ideal for the size and shape of your feet.
When shopping for boots, the two primary factors that you need to consider are the type of ground that you plan on covering as well as the way that the boots fit on your feet. As long as you choose boots that are appropriate for the hiking that you plan on doing and that fit well, you should be happy with your purchase.
Consider Opting For Waterproof Boots
Few things in life are as uncomfortable as walking around in wet boots. Fortunately, most modern hiking boots incorporate a membrane that is specifically designed to keep water out, helping to ensure that your feet stay dry.
Remember. However, water entering your boot from the outside is only one part of the equation. You also need to be sure that the sweat and condensation created by your feet can escape from inside the boots. Look at this Timberland from Sole Trader.
That is why it is important to look for boots that are made from breathable materials. Gore-Tex® boots are extremely popular with hikers, simply because they do such a good job of allowing sweat and condensation to escape while at the same time preventing water from getting inside. CAT boots may also have their place but are more for either building or fashion nowadays.
If you are planning on walking in the snow or tall grass or if you are going to be hiking in the rain, you should also think about using gaiters. These waterproof cuffs fit around your lower legs and over the tops of your boots. They help keep water from entering your boots from above, ensuring that your feet stay dry. They also can be extremely beneficial if you are going to be walking on gravel or scree. Often, small rocks or pebbles can flip up into your boots, causing a great deal of discomfort. When you wear gaiters, however, these tiny particles can’t get inside.
Choose Your Materials Wisely
The majority of today’s hiking boots are either made with leather or with synthetic materials. In the past, leather boots were often touted for their durability while boots made from synthetic materials were well known for their flexibility and their lightweight design.
The materials used in modern boots, however, have made these differences negligible. With more choices than ever available, you should be able to find boots that are durable, comfortable, lightweight, flexible, and breathable. Of course, any boot needs to fit properly regardless of the types of materials that it is made from.
The Right Socks Can Make A Huge Difference
Even the highest quality boots won’t perform the way they were designed to if you don’t pair them with the right socks. A good pair of hiking socks should not only provide extra cushioning for your feet but should also help wick away moisture.
The Components That Make Up A Typical Boot
Boots incorporate a variety of different components, all of which work together to provide a comfortable, supportive fit. Here are the key components that you can find in any boot:
1. The Sole
Most hiking boots have rubber soles that are designed to grip the trail. The tread of the boots usually will include deep lugs that are designed to penetrate the surface of the ground to provide extra traction. Most boots use a special type of rubber that increases friction between the bottoms of your boots and the ground, helping to minimize the risk of slipping.
2. The Midsole
Contained inside of the boot, the midsole is responsible for controlling the amount of flexibility that the boot provides. Boots that are designed for rough terrain usually are stiffer than those that are designed for walking on flat surfaces. Try bending the boots when you are shopping to see how much flexibility they provide. This will make it easier to find a pair that has the right amount of flexibility for your needs.
3. The Insole Or Footbed
This part of the shoe helps cushion your foot when you are standing still. Although most hiking boots come with their insoles, you can often remove them and replace them with a different insole to provide customized support or cushioning, depending on your needs.
4. The Lining
Most hiking boots are lined with soft materials that are designed to wick moisture away from the foot while at the same time preventing dirt and other abrasive elements from affecting the membrane.
5. The Tongue
The tongue of the boot is designed to minimize the chances of debris, water, or other items getting inside the boot. When trying on boots, make sure that the tongue doesn’t apply uneven pressure to your foot or rub against your skin.
6. The Collar Or Cuff
Located at the top of the boot, the collar or cuff is designed to support your ankle. Depending on the style of the boot, the cuff can either be quite rigid, or it can be a bit more flexible.
7. The Heel Counter And Toe Box
Like the midsole, the heel counter and toe box are hidden away inside the boot. They are placed between the outer part of the boot and the lining, helping to provide structure for both the back and front of the boot.
8. The Rand
Made of rubber, the rand is a reinforcing element that is attached to the outer edge of the boot. It is designed to protect the stitching that connects the sole of the boot to the upper part of the boot. Typically, this feature is only found in boots that are designed for more challenging terrain.
9. The Laces And Lacing Structure
Most hiking boots incorporate a series of eyelets and hooks that can be used to adjust the laces for a proper fit.
Photo by Greyson Joralemon on Unsplash
