Recreational hiking has become a favourite pastime for many people. But did you know that only the right hiking boot will leave you smiling until the end of the trail?
Boots are arguably an essential piece of equipment for hiking, so make sure you spend sufficient time selecting the right one. To walk into one of the massive outdoor sporting goods stores and stare at the walls of boots and shoes can be overwhelming. Identifying your personal needs and goals will help ease this stress and result in a comfortable and durable boot.
While you can buy a high-end boot that is insulated and waterproof, is that what you require? For instance, if you don’t intend to hike in cold, wet weather, you are spending money on features that will only add to the cost and overall weight of the boot. Identifying the conditions under which you will regularly use the boot or shoe is vital to getting the best value for your money.
Considerations While Buying A Hiking Boot
Hiking is a year-round activity for many people. It exposes the feet to extremes in temperature, weather conditions, and terrains. Performance enhancement, injury prevention, and comfort are the three primary considerations when choosing a boot.
Boot Material
It is highly advisable to use a breathable waterproof membrane like Gortex® for all hiking boots or shoes. It helps keep your feet dry–one of the most critical factors in preventing blistering and skin breakdown.
Insulation
If you’re considering winter hiking or high altitude hiking, you may want to consider insulation. A heavier sock will often keep your feet warm enough, especially when moving and working up a sweat.
Cut of the Boot
Deciding between high-cut and low-cut boots is often a difficult decision. Low-cut hiking shoes provide adequate stability for most trail walking and climbing. A high-cut boot is more appropriate if you intend to take on more rough terrain hikes, steep climbs, or have unstable ankles and knees. The high-cut option also offers better depth and stability to those who require an orthotic in their boot. Having the upper wrap up around the ankle also provides some protection from sticks and rocks.
Sole of the Boot
The boot sole provides the interface between the ground and the foot and plays a critical role in providing long-term comfort. The boot should have a stiff sole to help prevent rocks and bumps from being felt at the sole. The front of the boot should also be rigid, and this can be assessed by trying to bend or flex the boot’s forefoot before you buy them.
A good quality boot will not bend or flex easily, which will help reduce the bending stress on the forefoot while hiking. You should also evaluate the middle of the sole to make sure it does not twist easily. Flip the boot over, grab the heel with one hand and the forefoot with the other while trying to turn the middle. A good boot or shoe will not bend much, which will add to your overall balance and stability when on uneven terrain.
Tread Lugs
The tread lugs on a hiking boot or shoe come in various heights. A less aggressive tread is required for trail hiking or country road walking as traction is not as big a factor. Overly aggressive treads can lead to catches and falls. Heavier tread lugs are required if you intend on hiking up steep hills and in slippery conditions.
Shoe Breathability
The breathability of the boot or shoe is also an important consideration, especially in hot climates and summer hiking. A solid leather boot may look tough and rugged but will not breathe very well, leaving the foot overheated, damp and sweaty. Mesh windows will help allow better airflow and keep the foot cool and comfortable. Breathable, waterproof fabrics enable boots to remain waterproof and allow airflow.
Sizing
Sizing is a critical factor in overall satisfaction with your footwear. Often hiking boots are much stiffer than regular shoes, which necessitates a perfect fit to avoid pressure sores and blisters. Realise that your foot will swell during a hike, and this needs to be considered when selecting the size. A roomy toe-box is an excellent idea to avoid toenail damage and allow for some swelling. The heel and ankle should feel very secure when the boot is laced up and not slip or move when walking.
Best Time to Buy Your Hiking Boots
I recommend people shop for hiking boots at the end of the day when their feet will be the biggest due to the natural swelling that occurs over the day. Pull the sock liner out of the boot and set your foot on it. A properly fitting boot will have about a pinky finger width of space between the tips of the toes and the end of the liner. Make sure you buy and begin wearing your boots at least three to four weeks before a big hiking trip. You do not want to be breaking boots during the hike!
Selecting the Right Socks
A final factor in selecting the best hiking boot is the socks you will be wearing. Whichever socks you decide to wear, you should have them with you when trying your boots. I recommend tall socks that extend above the top of the boot. Socks that sit above the boot’s topline will act as a radiator and transfer sweat and moisture out of the boot, allowing it to evaporate on the portion of the sock that sits outside of the boot.
The sock material is also an important consideration. Synthetic fabrics that wick moisture away from the surface of the foot have become very popular and are very effective. I prefer natural wicking fabrics such as bright wool as they do not pick up odours as quickly, and they perform well in all seasons. Hiking-specific socks tend to be thick underfoot for added cushioning and thinner on top to allow heat and moisture to escape. Although they may seem pricey, you will be happy you have them on when you are halfway into your hike, and your feet are cool, dry, and comfortable.
I hope you enjoy this year’s hiking season! And happy trails!
