When you’re hiking, there can be little doubt that the quality of your gear can make or break the quality of your hiking experience. An uncomfortable backpack or a “rainproof” jacket that leaves you soaked after a downpour can absolutely ruin an otherwise promising trip into the wilderness.
Perhaps the most important facet of a hiker’s gear is a great and reliable pair of boots. A pair of quality boots will determine how far you can hike and how long you can hike, and stories abound of hikers undertaking large-scale hikes with boots that leave them blistered and broken after only a few days! Indeed, it is absolutely imperative for serious hikers to make the right choice in the purchase of their footwear. Here are just a few tips on finding a pair of hiking boots that are right for you.
Don’t Believe the Hype
Firstly, it is important to realize that the flashiest and most expensive boots on the market are by no means the best boots on the market. Many companies sell boots to novice hikers by marketing their products as being “legendary” among hikers or by speaking at length about the long history of certain boot models.
But advertising is no way to get a good sense of such an important piece of equipment. Instead, ask for advice on footwear from experienced hikers or from independent hiking gear shops. Even if they look great, you don’t want to get caught on a mountain wearing boots that do not live up to an artificially inflated reputation.
Comfort Is Key
Secondly, it is important to realize that even the best pair of boots will be less than useless on a hike if they’re not comfortable to you or if they’re not broken in. To prepare for your next hiking trip, be sure to look for boots that break in easily and that have a reputation among seasoned hikers for comfort.
At the end of the day, you really don’t want to break in a pair of tough-as-nails boots on your hike: When you do find a pair of boots that fulfills your requirements as a hiker, spend a decent amount of time walking around your neighborhood over the course of several days to break them in. You’ll get a sense of your boots and will be able to see if they’re truly right for you. Don’t hesitate to return a pair of boots that just won’t work out: You’ll save yourself a lot of agony and regret in the long-term.
Anticipate Your Needs
For most hikers, the size of a boot and its fit over time is a genuinely crucial consideration before a hike. A bit of swelling in the feet is a normal part of the hiking process; this is especially true on hikes that last for several days or even months. A boot that is even a bit too tight will become increasingly uncomfortable as such swelling occurs. When you’re purchasing a boot, go for a pair that is a big snug but leaves enough room that you won’t feel uncomfortable wearing them on long trips.
Remember, the well-being of your feet will largely determine the quality of your hiking experience. The right boots are an absolutely crucial tool for hikers!