Narrowing Down the Best Hiking Boots for You

Whether you are new to hiking or a seasoned pro, determining the best hiking boots for you can be quite a challenge. These boots tend to be a bit expensive so you want to make sure that you make the right choice for you the first time around or you will be out of a lot of money. While hiking is a lot of fun, it is a very physical activity and requires the best hiking boots available to protect your feet from harm.

Protection is Important

Just think about all of the ground you cover when hiking like rocky hills, streams and uneven terrain. Your feet can end up taking quite a bit of abuse so the best hiking boots are necessary to cushion your step and protect your most valuable hiking assets. A great quality pair of boots allows you to push on farther and safer at a faster clip than substandard models plus they will also last longer.

Choosing your Footwear

Break down the type of hiking activity you plan to do most often as this can often dictate the type of boot you choose. You don’t have to get the most expensive, best hiking boots perfect for a trip in the Appalachians if your hiking is limited to a day or two in your local state park.

Try on the boots and walk around in them to get a sense of how solid the bottoms are because they are what separate you from briars, rocks and more. If you can feel anything through the boot by stepping on something, then chances are that they are not the best hiking boots for you.

Your leg and ankle require solid support in a hiking boot so as to prevent sprained ankles, leg cramps and even pulled muscles. Waterproofing is one of the most important things to ask about and the best hiking boots available should definitely have this feature, even for lighter hiking adventures.

A heavier boot is important as it can handle you carrying heavy loads during your treks, especially if you are adding a backpack to your hiking arsenal. A lighter boot would cause discomfort because it would not be protecting your feet as much from a larger burden.

The type of terrain and climate you are planning to traverse is also important when shopping for the best hiking boots for you. Colder climates require insulated boots along with waterproofing while hotter climates may need boots with venting to wick the sweat away from the feet to prevent blistering.

Of course, it goes without saying that you should try on as many boots as possible to find a comfortable fit in regards to the inside soles, arch positioning and whether there are any seams that could rub your feet the wrong way. The best hiking boots are the ones that will fit comfortably and reflect the type of hiking lifestyle that you live.