Choosing the Perfect Boots for Hiking and Backpacking
Caring for your feet is one of the most important parts of any hiking or backpacking trip. Cold, wet or sore feet can make your trip miserable if not bring it to a screeching halt. Choosing new hiking boots can be an exciting experience, but it can also be frustrating, especially if you are unsure of what to buy or you are stuck with a pushy salesperson.
Knowing a few guidelines before buying that new pair of boots cannot only help you get a perfect pair of boots, it can save you money.
The Rules of Hiking Boots
1. Looks are deceiving. That ugly pair of boots may be the most comfortable, heavenly footwear your feet will ever know. Shop for comfort, not fashion; looks are useless on the trail.
2. Ignore the salesperson, unless you need them to get another size boot. They work on commission and most will try to sell you the most expensive boots they think you can afford.
3. Ask other hikers and backpackers what boots they prefer if you are starting out. Quality companies like Merrell or Danner consistently produce boots that are comfortable on the trail.
4. Never wear new boots on the trail. They must be broken in for a minimum of 20 hours before they are trail worthy. This can be done around the house, while running errands or while walking on level ground.
5. Know what kind of hiking you will be doing before deciding on a type of boot. Day hikers need lightweight, breathable boots, backpackers need mid-weight boots with moderate support and mountaineers need a durable, fully supportive boot.
6. Don’t pay for features you won’t need. If you only hike in the summer on dry terrain, you do not need an http://www.nwbackpack.com/catalog/. Opt for more comfort and breathability for your buck instead of trying to get a well rounded boot that will cost you more.
7. If there is a chance your feet will get wet, invest in a weather resistant, waterproof boot or a waterproof liner. Wet feet can quickly become sore feet, even in mild weather.
Fitting Your Boots
Getting a proper fit is everything in a pair of hiking boots. These guidelines can help you get a great fit before forking out your hard earned cash for a pair of boots that make you miserable after an hour on the trail.
*Always try on new boots with your hiking socks, never use regular sports socks or worse yet, no socks at all to fit your boots. Also, try on both boots, not just one.
*Choose a boot height that provides enough support. If you have weak ankles or will be on rocky terrain high support is best.
*Check boots thoroughly for any bumps in the lining, uncomfortable seams, or places that rub over bony prominences. These small areas of discomfort can cause blisters on the trail. If necessary, take off your socks so you can feel the lining against bare skin to check for problems.
*With the laces undone, slide your toes as far forward in the boot as possible. You should be able to insert one finger between your heel and the back of the boot. Any more or any less is not a good fit.
* Lace it up right. Laces should be tight across your toes and ankles and slightly looser across the arch of your foot in order to provide the best fit and support.
Try it out before taking it home. Walk, flex your feet and stand on uneven surfaces with the boot laced up before you buy it.
One final tip: be sure to ask what the return policy is for each boot you try on. Many name brand boot companies will allow you to exchange the boots for a different type if they are uncomfortable once you get them on the trail.
These rules and guidelines can help you find that perfect pair of boots without breaking your budget. Well fitting boots make for happy feet on the trail!
