Obtaining the Right Hiking Boots

If you are a walker, or if you are contemplating taking up walking for a hobby, then getting the correct footwear is critical. So what do you will need and how do you set about acquiring it.


The type of shoe or boot


Firstly you need to choose on the type of walking that intend to do. Are you looking at short walks of up to 5 miles (2 hours), medium walks of up to about 12 miles (4 to 5 hours), or more extended walks that (Discount Mens Columbia Shoes) take a day or even longer.



Secondly, what kind of terrain do you intend to walk on? Will you be hiking on very good high quality paths and fairly level ground, or do you intend to take on the challenge of rough terrain and steep slopes where the footing is uneven plus the path is rough.


If your walking is going to be of a short to medium duration and you only intend to walk on very good top quality paths, then you might be OK with what is sometimes referred to as a "day hiker".



This is more of a shoe than a boot and, although it has a stiffer sole, a much more contoured tread and enhanced support, it looks some thing like a sneaker (trainer). This kind of shoe is comfortable and fine for general walking.


Should you intend to take on longer walks and walks where the ground will throw up an uneven surface, loose rocks or inclines and declines, then you need a hiking boot.


A hiking boot has a extremely stiff sole, an "upper" that extends to (and sometimes beyond) the ankle along with a structural shank (the component of the shoe that runs up above the heel). This type of footwear offers a high level of support to the feet and makes walking of a longer duration, or walking on uneven ground, much far more comfortable.


Material


Not too lengthy ago leather was the only choice for severe walking shoes and hiking boots, but today you will find a range of different synthetic fabrics that provide waterproof protection plus high levels of breathe-ability.


The advantages of Discount Hiking Shoes are pretty obvious, but having shoes that not only keep water out, but which also let water vapour (sweat) escape can improve foot comfort considerably. These shoes use unique fabrics and, when combined with thick breathable walking socks, they ensure that the feet are kept fresh and dry which in turn prevents blisters and soreness.


Shoe size


Buying walking boots or hikers that are the correct size is critical and here you ought to be guided by how they feel instead of how they look or your "regular" shoe size (measurement).