So I compiled as much information on my own beginner’s journey and beyond, what I looked for, tips along the way from my fellow hiker friends, and all the amazing recommendations I received for the Outdoor Specialists at the amazing outdoor Stores. In this blog post How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots for You, you will find lots of information.
Don’t just go for the pretty ones. Lol. Consider some of these areas:
Do you require hiking shoes or hiking boots? Are your day hiking or going on an amazing hiking vacation? What are the hiking boots made of, what about their soles? What about the hiking boot uppers, midsoles, and outsoles. These are all things you must consider before the prettiness. Lol
What Types of Hikers Boots Can You Choose From?
After searching out as much information this is what I learned along the way. It really depends on what kind of hiking you are going to do before you even consider the type of hiker boots to purchase. The following are some of the types I learned about in my quest for my perfect hiker boots:
Hiking Shoes
Well, what are these? I asked myself. What I found out is, they have a lower cut in their styling. Excellent for day hiking|walking. Many have a flexible midsole for your comfort.
Hiking Boots for Day Hiking
I found such a variance in this category depending on your requirements. Such as, which cut of boots are you looking for mid or high cut? Are your day hiking or going on a short hiking trip? I found that these types of boots can vary, they have quite a bit of flex and you can break them in a little easier than most, but you may need something stronger and more durable if you are going on a longer hiking excursion.
Backpacking Hiking Boots
These are for those multi-day trips which require you to carry a heavier load. Most have a higher cut to support your ankle. These are very durable with stiffer and studier midsoles, suitable for longer hiking trips.
What Components Are in A Hiking Boot?
Hiking Boot Uppers
Lots of choices in all brands but most have the following uppers:
- Full-grain leather
- Split-grain leather
- Nubuck leather
- Synthetics
- Vegan
Hiking Boot Midsoles
The information I collected about the midsoles is that they buffer the feet from shock. They also control the stiffness of your boot. You do require sturdy boots on hikes that are on rocky, uneven terrain.
Hiking Boot Internal Support
Shanks: These 3–5mm thick inserts are sandwiched between a boot’s midsole and outsole to add load-bearing stiffness to the midsole.
Plates: These thin, semiflexible inserts are positioned between the midsole and the outsole, and below the shank (if included). They protect feet from getting bruised by roots or uneven rocks.
Information from REI
Hiking Boot Outsoles
Rubber is used on all hiking boot outsoles. Additives such as carbon are sometimes added to backpacking or mountaineering boots to boost hardness. Hard outsoles increase durability but can feel slick if go you off trail.
Lug pattern: Lugs are traction-giving bumps on the outsole. Deeper, thicker lugs are used on backpacking and mountaineering boots to improve grip. Widely spaced lugs offer good traction and shed mud more easily.
Heel brake: This refers to the clearly defined heel zone that is distinct from the forefoot and arch. It reduces your chance of sliding during steep descents.
Information from REI
How to Find the Best Hiking Boot Fit?
Such an important area and I took a long time to find my fit. I do have a wide foot so maybe you don’t need to be quite as fussy. lol.
Things to consider are the following: Hiking boots should fit snug everywhere, tight nowhere, and offer room to wiggle your toes. Try them on at the end of the day (after feet swell) and with the socks, you plan to wear.
- Know your size. It’s best to have your foot’s length, width and arch length measured.
- Try on boots at the end of the day. Your feet normally swell a bit during the day’s activities and will be at their largest then.
- Wear appropriate socks. I only wear smart wool and darn tough socks.
- Spend some time in the boots. Take a stroll through the store. Walk up and down stairs. Find an inclined surface and walk on it.
- Break your boots in before your first trip.
Which Are the Best Hiking Boots for Women & Men?
Which Are the Recommended Hiking Boots for Dogs?
These are the ones I see that are the most popular on the hiking trails, Canine Equipment Ultimate Trail Dog Boots, Medium, Black
Conclusion for How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots for You
I hoped I was able to answer a few questions regarding your next purchase of hiking boots.
Enjoy…
