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There are so many benefits to getting out in nature and enjoying the great outdoors so it makes sense that lots of people are big into hiking. If you are planning on going hiking the first thing that should come to mind is getting a good pair of hiking boots. It is of the utmost importance that you find the right boots for your feet because the wrong boots are going to cause you a great deal of unnecessary pain.
There are a handful of different variables that will factor into your decision on the perfect hiking boot for you. Everyone’s feet are different shapes, lengths, and widths, and unless you know what to look for, it can be overwhelming. Hiking can be very hard on your feet, knees, and back, so you need to do whatever you can to protect them.
For some more information on choosing the right hiking boots for you just keep reading on below.
What Style To Choose?
There are a number of different options when it comes to the style of your hiking boots. You have five basic styles with different variations.
Trail boots are best for beginning hikers who really just plan on getting out for a jaunt on a well-kept trail. Rough-trail boots are the next step up for those who like extended day hikes and a bit of rough terrain at times. Off-trail boots offer more support and protection for when there is no trail except ones made by nature. Mountaineering boots are exactly what they sound like, boots that are designed for climbing very steep and rough terrain. Technical-scrambling boots are a sort of hybrid that offer serious mobility and are lightweight while still keeping your feet fairly well supported.
As you can tell the style all depends on the type of hiking you plan on doing that day. If you are a very serious hiker you will more than likely have multiple pairs for different types of hiking adventures.
Talk To An Expert
You always have the option of going to a hiking or outdoor lifestyle store and speaking to someone who does boot fittings. If the store is serious about their hiking they will have an expert on staff that will be able to size you up and help you find the right style and fit for your individual feet. They will pay careful attention to detail and know which current boots are going to work best for your situation.
Aesthetics Do Not Matter
If you are a serious hiker you are well aware that it doesn’t matter at all what you look like on the trail, just how comfortable and prepared you are. We all like to look good in our new sports gear but it would be ill-advised to purchase any type of hiking boot just because of the way it looks. Your feet will thank you for purchasing the proper boots and not the ones that look the best.
Let’s Hit The Trail
As you can see it really isn’t that difficult to find the right pair of boots for your next weekend outing. The biggest criteria for the type of boots you buy is going to be what you plan on doing in them and how your feet are shaped. You also always have the option to talk to a professional to get advice and sized properly. When you find the right boots for you hiking is going to become less about the exercise and more about being out and enjoying what mother nature has to offer.