Take A Hike - Choosing The Right Hiking Boot Is Serious Business
January 9th, 2009

Choosing the right hiking boot will make your long walking trip more enjoyable. You will be able to face rugged terrains without slipping, and pound miles of paved road without inflicting excess pain onto your foot. Many hiking boots are waterproof, as well, which helps keep your feet warm and dry in any weather conditions.

There are many styles of hiking boots. Look for a style of hiking boot that is noted for being lightweight, stable, and has one-piece construction. Good hiking boots should have an inner waterproof liner, as well as the ability to repel water on the outside of the boot. Look for a boot that only weighs 2 to 14 ounces. This type of hiking boot is best for moderate and off-trail hikes. One company that makes a style of boot like this is Vasquez Company. Their boot, the Sundowner, offers all the basics of a good quality-hiking boot.

Another style of hiking boot that is available is appropriate for long distance hiking. The sole of this boot should be filled with nylon shank that helps provide great lateral and edging stability for the serious long distance hiker. One example of a boot of this quality is the Mountain Trekker. This boot has desirable features that make it a popular choice, such as gunmetal lacing eyes, rubber rand and midsoles, and full leather lining. This boot is lightweight, too and weighs only 3 to 6 ounces.

Another type of boot that provides hikers with extra support for hiking is the Makalu boot. This is a tough boot designed for heavy-duty long distance hiking. The break-in time for this particular boot is quite long at time, but reviewers like how the Makulu's thick and tanned waxy leather keeps out moisture. Consumers who have purchased this brand also have pointed out that this boot's toe box is a bit narrow. Furthermore, some consumers complain about blisters and "hot spots" on their feet. This boot weighs more than most at 4 pounds 14 oz.

However, when purchasing hiking boots, it is important to carefully consider the use of the shoe and the shape of your foot. You will be spending a lot of time on your feet while hiking, so it is vital to choose boots that are comfortable. Not all hiking boots are for everyone, so try on several brands and styles before making a decision.

There are several other types of hiking boots that are made for extra comfort. These are the ones that are usually custom made, and are more costly than standard boots. However, the added price a consumer pays for this extra comfort is usually worth it for some. These hiking boots are said to conform to your foot like a second skin, making it comfortable for walking a long distance. Limmer & Sons is one company that makes this variety of hiking boots.

The average boot of this quality is still considered lightweight, but weighs considerably more than most lightweight boots. These boots typically weigh over 4 pounds, which is almost as much as the Makalu style boot that is often recommended. However, for day trips and rock climbing there is yet another type of boot to wear. A boot that is recommended for trips activities is a boot with leathers such as the full grain nubuck, leather uppers, gusseted nubuck tongue, and polyurethane dual density midsole for lateral stability. One boot that has these qualities is called the Triple Divide boot. This is one of the lightest rock-climbing boots available on the market today. One disadvantage of this brand of boot is that it is not meant for heavier load hauling. However, on day trips, even if rock climbing is involved, this type of boot will be sufficient.

Before purchasing a hiking boot, make sure that you know exactly what you will be using it for. You have plenty of styles and boots to choose from for all your hiking needs. Choose a shoe for a particular purpose such as short walks or long day trips, and rock climbing. Furthermore, when purchasing a hiking boot think about the type of landscape you will be trekking through. For rougher terrains any one of the above or similar styles would be appropriate. For designated nature trails, such as the ones in state parks, you can probably wear a very high quality walking or everyday running shoe such those offered by Nike, Asics, Reebok or similar brands

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