Footwear Choices
I haven't discussed the actual shoes/boots to use on the trail, so today I thought I would start a discussion on both. I tend to like a lighter weight boot, with good traction, support and insulation and maybe even water proof. There are hundreds of boots and shoes on the market to choose from, and no one knows better than your foot, which one is for you.
Don't go to the store with any pre-conceived notions of getting anything more than a good, comfortable fit. Feet are NOT brand specific, if you know what I mean? They just work best when they are comfortable. Comfort is a big deal for me. If you are going to have these things on your feet for 12-16 hours a day, buy something that suits your trip, as well as something that fits your foot. Even if you are carrying a heavy backpack, the boots do not necessarily have to be the old waffle stompers we all grew up with. Different hiking requires different footwear. If your just going on a day hike on a Forest Service trail, heavy boots aren't needed, so buy and dress accordingly.
A properly fitted shoe or boot means, your toes should wiggle easily inside the boot, and your foot should NOT slide from side to side nor feel squeezed. Your foot, once inside, should feel secure as if your foot is being cradled. As an example, if the boot fits lengthwise but your foot slides side to side and the next half size down fits fine side to side but your toes are cramped. It simply means the style of boot or shoe you have chosen, is not for you. Choose another style or brand, until you find YOUR boot or shoe. Myself, I tend to like and wear Northface or Columbia boots. I find they fit my foot well. I am in no way endorsing these particular boots, I am simply stating the simple fact, that "my foot" picked them out and THAT is how you should pick yours. Check them out, but by all means, buy what your foot tells you to.
Hiking Shoes
We're going to start with shoes, because this is the most common type of hiking. A good hiking shoe should fit like your favorite pair of tennies. In other words, they should fit like a glove, but need to have a decent flexible and supportive mid sole. The mid sole is the layer between the outer tread, or the bottom and the upper part of the shoe or boot. They should provide cushioning and shock absorption as well as flexibility. Most all manufacturers have improved the quality and durability of their shoes over the years, to the point that you can actually wear them on longer hikes. Keep in mind, these shoes are not intended for climbing and DO NOT have the support for carrying large packs or any type of heavy duty backpacking. These are a good choice shoe for light loads on well maintained trails. Keep in mind though that they offer little protection to the ankles from debris and bushes.
Hiking Boots
Next up? Low top hiking boots. For weekend backpacking trips, and with the myriads of choice out there, pick a boot that fits and is low to mid cut. Mid cut is a style in between an ankle high shoe and a high cut boot. It's a choice for shorter distance, multi-day hikes. They provide added ankle support and protection, but remember, they are recommended for lighter backpack loads. Most of these boots are made from synthetic or suede materials and require little to no break in time.They do not have the durability nor support necessary for carrying heavily loaded packs or for multi-day hikes. Shop for your boot, but make sure it is the right choice for your hike. Again, shop for your comfort.
Backpacking Boots
Now were getting down to it. Just the name alone, belies the difference. These boots are generally made with high cut tops and provide the maximum in ankle support. The also provide protection from the terrain and brush, as well as support for heavy loads, for extended periods of time. These boots are perfect for those 40 lb packs and multi-day hikes into the back country, like hikes to that remote fishing spot, that only you know. You want a boot with a decent outsole (that's the layer that comes in contact with the ground). Generally these soles are made of rubber and have a cheated type design (AKA, waffle stompers'). The reasoning behind that type of tread is simple. Traction for a variety of surfaces. You also want a boot that is light and waterproof. Adding your own waterproofing is a good idea. Make sure these boots fit and are broken in before you take off on that extended hike.
Mountain Hiking/Climbing Boots
These bad boys are for the serious packer. These are for those really, rough and tumble hikes and/or climbing forays. This type of boot is especially designed for moving across, up or down, very inhospitable territory. They generally have a higher cut top, simply for additional support. This enables the hiker to climb and move in any direction, with full support. Whether it be up or down, steep or rugged terrain, you do so with ease. Most boots in this category are designed for use with crampons. Crampons are those metal claws that strap to your boot for traction in snow and ice. These boots are also designed for the 50 lb + loads you tend to carry when trekking ice fields and/or mountains. They are the most durable of boots, in that they are waterproof and are made using a combination of materials. These combinations include leather and synthetics like Kevlar, (a registered trademark product developed by Dupont). Some boots even utilize materials such as lightweight plastics, providing light but strong, ankle and leg support.
I hope I have shed a bit of light on the subject of boots. For more information, click on any of our advertisers. Thanks for reading and I'll see you on the trail.
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