Whether you are planning to trek the Himalayas or explore the nearby national park, you must choose a pair of hiking boots carefully. To get it right, here are a few tips for choosing the best hiking shoes.
There are many things that need to be considered while going on a trip. Choosing the best hiking shoes is one of them. If you have a plan to go on a multi-day trek, you will spend a lot of time with your boots. So, it is good to know them before setting off and choose wisely.
Tips for Choosing the Best Hiking Shoes
Decide whether you want Hiking Shoes or Boots?
Hiking footwear comes in two varieties: Hiking shoes or hiking boots. You will always find some trekkers who claim that you just need a pair of trekking shoes and, while these may be comfortable when things are well, they are less likely to protect your ankles and feet from the difficulties and strains of uneven terrain. Mainly over long distances.
The benefit of choosing hiking shoes over hiking boots is that they are usually lighter, whereas hiking boots offer more ankle support. Also, if you are traveling a long distance and want to pack less and light, then trekking shoes can double as city shoes are for sightseeing and general activities.
There are a few points to remember while choosing the best hiking shoes. Trekking shoes are great for day hikes or when you know that the terrain is easy to climb. On the other hand, hiking boots are meant for multi-day hikes. These shoes offer maximum support to your ankles and feet. The more professional trekker you are, the lighter the shoe you can choose.
When to buy Hiking Shoes?
You should not buy a trekking boot or shoe immediately before a multi-day trip. By doing so you will not be able to ear the boots properly before using them. Also, if there are any issues regarding the fit or quality of the shoes, you will not have the time to replace it. You will end up hurting your feet and forming blisters.
Always buy hiking shoes during the latter part of the day, specifically in the evening, when your feet are swollen after the whole day’s work. Trekking- mainly in warm weather can cause swelling in your feet. So, to avoid this, always choose the best hot weather hiking boots.
Choose the style
Like sneakers, hiking shoes are made for different types of trekking. Are you a casual hiker or do you want to spend some time in the mountains rather than at your home? Knowing the difference between these two will determine which type of hiking shoes will suit your requirements.
Light hiking shoes- A burly variant of running shoes, these hiking boots are referred to as shoes. They are great for day hiking, though many long-distance backpackers wear this for an ultra-light fit too.
Mountaineering boots- If you are trekking in a rocky territory, snowy paths, or glacial trails, these boots are perfect for you. They can handle a heavy load. These boots can stand up against the most difficult terrain.
Backpacking boots- Are designed for various types of terrain. If you are heading out for a multi-day trek, these are the boots for you; their hard sole and durability will help you to fight through any tough conditions.
Choose the perfect cut
Hiking boots come in different cuts. You must tailor it as per your kind of trekking. A wrong cut can cause a rolled ankle or rocks inside your shoes. There are mainly three cuts to consider while buying hiking shoes.
Low cut- These are as same as running shoes. While they are perfect for casual and lightweight hiking, this cut can cause ankle injuries. Hiking boots with this cut are best for trekking on well-maintained paths.
Mid-cut- hiking boots with a mid-cut is known as one of the best arch support hiking boots. This style provides maximum support and balance to the ankle, as well as a better buffer from the debris along the way.
High-cut- With perfect balance and ankle support, hiking shoes with high cut are best for the adventurous hiker who goes on and off the trail and crossing potentially risky terrain.
Right Material
One of the important tips for choosing the best hiking shoes is choosing the right material. Choosing the wrong fabric can make your feet feel hot, uncomfortable, and cramped. For the ultimate comfort, find the right material.
Synthetic- The materials in this category are often polyester and nylon. They are lightweight. They have less water resistance power but dries faster when wet.
Split-grain leather- Most often made of half leather synthetics, this material is very breathable. However, it is not as water-resistant as full-grain leather. Durability is on the lower end.
Full-grain leather- Most of the mountaineering boots are made of full-grain leather. It is a durable material and perfect for rigorous hikers who mostly trek in unsteady terrain. On the contrary, this material is less breathable and heavy too.
Correct Size
It is common to believe in the whistles and bells of a product and ignore the fit together. As you try the hiking boots, give them the size test to make sure they are the correct fit for you.
Thanks to the natural swelling and the necessity to stabilize with your toes, you should have enough wiggle room in the toe box. But, before this, you must know how much toe room in hiking boots is required. The shoe should fit around the ball of your foot while your heel stays intact. A floating heel is the main cause behind blisters, which everybody wants to avoid.
Always wear hiking socks while trying hiking shoes. This will give you an accurate feel for fit and comfort. When you are in the store, ask about hiking socks, insoles, and lacing methods. All of these decides the overall comfort and fit of your hiking shoes.
Stitch
Check the stitching before asking the shopkeeper to pack your hiking shoes. Low-quality shoes often come with a single line of stitching or unsealed and loose stitches. This affects the longevity of your shoes. With loose stitching boots, sand can get in while trekking. Many shoes are unsealed to avoid sand and stone from getting in. But, ensure that the glue is strong and does not look like it will tear apart after one trekking.
Test
Ultimately, never take your boots or shoes out of the box and go directly for trekking. After buying your boots wear them around your house for some days. This will give you a better idea of whether they are the right hiking boots for you. If you feel they are not, return them back and buy another pair.
Reputable brand
The adage, “you get what you pay for” stands true to a large extent when it comes to hiking shoes. While some outdoor gear brands are overpriced, it is better to buy boots from a reputable brand that focuses on substance rather than style. This may be costly, but consider hiking shoes as an investment, whether you hike every weekend or once in a year.
Hiking boots are an investment when it comes to health and comfort. You should buy them by keeping all requirements in mind. Take your time in choosing the right pair of hiking shoes and you will make the right choice. Keeping these tips for choosing the best hiking shoes in mind will help you to buy the best pair.