Hiking and Health

Yes and No. As always, you get what you pay for. Again – your hiking habits has to decide what quality is sufficient. Top brands you will find in stores include Asolo, Columbia, Merrell and Vasque to name a few. When shopping for boots you will notice that some styles draw your attention more than others. For some people style might be important - but beware – style, fit, and quality do not always come in the same package.

Trying shoes on can sometimes be a daunting task. You will need to have your foot professionally measured if you haven’t already. Hiking boots must fit properly and without professional measurements you may be wearing shoes that are a size or a half-size too large or small. This can really make a difference when you are hiking long distances.

The best hiking boots will be comfortable, durable, fashionable and suited to the terrain and climate. For hot weather there are boots with air circulation to keep your feet cool. For cold weather there are boots with thick insulation to keep your feet warm. There are even boots for city wear called hiking shoes. These shoes can take you from the street to the trail in comfort and style. Of course they may not be appropriate for deep wilderness but they are perfect for average everyday wear.

Would you like to make your your first  - or  next-  hiking trip into a one-time-never-again event, or a pleasant and enjoyable experience? Maybe you are trying to convince your family that hiking is good for everyone’s health, both physical and mental?

Of course you would like it to be successful!

If you are new to hiking, it is an easy made mistake to think of hiking as just any other walking trip. It can be, but normally it is much more demanding, especially as far as equipment goes.  Please let me remind you about the single most important piece of equipment for a successful trip …

….The Very Best Hiking Boots.

There is no easy or simple answer to the question: “What are the best hiking boots?” While there are top quality brands, what qualifies as the best boot depends on what your needs are. There are different boots for different environments and climate.

What may work on flat to hilly terrain may not be best on snow and mountains. It is important to consider your average terrain before shopping for boots. Of course there are some qualities that all boots should share. For example, they should be moisture-resistant, comfortable, durable and have thick bottoms that cannot be pierced by rocks, sticks or other debris.

If you are hiking lengthily distances on rough trails, you want shoes that are comfortable to your feet. You also want shoes that have adequate cushioning so you don’t get blisters. Blisters are a sure enjoyment killer. Ankles should be supported if you are hiking on uneven or rough ground.There are heavy duty hiking boots and boots made for lighter terrains.

Your best course of action when shopping for new boots is to head to the number one source in your area. This may be a sporting goods store or outdoor supply store. You might want to handle the shoes and try them on before making a decision.