Photo Source: Millet Sports
Your choice of footwear is probably one of the more mundane details when it comes to hiking. Howbeit, making the wrong choice can mean the difference between enjoying the hike and counting the miles as you hobble your way down the mountain.
There are three things you need to consider when choosing the right hiking shoes. The support the footwear it gives you, the materials that it's made of, and how the shoes fit your feet. These three are the key to your comfort on the trail.
SUPPORT
This comes from the underfoot mid-sole of the boot and the cuff that wraps around the ankle. The stiffer the mid-sole of the boots, the more support and protection it gives your feet from rocks and roots poking from the trail. And the higher the cut of the boots, the more support it gives your ankle, preventing it from twisting and bending.
MATERIALS
Boots labeled as waterproof is best for rainy conditions or for crossing streams. While breathable boot is best for keeping your feet cool in warmer weather. As far as weight is concerned, softer and lighter weight boot is often the most comfortable choice, and will not tire you on longer hikes. Heavier boots on the other hand gives you more support and will definitely last longer. Just be sure to break them in before your big hike.
FIT
This is the most important factor in picking the right hiking shoes. A good fit will help avoid blisters and keep your feet happy. Here are some things to consider:
Length: Toes should wiggle easily inside the footwear. Width: Feet should not slide around inside footwear; nor should they be compressed from side to side. Volume: The "bulk" of your foot should fit securely inside a boot’s interior.
For more choices of hiking boots, visit Millet Sports.