Hiking Boots

Why do I need a hiking boot, you may ask? I have a perfectly good pair of old sneakers or construction boots my Dad gave me, won't those do? Well the truth is they may do in an emergency, but you will be in an emergency after one mile of attempting to hike in the wrong type or ill-fitted boots. Have you ever tried to walk over sharp rocks with a 50 pound pack and sneakers?  Ouch! You get my point.

Having said that allow me to state the following reasons to wear proper hiking boots.

• They are built sturdy enough to protect your feet from all of those pointed rocks you will most definitely encounter along the way.
• They provide strong support for your ankles and the sides of your feet. This is a very important point that I would like to expound upon. Have you ever twisted your ankle? If you are wearing strong hiking boots with coverage over the ankle it is almost impossible to twist your ankle. You will be more likely to break your ankle rather than twist it.
•  Lastly they are waterproof. This is so very important. When you hike all day in the wet grass or in the rain you will come to appreciate what I mean.

How do I choose a good Hiking Boot?

First you must determine what type of hiking you will be doing. Hiking in the glaciers is far different from hiking on the sands of the beach; and a day hike with a 20 pound pack is different than a 4 day hike with 50 pounds on your back.

After you determine what type of hiking you will be doing you need to find one that is comfortable, sturdy, waterproof and fits your budget. Keep in mind however that a good boot may last almost a lifetime. I have boots that I bought fully 20 years ago and they are still in good shape. Do not skimp on quality. You will regret it as soon as your feet start hurting and you have to go and buy another pair. This is one of the most important pieces of equipment you will ever buy apart from your pack, bag and tent.

Get good Raingear