Hiking Boots Buying Guide
If you aren't fully prepared for an outdoor adventure, 
hiking can be a difficult chore rather than a fun hobby. And since your feet are your most important tools on any hike, the boots you wear should be on the top of your hiking shopping list. They need to be high-quality, ensuring that you're comfortable and have sturdy footing on the trail. So consider these suggestions to keep you on track for your best hike yet.
Always Look For
- Something that's lightweight while still able to keep your feet warm and well-protected from the elements.
- Shoes that fit your needs. Different types of hiking conditions should influence what type of hiking boot you buy. If you expect super-rough terrain with wet or cold weather conditions, the class of your boot should increase. If you always intend to carry a loaded backpack, that can also affect the class of the boot.
- The boots that are right for your skill level. A more experienced hiker may be able to get away with lighter day hiking boots, while new hikers might need added support to the feet, ankles and legs.
Fit and Quality
- You don't give up when the trail gets a little rough, and your hiking boots shouldn't either. To help you judge the quality of your boot, check out the brand--the big names are often made better because they have a rep to uphold.
- Examine your boot closely. Take your time in checking the stitching, the connection of the sole, the stiffness and type of lacing. To get some extra help, ask an expert sales rep.
- There is a difference in the size and shape of your feet in the morning, after you've been sleeping all night, and your feet after a day of walking in the evening. Try taking a 15-minute walk around your neighbourhood or your local park before trying on your boots.
- Wear the socks that you plan on using when hiking. Since they're typically thicker than everyday socks, they could definitely affect fit.
- Look for a snug fit with good support that doesn't bother any of your foot's pressure points while walking.
- Remove the inner soles of the boots and place them against the soles of your feet to get a better idea of how they will fit. If there's any overlapping or extra-space, keep searching.
Sizes
- While your hiking boots will probably be around the same size as your normal walking shoe, you shouldn't be preoccupied if the sizes don't exactly correspond. Pay attention to the feeling of the fit instead, as hiking boots come in a lot of variations for different foot widths and arches.
- Each brand has its own definition of the 'average' foot. If you deviate from it, just opt for the best fit possible and compensate with specially fitted inner-soles, cushiony socks, etc.
Major Manufacturers
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