Hiking Essentials: Which Hiking Boot Type Is for You?

Immersing yourself in the wilderness is a great way to escape the busy atmosphere of being in the city. Besides allowing you to distress, you’ll also discover the beauty of staying close to nature while getting some much-needed physical exercise. However, not all hiking trails are the same, with some requiring more difficulty to cross than others. Some places will require you to have extra protection for rugged terrain. In contrast, other places will require you to cross over wet areas like shallow rivers or marshes.

Like any outdoor activity, hiking will require you to stock up on essential gear and equipment to ensure your safety throughout the trip. Besides figuring out the recommended attire, you should also know any specifics about the trail. Sometimes, you may need to bring a trusty walking stick or an emergency pack of first-aid essentials. Knowing what to expect while in the wild will prevent you from having worries and instead keep you focused on enjoying the trail.

Finding the right hiking footwear

Choosing the right hiking footwear is an investment that you have to prepare for weeks before the actual trip. Panic-buying is generally a bad idea and can lead to serious injuries during and after your run-in with the wild. This is why you must buy the right hiking footwear for your purposes before you head out into the wild.

If you’re planning to gear up for a hiking trip, here are three footwear options you should consider:

1. Low-cut shoes

Low-cut shoes offer the best comfort and flexibility, regardless of what terrain you’re going to. Since they have a softer and flexible sole, they’re a convenient option for day hikes. However, there are full-leather models for people planning to visit cooler areas. If you’re planning to go on a hiking trail that won’t require you to pack heavy objects, low-cut shoes can keep you comfortable and light on your feet.

2. Mid-cut hiking boots

A step up from low-cut shoes, these mid-cut boots cover enough of your ankle bone and have better support if you’ll be carrying heavy baggage. Hikers wearing these types of shoes often find them stiffer than most hiking shoes, but still flexible and lightweight. They’re a great option for colder climates and day-hikes, especially if you plan to go on activities requiring extra support on uneven surfaces.

3. High-cut trekking boots

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty option, high-cut trekking boots will give you the most protection for versatile trekking routes. The obvious drawback of high-cut trekking boots is the heavier weight it has than the previous two types. This type of hiking footwear is best for thick trails that require serious trekking on different terrain. The uppers of trekking boots are well padded and the sole isn’t as flexible since people usually gear up with this footwear for multiple-day hikes.

Conclusion

After finding the right fit for your trip, your next task is to look for a product that matches your feet’s sizing. Keep in mind that EU and US foot measurements will differ, with some products only showing one or the other as a sizing option. Instead of relying on your old shoes for reference, it’s best to try a pair before you buy them. It also helps to wear the right thickness of socks to ensure that your feet will be comfortable without feeling suffocated.

Outfittersmegashop is a Missouri-based camping store that caters to all your outdoor gear needs! We sell a wide selection of the best hiking shoes and other hiking essentials you’ll need on your trip. Shop from our extensive online catalog and find the right tools and equipment for your outdoor adventure!