Hiking Boots, Shoes and Sandals

Choosing the right hiking boots may be the most important decision you make as an outdoor enthusiast. The hiking footwear you choose must be comfortable, durable and protective, and they must be suitable for the activity you will be doing.

Wearing proper hiking boots or shoes will:

• Reduce the risk of blisters or skin irritation on your feet
• Increase your comfort
• Minimize muscle fatigue in your legs
• Avoid unnecessary back pain
• Prevent joint pain in your knees and hips
• Provide sufficient traction, helping you avoid dangerous falls and injuries
• Provide a waterproof shell between your skin and the environment.

Hiking footwear has improved greatly over the years compared to the heavy leather clompers of old. They have a lighter weight, a better fit and more breathability.

But how do you choose between all the different types and styles of hiking footwear? What's the difference between a light trail hiking shoe and an off-trail hiking boot?

And believe it or not, wearing your new hiking boots can be completely painless if you take care in fitting your hiking boots.

Take your time, educate yourself and choose what's right for your needs.

Hiking Socks

Hiking socks are one of the most under-appreciated elements to your foots' comfort. However, after spending time and money on good quality hiking boots and then putting on a pair of your old sweat socks just doesn't work. Those good old cotton socks retain sweat, cause blisters, and "bunch up" in your hiking shoes/boots, causing painful pressure points.

Most quality hiking socks use synthetic materials to wick away perspiration and stretch and mold to your foot. They often have wool for extra warmth and durability (highly recommended for cooler days). Extra padding is also added to these types of socks under the heel and ball of the foot for extra comfort, as well as an elastic fitted arch support.

Learn how to prevent and treat a foot blister.

There are also some socks available which are made of two layers: the inner layer wicks sweat away from your foot and stays put, the outer layer prevents friction against the boot (the major cause of most blisters).

Another great option is to wear a pair of thin Liner Socks that not only wick moisture away from your feet, but also inhibit fungal growth, and help regulate temperature. Wearing thin undersocks and a heavier pair over them also helps to reduce friction.

Company's usually rate their socks for it's recommended activities, i.e. trail running, hiking, walking, etc.

Hiking socks are more expensive, but I highly recommend them. I love mine so much that I use them in my ice skates, when I go sledding with my kids and when I go walking.

Hiking Sandals

On warm summer days, seriously consider hiking sandals - even if you will not be "hiking". They keep your feet cool, and their multi-point straps keep your feet from moving around and creating friction and blisters. Hiking sandals also have an anatomically correct footbed that gives you the support your foot needs. Plus, they have excellent traction on uneven terrain. That is just as important playing ball or other outdoor games with the kids as it is for going on a hike.

If your picnic destination takes you to a stream or lake, a proper hiking sandal is a must! You can walk right into a cool running stream, without bruising or cutting your feet and they help to keep your footing on the slippery rocks. It provides a safe way to cool off!