Put Your Best Foot Forward:
How to Choose the Right Hikers

Nothing is more important to a hiker than a good pair of hiking boots. Worn out or inappropriate shoes can cause pain in the feet, legs, knees, and back. And if you get a blister halfway through the day, you'll be very unhappy camper indeed. Don't risk ruining a good time by choosing hastily or pinching pennies. Invest in a good pair of hiking boots and care for them properly, and they'll have you hiking blissfully for months or even years to come.

Hiking boots range from lightweight trail running shoes to heavy-duty mountaineering boots. Decide what type of activities you'll be using your boots for and choose a style that is appropriate. Consider what factors are important for the hiking you'll be doing: durability, tread, water resistance, and fit will vary widely with different makes and styles of hikers.

Lightweight hikers are intended for day hikes. Their design emphasis is on comfort, cushioning, and breathability, rather than support and durability.

Midweight hikers are designed for on- and off-trail hiking with light to moderate backpacking loads. They are more durable and supportive than lightweight hiking boots, but they are still intended primarily for short to moderate trips over easy to moderate terrain.

Backpacking/mountaineeringboots are designed for on- and off-trail hiking with moderate to heavy backpacking loads. Durable and supportive, they are designed with multi-day trips in mind and offer a high degree of ankle support and foot protection.

Once you've determined the type of hiker you want, look for a pair that are comfortable and provide good foot and ankle support. Remember to try boots on with the type of socks you'll be wearing when you hike. Properly fit boots should feel snug around the ball of your foot and instep, but you should still be able to wiggle your toes. Your heel should be held firmly in place without slipping around as you walk.

If you can, try standing in the boots on an incline facing downhill to check for foot slippage. Your feet should not slide forward easily, nor should you be able to move your heel from side to side. If either of these is possible, try a smaller boot. If your toes make contact with the front of the boot without much forward movement, try a larger size or a different boot.

Be sure to try on a number of different boots before making your decision. Every brand and model will fit just a bit differently, so you'll want to test out as many options as possible to be sure you are getting the best fit for you.

Take Care of Your Boots and Your Boots Will Take Care of You

Always break boots in before setting out on a long hike. And if they're not waterproof, consider treating them with a waterproofing agent.

Keep your hikers clean between uses by brushing off dirt and mud. If they're made of fabric, wash the outsides occasionally with mild soap and water (not detergent).

If your boots get drenched, stuff them loosely with newspaper and dry them in a warm place. Never rush the drying process by placing them near a fire or heater.

Whether you hike in dry, hot conditions or wet, temperate ones, you should condition your boots—especially if they're leather—occasionally to maintain your investment.

Follow these tips and you're sure to be a happy hiker.