The majority of reasons why a hiking trip didn’t go well are attributed to the boots that were bought. Choosing hiking boots that are a proper fit isn't easy. You have to consider a lot of factors before investing in a pair of hiking boots. In this blog, we will guide you through all these factors so that you can find the right fit for yourself.
Factors to consider before buying hiking boots
Footwear can pose one of the main reasons why a trip can either go smoothly or disastrously. This is especially true for trips where a lot of footwork is involved, like hiking. Your feet like to feel comfortable while treading any path. This is why it’s important to understand what types of boots you need before you go hiking.
Some of the common factors to consider are:
1. The terrain
For walking on a lowland, you should opt for hiking boots that allow greater comfort and freedom. For mountain hiking, you will need a more tight-fitting pair of boots.
2. Duration of walk
If your hiking expedition is for medium to long periods (over 3 hours), you should go for a pair of boots with built cushioning. For a short period (less than 3 hours), heel cushioning is enough.
3. Weather Conditions
If you are planning to hike even in rough weather conditions, buy hiking boots with waterproof ability. But if you plan to hike in good weather, you should prioritize the breathability factor.
4. Support
Depending on the intensity of your ankle strength, decide if you need better support or greater freedom of movement. For the former, go for boots with a high upper and the latter, go for boots with a low upper.
5. Material
When it comes to hiking boots, the wrong material can make your feet feel hot, cramped and uncomfortable. So go for comfortable materials like synthetics (nylon and polyester) or split-grain leather or full-grain leather.
Most mountaineering boots are made of full-grain leather since it is highly durable and perfect for rigorous terrain. However, if you are looking for a more breathable option, you should go for split-grain leather.
6. Cut
Hiking boots have different cuts, and you need to buy the one that fits your needs. Low-cut boots are similar to running shoes and are only suitable for lightweight, casual hiking.
Mid-cut boots offer more ankle support and balance and prevent tripping off debris. High-cut boots provide optimal balance and ankle support and are best for dangerous terrains.
7. Size
While buying your hiking boots, make sure to keep enough wiggle room for your toes since there will be natural swelling. The boot should fit snugly around the ball of your foot, and your heel should stay in place. Also, try the boots with socks to check the overall fit and comfort.
You can check out our regatta boots collection to find your perfect fit for the next hiking trip.
