The first in my list as one of the 10 essentials for Hiking is Footwear. It might sound a bit obvious, but so many people start off with great intentions of going the distance, but invariably end up hobbling and in great pain, just because their choice of footwear.
There are 3 styles for the basic hiker to consider:
First we'll take a small hike over relatively low to middle hillsides. You can easily get away with a hiking shoe, but I would certainly go for the Mid-Boot, not the Tall boot. A Hiking shoe will be fine, but they are more favorable for flat hiking on solid ground, hopefuuly in drry weather.
The Mid boot is a more sensible choice for hilly walks, or if the weather is wet, or likely to turn so. The main reason for choosing the mid-boot over the shoes is ankle support. When climbing hills, the support is there when your ankles are likely to be pushed into different angles. another reason is support when you tread on an unseen boulder, or try to traverse a hill. the mid boot will support your ankle so much better than a shoe.
Tall Hiking boots are more for a longer, more intrepid hike that will take in steep hills or mountains. The longer the hike, the more support your feet will need, especially on hilly terrains. they're also excellent when walking over boggy areas, or soaked terrain where you're likely to be in the mire up to your ankle, of course, a good pair of gaiters will help your boots not getting soaked inside as well as out.
All three types of boot should be waterproof, and kept in that condition by using oils for protection afetr each hike. Keep your boots maintained...if you find a pair that are perfect, they are well worth looking after!
A good sole is also a must. Good traction is imperative and a non slippery sole will keep you safe and save you from slipping and even falling. It's difficult for a boots sole to be perfect, but get the best you can...they are worth their weight in gold!
Get boots that are lightweight, yet tough. A heavy boot will only get heavier when it's caked in mud. A good boot should not weigh much more than a normal pair of shoes and the laces should be strong and tied twice.
Pricing and branding should also be taken into consideration. A brand that sells hiking boots cheaply is a brand that goes after the beginner. They want to ship them out fast, and although some are half decent, you will be lucky if a pair coasting £30 ($45) will last you more than 5 hikes.
Be prepared to pay up to £125 ($160) for a decent pair, and look at the brand. Are they reputable? Are they specialists in the Hiking field? Are they a renowned brand?
And finally, there's common sense. A boot should be comfortable. If you have used a certain kind of boot and brand before, and they have been excellent, don't defer from getting another exact pair...why fix something if it ain't broke?
If you're new, try them on first...walk around the shop, bend, kick, wiggle...anything that test the boot out in that very short time you have to make your choice.
You won't know if the boots suit you until you have 2 or 3 hikes under your belt, what might feel like a great pair of boots at first might turn out to be your worst enemy. You may get lucky and the boots you choose are perfect for you (very lucky), and it does happen, but always be prepared to give your boots a good test before your happy with your purchase.
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