By Janet Chua
Hiking is both an exciting an enjoyable hobby. There are many things that you are going to need if you want to become fully equipped for hiking, most especially if you plan to go on a long tread. Some of the essentials that you should have on your list are water, a walking stick, some snacks, but a good pair of outdoor boots should be at the top of your list. It's absolutely the most important part of your hiking gear, because you will surely go faster, farther, and more comfortably if you are equipped with the proper footwear.
There is much more to purchasing good, reliable, and quality outdoor boots than just going to your local store and selecting the most attractive pair of boots on the rack. It doesn't really matter where you buy them, or how often you plan to use them. What's important is you choose the best hiking boots as it will make a huge difference in your comfort and safety.
In your quest for the perfect hiking boots, you need to consider the kind of hiking that you plan to do. There are various boots designed for different purposes - climbing mountain trails, for treading on smooth trails, and for climbing high trails on tough terrain. There are also special boots that are intended for use during summer and winter. It's no fun wearing summer hiking boots during winter. Keep in mind that purchasing an additional pair of boots may initially hurt your wallet but good quality boots that are well maintained and properly cared for will surely last longer - and you will most probably end up saving more money in the long run. High quality outdoor boots are priced between $90 to $250 or more. There are rare instances when you will find a good bargain below that price range, but it's best not to count on it.
When shopping for hiking boots, it pays to give due attention to brand names, but you should know that the best sellers doesn't necessarily offer the best quality. There are some great brands that only a few know because they don't offer a huge volume or line of shoes. To determine the difference between exaggerated brand reputation and high quality brands, talk to some friends who have years of hiking experience, or read online reviews from those who have actually used the boots that you are interested in purchasing.
Choose hiking boots that are made with a sturdy sole. This will prevent your boots from falling apart when you hike on rough grounds or uneven paths. A sturdy sole will also help prevent injury to your feet should you step on any sharp thorns or stones while hiking. If you're concerned about developing blisters, select a pair of shoes that have great cushioning on the insole. The sides of the shoes should also give enough support to help protect your ankles from being twisted.
Whether you plan to go to your favorite outdoor spot for an afternoon hike or you plan to go camping for an extended period of time, having the right outdoor boots is really important.