Many mountaineers face the same problem every year choosing the right Hiking boots. They are often the first to be purchased and are usually for smaller routes.
But the question is the same, and we don’t want to make a mistake. We’ve put together a few tips to help you find the right mountain boots. However, you may also want to ask a local footwear specialist for additional recommendations.
How to select the best hiking boots
While design is important when it comes down to dressing, in the mountains we must look for the most practical and comfortable thing. These boots will be your walking companions for many years and will eventually wear down so quickly that you may not remember how beautiful they were initially.
Protections from the outside
This is the most important thing to pay attention to in any boot. Check that the seams have been reinforced such as double seams. They should look good and have rubber on the heel or toe. Super glue can sometimes be visible, which is a red flag. This is not the first time the boot’s protections have been removed.
Many boots also have a reinforced rubber heel cap or the entire boot. This protects against water and helps to prevent chafing. These boots are typically more expensive and usually come with the best quality boots. This can sometimes increase the boot’s weight.
It is important to choose the right sole.
The sole is an essential component of hiking boots. The sole must be resistant, gripped, and comfortable. This rule must be followed. If it isn’t, we will have many problems. Do you know what are the Best Hiking Boots For Women With Wide Feet?
The soles of boots can be replaced, even though they might not appear so. If you have an old boot that is still in good condition, but it’s not worn out yet, take it to your local boot shop and ask for a new sole.
The inside of the boot
Every boot manufacturer/model is unique, so shop online. It is important to know what your foot looks like. You should try the boots on before you buy them. Not all feet are the same width. Some boots fit narrower feet, and boots are made by other manufacturers. We have no other choice than to try every model.
The type of template used is another important detail. Every mountain boot manufacturer has its template. Some even fight the appearance of molds and bad odors. But, the template molds to our feet and mustn’t be rigid. This is the insole, not the boot.
Water is your worst enemy
The membrane is an essential component of any mountain boot. It prevents our feet from getting wet and helps us to perspire as much as possible. This is more difficult because the socks that we wear are a major factor in our perspiration.
Many shoe manufacturers make their membranes to lower the cost of their boots.
Heat insulation or not
Cold feet are a great dilemma. It isn’t a problem for summer boots, as almost no one wears them. This is mostly used for winter boots, as we can use summer socks that meet this requirement.
What type of socks should I wear?
The socks are a different world from the boots. Although there are many options and prices, the socks all look similar at first glance. So, what are the most comfortable hiking shoes for men?
To avoid chafing, and possible blisters, look for socks that have as few seams. If the heel and toe are reinforced, they will be more comfortable.
Differences between summer and winter boots
First, let’s note that there are many types of Winter Boots. Mostly leather and plastic. Since summer boots are made of leather, we will only highlight the differences.
These are the differences between summer boots and winter boots that we need to be aware of:
The hardness of a boot
There are three types. The soft ones are used most often in summer boots. The semi-rigid can be used in both winter and winter boots. The rigid ones are used only for winter boots. A rigid boot, as its name suggests, prevents it from being bent, which allows for climbing up steeper slopes and avoids slips.
Weigh
A winter boot generally weighs 20% more than an average summer boot. This is due to the insulation and stiffer soles.
Semi-rigid soles
Semi-automatic crampons will vary depending on the sole. Semi-rigid soles usually allow semi-automatic crampons, while rigid soles can accommodate both. Strap crampons can be used with any type of sole.
Some strap-on crampons are sufficient to allow us to walk the marked trails if we walk a lot in the summer and less in the winter.
Thermal insulation
It is not always present in winter boots. This is due to the boot’s weight. Sometimes, the boot’s inner socks cover the insulation.
Conclusion
We hope you find the right pair of mountain boots for your needs with this information. There is more to consider, but these are the basics to help you make an informed purchase.
Also, don’t forget to check other useful articles here.
