Hiking boots are an essential piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast who loves to combine staying fit and active with a love of nature.
When choosing hiking boots, the perfect pair will provide support, traction, and protection for your feet across various terrains, whatever the weather conditions and however long your hike is.
However, with so many different hiking boots on the market and a vast range available here at Taunton Leisure, choosing the right pair can often take time and effort. Our team has compiled some key factors to consider to make things easier. Read on below to discover how to choose hiking boots that will fit your next adventure!
- Fit
The most crucial aspect of finding the perfect pair of walking boots for your feet is achieving the right fit. The right hiking boots for you should combine the following:
- They should be snug but not too tight, with ample room to wiggle your toes.
A good fit requires a space of about a thumb’s width between the tip of your longest toe and the tip of the boot. This extra space is crucial when walking downhill because it lets your feet move slightly inside the boot without contacting the front, which lessens the chance of blisters or other painful injuries like damaged toenails.
- Try on different pairs with varying widths and toe boxes to determine which fit is best for you. When trialling the boots, wear the socks you plan to hike in for an accurate assessment.
- Consider your foot shape and any unique characteristics that may affect the fit of your hiking boots. At Taunton Leisure, we provide a wide range of boots designed specifically to offer a wide fit, extra wide fit, narrow fit, or medium fit.
- It’s crucial to break in your hiking boots gradually. You can do this by wearing them around the house or building up the distance during short walks. This process will help mould your new outdoor footwear to your foot shape and minimise the risk of blisters during a longer hike.
- Support
Your hiking boots should offer excellent support for your feet and ankles to avoid discomfort or the risk of injury across uneven, rugged terrain. This factor is especially true if carrying a heavy rucksack or equipment that will add to your weight and potentially set you off balance.
- Look for boots with a sturdy shank that runs from the heel to the forefoot. This shank provides stability and helps prevent foot fatigue.
- A well-cushioned midsole is essential; it allows the boot to absorb shock across rocky, uneven terrain and reduce impact on joints.
- You should also consider the boot height. High-cut boots provide more ankle support, while low-cut or mid-height hiking boots offer greater agility—the right fit for you depends on the nature of the hike you’re undertaking and the terrain you’ll encounter.
- Traction
The outsole of your hiking boots provides grip on various surfaces, which is vital for ensuring your comfort and safety on a hike. Of course, different outsoles offer different benefits, so look for one that fulfils your needs.
- Outsoles with deep treads are ideal for wet or muddy conditions, where their rugged soles offer superior traction across unpredictable terrain.
- Hiking boots with a sticky rubber compound are ideal for rocky or slippery terrain, enhancing grip and preventing falls.
- Before purchasing, you should consider the terrain you will be hiking on and invest in hiking boots that suit the environment you’ll be exploring.
- Weight
Getting the weight of your hiking boots just right for your frame and the type of terrain you’ll be hiking is essential towards ensuring you’re comfortable and don’t suffer from fatigue.
- Hiking boots are available in various weights, from lightweight models suitable for short day hikes to heavier boots designed for more intense backpacking and long treks.
- When choosing the weight of your boots, consider the terrain and duration of your hike. Lightweight boots will provide agility and minimise fatigue, while heavy hiking boots offer more support and protection from the terrain.
- Durability
Given the variation of terrain and weather conditions your hiking boots will be exposed to, it’s vital that your footwear is tough enough to withstand rugged and challenging outdoor conditions.
- Look for boots with high-quality leather or synthetic uppers that resist abrasion and moisture.
- Invest in a durable outsole with reinforced construction and stitching where possible, ensuring longevity.
- Consider the boots’ materials and construction when assessing their durability, and try them on first to determine their quality.
- Brand
At Taunton Leisure, you’ll find many reputable hiking boot brands, including Altberg, La Sportiva, Meindl, and Scarpa. Each brand offers unique strengths, styles, and features.
- Research different brands before you buy, read customer reviews, look for comments on features that appeal to you, and compare prices to find the best hiking boots for your needs and budget.
- Although Taunton Leisure only offers reputable brands, consider the brand’s ethos and any warranties provided when making your decision.
- Personal Preferences & Style
Of course, while practical elements will be a significant factor in choosing the perfect hiking boots, leaving room for your preferences and style is essential. After all, if you look good in your boots – you’ll feel good, too!
- High-cut boots offer ankle support and pair well with outdoor trousers and legwear. At the same time, low-cut boots provide better agility and pair well with shorts and lighter clothing.
- The level of cushioning offered and design aesthetics are also personal choices to consider. Your cushioning choice will depend on the type of hiking and your foot shape.
- Professional Fitting
For professional advice from our outdoor specialists, visit one of our stores in Taunton, Exeter, and Bristol. You can expect:
- Knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice on the right hiking boots for your needs and ensure a proper fit.
- A professional fitting can help you find the perfect hiking boots for your foot shape and the type of hikes you’ll undertake.
If you’re looking for more handy guides, helpful insights, and product reviews, please visit the Taunton Leisure Blog. If you have questions about choosing hiking boots, please contact our team!
