Things You'll Need:
- Temperature-rated hiking boots
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Step 1
Choose an insulated boot that will keep your feet warm. Like sleeping bags, hiking boots come with temperature ratings. Cold feet are more than unpleasant, they can lead to frostbite. Consider what the lowest temperature will be on your hike (and remember to think night-time as well as daytime temperatures).
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Step 2
Choose a waterproof boot. Rain, ice, snow; all of these can lead to wet feet. And while in other seasons, wet feet are uncomfortable and can lead to blisters, in winter there is the added risk of frostbite.
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Step 3
Select a boot that allows for thicker socks. In winter, you're wearing heavier socks for warmth. Bring your heavy winter hiking socks to the store when you're trying on boots to make sure they fit. Since most winter hikers wear more than one sock, remember to bring all of them. The boot may need to be a half-size larger to accommodate the thicker layers.
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Step 4
Consider getting cleats for your boots if you're going to be hiking on ice or hard-packed snow. Cleats can be snapped on over the boot's sole when hiking on ice and then removed when not needed. This will give you superior traction on slippery terrain.
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Step 5
Add gaiters to your winter footwear. These protective sheaths fit easily over part of the boot and up to the knee, are lightweight, and prevent snow from sliding into your boot tops when you sink down. You can also wear them during other seasons to protect legs from wet grass, brambles and brush.
