How to Select Hiking Boots

Selecting the right hiking boots will make all the difference during your hike. Read this article to learn all how to do it correctly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money to buy the boots
• Transportation to get to the store
• Hiking socks

1. Determine when you will first be using your new boots. Plan to purchase your new hiking boots at least 1 week prior to your hike (earlier if you are planning to order your hiking boots online). You will need time to break them in.

2. Think about the types of hikes you will be doing. Are you planning to hike across river beds and streams? Do you need boots that are waterproof? Are you going to be hiking long distances (10+ miles per day)? Are you embarking on a Grand Canyon adventure or a closer to home day hike?
   
   These factors will help you narrow down what kind of boots you need.

3. Do some online research. Check out www.backpacker.com to learn what hiking boots this industry leader is recommending this season. Keep your needs in mind as you peruse the website. After doing your online research, set a reasonable budget for your boots.

4. Head to your local REI or other outdoors store. Try on all of the boots that have the features you are looking for. At a minimum, the boots you buy should have solid ankle and arch support, be extremely comfortable, and fit your feet well.

5. Make your purchase decision and buy the boots.

6. Break them in at home. Wear them around the house on a Saturday when you're doing your normal housework. Never hike in brand new boots that have not been broken in!

7. Head out for your hike.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that price is not the biggest factor when choosing hiking boots. You should stay within your budget, but your budget won't matter if you're 8 miles into a 20 mile hike and your feet are killing you.
• Always try on hiking boots before you buy. If you think you can get them cheaper online, order online, but try them on in the store first.
• Break your boots in (at least 4 hours of wearing time) prior to hiking in them.
• If possible, go for a short hike in your new boots (1 mile or less) to get a feel for them and continue the breaking in process, before your hike.
• Never, ever hike in brand new boots that have not been broken in!
• If you order your boots online, make sure you have tried them on in a store first to ensure proper sizing, fit and comfort.