One of the most important decisions that hikers need to consider is footwear. Hiking is, obviously, an activity that can put a great deal or wear or strain on the feet. This can affect not only the feet, but also how the entire body feels, and can make the difference between an enjoyable hike and a miserable one. For most hikers, footwear choices boil down to two options. These options are walking shoes and hiking boots.
Walking Shoes
Walking shoes are lightweight, usually moderately durable shoes designed for comfort over long, flat or gentle distances. Along with specially designed shoes made especially for their industry, walking shoes are popular amongst nurses and other highly-mobile hospital professionals. These shoes are extremely comfortable to wear when traversing a gentle path with limited rocks or climbing. In cases like this, shoes for walking are often actually more comfortable than boots for hiking. These shoes usually do not offer too much support, and often rise only to the ankle. They can be made of water resistant material, but are usually not tough enough to keep water out if the hiker steps through a stream or puddle or walks in the rain.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are usually much sturdier and more durable than walking shoes. These boots have reinforced extra padding and may even have metal bars in the soles. This gives plenty of foot support and also reduces the chances of strain or bruising when hiking over rocky, rough or uneven terrain. In addition, these boots rise over the ankle, offering ankle support and making the risk of an ankle injury less likely. Hiking boots are great for rough weather, and are have more water resistance than walking shoes. They may even be waterproof, making them much easier to clean after a great hike.
Although hiking boots are a more obvious, often more comfortable choice when climbing a steep slope, some hikers still prefer to wear walking shoes. This is because these shoes are much lighter than the boots. The weight of the boots can actually tire the legs of someone who is not used to the weight or is not in peak shape. Some people find one style will cause certain leg injuries and finding shoes that accommodate issues like plantar fasciitis can be important.
Shoes that are comfortable to walk in are sometimes less expensive than hiking boots. However, when a hiker is looking for a quality pair of either shoes or boots, the prices are generally comparable. Looking at all the factors, and perhaps even trying various shoe and boot types, can help hikers make an educated decision before investing in a quality pair.
Featured Image from Amanda Sandlin/Unsplash
