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Hiking boot

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Two pairs of hiking boots: one (left) old, patched with duct tape and showing serious wear; the other new.

Hiking boots are footwear specifically designed for the sport of hiking. They are considered[citation needed] the most important hiking gear since their quality and durability can determine a hiker's ability to move farther, faster, and more safely. Hiking boots are constructed to provide comfort for miles of walking over rough terrains, and protect the hiker's feet against water, mud, rocks, and other wilderness obstacles. Most hiking boots are also designed for other outdoor activities such as backpacking, climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hunting, and casual outdoor wear.

Hiking boots support the ankle to avoid twisting but should not restrict the ankle's movement much. They also must be fairly stiff to support the foot. A properly fitted boot and/or friction-reducing patches applied to troublesome areas can ensure protection against blisters and other discomforts associated with long hikes on rugged terrain. Some suggest a leather-lined boot over synthetic lining because it is less likely to cause blisters during a long hike. [1]

Types

  1. Trail Shoes - Trail shoes are made for hiking in dry climate, well-established paths that are less rugged and rocky. Trail shoes are ideal for one-hour to one-day hikes when carrying a light day pack.
  2. Trail Hikers - Trail hikers are meant for steeper inclines and muddy paths. This pair is often used for three days to a week ofhiking activity. Trail hikers are sturdier, higher-cut and waterproof boots. These will provide added stability and ankle protection against protruding limbs and rocks.
  3. Mountaineering Boots - Mountaineering boots are designed for mountain climbing activities. Crampons are often attached to the shoes for a better grip on glaciers or hard-packed snow. Mountaineering boots are extremely strong, durable, and have stiff soles to give the ankles support and protection on difficult trails.
A Karrimor hiking trainer.

Parts

  1. Upper - The upper part of a hiking boot is intended to protect and support the foot with an all-over snug fit. Uppers should be water repellant/proof, but allow the feet to breathe to prevent excess moisture from causing blisters and other discomfort.
  2. Soles - Soles are the bottom part of your shoes. Hiking boots have deep-lugged soles of tough rubber to provide friction and avoid slipping on any surfaces. Soles absorb and redirect shocks, and provides cushion for your feet. Some soles, such as Air bob outsoles, have hollow lugs to improve self cleaning
  3. Laces - Laces for hiking boots are almost always braided nylon cords. These keep the boots fitted properly and snugly around the feet. There are different lacing systems for hiking boots such as eyelet, D-rings, hooks, webbing, or a combination of two of these systems.
  4. Tongues - The flaps that cover the inlet of the upper are called tongues. This is the part the goes underneath the laces. Tongues make sure that water, dirt and debris will not enter the shoes.
  5. Linings and Paddings - Linings and paddings provide more protection and comfort to your feet. Foam is often used for padding. This protects the feet from cold and pressure.
  6. Insoles / Footbeds - Insoles are the bottom part of the inner that the feet rest on. Insoles that are perfectly shaped to the hiker's feet will ensure maximum support and balance.
  7. Shanks - The stiff plastic or metal plates built into the sole. Boots are made with full, three-quarter, or half-length shanks. Longer shanks make for stiffer boots.
  8. Scree Collars - Protects the Achilles tendon and ankle from chafing.
  9. Crampon Connections - Crampons are made from spikes and are worn on boots to provide traction on snow and ice.
  10. Welts - On older boots, these are the major seams connecting the upper to the sole. There were several different styles of welts. Most modern boots have glued welts rather than traditional sewn welts.

Benefits

Hiking boots are intended for the uneven trails one will encounter in a hiking activity. Here are several reasons why wearing hiking boots is beneficial to the hiker:

  1. Hiking boots are constructed to be sturdy and stiff at the bottom to protect the feet from getting hurt from the rocks, pebbles and thorns on a hiking trail.
  2. Hiking boots are made with good fit and cushioning for the feet to prevent blisters, which is common in long hiking activity.
  3. Hiking boots have support on the sides to keep the legs straight.
  4. Hiking boots also provide support to the ankle to prevent twisting, but will not restrict the ankle's movement.

Drawbacks

Most hiking boots are constructed of leather, often with a breathable waterproof lining, such as Gore-Tex. However, the shoes are not comparable to rubber boots when it comes to being waterproof and drying quickly, making it difficult to cross rivers while keeping the inside of the boot dry. Although there are rubber lace-up boots designed for hiking purposes, rubber hiking boots are not ideal for extensive use because the feet cannot breathe and sweat extensively, which can lead to foot problems such as blisters, fungal infections and trench foot. These drawbacks negate any advantage rubber boots have in keeping out external moisture. However non-rubber hiking boots are generally quite expensive and require more care.

See also

Hiking boots abandoned at the end of the Milford Track, New Zealand.

References

  1. ^ "Q&A with Custom Hiking Bootmaker". Hiking Boots Blog. 2010-07-27.
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