Posted by admin | Posted in Hiking Needs | Posted on 23-02-2010
Tags: boots, hiking, hikingboots, shoes, shopping
How can I chose a good pair of hiking boots?
I have just taken up hiking but have found both my achilles tendons are really sore afterwards and feel painfully bruised. I was wearing lightweight walking boots which I’ve had a few years but have only started hurting now. Any idea why? Also, what should iI look for in new boots? I’ll be taking part in 30km hikes in snowy conditions, cross country terrain.
It sounds like your boots are not fitting you very well – they may be too loose and thus rubbing against the back of your heel as you walk.
Unfortunately, there is no simple best answer for hiking boots since everybodys feet are a little different and a brand that is great for one person, may be the pits for somebody else. After trying a variety of different boots and brands over the years, I have settled on the Raiche GTX (also sold by REI under the name Spirit) – they are comfortable, water-proof and very sturdy (my treads are still holding up after over 400 miles on them).
If you are going to be hiking in snow, than you will want water-proof boots (ie: Gore-Tex lining) and may want to consider a boot that can work with strap-on crampons (for extra support in ice).
Backpacker Magazine just came out with their yearly gear guide issue and gave the Timberland Cadion the best rating for comfort and fit on women’s boots. You should pick up the issue, bucause it gives the low down on a variety of brands and recent styles. They also have a lot of good tips for picking out boots, specifically:
1 – Shop in the afternoon when your feet are larger
2 – Have them measure your feet for a good fit
3 – Try on several different models and brands
4 – Spend at least 15 minutes walking around in each pair
5 – Wait for perfection – don’t settle, if they don’t fit
6 – Consider adding padding and aftermarket supports/soles.
A good fit is one where you have wiggle room in the toes, but your heel is firm and snug. I would also strongly recommend going to an outdoor type store that specializes in hiking/camping gear and whose sales staff hikes themselves as opposed to a general shoe store or sporting goods store. REI is a good national chain, but many towns in outdoor areas will also have a small local outfitter or hiking shack.
Original SWAT 9in Classic Boot by U.S. Cavalry
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DEWALT EqualizerTM Lightweight Oxford – Hiking Shoe $72.11 … |
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Smartwool Liner Sock 10 114 $10.95 This flat knit sock provides a close, lightweight fit that acts like an adventurer’s second skin to minimize friction and blisters. Use with a second sock when extra warmth and protection is needed…. |
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Fox River Socks Wick Dry Off Road Crew Sock Great, durable performance in more moderate weatherHigh performance Isolwool Wick Dry Health System keeps feet dry and comfortable Easy relaxed top for stay up comfort Lycra 3DTM knit construction throughout for a memory fit Cushioned sole with mesh knit side channels for airflow to move moisture Lycra arch panel promotes circulation and holds sock in place Reinforced heel and toe areas for extend… |
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Ultralight Backpacking Secrets $5.99 If you’ve ever carried a backpack that was too heavy, you know it can suck the fun right out of a hike. You backpack to enjoy the wilderness, not to suffer or prove anything, right? Well here’s some good news! This book shows you how to have everything you need to be safe and comfortable with less than 20 pounds on your back, or even do weekend trips with under fifteen pounds total pack weight.The… |
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Women’s Keen Voyageur – KN5258BRDP $99.95 Keep your cool under pressure with the Voyageur from KEEN. Mesh lining replaces a waterproof barrier for continual airflow. The rugged outsole finds a sure grip on rough terrain with multi-directional lugs. An ESS shank is built in for torsional stability, letting you keep your mind on the task at hand. 4mm multi-directional lugs. Dual Density Compression Molded EVA Midsole. Non-marking rubber out… |
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Women’s Merrell Moab Ventilator $79.95 UPPER/LINING ” Dura leather and mesh upper ” Bellows tongue keeps debris out ” Synthetic leather toe cap and heel counter ” Breathable mesh lining treated with Aegis® Antimicrobial solution ” Ortholite® Anatomical Footbed MIDSOLE/OUTSOLE ” Molded nylon arch shank ” Compression molded EVA footframe provides cushioning ” Merrell® air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability ” … |
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KEEN Targhee ll Mid Hiking Shoe – Men’s $125.00 Lacing up the Keen Men’s Targhee Mid II Hiking Shoes is like shifting your feet into four-wheel drive. Their 4mm lugs grab rough terrain, while the waterproof and super-breathable eVENT insert keeps your feet dry. The dual density, compression-molded EVA midsoles cushion and absorb shock so you can return to the trailhead without achy feet. The mid-height cut protects your ankle from rolls and twi… |
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Kayland Women’s Convert Lightweight Hiking Boots $199.95 Drawing upon the finest elements of perennial best sellers, the Contact 1000 and the Vertigo High, the Kayland Convert Lightweight Hiking Boots – Women’s are sure to convert outdoor enthusiasts looking for optimal comfort, light weight, durability, and versatility for backpacking and hiking. Convert the trails into your playground with this waterproof hiking boot! |
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Hiking New Hampshire, 2nd (State Hiking Series) $14.48 Most comprehensive resource on hiking the finest trails in the Granite State with details on 100 hikes including maps, photos and elevation graphs. |
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Arizona Hiking $14.48 Arizona Hiking describes hikes in five categories: urban backyard hikes; family hikes that range from easy to moderate; tougher day hikes that range from moderate to advanced; Grand Canyon hikes ranging from easy to advanced; and overnight hikes. Each description gives specific driving directions, elevations, recommended maps, safety suggestions, and official contacts for details on fees, regulations, etc. Hiking chapters start with two to four feature hikes, followed by at-a-glance descriptions of several additional hikes. Other chapters give general hiking preparation and safety guidelines and list additional resources. Includes seven chapters, total, with index and color map of Arizona. |
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Hiking Ohio $14.48 Hiking Ohio is a comprehensive guide to more than 40 of the most scenic foot trails in the Buckeye State. From the Lake Erie islands to the foothills of the Appalachians, from virgin forests to native grasslands, from small creeks to the Ohio River, this book serves as a tour guide to the diverse natural and human history of Ohio only as seen by foot. Hiking Ohio includes descriptive photographs for each hike; digitally designed maps detailing each hike; in-depth trail descriptions with difficulty ratings; detailed route directions; schedules, local attractions, eateries, and more. |
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Hats $28.98 Over 350 color photographs depict a magnificent array of fashion hats from the early 19th century to present day, including the earliest known American straw bonnet. The hats are presented chronologically according to primary materials; straw, felt, horsehair, feathers, silk, velvet, and flowers. Trends in hat designs, Hollywood style, Stetson hats, tips on collecting, and contemporary millinery are also discussed. The captions include specific details about each hat, as well as labels and information about the milliners. This useful reference includes a glossary, a detailed price reference, and index with photographs of designer labels. This beautiful book will be cherished by collectors, dealers, fashion connoisseurs, and everyone who simply loves hats! |
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Hiking $7 ISBN-13: 9780736809160 ISBN-10: 0736809163 Title: Hiking. Author: Kristin Thoennes Keller. |
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Hats On! $12.98 Caps are wonderful knitting projects–small and portable, providing just the right mix of challenge and simplicity. From the basic watch cap to fanciful multicoloured and textured creations, knitters will be enticed by the intriguing diversity of style and technique: double-, triple-, and quadruple-thicknesses for warmth and weather resistance; hats with earflaps, ornamental cuffs, and jester’s tassles; and even ornaments to hang from the Christmas tree. |
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Hiking! $3.48 Distributed by Westcliffe Publishers for the first time, this introspective and intelligently written book explores the "why" of hiking, rather than the "how", underscoring its profound effect on health and well-being. The authors delve beyond the simple physical benefits of hiking to illuminate its philosophical, psychological, interpersonal, creative, and spiritual elements. Geared more for day-hikers than backpackers, it offers new insights to seasoned trailblazers, encourages novices to begin their own journeys into this exciting and popular pastime, and establishes hiking as a means to regain balance in our lives. |
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Ecco Men’s Quito Mid GTX Hiking Boots $159.95 Ecco Men’s Quito Mid GTX Hiking Boots |
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Hiking $7 ISBN-13: 9780736809160 ISBN-10: 0736809163 Title: Hiking. Author: Kristin Thoennes Keller. |
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Hiking! $3.48 Distributed by Westcliffe Publishers for the first time, this introspective and intelligently written book explores the "why" of hiking, rather than the "how", underscoring its profound effect on health and well-being. The authors delve beyond the simple physical benefits of hiking to illuminate its philosophical, psychological, interpersonal, creative, and spiritual elements. Geared more for day-hikers than backpackers, it offers new insights to seasoned trailblazers, encourages novices to begin their own journeys into this exciting and popular pastime, and establishes hiking as a means to regain balance in our lives. |
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Merrell Women’s Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Shoe $89.95 When you’re hiking, biking or working under a hot sun, the last article of apparel you want to shed is your boots. Well, almost the last. Fortunately, the Moab Ventilator Mid is like air conditioning for your feet. Mid-height uppers are Dura leather with lots of exposed breathable Ventilator mesh. Breathable mesh linings and bellow tongue. Rubber toe bumper and heel counter, Vibram Multi-Sport Plus sole provide the protection, support and traction you need when the action heats up. |
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Merrell Men’s Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Shoe $89.95 When you’re hiking, biking or working under a hot sun, the last article of apparel you want to shed is your boots. Well, almost the last. Fortunately, the Moab Ventilator Mid is like air conditioning for your feet. Mid-height uppers are Dura leather with lots of exposed breathable Ventilator mesh. Breathable mesh linings and bellow tongue. Rubber toe bumper and heel counter, Vibram Multi-Sport Plus sole provide the protection, support and traction you need when the action heats up. |