hiking boots
picking a hiking boot can seem simple, but can have nuances that can result in you hiking off your toenails if you're not careful 😬
avoid that with this simple guide to find your perfect pair of boots!
boot guide
start with your normal shoe size
additive factors this is just a rough guide, you may find that you may only need to go up 1 size instead of 1.5 or something, but definitely be mindful of these caveats when trying on your boot in the store!
- foot swelling (free space): when you try the boots on the in the store, keep in mind that your feet will swell from some to a ton when you're actually hiking. add 0.50 of a size for this
- wearing thick socks/merino wool/double socks: add 0.25-0.5 of a size
- planning on putting aftermarket/thicker insoles: add 0.25-0.5 of a size
- descending/ascending mountains or harsh terrain: add 0.5 of a size
determine how much ankle support you want this has some amount of personal taste, but i'd personally recommend as much as you can get. if you're hiking in rough or rocky terrain, 100% add ankle support
need waterproofing? if you're in a hot area, you might want a more breathable boot instead of weather and waterproof. alternatively, if you're hiking in cooler temperatures, muddy terrain and crossing streams, definitely consider waterproofing
side zipper for removal i'd highly recommend a boot with a zipper down the side, it makes taking off and putting on boots incredibly less painful, and there are still fully waterproof boots with the zipper. however, if you just want a simpler or more durable boot, then zipperless may be for you
steel toes, certification steel/composite toes and certifications are something i've found more in work or tactical boots, but its definitely still possible to find them in hiking boots!
break em in most people recommend around 100 miles to initially break in boots, but you might feel comfortable before then. just make sure to take them out for small hikes with thick socks and/or bandaids before any big hikes with them!
brand recommendations
i've heard good things about the following brands, ymmv
- merrell: moabs particularly. these are mostly for hiking and may not have that much ankle support
- salomons: good reputation of being sturdy and reliable, often a bit pricey. their catalog doesn't have as much ankle support as i'd like
- 5.11 boots: i really like 5.11 boots for waterproofing, zippers, and more importantly a wide range of ankle support. definitely check them out, they make good hiking pants/bdus as well
- salewa: i've heard these are rlly comfortable but never used em
- keens: “especially the american-made models. my first gen durands have lasted 6 years before succumbing to seam rippage. my summit county winter boots are good for -20f with one pair of socks!” – @awl@shitposter.club
- corcoran field boots: “[they] rock” – @skadi@stereophonic.space
happy hiking!
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