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6 Questions to Ask Yourself When Buying Hiking Boots

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:50:34 -0800

If you choose your hiking boots carefully, you can wear the same pair for years. But tracking down the perfect pair is easier said than done. I recently purchased a new pair of hikers, and they seem promising; I'll know after I break them in!

If you're gearing up for some cold-weather hikes, don't forget to bring these questions along when you head into the store.

Will you be hiking on wet ground? If so, it's worth investing in a pair of waterproof boots; they are more expensive but essential for preventing moisture-based blisters.
Do you need a heavy or light shoe? The heavier the boot, the tougher your hiking will be. For day hikes, a lighter boot is best, but if you're scaling inclines and/or carrying a heavy pack, you need the extra support of a heavier shoe.
Do you need ankle support? If you are going to be hiking on steep inclines or uneven terrain, get a boot that covers the ankles, rather than a low shoe such as an approach shoe. This will help prevent injury.

Three more tips, so keep reading.

Online Sale Alert: Save on Hiking Boots

FitSugar — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Love to hike in the Fall but need new shoes to take you on the trails? You're in luck.

Right now you can instantly save $20 on a $100 order of hiking shoes and boots from Nevados, Hi-Tec, Garmont, or Tecnica on Endless.com. And as always with the site, next day shipping is free. If you're not feeling like spending $100, then check out the sale selection for more great deals on boots. Hiking shoes, like most athletic shoes, are not always cheap so when I see a deal I like to pounce on it. Happy shopping!

How to Choose Summer Hiking Boots

FitSugar — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 11:00:00 -0700

If you own Winter hiking boots, you probably don't want to slip those on for a Summer hike. Those are meant to keep your feet warm and dry, and you may end up with sweaty feet, which will promote painful blisters. You also don't want to be wearing your cutesy Chaco sandals since they won't protect your feet from pebbles, sticks, ticks, or injuries if you tripped.

When choosing Summer hiking boots, look for:

A boot that covers your ankle to prevent you from getting a sprain - those rocks can be pretty wobbly, slippery, and uneven.
Rugged soles to prevent slippage. You also want them to be durable because if you're spending $100 to $200 on a pair, you want these boots to last.
Think about what kind of hiking you'll be doing. Boots made out of a combination of leather and material like these from Merrell and will be lighter, so they're great if you're expecting to carry a heavy pack. They're also easier to break in, which means they'll feel comfortable in a short amount of time. All-leather boots are more durable and they're also breathable and water resistant so your feet won't overheat and you'll be able to splash in a brook or mud.

To find out what else you should keep in mind just read more.

Try them on with the lightweight wicking socks you plan on wearing when you hike.
The boot should feel snug but not tight. Make sure your heel doesn't slide up and down (this kind of rubbing is a recipe for blisters). Practice walking down an incline to make sure your toes aren't jamming forward.
It may take several uses until your boots break in and feel comfy, so I wouldn't buy them the day before you plan on going on a 6-hour hike. Go on a few short hikes at first, and gradually increase the time as they begin to fit you better.

How to Choose Hiking Boots

FitSugar — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 14:30:00 -0700

If you're planning on doing a bunch of hiking this summer, you may be wondering, "Do I really need to buy hiking boots? Why can't I just wear supportive waterproof sandals like these from Chaco?" Well, sandals are great if you are taking a leisurely hike or walk by a river, but they don't offer nearly the necessary support and protection that you get from hiking boots.

When going on a long hike, you need boots that will support your ankles since the terrain can be uneven. You also need durable, rugged soles to prevent you from slipping. Since hiking boots cover your entire foot and ankle, you won't have to worry about rocks getting in your shoes, or sticks poking and cutting you.

Consider what type of hiking you'll be doing. Think about how heavy a load you'll be carrying. Also consider the various advantages of fabric-and-leather boots vs. all-leather boots. Fabric-and-leather boots are lighter and easier to break in, but all-leather boots offer added protection and durability in rigorous terrain, as well as being water resistant and breathable.

There are more things to consider? So read more

When choosing hiking boots, try on a bunch with the socks you'll be wearing hiking, preferably ones that offer light cushioning and wick away moisture (they usually sell them at the outdoor gear stores that sell hiking boots). They should feel snug - but not so tight that your toes can't wiggle, and not so loose that your foot shifts around when you walk (that's a great way to get blisters).

Walk around the store for a while, to make sure they feel good. Walk down an incline to make sure your foot doesn't slide forward. Check to make sure your heel doesn't lift up either. It can take a while to find the perfect pair, so be patient since you'll have them for many years.

Fit's Tips: Just so you know, hiking boots won't feel instantly comfortable like sneakers do. They'll take a little while to break in, so after you buy them, check out this post to see how.

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Get in Gear: Lightweight Hiking Boots by Vasque

FitSugar — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:15:00 -0700

If you're used to hiking or snowshoeing in the winter, than you probably already have a pair of waterproof winter boots. Those are great for frigid temperatures, but now that it's much warmer, you should think about getting yourself a pair of lightweight hiking boots. You'll be able to move quicker, have more traction on slippery or uneven ground, and they'll offer ventilation so your feet can stay dry. Check the Vasque Breeze. Want to hear why they're so great? Then read more

They're made of waterproof leather and Airmesh nylon to keep these boots light and highly breathable (so your feet don't get too hot and sweaty, which can cause nasty blisters). Plus the DryTech footbeds inside are removable, so if your boots do get wet (I always fall into a river at least twice a summer), you can take them out to dry.

Another great thing - these boots go over your ankles. This is a necessity when hiking to ensure maximum support when trekking through rocky and unstable terrain, so you won't have to worry about twisting an ankle. The outer soles of the boots are made of Vibram Contact rubber, giving you ultimate traction on wet surfaces.

Vasque knows about hiking and they make excellent boots. Since you'll have them for a few years, you can feel good about spending $120 (REI.com) on quality lightweight hiking boots.

Fit's Tips: Buying new hiking boots is an exciting endeavor, but it can also be confusing and frustrating. Here are some tips on how to pick out and break in the perfect pair.

You Asked: How Do I Break in New Hiking Boots?

FitSugar — Tue, 29 May 2007 12:30:00 -0700

Dear FitSugar,

Your recent hiking post reminded me of a problem that I am having with my new hiking boots. I am trying to break in the shoes in preparation for the Half Dome hike in Yosemite next month. Unfortunately, I got terrible blisters on the back of my feet (under the Achille's tendon area) after hiking the first day. Desperately needing to break in the boots, I just bandaged the already punctured blister and went hiking again the next day with 2 pairs of socks, even though it was quite painful. After the second day, the blister got bigger and even more painful. Should I ignore the wound and keep hiking or wait until the blister heals before wearing the boots again? Is this common when breaking in new hiking boots or is there something wrong with my boots?

That's a great question since it is hiking season and lots of people are shopping for new boots. The key to breaking in new hiking boots is to take things slowly. Different kinds of boots will require different amounts of time to break in. Lightweight models might not need much breaking in time at all, while the heavier, stiffer, all-leather boots could take weeks to soften up and form to the shape of your feet.

Want to hear my advice? Then read more

The boots you buy should feel snug with 1 pair of socks (preferably ones that wick). It sounds like since you could wear 2 pairs of socks, that your hiking boots might be too loose. They will stretch out slightly as they break in, so you don't want to start off with a loose boot - if your foot can move around with each step, that friction will definitely cause blisters.

If your boots do feel good and snug, start breaking them in by wearing them inside for short periods of time. Be sure to wear the kind of socks you'll be wearing on the trail. If you feel pinching, rubbing, or pain right away, take those boots back. If they still feel good, wear them out and about like to the grocery store, or for a short walk.

Gradually increase the distance and time you wear your new boots, until eventually you can go for a long hike with a pack on your back. It does take a while to break in your boots, but it's worth it since they'll last you for years to come.

Fit's Tips: If you have a blister or a sore spot that is getting rubbed, Dr. Scholl's Moleskin Plus Padding is great. You can cut a piece to fit the area you need covered, and it's self-adhesive, so it'll stick to your skin and offer more padding than a regular band-aid.

Gear Review: Nike ACG Wildedge GTX Shoe

FitSugar — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:00:23 -0700

I'm a big fan of Nike's All Condition Gear (ACG) line. If you're into climbing, hiking, or trail running, this shoe line has something for you. When at the Nike store recently, I noticed that my Wildedge approach shoes are now on sale. This shoe, a mixture of a hiking boot and climbing shoe, is now $65, marked down from $110.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Nike's ACG line and to celebrate it, Nike rolled out some pretty cool versions of the Wildedge shoe - a modern twist on the vintage Wildwood shoe that was popular in the '90s. I was immediately drawn to the line because of all the cool colors offered. Most hiking and approach shoes are pretty boring and come in two colors - all-over brown or green. Although I did settle on the ones that have brown and green in them, I think the colors are a lot brighter and flashier than any other hiking shoe I've seen. I also love the fluorescent pink swoosh on the side.

To see how these shoes perform, read more.

Along with being aesthetically pleasing, the Wildedge shoes perform well, and after trekking in them for over six months, I have to say I am a happy customer. The shoes are really lightweight and waterproof, two things that are important to me when backpacking. What I'm most impressed with is the sticky sole, which provides major traction with its .44 sticky rubber, creating a surface that grips onto whatever I'm hiking up. They're also super comfortable - I've hiked in these shoes for hours with no complaints, and even did an hour on the treadmill with them when I accidentally brought the wrong shoes to the gym.

Hiking Dos and Don'ts

FitSugar — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:00:01 -0700

Hiking is a great way to spend a Summer morning or afternoon. With breathtaking views and breathtaking climbs, it's a natural workout that feeds the soul while challenging the body. An hour of hiking burns around 355 calories! After filling your pack with essentials, review a few important pieces of trail etiquette when you read more.

Don't

Do hike with friends. It's more fun and safer than hiking alone.
Do pack snacks, water, a cell phone, and a map or GPS device if the hiking trail is new to you. Also bring along rain gear and extra layers just in case.
Before heading out, tell people where you'll be. I know it's a morbid thought, but if anything happens to you, you want people to know where to look for you.
Do stick to the dirt trail. It'll keep you safe and it will protect the natural environment.
If nature calls, and you need to go number one, do so far away from the trail and any natural water sources. If you need to go number two, dig a hole first. Use nature's toilet paper (dead leaves) and bury it all when you're done.

Don't wear new hiking boots since you can end up with painful blisters.
Don't disturb animals or their homes. If you see a beaver dam, just be an observer, and take a few pics if you want.
Don't pick flowers or other plants.
Don't let your dog off leash if it's not allowed, as there may be fellow hikers on the trail who also have dogs or who are afraid of them. If you are allowed to let your pooch off leash, don't let him go too far ahead. You want to be able to clean up after him.
Don't blare loud music or talk loudly. Fellow hikers come to enjoy the quietness of nature, so be respectful.
Don't be a litterbug. Pack a small garbage bag so you can keep track of your trash and pick up after other messy hikers.

Tips For Summer Hiking

FitSugar — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0700

If working out in a gym bores you to tears, you need to move your workout outside and hit a trail. Hiking is a great challenge for your heart and lower body, and you can do it with friends. If you've never been hiking in the Summer, here are some things to keep in mind.

Head out for your hike first thing in the morning since the temperature will be cooler. Hiking in full sun is difficult and could lead to heat exhaustion.
Bring along a backpack or lumbar pack and make sure you have tons of cold water. Pack an extra long-sleeve layer just in case. Snacks or sandwiches are a good idea, too, if you're planning on being out for a few hours or more.
Lube yourself up with sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you head out. Keep the bottle in a Ziploc bag in your pack, and reapply at least every two hours.
If the trail you're hiking is woodsy, pack some bug spray. Dealing with swarming mosquitoes while trekking through the woods is unbearable. Plus bug spray will also keep away ticks and spiders.

For more tips, just read more.

Wear real shoes that have rugged soles. Hiking boots are best since they'll support your ankles, but trail running shoes will work too. I'd avoid strappy sandals since they won't offer much protection against sticks, little pebbles, bugs, or poison ivy.
Your clothes should be lightweight and comfortable. Since you'll be sweating a lot, they should be made out of some kind of wicking material.
Use a trekking pole to help you tackle the inclines and declines. If you don't hike very often, a long sturdy stick will work just as well.

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Engaged? Start Getting in Shape Now

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 11:00:00 -0700

Congratulations if you've recently gotten engaged. You have so many things to think about like the bridesmaid dresses, invitations, flowers, your rings, and the honeymoon. The most important thing though is to take care of yourself, making exercise a part of your regular routine. Not only will it help you look your best, but it's great to get in the habit of living a healthy lifestyle before your wedding, so you'll have a long life to share with your partner.

Here are some things to start thinking about:

If losing weight is your goal, meet with a dietitian. They can help you come up with a safe and healthy eating plan that will be nutritious and low in calories.
In order to lose weight, you'll also want to up your cardio. Join a gym and use the cardio machines, or take advantage of the warmer weather and walk, jog, hike, or ride your bike. To see results, you want to do at least 30 minutes of heart-pumping cardio at least three times a week.

What else can you do? Find out after you read more.

If toning up is your goal, hire a personal trainer to show you exercises that will target specific areas (like the backs of your arms).
Can't afford a personal trainer? Do toning and strengthening exercises on your own. This Starter Arms video is a great routine that's sure to work every muscle in your upper body.
If you're really serious about getting in shape and don't have much time before the big day, you may want to take the bridal boot camp approach. Go on a retreat, do an online program, or get some wedding workout DVDs.
Exercise with your partner. Not only will it keep you both healthy, but it's another way you can spend time together.

The great thing about all of these ideas is that not only will exercising regularly and eating more healthy help you get in shape for the big day, but you'll have less stress and more energy to plan the wedding - a pleasant side effect of working out.

For more wedding tips, check out all of the Sugar Network’s wedding coverage here.

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