What type of walking boots

A system based on how many and which seasons walking boots are built for is used for classifying them into categories, ranging from one-season boots to four-season boots. The table below illustrates the highlights of each type of walking boot and their best applications, as well as where and when they should not be worn. Stiffer and also more durable, the upper is normally made from a mix of synthetics, mesh and lightweight leather.

Usually, an EVA or polyurethane midsole will support the foot and provide comfort on longer walks. Reliably waterproof, they can be used up to the snowline and even attached to flexible crampons for a short period of time if the boots are crampon-compatible.

Some boots within this tier will tend to require above-average levels of breaking in and will feel clunky and tiring on easy, bottom-level walks. Frequently made from leather averaging a thickness of more than 2mm to protect the foot. There are also Alpine boots on the market: mountain boots made from very light synthetic materials in place of leather. And there you have it — our complete guide to making the best possible use of your hiking boots and buying a pair that will become a worthy walking companion.

Walking Boots or Shoes? Upper The upper construction of walking boots refers to everything outside of the shoe above the midsole. Midsole The midsole is the layer of material that sits between the upper and the outsole, which lies at the very bottom of the boot. Outsole The outsole is the part of the walking boot that works hardest against the elements and the constant friction of walking, so is undoubtedly the most important feature to look out for.

Test the Waterproofness All walking boots are water-resistant to an extent, though some will be significantly more waterproof than others so it is worthwhile checking this. Settle on a Material that Suits The decision about the material of boots is dependent on your specific needs.

What Socks to Wear with Walking Boots Essential to the fitting, a great pair of hiking socks is an absolute must. Cleaning Your Walking Boots Following their inaugural hike, walking boots will hopefully be nice and muddy.

Season Ratings A system based on how many and which seasons walking boots are built for is used for classifying them into categories, ranging from one-season boots to four-season boots. Rating Description Best Suited For Not Suitable For 1 season Lightweight with flexible soles, one-season boots have mobility at the forefront of their designs.

This means that protection is compromised as flexibility of movement is prioritised. General everyday use and flat, easy trails in summer. Use in cold or wet weather as waterproof protection is limited. Multi-day walks or hikes carrying anything larger than a daypack. Dangerous to use on rugged terrain, where foot protection and ankle support are crucial. Spring and especially the British summer, when the terrain is firm, low-level and not particularly steep.

Mild and wet conditions brought on by the typical British summer drizzle. Weight is important in footwear - you'll notice a few extra grams in your walking boots far more than in a rucksack. The right weight is a compromise between the insulation and features you need without adding anything additional, and is one reason why you may want a lighter pair for longer, easy walks and a heaver pair for more challenging routes.

The boots should adjust to your feet, not the other way round. With harder leather boots getting them a bit damp will make them more flexible, so a short walk in wet grass is effective. Wear them for a short distance them let them dry naturally and they will have moulded themselves to your feet more.

Don't make the mistake of buying brand new boots the day before a multi-day walking trip, or your likely to find your enjoyment spoiled by uncomfortable fit or blisters. This is important because the best way to test boots for comfort is by wearing them over a period of time, not just in the shop. There's likely to be a few small niggly feelings of discomfort at first, but this is usually due to the boots getting used to your feet, or that your feet are not used to wearing boots.

The stiff sole allows you to stand and balance on small edges with safety and confidence, whilst the ankle support holds everything in place, stabilising the foot and lower leg. Of course many walks include lots of different types of terrain. But when you are in the shop really give the boots a good flex, ask advice and try on lots of styles. That way you can get a sense for the differences in flexibility and which one works best for you.

As well as identifying the type of walking you are likely to be doing, the other vital thing is to get your feet accurately measured. This is not just about the length, but is also the overall shape, taking into account things like the width of your heel, the height of your arches, or the flexibility of your toes, to name just a few.

Only when you know all of these things can you combine them to make an accurate judgement about what size you need. If you have a pair of boots at home which you suspect may not be quite right, then you can find out more by following this handy boot fitting guide. The importance of correctly fitted footwear cannot be stressed enough. Modern walking boots largely fall into two categories: leather and synthetic.

But which one is best for you? As always, the first thing to prioritise is the fit, which means that as long as it is strong enough for the intended terrain, the only boot to choose is the one that fits correctly.

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