A good pair of walking shoes will last 2-10 years, so make sure you buy the right pair. I would buy them exclusively at REI for several reasons. One, they have quality equipment. Two, the current policy is that you can wear the shoes several times, then return them if they do not fit right. No other store, to my knowledge, allows returns after you wear the shoes. And the only way to test a pair is to wear them several times.
Here's what to look for in a boot.
1- Make sure they are big enough, not snug. You need a good .5 inch past your big toe, because your feet expand as you walk.
2- Make sure the shoes fit comfortably the first time you put them on. Contrary to what some folks say, you do not break-in modern shoes.
3- Make sure the shoes are low-cut light weight. No reason for high cut boots unless you are climbing rocky mountains or doing construction work. High cut boots only protect your ankles from bruises, not from sprains or breaks. To prevent sprains and breaks you must tape your ankles.
4- Do you need waterproof boots? I have several waterproof and non-water proof boots. Usually makes little difference for our hikes. Just bring an extra pair of socks or two for wet situations. Smart to have an extra pair of shoes and clothing in your car in case you need to get into dry clothes.
5- You do not need a pair of high cut shoes for snow. Gaiters work better anyway. Gaiters cover the top part of the shoe keeping snow out and go up the leg for 8-12 inches, fitting snugly on the calf. I highly recommend Rocky Mountain Low Gaiters by Outdoor Research for several reasons. One, they are inexpensive and they work. No need for an expensive pair or a pair that goes 16 inches up the leg.
| Page title | Most recent update | Last edited by |
|---|---|---|
| Follow, Do Not Lead | January 15, 2012 10:02 PM | Sidney G |
| No-Show Policy | January 12, 2012 8:48 PM | Sidney G |
| Receive Zero Emails | January 30, 2012 10:44 AM | Sidney G |
| On The Trail Guidelines | December 20, 2011 1:08 PM | Sidney G |
| Is This Hike For You | August 10, 2011 4:31 PM | Sidney G |
| Plan An Extra Hour | May 17, 2011 4:48 PM | Sidney G |
| Ticks and Lyme Disease | August 11, 2011 11:56 AM | Sidney G |
| Background Photo Credits | May 28, 2011 2:01 AM | Bev E |
| Important Information About Each Hike | January 15, 2012 10:11 PM | Sidney G |
| RSVPing and Maybe Option | January 12, 2012 8:49 PM | Sidney G |
| Uploading Movies | December 20, 2011 12:50 PM | Sidney G |
| Winter Hiking | October 30, 2010 2:51 PM | Sidney G |