Women's Hiking Boots: Too Big to Handle?

"If you're heading off the beaten path,
don't leave home without them!"

Women's hiking boots have tended to be the footwear of choice for backpackers on long-term trips. I certainly have a pair and many of my fellow travelers do too.

Though some women may prefer lower-cut hiking shoes, hiking boots are still by far the most common.

They're not the easiest thing to buy, though. Get this wrong and you're stuck with sore feet possibly for months.

I'm not an expert in foot gear but I do know what backpacking feet need - there are certain things you should look for at the very least:

• women's hiking boots should be as light as possible, not only because heavy boots will tire you, but also because you'll have to carry them on your back whenever you switch to hiking sandals
• your boots have to breathe if you want to avoid sweaty feet
• and they have to be waterproof, especially if you plan to walk through mud and water (even if you don't plan to - they'll find you!) - remember, wet boots cause blisters
• if your boots aren't waterproof or waterproof-able with silicone spray, you can buy GoreTex insets that will repel water - I still think a waterproof boot is best, though
• they should dry quickly - just beware that if they get soaked (if water spills in over the top, for example) they make take days to dry completely
• the treads of the sole have to grip properly
• they should be easy to lace up - it's frustrating to spend ten minutes lacing up each time you take them off
• not indispensable but helpful is a little loop above the heel to help pull the boot on
• your heels should not slip up and down - that's a sure reciple for blisters
• you should have good ankle support but sides shouldn't be too stiff - you'll have to find a compromise between protection and comfort
• the sole should be thick and stiff - certainly you shouldn't feel stones or pebbles through your soles
• and finally - need I say it? - they must be comfortable, and of course they will be since you will have already broken them in!

I'm not joking - don't even think of taking new boots on your backpacking trip. You should break them in at home, over weeks or even months, and preferably while carrying a backpack weighing the same as the one you'll be taking with your. Try walking around town first - just sitting at home with your boots on won't help break them in. This step is especially important if your boots are made of leather.

These characteristics to look for are just to get you started. Each manufacturer of women's hiking boots maker has its own specialty - GoreTex or leather, special insoles and pads, mesh inserts... but remember, no two pairs of feet are alike, so my best boot won't be yours. Whatever your friends say, you'll have to find the best boot for you.

Be careful where you buy, too. Go to a reputable outdoor shop, where you'll get professional advice and the best selection. A professional will be able to help you determine whether a boot is too tight, or just snug enough. A standard shoe shop often has 'amateur boots' - they look like the real thing but are just glorified walking shoes.

Still hesitating between boots and hiking shoes?

Much of your decision will be about the terrain. If you plan to walk uphill a lot or through rocky or scraggy terrain, get the boots. You'll be grateful for the extra ankle support.

If you plan to do most of your walking on flatlands, in forests or in towns, then hiking shoes should do the trick - but the same thing goes here: get the best you can afford!

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