Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities nowadays. It is a very enjoyable outdoor activity since you can interact with nature, enjoy the beautiful scenery, breathe in clean air, and you get some much-needed exercise.
Of course, you have to be outfitted properly to go hiking. One of the most important is a pair of durable and comfortable hiking boots. There are a number of dangers that you can encounter during a hike, such as an ankle or foot injury. Because of this, having a pair of hiking boots with good arch support and ankle bracing is vital.
Various Ankle and Foot Injuries Encountered During Hiking
Achilles Tendinitis (Achilles Pain)
This injury usually happens to inexperienced hikers. Achilles tendinitis is quite hard to treat since it requires prolonged rehabilitation. The usual symptoms of this injury are the following:
- Heel pain going up to the calf
- Stiffness
- Increased swelling
Plantar Fasciitis
This type of injury usually lasts a long time. It is y an inflammation of the connective tissues found between the toes and the heel. The pain is usually felt at the side of the heel.
Ankle Sprain
This is the most common injuries usually encountered by many hikers. The usual symptoms are swelling and tenderness, accompanied by pain.
Characteristics of a Good Hiking Boot
A good pair of hiking boots can help prevent the above-mentioned injuries. Hiking boots really provide you with a maximum level of protection. This type of footwear provides stability and the needed ankle support during a hike. Not only that, but it also keeps your feet dry and warm.
Durable Stiff Cuffs
Hiking boots with stiff cuff offers more stability and ankle support.
Does Not Twist Easily
A good pair of hiking boots should not be twistable. Firm hiking boots provide hikers more protection and stability during a hike.
Thick Rubber Soles
This helps protect your feet from sharp objects, rocks, and rough terrain. It also provides better traction.
Protective Toe Bumpers
When hiking, you can easily bang your foot and get injured. With protective toe bumpers, it can be prevented.
Wider Soles
Hiking boots with wider soles offer the foot with support.
Different Types of Hiking Boots
Trail or Hiking Shoes
A lot of beginners opt for these hiking books due to their comfort. They are lightweight boots, almost similar to your running shoes. This type of hiking footwear is usually made for short-distance trails that are not made up of rugged or challenging terrains. However, this type of hiking footwear does not provide the needed ankle support during a hike. In addition, they are not water-resistant.
Day Hiking Boots
This is a more durable and proper hiking boot, that any regular hiker should opt for. When you carry heavier backpacks and have longer trails to cover, you should invest in day hiking boots.
They are waterproof and can provide the needed ankle support during a hike. They have durable soles and provide great traction. But do keep in mind, they are a bit heavy, and before you can use them on a long hike, you will need to break them in to make them more comfortable. They are usually made of a mix of fabric and leather.
Backpacking Boots
This type of hiking boot is known for its size. It also provides the same traction as that of a pair of day hiking boots. If you will be carrying a backpack that is quite heavy, 50 pounds or more, then opt for this monster of a boot.
They provide better ankle support and are super durable. They have bigger soles compared to the other two hiking boots and provide better insulation. They weigh around 5 to 6 pounds a pair, and are quite heavy. A word of advice — make sure to provide proper treatment for your backpacking boots since they are made of genuine leather.
Final Thoughts
When you go hiking, be sure to invest in proper hiking boots with good arch support. You would not want to get injured during a hike, especially if you are hiking alone.
Most hiking trails provide a lot of challenges and dangers. You can never really know what might happen while you are on the trail. With the proper hiking boots and gear, you can avoid accidents and help ensure your safety. This will also help you enjoy your hiking adventure more. So get your gear ready and enjoy the best hiking adventure ever.