February 5th, 2008
What you should look for in a good pair of discount hiking boots
Water resistance: Moisture is a hiker’s biggest enemy and can quickly lead to blisters and fungal infections, so you need to look for a pair of boots which are made from a breathable material which lets moisture out but does not let water in.
Weight: Light boots are much easier to walk in than heavy boots and many people say that one pound of weight in your boots is equivalent to extra pound five pounds in your backpack.
Front to back rigidity: Look for boots which will not flex too much when you place weight on your toe or heel but which have enough ‘front to back’ flexibility to support the natural spring in your arches.
Side to side rigidity: Look for higher boots with good ankle supports which will give you ’side to side’ support and prevent your feet and ankles from twisting when you are walking over rough surfaces.
Arch support: Look for a good pair of discount hiking boots which give sound arch support (often provided by a curved shank which is inserted between the mid-sole and insole) so that your feet are not flattened under heavy pressure.