Essential opinion to buying boots! (Hiking/Walking Equipment in general)

Member Name: ayres123

Product:	Hiking/Walking Equipment in general
Date:	22/03/01 (461 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A comfortable pair

Disadvantages: BLISTERS

If your boots are not comfortable,you are going to have a miserable day.Fortunately,the number and variety of boots on the market means that you should be able to find a comfortable pair.
Some advice:
*Decide whether you are looking for a light summer boot,a winter boot or an all rounder?As a a general principle,go for the lightest pair that will do the job.Walking in heavier boots than are required involves a lot of extra work,but may provide more protection and greater foot and ankle support.
*Take time and shop around.A good retailer will be able to offer plenty of advice on which to base your choice
*Try the boots on with your own socks.Specialist walking socks have design features thataffect the fit of your boots,so bear in mind when selecting boot sizes.A good fit will give youroom around the toes whilst holding the heel so that it doesn't lift to much.
*Some boots,particulary fabric ones,are avaliable with waterproof,breahtable linings.Considering the generally damp british weather,such a lining could be a wothwhile investment.
*Many shops will let you take the boots home for a few days indoor trial and then let you return them if they're not quite right.
*Ankle support comes from having a good firm sole-construction with heel cups to hold the ankle in place.Boots without a cupping heel are not going to give as good support.
*Sole construction can vary from rugged but soft-soled,to intensive and rigid.These perform differently in different conditions.Expected use and personal preferance will determine which you buy.For example,a soft sole bends to conform to the shape of the surface while rigid sole gains grip by locking onto small edges and so on.

Having bought the boots go for a few short walks before embarking on the 'big one'.This will soften up the boots and make you aware of any rub points and the best socks to fit.The stiffer and heavier the boot,the more breaking in will b
e required.If you do feel the boots rubbing uncomfortably on your foot,stop and aplly tape or a plaster;this will prevent misery and blisters later.Check the manufacturers instructions for advice on care.At the end of the day your boots will be damp;allow them to dry slowly and don't be tempted to put them too close to a fire.

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