So, you want to explore the great outdoors! At My Shoe Outfitters we want to do our part in making it possible for you to get out and enjoy all your adventures, whether you are close to home or on the road. But before you launch out on a hike, you need the right gear for the occasion. Choosing the right hiking boots or shoes requires just a little understanding about some of the options that are available.

The first thing you need to consider is the length of your hike. If you are only taking day hikes (that is, any hike where you will not camp overnight), then you may not need the most stiff or expensive hiking boots. Many day hikers or slack packers prefer a lightweight, breathable, non-waterproof boot or shoe, especially in the hotter summer months for speed and agility. Some hikers may even hike in a sneaker, but this is not recommended if the trail is very rocky. Additionally, low hiking shoes can leave your feet more vulnerable to dirt from the outside.

Those on longer hikes (two nights or more) will probably need more of a substantial boot, to protect your feet from rough trails. Most backpacking or mountaineering boots will have a durable Vibram sole. You also may want to consider a boot with a waterproof breathable membrane, such as Gore-Tex or eVent. Some brands have their own waterproofing systems (such as Keen Dry or Merrell Waterproof). Gore-Tex is one of the best-known brands for making a boot waterproof, yet breathable. They generally guarantee a boot will be waterproof for one year from the date of purchase (although this doesn't cover abuse, only normal wear and tear).

If a hiker's feet get wet, this can not only be uncomfortable, but painful. Gore-Tex makes a membrane that is manufactured inside of the boot, and it keeps water from the outside from coming in, but wicks moisture from inside the boot to the outside so it can evaporate. Wet feet can lead to abrasions and blisters from rubbing against the inside of your boots. If you are on a short hike and in dry conditions, breathability may be more of an issue than keeping your feet dry. If this is the case, then you may want a boot that is well ventilated yet not necessarily waterproof.

An important consideration with more substantial hiking boots is break-in time. Don't take them out for a multiple day hike before breaking them in around town first. You may be okay hiking in a new boot for a few hours, but longer durations, combined with the rigors of the trail, can result in blistering and down time and believe us, it isn't comfortable.

Getting the most for your money means that durability is a factor. The Vibram brand didn't just create FiveFingers barefoot performance footwear, they have been around since 1936 building soles and eventually providing durable soles for brands such as Merrell, Vasque, Timberland, Lowa, New Balance and more. Their branding is clearly printed with their yellow logo on any sole they have created. They have a reputation of being the longest lasting, most comfortable, and shock absorbing of any outsole on the market.

Comfort is one of the most important factors in your choice. It doesn't matter what components a boot has, how much it costs, or what size you seem to be, if the boot isn't comfortable the first time you wear it, don't buy it! This is why there are so many footwear companies, building different types of hiking boots, because not everyone's foot is the same. Fit can be complex, and involves more than just the length of your foot. Even sizing can vary between companies. Your toes should be able to move freely inside the boots, if they are constrained at all, you need a bigger size. Regarding width, your feet should not be cramped, but snug and not sloppy. The arch in the boot should match the arch in your foot or you will be very uncomfortable!

The Keen brand of footwear tends to fit people with wider feet better, so if you have a wide foot, try on a pair of Keens. If you have a more narrow foot, you may find that European brands like Lowa or American companies like Timberland or New Balance would fit better. Merrell footwear tends to fit a wide variety of people and is famous for "out of the box comfort".

Finally, it is our recommendation that you also wear a merino wool sock, such as Smartwool or Darn Tough Vermont. There are other brands as well, but wool is important because it doesn't retain water from perspiration, as cotton does, due to its natural wicking potential. Merino wool is comfortable and non itchy. It is a four season insulator from both heat and cold and it provides cushioning from the pounding you encounter on the trails.

As always, if you need help finding a hiking boot or shoe, please write to us and we will be happy to help you figure out what would work best for you!