The right shoes are the most important attribute of any person. It is especially important to choose good shoes before going on a hike or long walk over bumpy terrain. That is why there is such a type of shoes as trekking shoes.
Trekking boots: what are they?
Trekking boots are hiking shoes that help you navigate hiking routes safely. In some cases, it can protect the legs from injury, and even save lives when climbing mountain slopes.
Tourists usually prefer boots that protect the ankle from possible damage and sprains. These are distinguished by an increased level of protection in extreme conditions and a more robust structure. The special sole that is used in their production was developed more than 80 years ago by climber V. Bramani.
Trekking boots are hiking shoes that come in a variety of styles.They can be heavy or light, depending on what kind of hike you plan to wear them on.
As a standard, trekking shoes should be lightweight, have a high level of strength and wear resistance. A high-quality sole should comply with the rule of being wide and grooved with an excellent shock-absorbing layer that reduces the load on the foot. Boots must provide good support for your feet. To increase the level of security, a molded rubber or leather lining around the perimeter is often used. This finishing method helps to avoid injuries if you suddenly hit your foot on a stone, and will also allow the boots to last for a longer period.
Purpose and features
First of all, the distinguishing feature of these shoes is their resistance to certain loads and conditions of a hiking trip. For example, for areas with high levels of humidity, boots are made using special membrane linings. For the warm season, mesh linings are used, and for cold winters, additional insulation is used.
For light mountain hikes, the best option is one that is not too high, even without a membrane, but it is important to pay attention to their protection from damage.
Similarly, one of the options for lightweight trekking boots can be sneakers. They are designed for light hiking, and the special sole provides excellent traction and prevents slipping while climbing.
Varieties
Like any shoes, trekking shoes have a certain classification. Recently, lightweight shoes have become more popular among experienced tourists. However, before purchasing it is still worth familiarizing yourself with the differences:
- Lightweight boots are very restrained in design and are usually below average in height. These are well suited for passing not too difficult routes.
- Medium-weight boots are characterized by rigidity, which means increased sole reinforcement and height. These are perfect for hiking for several days.
- Heavyweights offer excellent ankle support, excellent cushioning, and a high level of moisture resistance.
Attention! The type of footwear is determined depending on the type of hiking that is planned.
Additionally, there is a distinction between women's and men's trekking shoes: the difference is generally based on the width of the heel, foot and ankle height.
What to wear with
Since hiking boots qualify as footwear for active tourism, they should be worn with comfortable clothes in which you plan to go hiking. However, recently trekking shoes have been gaining popularity in people’s everyday lives, as they have a high level of comfort. Therefore, they can often be found within the city.
For trekking walks, it is best to choose durable shoes with professional and comfortable clothing, and for everyday use, it is preferable to opt for a more stylish option.
Demi-season boots go well with jeans and shorts, and are great for combining with a fashionable leather jacket or down jacket. In addition, they look great in tandem with a parka.
For hikes of medium difficulty, it is perfect for skiing suits. Firstly, they are very warm, and secondly, stylish design solutions for such clothes allow them to be used comfortably within city life.
What to look for when choosing
In order to purchase high-quality trekking shoes, you need to remember important rules that contribute to the right choice:
- It's better to choose boots that are a little larger than smaller.
- It is better to try on a thin wool sock.
- It is important to walk in your new shoes to feel if your heel lifts off the sole as you walk.
Likewise, it is important to pay attention to the following details:
- The tongue should be flush with the top of the shoe. This will allow you to cross small streams without getting wet.
- It is best when the laces are threaded through special loops.
- High quality protector.
- There should be soft padding at ankle level.
- The toe and back of the boot must be reinforced.
By following these rules, you can easily choose high-quality boots. In addition, you can absolutely always seek advice from a specialist if any difficulties or controversial issues arise.
Size
One of the most important parameters for hiking boots is their size. It is important that they fit as tightly as possible along the foot, but the toes must be free. It is better to try on shoes when your feet are “swollen” at the end of the day and with the socks that you plan to wear.
Important! Trying on hiking shoes is a must!
Experienced tourists recommend taking trekking shoes 1 size larger, or 2 sizes larger when choosing winter boots. This will allow you to wear a warmer sock underneath.
However, The suitability of shoes to the characteristics of the feet should also be taken into account: length, width, rise. It is not recommended to purchase shoes if at least something causes discomfort when trying them on.
Material
Good boots for trekking usually made of leather or nubuck, Sometimes in combination with textiles - This allows for increased breathability.
A lot depends on the material: the weight and durability of the boot, its moisture resistance. Shoes for mountaineering and difficult routes are usually made from thick-grain leather, while lighter boots with a high level of air penetration are made from split leather. Shoes made of nubuck can be an excellent option - they have a high level of strength, flexibility and do not float.
Thus, choosing good trekking boots is an interesting process that will allow you to purchase an excellent item both for hiking and for everyday life in the metropolis.
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