Which Hiking Boot Style Suits You?
Which Hiking Boot Style Suits You?
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When preparing for a hiking trip, selecting footwear will be one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make in preparation for your big adventure. This is an area where testing and experience go a long way… which is why we are putting you to the ultimate test to find out what type of shoe are you!
The following questions have been created in relation to the different shoe types listed below. All you have to do is answer these short few questions and add up your score to discover the shoe in you.
Questions:
What length of walk do you prefer?
-Easy and Short (1 point)
-Easy and Moderate (2 points)
-Moderate to Challenging (3 points)
What types of terrain do you prefer to walk on?
-Clear and well maintained trail (1 point)
-Sandy (2 points)
-Various terrain, rocky and steep (3 points)
Do you like a challenge?
-Nope 🙂 (1 point)
-Sometimes (2 points)
-I love a challenge! (3 points)
What pace do you consider your walking style?
-Laid back, likes to take it slow and easy (1 point)
-Moderate but has to stop frequently to take photos (2 points)
-Fast paced (3 points)
Score: 4-6
You have walked your way into the “trail shoe” personality. This means you are someone that has a flexible and comfortable lifestyle that prefers to take things one step at a time. You enjoy an adventure that is simple yet rewarding, especially one where you can immerse yourself into nature. You are open minded and not afraid to ask for help when needed. You know how to get on with life and make the most of it.
Trail shoes
Trail shoes are a great choice of footwear for those that prefer a cheaper alternative for walking shoes. They offer light and flexible comfort while walking. Trail shoes generally have stiffer soles, more stability and a great level of traction compared to regular sneakers or running shoes. It is not preferred to use trail shoes on slippery or rocky terrain as people find them too unstable, offering limited ankle support. Instead this shoe selection are reasonable for short walks on easy terrain. No one likes discomfort in their feet, so a great tip is to wear a pair of low cut ankle gaiters to avoid any trail detritus getting in your shoes!
Score: 7-9
You are a high cut hiking boot. This means that you are someone that is always ready to take on life three steps at a time. You tend to have a busy lifestyle but always manage to find time for yourself. You have a warm and approachable personality. People always enjoy being around you as you offer a sense of happiness.
High Cut Hiking Boots
High cut hiking boots are the ideal type of hiking boot for rocky terrain. This is due to their durable sole that offers maximum grip, keeping you firmly planted on the path. The upper design and construction provides instant comfort and more ankle support while walking. As stated on one of our previous blogs about “how to choose hiking boots”, “High cut boots won’t necessarily prevent slips and trips but they will certainly mitigate the effects”. These high cut boots also ensures any wet residue stays out, keeping your feet warm and dry. Keep in mind that high cut hiking boots are generally a more expensive option of footwear.
Score: 10-12
That’s right! You are a “leather hiking boot!”. You are a person that enjoys a challenge. People respect you as you are honest and trusting. You have a fast paced lifestyle at time as you like to keep busy. You are a forward thinking that portrays leadership values in many areas of your life. You pride yourself in your accomplishments and the people you surround yourself with.
Leather Hiking Boots
Leather hiking boots are a great choice of hiking footwear as they offer many benefits. They are regarded as one of the finest material for quality walking boots. One of the most obvious benefits is they offer waterproof protection and comfort for a huge range of activities and conditions. As mentioned on our “how to choose hiking boots”, Unless you live in the tropics where the walking season is the dry, you are going to want some level of waterproofing for your boots. This is why leather boots are great as they are a natural, porous material. Value is money, which is why these are a more expensive option.
Although, leather boots require care and protection to maintain its performance. Simple tips such as cleaning your boots after a trip can always go a long way. Using warm water and a semi-stiff brush is a common method to maintaining your boots appropriately. Always avoid using detergents as this can effectively damage them. Another tip is to dry your boots carefully. This involves placing your boots somewhere they can dry naturally. Avoid placing to direct heat such as a fire because this can lead the upper to crack.
