Hiking, for good reason, is one of the most popular activities in the country. What other activity is so diverse and comes along with such a range of benefits? Just think about it. Hiking can either be strenuous or leisurely. You can go hiking alone or with a large group, and people of all ages can enjoy. Hiking is an excellent way to get some physical activity in and burn some pounds, but you can also slow the pace and just take in nature and all of its beauty.
Another great aspect of hiking is that just about everyone in the country lives near some place where you can go for a hike, yet hiking can also make for great destination travels, like camping in a well-known national park and taking advantage of the trails. There are a few things to consider before hiking, however, and one of the most important is having quality hiking boots in Rochester Hills, MI.
Prepping for the terrain
Before any good hike, there are a few things to think about. Always check the challenge rating of a trail and compare it to what you are capable of. In other words, if you have a tender ankle, don’t go on that extreme hiking trail requiring climbing. Another thing to consider is how long a trail is and what you will need to bring. The longer the trail, the more supplies you might want to consider.
For example, on a short trail, maybe just bring an adequate supply of water, whereas longer ones, you might want to pack a backpack full of supplies. The most important thing to remember though is having the right type of footwear: that means shopping for the right hiking boots in Rochester Hills, MI.
Good footwear provides traction and proper ankle support
Having strong ankle support protects everything from your feet up to your hips, so maybe sure they are comfortable and provide the support necessary to protect your joints. Another consideration is waterproofing. There is an expanded selection of greater waterproofed hiking gear, and especially hiking boots, in Rochester Hills, MI.
Good waterproofing means everything from traction to interior protection. You never know on a hike when you might get stuck in either a flash rainstorm or encounter some particularly wet areas. Nothing is worse than having wet socks during what was supposed to be an enjoyable hike. In fact, without waterproofing you will also have compromised traction. Slipping while hiking can result in some pretty serious injuries and possibly end a vacation early, something easily prevented with the right hiking boots.
Made to illustrate style
Waterproofed hiking books used to be bulky and unattractive. Nowadays they are made with state-of-the-art material and come in all sorts of styles and sizes. From high top designed to stream lined low tops, they come in a variety of colors in all ranges of prices. Especially if you enjoy hiking, you may want to stop at Haig Shoes for a fitting and consider buying a quality new pair of waterproofed hiking boots!