If you are the outdoorsy type, then you likely own the right gear for your preferred activity. For hikers, good quality hiking shoes and boots are essential. They need to be able to take you across all types of terrain without falling apart or failing in the weather. Remember, the intensity of your adventure doesn’t affect your need for the right footwear, and neither does your experience level. Whether you are searching for that perfect pair of water resistant shoes in Rochester Hills for weekend day hikes or need a new pair of hiking boots to take on rugged trails, it’s important to wear the proper footwear.
Here are the top four things to look for in hiking shoes and boots:
- Good ankle and midsole support: Since hiking will have you on your feet for hours at a time, you want to invest in a quality pair of hiking boots that provides both ankle and midsole support. A boot or shoe specifically for hiking keeps your ankles from rolling when walking on unstable or uneven terrain. A mid-rise boot can protect ankles from rolling, as well as reduce ankle stress and strain while hiking on rough surfaces. Good midsole support reduces the possibility of foot issues like muscle cramps and heel pain, and whether you’re carrying a pack or not, you want a pair with sturdy midsoles and rigid bottoms for maximum arch support.
- Sufficient traction: The best quality hiking boots for both men and women will offer adequate traction, which is especially important if you enjoy hiking up and down steep terrain or adventuring off the path. When looking for hiking footwear with traction, know that they could be labeled as “non-slip boots.” Non-slip action is grippy, and therefore great for hikers who plan on encountering slippery river rocks, slick muddy paths or icy trails.
- Water resistant: Even if you don’t plan to hike in a wet area on your next trip out, you never know when the weather will change on you. It’s for this reason and others that you should get water resistant shoes in Rochester Hills specifically for hiking. These types of boots are made with a water resistant lining that keeps feet dry and comfortable, as they prevent boots from becoming waterlogged. However, much water resistant hiking footwear also has less breathability due to the lining blocking out air. Your feet stay dry, but warm up easily on hot days. If you prefer breathable, lightweight, water resistant boots, ask your local shoe retailer for recommendations.
- Overall comfort: The key to a fun hike is making it there and back with minimal discomfort. Wearing the right footwear with proper cushioning, ankle and midsole support and traction ensures less foot pain, which in turn reduces leg and back pain and helps you truly enjoy yourself.
For hiking shoes and boots that offer comfort, support and protection, look no further than Haig Shoes. We have outdoorsy shoes and much more! Need a pair to get you through wet conditions? Ask us about our inventory of water resistant shoes in Rochester Hills! Let us know how we can help you.