Choosing Women's Hiking Boots In 5 Easy Steps

                                                                                         

Are your hiking boots delivering blisters and sore ankles instead of providing comfort and support? Choosing women's hiking boots that will not leave you aching can be achieved in 5 easy steps.

1. Choose A Weight

Women's hiking boots come in heavy weight, medium weight, or light weight. Heavy weight boots are aptly named, since they tend to be heavy and rigid. Because they are rigid they offer more support, but this can also mean more blisters. Women's hiking boots that are classified as heavy are often chosen for going off-trail or taking longer trips.

The next class of boots are considered medium weight, and provide less support than the heavy weight, but offer more flexibility. These are often chosen when taking short hikes with a heavy pack or longer hikes with a lighter pack.

The last classification in women's hiking boots is light weight. When going on a short hike with a light pack, this may be the best option. Although the above guidelines are often accurate, some people like to use heavy weight boots for short trips, while others prefer light weight boots even on longer trips or with heavy packs. In the end you need to make a personal choice based on how much ankle support you need combined with the level of comfort.

2. Make A Choice: Leather or Man-Made?

Women's hiking boots are constructed in two main ways, with some being made from leather, while others are made from man-made material. When considering which material to choose, keep in mind that man-made ones offer a great variance of breathability and water resistance, while leather can stretch and support well. Depending on personal preference, either choice can be a good one.

3. Go In The Afternoon To Test Them Out

Shopping for women's hiking boots is best done in the afternoon when your feet swell the most. This mimics trail conditions since feet swell on a trail due to different terrain and load levels. In addition to going in the afternoon, bring along the socks that you will be wearing while hiking. This will ensure that you do not buy a pair of boots that are too tight.

4. Try On Several Pairs

Since each company and different style fit differently, it is important to test out many without settling for the first ones you try on. Trying out many styles and brands, and going up or down sizes, can be valuable in finding a comfortable pair. If any of the boots do not feel right for any reason at all, go with your instincts and do not purchase them. You can afford to be picky, with all of the options available.

5. Wear Them For Awhile Before Hitting The Trail

Wear the boots for a day or two during your normal daily routines This prevents being stuck wearing them on a hike if they are not broken in, or if they cause problems. If you wear them beforehand you can return or exchange them for another pair that is a better fit.

Women's hiking boots can be comfortable and offer good support for hiking. Following the above steps will help you to find the perfect pair for your feet, and will make hiking more rewarding and enjoyable.

About the author:
Sarah Holt writes for The Ultralight Backpacking Site. To get the ebook "Ultralight Backpacking Secrets (And Wilderness Survival Tips)" for FREE, as well as photos, gear recommendations, and a new wilderness survival section, visit: http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com


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