If you're planning to hike on a trail that's going to have to be crossed by water (like Paria Canyon, Zion Narrows or some other river), you'll need footwear that's waterproof.
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Hiking boots are a great option for this. They're typically made with a durable waterproof membrane.
Waterproofing
Hiking boots are usually factory-treated with a durable water repellency treatment (DWR). This coating helps keep your feet dry by beading water off of the boot’s surface. However, DWR does not last forever and will eventually wear off.
When this happens, you’ll want to waterproof your hiking boots to prevent water from soaking into them and getting your feet wet. This process can be a bit complicated because different materials require a different waterproofing product, so it’s important to read and follow the instructions for the specific product you’re using.
First, it’s important to clean your hiking boots thoroughly to prepare them for the waterproofing process. Using a product like Nikwax footwear cleaning gel can help to remove any embedded dirt and get your boots ready for the waterproofing treatment.
Next, rinse your boots to remove any residue from the cleaner and make sure they’re completely clean. This will also help to ensure the waterproofing product will work well on your boots.
If your boots are leather, you’ll want to use a wax-based waterproofing product or cream to protect them from rain and other elements. This type of treatment can be applied to the entire surface of your boots or in a spray.
You may need to warm the wax with a hair dryer to soften it so that it’s easier to apply to your boots. Some sprays will also need to be warmed with a hair dryer before they can be applied.
Lastly, you’ll need to dry your boots before you can apply the waterproofing. Depending on the product you’re using, this may take some time. Once your boots are completely dry, you’ll need to store them in a dry place with low humidity.
Keeping your hiking boots dry is very important, especially for people who spend lots of time outdoors. This can help to ensure that they last longer and prevent them from wearing down quickly. It’s also a great way to ensure that your shoes will be as comfortable as possible when you go hiking.
Breathability
The breathability of hiking boots is an important factor to consider when shopping for outdoor footwear. This is because sweating can cause you to feel uncomfortable when wearing waterproof hiking shoes.
Luckily, many hiking boots today are made with highly breathable materials that allow moisture to escape from your feet when you start to perspire. These fabrics are usually made from mesh, which allows plenty of airflow to your feet.
Breathable hiking shoes are great for summer hikes or other warm, sunny days when you’re planning to stay out longer than a few hours. They keep your feet dry and are also less likely to blister than a non-breathable pair.
Some waterproof hiking shoes may have a waterproof membrane in the uppers that helps to keep water out. These membranes are typically GORE-TEX(r) or eVent(r).
Most waterproof hiking shoes will let some moisture out, especially in hot and humid climates. This will leave you with a sweaty and uncomfortable shoe, but it won’t be nearly as heavy or wet as a non-waterproof boot.
This is because sweat doesn’t get as wet as water does when it vaporizes. It can evaporate into the air, but it still requires some heat to turn into steam that can escape your boot.
It’s important to note that a breathable membrane won’t work in hot and humid environments like tropical climates, tropical storms, or rainforests. There isn’t enough difference in temperature between inside and outside the boot to transmit sweating through a membrane.
However, a waterproof membrane may be able to transmit sweat if the temperature of the boot is higher than the surrounding environment, which is why you should always test out your gear in an outdoor setting.
Breathable hiking shoes are often more expensive than their non-breathable counterparts, but they’re worth the extra investment if you plan to spend any time in the elements. They’ll be more comfortable and will last longer than their waterproof counterparts.
Durability
A durable hiking boot is a necessary part of any outdoor adventure. They’re designed to protect your feet from the pounding of rough terrain, rocks, branches, and snow that you’ll encounter while backpacking.
In addition to durability, they also offer a good balance of comfort and technical performance on your adventures. They are made with a variety of materials that affect their weight, breathability, durability, and water resistance.
Leather: Hiking boots with an upper made from full-grain leather are often the most durable because they’re able to withstand harsh terrain and long hikes. They also offer excellent abrasion resistance and water resistance.
Synthetics: Most lightweight hiking shoes are now made with synthetics, including polyester and nylon, that are lighter than leather and generally more breathable. These types of materials are usually cheaper than leather and break in more quickly and dry more rapidly.
Rubber: A rubber sole is essential for hiking shoes as it offers traction on varying surfaces and helps absorb impacts from sharp rocks, roots, and other objects that can be dangerous. It can also provide cushioning that decreases the shock on your feet and decreases shearing.
Midsoles: The midsoles of modern hiking shoes are typically made with EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or polyurethane (PU), which are materials that absorb impact and provide cushioning. Both of these types are lightweight, but EVA tends to provide better traction than PU.
Lacing: Most modern hiking shoes and boots have locking eyelets to help tighten the shoe to your foot. This reduces slippage on loose terrain and ensures that your shoes stay firmly in place, no matter how far you hike or what type of terrain you’re traversing.
Heel Lock tying: Some hikers use a heel lock to tighten the heel cup on their hiking shoes and boots, which can reduce slippage in the heel. This can help prevent blisters and chafing.
If you’re looking for a pair of hiking boots that’s lightweight, durable, and comfortable on your next trip, look no further than the Altra Lone Peak All-Weather Mid. These shoes feature a grippy outsole that’s suitable for day hiking and trail running, while the roomy fit and padded collar keep your feet supported and comfortable.
Weight
Whether you're planning an extended backcountry trip or just a day-long hike, the weight of your hiking boots is critical to your comfort and safety. A light pair of boots will keep your feet more comfortable and allow you to move faster, while a heavy pair can cause your ankles to swell and can even lead to blisters.
Hiking boots are designed to protect your feet from a variety of elements, from rocks to dirt to snow and more. That's why they typically have a waterproof membrane that helps keep water out of your shoes.
Most waterproof boots will rely on leather, but synthetic materials are also available. These boots are usually more breathable than their leather counterparts, so you can hike in them without sacrificing protection.
Another important feature of a good hiking boot is a secure ankle cuff, which is often made from an elastic or synthetic material that wraps around your ankle, keeping it in place. This can help prevent sprains and strains caused by falling or slipping.
Ankle cuffs also provide support to your foot and ankle, especially when you're carrying a large backpack or load, and are crucial for maintaining proper alignment. If you're not sure what type of cuff is best for your hiking style, consult a podiatrist to find out more.
Some boots have heel brakes, which are helpful if you're climbing up and down steep slopes. They can prevent you from slipping and losing control, which can result in serious injury.
A reinforced toecap can also help protect your toes from sharp rocks or debris. These caps are often made of a specialized rubber material, such as Vibram.
Finally, a grippy sole can help you navigate rocky or wet terrain. Soles are made from a variety of materials, and differ widely between boots. Some are designed for muddy trails, while others are designed for dry, flat trails.
If you're planning a long backcountry trip, make sure you have plenty of time to try on hiking boots and get a feel for their fit. It's important to buy boots that are at least a half size larger than your usual shoe size so you can accommodate any growth.