What To Look For
The best hiking boots should have a durable sole with a slight amount of flexibility and thick treads to help keep your footing in many different conditions. They also will have an interior lining, preferably out of a synthetic material, to keep your feet warm and dry. The upper/top of the shoe should be waterproof, with a certain amount of flexibility to allow for your foot's natural movement. The boots will be slightly heavier than normal walking shoes but still lightweight enough not to inhibit movement. Trusted brands include Multiterra, Tecnica and Merrell.
Common Pitfalls
Expect to spend some time breaking in your new boots before they perfectly fit your hiking needs. It will take some time to adjust to your new hiking boots. Shoes like the Tecnica Prima Mid have less break-in time than average; however, you will still need some time to get used to their feel, and should walk around in the boots during your normal daily activities before going hiking.
Although many top of the line hiking boots are also high-quality, more expensive boots don't necessarily mean better boots. You should carefully check the construction, materials and fit of the boot before selecting the right pair.
Where To Buy
Since fit is so important when choosing a hiking boot, you should buy your first pair of hiking boots in person at a local outdoor store or chain store, like REI. While you may pay slightly more than you would online, the expertise of the salespeople and the chance to personally examine the boots is a huge advantage for shoppers. After you have purchased and broken in your new boots, look at the manufacturer's website when you are interested in ordering a second pair; you may pay slightly less than you did in a store.
Cost
Expect to pay between $75 and $200 for a pair of hiking boots. While many good boots cost in the upper end of this range, you also can find quality boots for around $100. Boots from quality manufacturers like Merrell start at around $90. You can find hiking boots cheaper at discount chain stores like Wal-Mart, but these boots typically will not provide the proper support or good construction.
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