How to choose the right hiking boots?

Your Needs and Your Hiking Level

Two very important things to consider when purchasing your hiking boot is your needs and experience level. For example, a different type of terrain like trail, rough trail, off trail, mountaineering, technical-scrambling will change your boot needs. In addition, the weight you need to carry in your backpack will also impact your choice.

In terms of choice, the support and material of the boot are very important. In terms of support, we can look at the underfoot midsole and the cut around the ankle. For example, a boot with a tougher midsole and a higher cut give better support for rocky and more adventurous terrain.  However, the boot will be heavier and a little less breathable. 

As for the material, line boots are water-resistant and breathable and are designed to stay cool in warmer temperatures. If you look for boots that are softer and lighter, they will be more comfortable and easier to fit. They will also be lighter and less tiring if you go on long tracks. Finally, if you are carrying a heavier backpack, stiffer boots will give you more support and last longer. 

Know Your Foot

Another important point to consider when buying a pair of boots for hiking is to know your foot well. Indeed, it is necessary to know the length of your foot in addition to thinking of leaving the space of one inch between the tip of the toes and the tip of the boot. Also, if you wear orthotics, this will impact the fit of your boot. The vast majority of Grisport shoes and boots can accommodate orthotics. 

Also, fit is the most important aspect when buying a new pair of boots, your heels should not lift when you walk. Also, a good fit will help you avoid blisters, especially for longer trails. Finally, when buying hiking boots, keep in mind the size you are used to wear and follow the tips above.

The Material

When it comes to the choice of material, we still have to meet your needs. For example, a synthetic material will dry faster but will be less water-resistant. 

Another example is full-grain leather. It is very durable and made for vigorous hikers but not very breathable and very heavy which can be tiring in the long run. A split-grain leather is a hybrid between leather and synthetics. Therefore, it is breathable but less resistant to water. 

On the other hand, Nubuck leather is just like full-grain leather but buffed to resemble suede. Very durable and resistant to water. It is fairly flexible but takes time to break into the boots. 

Finally, waterproof membranes are good to keep your feet dry in wet conditions but it reduces breathability. 

Therefore, it is important again to know what you are looking for and match your needs,  level and type of hiking.

The Height

As far as the height of the boot is concerned, this will have an impact on the support. For example, a low-cut boot will be more similar to a shoe in terms of being light and casual. However, it leaves you more open to ankle injuries. This type of boot is often worn on well-maintained trails. 

If you look at a mid-cut boot, it provides better ankle support and balance and better buffer from debris on the trails.  

Finally, a high-cut boot will provide optimal balance and support for the ankle.  This is ideal for adventurous hikers going on and off the trails and potentially dangerous terrain.

Try Them

One way to be certain of the fit is to try them before going on the trails. It would be best to do it at the end of the day because this is when your feet will be at their largest. You should also try them with your trail socks. Finally, after buying them, start with a smaller hiking day to break into it. 

Grisport Technology

Grisport is there to meet all your needs. With their premium quality leather, the material is not only more water-resistant but is also more breathable. The support system gives you perfect control and optimal adherence for every movement. 

Finally, the technology behind the Vibram soles has been designed for maximum performance, comfort and durability. Learn more about the shaped and fit and their technology on the Grisport website.