Gear Advice: Hiking Boots
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There are a number of things to look for in a hiking boot, and one that fits well is very much worth the price.
- There should be about a finger width of space between each toe and the end of the boot.
- Leather versus Gore-Tex® is a personal preference. Both work well.
- Make sure they go above the ankle.
A poor boot can make you want to give up hiking. Many parents send their kids out with ill fitting boots, and this is a mistake. Yea, kid’s feet grow fast, but if you get creative, you can take care of your kids, and the budget. If you are not able to buy new boots, try organizing a boot swap. You are not alone with this problem. That could be a good troop event.
If you go with used boots, consider the following:
- Make sure the tread is not too worn
- Make sure there are no holes in the boot
- Replace the laces
- Replace the insert
- Re-waterproof the boot using leather or Gore-Tex® waterproofing as appropriate.
Bill’s Choice
I currently run Asolo Fusion 85 GTX boots, and have been very happy with them.