by Donnie Zamora
Those who love the outdoors inevitably end up going on a hike now and again. This is something that is very good for the body, and also very good for the soul. It can also be hard on the body, especially if you aren’t used to the activity level and if you aren’t wearing the right kind of shoes. When you are going for a long hike, or even a long walk, you have to have the right kind of hiking shoes or your feet will never forgive you. This could make the difference between a pleasant hike and never wanting to go again.
You know, I have a method all my own. If you’ll notice, the coat came first, then the tie, then the shirt. Now, according to Hoyle, after that the pants should be next. There’s where I’m different. I go for the shoes next. First the right, then the left. After that, it’s every man for himself.
—Robert Riskin (1897–1955)
If you skip the hiking shoes and wear sneakers, you might be okay for a while. Once you have gone more than a few miles however, your feet are going to be hurting. Not only that, you may find that your ankles hurt too, or even worse, you may easily twist an ankle if you step the wrong way. Hiking is usually done on uneven ground, and unlike sneakers, hiking shoes are made to help keep your feet as comfortable and as stable as they can be under those circumstances.
When buying hiking shoes, there are many places to go and many brands from which to choose. Some cost more than others, and the cost might represent how well they will cushion and protect your feet. You have to find the right hiking shoes for your feet, which means you have to have the right fit. If you are certain of your size, you can order them online. Make sure you choose a site that offers returns if it turns out they just don’t fit as they need to.
Let us stun and astonish the intruding rabble of men and books and institutions by a simple declaration of the divine fact. Bid the invaders take the shoes from off their feet, for God is here within.
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
If you want the right pair of hiking shoes, you have a few considerations. First, you want something that fits. You also want something that goes higher than a sneaker to protect your ankles. They won’t be perfect, but they do help. You should make sure you figure out your size late in the day when your feet are at their biggest size. Also, walk around in them before you decide they are right, even if you must take several laps around the inside of the store. If they feel right and don’t seem to rub anywhere in an odd manner, you may just have found the right hiking shoes for your feet. Don’t forget the extras such as waterproofing and secure laces. You’ll be glad you got both.