by Patty Stultz

Created on: June 27, 2008

The most important piece of equipment you will buy for your hiking trip is, in my opinion, is what your put on your feet. It is apparent that if you can't walk because of blisters, fallen arches, injured ankles, knee problems, or that your hiking shoes are just plain falling apart and beyond the duck tape repair - you're going to have a huge problem with your hiking trip. Getting the correct type of foot gear is paramount to the breaking in' phase.

There are a few questions you need to ask yourself in determining what type of hiking shoe you need to wear on your trip.
(1) What is the condition of the trail terrain you will be hiking?
The more uneven and rocky the trail, the heavier soles and deeper sole ridges you will need. You will also need more ankle support to protect from injury.
(2) How heavy a pack will you be carrying and how many miles will you be trekking?
This could be a tricky one. The trend currently is to carry a light load. Your legs will be lifting the load, and that includes the shoes on your feet. There are many light weight trail runner shoes with great support, durable and very breathable and comfortable. They come in different ankle heights, waterproofing, and lace options for individual needs.

Now start looking for what you think will fit your trip and your feet. Go to gear stores in your vicinity, try on shoes and communicate with the store sales people. More than not, they can offer a ton of advice on what you need. TRY ON the shoes and walk around the store. Have them put a loaded pack on your back and walk up and down the store stairs if they have some. If everything seems right and comfortable, at least up to now, purchase them and take them home. Wear them around your house, up and down the stairs, walk on your bed, jump off, do your weight training in them - get the hint? If you feel like, "Hey these feel great!" Whoa, a minute! Put the pack on that you will be carrying. Fill it with half the load weight that you anticipate and repeat the process above. If at the end of this foot endurance test, you find these are absolutely the best there is for you, then marry them! Your ready to go down the aisle ( I mean trail) with them, but not until you have completed the engagement period (oops - I mean test period) by participating in one of many hikes to prepare you for your hiking adventure.

Adios and good luck. Your horse (oops - I mean trail) shoes will be the best friend you have on your trip.

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