Any advices on hiking boots?

Question

What's the best hiking boots you know? And when buying them what should I look for as musts and don'ts?

Answer 1

There are many good brands -- it depends on what your needs are.

Generally, if you are carrying a pack, you're going to need more support. You want a full hiking boot to give you the ankle support. If you're just carrying a light pack or no pack at all, you don't need the full boot -- you can get a mid, or what they call a "trail shoe" or "trail runner."

You need to consider if you need waterproofing -- if you're crossing puddles or facing chance of thunderstorms, you want to make sure your shoes are Gore-Tex. If not, this is not as important.

Check for the stiffness of the shoe. Hold the heel in one hand and the toe in the other and try to bend it in half. The more rigid shoes (harder to bend) are going to give you more support. The more flexible ones will be better if you will be trail running.

You asked about brands. A short list (not all-inclusive) would include: Merrel, Asolo, Montrail, Vasque, La Sportiva, North Face and Lowa.

Good luck.

Answer 2

For extended hiking I prefer Northface boots,they have cushioned ankle support and a tough vibram sole.I use snowseal waterproofing applied according to the directions,this pair has been in the Rockies,the Cascades ,and the Olympics and they are still going strong.I have a pair of Sorrels and they are exceptionally warm and dry but a bit cumbersome for day hikes,if you are considering a heavy Gortex boot like Sorrels buy them large enough for extra heavy socks.Another good lighter hiking boot is the La Sportiva Trango S,while mine only have a summer on them they are still ideal for weight and seem to be holding up. When considering your purchase, wear heavy socks,put both boots on,lace them fully and walk on the non-carpeted areas for 10-15 minutes,rumor has it that your feet are larger later in the day so afternoon tryouts are suggested.Happy hiking.