There’s little doubt that when it comes to being in the rocky outdoors, you need a good pair of boots to keep your feet comfortable and dry. The fact is that if you buy the right pair, you’ll really feel the benefit and enjoy your trip into the wilderness that much more. However, if you choose the wrong pair, it can have the opposite effect.

When you’re trying to find the right boots, you should try and forget about aesthetics and gimmicky features. Instead, you think about the most important factors; water resistance, warmth, weight, stability, durability and above all…comfort.

If you don’t get boots that fit well – and by that I mean a pair that affords you some toe wiggle-room whilst also offering a snug fit on the heel – it’s only a matter of time until you get blisters and other foot and ankle issues that can ruin your hike.

Getting the Right Fit for the Rocky Outdoors

Bone spurs, blisters, sore arches and black toenails are all symptoms of poorly fitting boots and it’s then that you realise how important a good fit is. The first step to finding the right pair is to find a good pair of socks, which is a job in itself. I won’t go into socks too much here, suffice to say that they need to be nice and thick and not have too much of a seam that can cause rubbing over time. 

The right thickness will depend on what you find comfortable, but a certain degree of cushion is important, as the rocky outdoors can be quite unforgiving. I’ve found that going a size higher than you usually works well for me, as it provides room for both your socks and your feet. 

The boots themselves should have mildly flexible soles, whilst also offering good grip and stability. A certain amount of ankle protection is also advisable, as you’ll not have to worry too much about turning your ankles when walking over uneven ground. 

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You’ll also need to know that the boots you buy are water resistant, because if there’s one thing that you’re certain to encounter when in the rocky outdoors, it’s water. There’s nothing worse than having wet feet all day, as it can really take the shine off your trip. In truth, you won’t find too many water-proof boots that keep the water out completely, but a degree of protection is something you’ll need.

Get a Good Pair & They’ll Look After You

The comfort of your feet is paramount when you’re outside, as you’ll be miserable when there’s any irritation or problem with water-ingress. When you’re buying your gear for your trip into the wilderness, there should be as much importance paid to your footwear as anything else. 

If you buy well, you’ll get a pair that complements your feet and that contributes to your enjoyment. However, when you cut corners and buy a low-cost or inferior pair for your trip into the rocky outdoors, you’ll regret it. I can tell you this, as I learned the hard way and had some terrible blisters to show for it.

So, take my advice and get a pair that’s worth the money. As soon as you get out on the trail, you’ll realise what a good idea it was.