Finding the Right Hiking Boot

• Avoid going to a regular shoe store for a hiking boot. Hiking boots are in fashion and an imitation boot will not make for comfortable shoes for walking long distances. Go to a sporting goods store like The Great Outdoors, REI or Dick's Sporting Goods. It is better to try on a shoe rather than purchasing one that looks good online. If you like the shoe but not the price, you can look for it on an online retailer's website. Think about where you want to go hiking, because it will make a difference in the type of shoe you need. For going through streams, look for a boot that has a tongue that attaches to the very top of the foot. Walking on unstable surfaces like pebbles or loose dirt requires a boot that has a deep tread. Support your ankle by getting a boot that goes past the ankle. Make sure the boot has adequate insulation and all-over inside padding. Buy a boot that is made out of leather instead of suede, because it will hold up better.
  
  

Walking Shoes

• Take into account the size and shape of your foot when shopping for walking shoes. Wide feet will develop blisters in narrow shoes. If you have a narrow foot in wide shoes, you can slip around and hurt your ankle. Determine what kind of arch your feet have. The Mayo Clinic, at www.mayoclinic.com, gives recommendations in regard to the best shoe for different types of arches. For normal arched feet that aren't too flat or arched, look for a firm mid-sole. Make sure the shoe has either a straight or semi-curved last. A last is a term used to describe the shape of the sole and the footprint that was used to make the shoe. People with flat feet or low arches should buy a shoe with motion control and a straight last. Those with high arches have problems taking the shock of walking. Choose a shoe with additional cushioning to make up for the lack of shock absorption in the foot.
  
  

Tips for Buying Both Boots and Walking Shoes

• Timing is everything when it comes to finding the best fit. Shop after you have been walking for a while and your foot is at its biggest. Wear the socks that you plan to wear while walking. Cotton socks will absorb sweat and hold the moisture next to your skin, which increases your risk of getting a fungal infection and developing blisters. Wear a sock with synthetic weave, heavy weave wool or polyester lined. Avoid buying any shoes that are too snug by allowing at least half an inch of space from your large toe to the end of the shoe. Break your shoes in by walking around at home or taking short walks before going out on a long distance trip. New shoes need some time to stretch to fit to the shape of your foot.