Backpacking Series: The Boot

Special Note: With all outdoor related products, manufacturers will offer a range of prices and item options. You will probably be guided by your needs and your budget. The top of the line products may include options that are unnecessary. On the opposite end of the spectrum are the cheap offerings. You can bet that there are reasons why they are the cheapest and you will most likely regret your purchase once you are in the field.

Purchase from manufacturers and outdoor stores who have an established reputation for customer service and satisfaction.

There are boots for trail running, mountaineering, dayhiking, climbing, and of course, backpacking. Each has elements built into its construction to support the activity of choice. It's a daunting undertaking to approach the myriad of materials, boot constructions, and manufacturers on one's own.

My strongest recommendation to you is to visit an outdoors store where the choices can be explained and proper fitting take place.

As the series is about backpacking, the following will help shed some light on what to consider:

- backpacking usually involves hiking on uneven terrain, both on and off trail. As a result, a higher boot that will give support to the ankle and limit flexing and rotation is recommended.

- heavier soles offer better traction and foot support in most conditions that you may encounter. Soles that have been treated with an anti-slipping agent, such as with Vibram soles, are recommended.

- the materials that are available for boot construction are many and complex. There is full grain leather, fabric, plastic, suede, nubuck, and on. Most boots will be a composite of materials, stitched together. In general, the fewer seams a boot has the more durable and water-resistant it will be. My preference is a lightweight, full grain leather boot. It offers very good support, conforms well to the foot, easy to break in, can be waterproofed with a waxing agent, and, if looked after, with last for years.

- you can help a salesperson to fit you properly by explaining what use or trail conditions you will encounter. Don't waste your time with a salesperson or store that cannot offer complete guidance in making the right selection.

- don't be swayed by what looks "cool". Stay focused on what is appropriate for your situation.

- feet swell during the day. It is therefore best to shop for boots in the afternoon. Bring the socks
or sock combination you plan to wear on the trail when you go to the store.

- boot sizes can be misleading. Your regular shoe size may not dictate which size boot will fit you. Let comfort be your guide. Go up or down a size if necessary. Boots should be snug and not tight. When lacing them up, leave the bottom loose, snug at the instep and tight at the ankle. There should be very little movement sideways or up and down at the heel.

- if there is any discomfort, don't believe that it will go away with wear. If anything, it will intensify.

Boot Care
To lengthen boot life, it is advisable to clean your boots of dirt and mud. Some tips are:

- apply a boot wax to leather boots after cleaning. It maintains leather suppleness and helps with waterproofing.

- remove the laces as this will allow more thorough cleaning.

- scrape off caked on mud/dirt, brush off superficial dust, and wipe clean with damp cloth. Never use detergent.

- let boots air dry. Never place them too close to a wood stove or open fire.

- if boots get overly wet, stuff them with newspaper to help maintain shape.