Take Care of your Feet!
- Admin
- Feb 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 3
Your feet are the foundation of every hike, so it’s worth taking a moment to think about the gear that keeps them going. Quality hiking boots offer the stability and protection needed for outdoor terrain, while proper socks can help prevent blisters and keep your feet dry. Together, they reduce fatigue and let you hike longer with less discomfort.
If your feet aren’t happy, your hike won’t be either—so it’s important to get the right combination to stay comfortable and safe on the trail. But this doesn't mean you have to spend hundreds on boots and socks, here are some resources and tips to keep your feet happy on the trail:
Hiking boots vs Trail running shoes
This comes down to personal preference, the terrain you're hiking, and the kind of activity you're doing. Above-the-ankle boots are great for those who like the support, especially in uneven terrain. However, trail-runners are typically more lightweight and offer more than enough support for well-maintained trails with limited rugged terrain and obstacles.
That's not to say that a solid pair of tennis shoes can't do the job. I have a pair of Nikes that have hiked their fair share of National Parks. But would hiking shoes/boots have been a better option? Definitely.
The real key here is that whatever you're hiking in, they're comfortable, fit well, and provide enough support for you and the terrain you're exploring.
Hiking socks
Socks may not seem like a critically important part of the hike, but you'd be surprised how big of an impact they can have. If you're hiking a solid distance, in cold weather, or in the heat of summer you're going to regret crappy socks.
Wool is the most popular and recommended type of material for hiking socks. Wool is great at regulating temperature to keep your feet from getting sweaty. At the same time it's a great insulator for cool mornings or winter hikes. Wool is also naturally antimicrobial so your socks and feet stay clean longer than other fabrics. Just like boots and shoes, the kind of socks you wear is up to your preference, just remember that they do make a big difference when you're hiking longer distances so take care of your feet.
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