Outdoor activities are gaining in popularity. This trend was reflected in the tourist equipment market and did not bypass mountain boots. Thanks to this, the choice has become much more, but this has complicated the process of finding the perfect shoe model.
Scope of use
Mountain boots are designed for use in extreme conditions and in alpine environments. They have the following characteristics:
If you are going to conquer glaciers, then it is important that the shoes are equipped with special anti-slip spikes.
The following types of mountain boots are distinguished:
Hiking boots - this is their image of hiking shoe hybrids and climbing models, which are traditionally used by climbers to climb and overcome the mountain landscape to the place of their climb.
Quality material is the key to many years of service
Professional hiking shoes are sewn only from durable fabric, predominantly genuine leather or suede. This choice is due to the following advantages: resistance to mechanical stress, protection against moisture and breathability. Remember that mechanical damage and moisture are practically not terrible for suede. While nubuck shoes are not suitable for walking on stones. It easily scratches.
If the trip is planned in the summer, it is important that the model contains small inserts made of light materials, such as synthetics. This is necessary to reduce boot weight and better air circulation.
How to choose mountain boots?
Buying a pair of hiking shoes requires special attention. After all, comfort of movement is the key to a successful trip. Trying is a crucial moment. To avoid serious mistakes, choose the right size of mountain boots! When you first shoe them, note that the width of the shoes should fit snugly to the foot. Feet should feel clear fixation. However, the shoes should not squeeze the foot, the distance between the heel and the back of the shoes should be with the thickness of the index finger on the hand.
Before you go camping in a new pair of shoes, you need to test it at home or during a short walk around the city. It is advisable to do this in the evening or after a little physical activity, namely when the legs are slightly swollen and tired. Indeed, during the trip, any tourist is visited by these unpleasant sensations.
If you do not carry shoes before the trip, it is fraught with serious calluses on the legs. One of the most popular ways is to wet your shoes and put them on a thick woolen sock. So it takes some time in it, preferably before it completely dries. But the effect is not long in coming. The couple will sit on their feet like a glove!
Accessories for mountain shoes
For comfort socks, manufacturers have developed many special devices. Among them, it is worth noting special blocks and locks for convenient lacing fixation. The membrane promotes heat dissipation and waterproof shoes. You must admit that in the hot season you don’t feel like walking in wet socks. This will cause discomfort and can lead to the development of skin diseases. An insole-arch support is designed to reduce the load on the foot. It is indispensable for people with flat feet.
Proper maintenance is the guarantee of a long service for hiking boots.
Proper care will help maintain the functionality of the pair of shoes purchased. Here are some simple rules that will extend its lifespan:
Do not dry mountain boots at high temperatures or in direct sunlight. Remember that a temperature of + 20 ° C and a relative humidity of 65% are ideal for this. Otherwise, the material may dry out and crack.
Use special water-repellent impregnations.
When washing, remove the insoles.
After a winter walk around the city, do not be too lazy to wipe your shoes from winter anti-slip reagents.
Mountain boots are a real find for lovers of outdoor activities and comfort. But know that a pair of shoes is a pleasure, you need to choose the right one, and most importantly, follow the rules for caring for it!