Boot Buying Basics

Consider the following when your're in the market for hiking boots:

Leather or lightweight? Leather is strong, tough, durable and heavy. Great for serious mountaineering. Lightweights are made of plastics, nylon and other synthetics. They literally take a burden off your feet. Sturdy, flexible, and comfortable, they are perfect for hiking and most backpacking.

Soles. The thicker the Vibram rubber sole and the deeper the treads or"lugs," the greater the traction but the heavier the boot. Likewise, the stiffer the "mid-sole" layer above the rubber sole, the stronger but less pliable and comfortable the boot. Day hikers don't need steel/plastic mid-soles; mountaineers do.

Welts. Welts are stitching systems that join boot to sole. The better the welts, the stronger the join. Hence welts make shoes that are more water-tight, more durable, though perhaps less flexible. Lighter shoes use bonding-cement joins.

Aside from the appropriateness of the boot (you don't want technical mountaineering boots, unless of course you are a technical mountaineer) and the cost, the all-important consideration is size. Get it right. You and your hiking mates will regret it if you don't. Seek out a reputable store and an experienced salesperson to find the best fit. Wear the same socks (or inner and outer socks) you'll be wearing on the trail.

Unless you're replacing a specific size and model, exercise extreme care with mail order purchases or discount-mall shopping. There are too many variations in the human foot and body to take chances. Someone who's flat-footed and 240 pounds won't be comfortable in the same boot as someone who has a high arch and weighs 145, even though both may have size 10 feet.

Like a podiatrist, a knowledgeable salesperson will consider several measurements: heel to toe, heel to ball-of-foot, width at various spots, and overall shape. She or he will check how you walk-do your ankles roll in or out?—and ask about things like bunions and bone spurs as well as your hiking habits before recommending a boot for your foot and your needs.

Don't be surprised if you discover in the process that your left and right feet differ in size, especially when"weighted." Boots are one of the few items that are hard to rent. So the money you spend—not less than $80 and more likely over $125—is a long-term investment. Plunge wisely, watch for sales, and see if the salesperson will bargain.