Tips for Buying a New Pair of Men's Hiking Shoes

Posted on: 21 May 2019

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Hiking is an excellent way to spend time outdoors, and it is also a great form of exercise. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a novice hiker, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important things you will need while hiking is good footwear. If you are a person who enjoys day hikes, hiking shoes are a great option. Hiking shoes are lightweight and flexible and provide excellent support, making them great for all kinds of trails. However, if you're going to invest in a pair of hiking shoes, it is important to buy the right ones. Use the following tips to help you select a pair of men's hiking shoes for your feet:

Ensure That You Buy the Right Size

Wearing hiking shoes that are the right size is essential for comfort and to prevent injuries while hiking. Ideally, you should have your feet professionally measured at a sporting goods store that sells hiking shoes and boots. A professional fitting will tell you the exact size hiking shoe that you need. If you are not able to visit a sporting goods store to have your foot measured, look at a sizing guide for the brand of hiking shoe that you plan to buy and carefully measure your foot yourself to help you select the right size.

Try on Hiking Shoes at the End of the Day

When you're planning on buying a new pair of hiking shoes, it is in your best interest to shop toward the end of the day. Feet typically swell throughout the course of the day and are most swollen at the end of the day. Trying on hiking boots at this time will help ensure that you buy a pair that can accommodate your feet comfortably even if they get swollen during a long hike. When shopping for hiking shoes, also make sure that you bring a pair of hiking socks with you—you want to know how the hiking shoes fit when you're wearing your hiking socks, not normal, everyday socks.

Give the Hiking Shoes a Test Run

Choosing a pair of hiking shoes involves more than putting them on for a minute to see if your feet fit inside. When you're investing in a pair of hiking shoes, don't be afraid to put both shoes on and walk around the store. Testing out hiking shoes and wearing them for several minutes while walking through a store will give you a better idea of how they fit and how your feet feel while wearing them.