Often, hikers assume the thicker the better when it comes to socks, but finding a sock that fits in your shoe will keep your feet more comfortable than trying to fit in the thickest sock you have. However, wool socks regulate temperature well and wick moisture (which is important in heavily insulated winter boots), so they’re a worthy investment if you have a lot of winter hiking plans. “Wool socks are very desirable for hiking, but may cost more than a cotton/polyester type,” explains Dr. When it comes to keeping your feet warm and dry, your socks are just as important as your boots. “If the feet are wet for extended periods of time, conditions such as toenail fungus, athlete’s foot fungus, and plantar warts may develop.” And in cold weather, wet feet could become dangerous, as they could rapidly lose heat, leading to frostnip or frostbite.įor extra waterproofing, Patrick Michel, the special maintenance manager at the Rush Creek Lodge outside of Yosemite National Park, recommends that you “seal your boots with snow wax at the start of the season and a couple of times during the winter.” Sock Compatibility “ Waterproof boots are important for winter hiking conditions as there may be snow or water on the ground that could potentially affect the feet,” explains Bruce Pinker, DPM, founder of Progressive Foot Care. Look for a boot with a stiff outsole that can provide enough structure to attach to either accessory. And when a fresh snow falls, you’ll need snowshoes to walk on top of the soft, fluffy crystal. Even the best outsoles aren’t slip-proof on pure ice, so it’s best to pair them with a traction device when the trails are slick. Many brands, like Danner, use Vibram outsoles, while other brands, like Salomon, have created their own varieties of grippy rubber.īut an outsole is more than its grip: You should look for winter hiking boots that are compatible with snowshoes and traction devices like microspikes and crampons. “ one of the first companies to manufacture a mountaineering sole,” he says, which speaks volumes about their stickiness in snowy terrain. Vibram soles are some of the best on the market for minimizing slipping and prioritizing grip, according to Richard Teter, MD, an NYC-based sports medicine podiatrist. The outsole of your winter hiking boot should provide superior traction on ice and snow. These will have ample insulation, though not as much as snow boots, and they’ll serve you well in the early spring and late fall too. If you are hiking in moderate temperatures, you may want to find a winter-specific hiking boot. “They are very insulating and much warmer than hiking boots,” explains Jennie Flaming of Ordinary Adventures, “They’re also a good option for people whose feet get cold easily.” In sub-freezing temperatures, actual snow boots are the best option. So, if you’re hiking in cold weather, you’ll want to prioritize insulation. Nothing can ruin a hike or outdoor adventure faster than your toes turning to ice. That’s a lot of functionality to pack into one pair of shoes, so here are some key features to look for when you’re shopping. Not only will the best winter hiking boots keep you warm in frigid temperatures, they’ll also provide good traction on snow and ice, and wick away water when the snow melts. With the right winter hiking boots (and some high-quality clothing), you can enjoy the outdoors in comfort and warmth, even when there’s a pile of snow on your front porch. Snow settles on the landscape, covering everything in a glistening white and dampening sounds to create a rarely-heard silence-pretty picture, right? But it comes with some complications: namely, cold and icy conditions. For those willing to brave the cold, winter hiking can be a glorious experience.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |