The South is full of beautiful mountains, trails, and woodlands to freely explore. Hiking enthusiasts will tell you there’s nothing like breathing in the fresh air and discovering new terrain—and the hiking challenges that come with it.
On the flip side, hikers can also experience many foot discomforts and injuries as a result of the sport. These can lead to having excursions cut short, surgery, or a need to quit hiking altogether. Fortunately, there are helpful things you can do when it comes to foot care for hikers.
Why Foot Care for Hikers Is So Important
If you think about it, your feet are the most important equipment you have for hiking. They carry the weight of your body and backpack, maneuver you through splotchy terrain, and help you climb jagged rocks. It’s no wonder you should always consider foot care for hikers.
How to Buy a Proper Hiking Boot
Before you shop, consider these helpful tips when choosing the right hiking boot.
Shop at the End of The Day
During the day your feet tend to swell. To promote foot care for hikers, shop for boots when your feet are their most swollen—helping to ensure your boots still fit after a long day of hiking.
Give Your Boots a Test
You put your feet through the ringer when you go hiking, so the boots you try on should, too. Walk up the steps, jump, stand on your toes and take a big step. These all help you know how the boots will feel out in the field, while also testing their ankle support.
Watch the Width
All brands have their own design, which can lead to variations in sizing. That includes width. While one brand fits perfectly, another can seem too narrow. Be sure your brand fits your foot from width to length.
Beware of Online Shoe Shopping
Boots can span a wide range when it comes to size, insulation, weatherproofing, you name it. These can be hard to judge online, resulting in frustrating returns later. Of course, if you’ve nailed down your boot size, brand, make and model, online ordering can be a great way to save time and even money.
Break in Your Boots
Just as with most shoes, boots need to be broken in before walking long distances. Wear them at home and on short walks before the next big adventure.
What to Do with Foot Issues After Hiking
Foot care for hikers is important to keep you on track. Should there be any foot issues that need professional care, Foot Specialists of Birmingham offers sound advice and treatment plans to keep problems from becoming worse. Podiatry experts are trained to care for a variety of foot conditions including arch pain, athlete’s foot, and heel pain.
Call us to schedule an appointment today—and make sure you’re prepared for the adventures of tomorrow.
