Hiking Basics: Footwear

Hiking and backpacking are sometimes said to be cheap hobbies. Anyone who actually does either will tell you that can be very untrue. The most important tool you have when you’re on the trail is your feet and for them to take you anywhere comfortably,  you need to have the right footwear. Shoes and boots can vary from being dirt cheap to costing you your firstborn child.  It’s possible to budget while shopping for footwear but it does limit your options,  and if you have wider feet, higher arches, etc., it’s a little harder (and a little more expensive) to find what works for you.

Bottom line: you’re going to need some good footwear that will be comfortable and support what you want to do. Don’t make the same mistake as me and think that ANY boots will work for getting outside. My feet still remember the nightmare that is hiking in Doc Martens on a hot day.

You can wear your standard athletic shoe  on some hikes, but I think it’s best to have footwear that is specifically for the trail. If you’re new to hiking, it’s okay to do some trails and take note of what you feel during or afterwards so you get an idea of what you’ll need.

Like many other plus size people, I have wide feet. Too many times I’ve bought shoes that make my pinkie toe hurt and blisters form on my feet. It wasn’t until I went to REI (#thegoodplace) that I finally found a pair that fit me like a glove. 

I snatched the Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots ($149.95). I like having boots because I like my ankles to feel supported and hugged. These bad boys have excellent grip and fit my wide feet so I’ve never formed blisters on my toes. For me, they’re almost perfect. There are plenty of other options if boots aren’t for you. Some people go for trail runners with ‘feet skirts’ (gaiters) because it allows more mobility in the ankle. My boyfriend, Travis, is a thru-hiker and prefers trail runners for his hikes that go for thousands of miles. It’s just what works for him. Some brands that offer wider sizes are Brooks, Altras, and Keen. It all boils down to what works for you and experimenting until you find it.

While breaking in my boots, I noticed that the arches of my feet would hurt after short distances and that would then make my calves tight. Turns out, I have high arches and needed more support. I got some Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort Hiking Insoles ($49.95), and ever since popping these bad boys in my boots, I haven’t had any pain in my arches, which has made  hiking way more enjoyable. I don’t think you can go wrong with customizing your shoes to optimally fit your feet. When shopping for shoes, UTILIZE the salespeople. Places like REI will have you wear them around the store or tread on an uneven surface to see how they fit you. Trying them on and walking around is paramount to getting your perfect pair, do NOT ignore this step (no pun intended).

Bonus Tip: I personally take a pair of “camp shoes” to keep in my car or backpack so I can free my feet and let them breathe after a longer hike. My higher arches need some more cushioning so I invested in a pair of Teva Universal Trail Sandals ($99.95). This is NOT a necessity, but it is nice. You can also carry any pair of sandals or shoes that fit you well and are comfy, I just love my Teva’s because they’re still sporty and trail appropriate in a pinch. I’ve noticed how much of a difference it makes to have good footwear, so I consider it a good investment for the footsies.

Check out REI garage sales, sporting goods stores, or even eBay. Can you get less expensive inserts and shoes? Probably. But you need to weigh whether they’ll be the smart choice in the long run. What’s most important is that you try on plenty of pairs of shoes, because everyone’s feet have different needs and you want what works for yours. Invest in your feet, your body will thank you later!

Shout out to my best friend Keely for editing, love ya dude.