Of all the hiking gear items I own my hiking boots and a pair of quality heavy wool socks are at the top of my list of hiking gear. The outdoor sport of hiking is all about walking and in most cases climbing up hills so my hiking boots is where it all starts for me. Because the terrain I hike and camp on is mountainous I wear hiking boots that come up above the ankle for support against twisting my ankles should I slip on a slick trail or accidentally step into a hole. For those who walk mostly level hiking paths a low cut hiking shoe should do fine for their hiking gear needs. I also like a hiking boot with a very aggressive traction pattern on the sole for the added grip in slick and muddy conditions. After I buy a new pair of hiking boots I take the time to break them in with several short walks or just wearing them around the house while I am mowing the grass or doing other stuff. This break-in period is important because the boot will be more comfortable when you do hit the trails for a long hike.
hiking gear, outdoor sport