Leather Hiking Boots, Which Ones Are Right for You?
By Mathew Cage
Hiking is not just a sport. It's a way to break free from the norm of everyday life. It has become a fantastic sport performed by countless people across the country. People have begun to not only feel the benefits of regular exercise, but feel the benefits of being completely free, going on a one man/women adventure through the mighty wilderness.
If you have become part of this hiking craze then congratulations. But if you are new to this wonderful world of trails and fields, and need to know the sort foot ware you will need to continue. You are reading the right article.
Hiking boots come in all shapes and sizes; some are more durable, while others focus more on comfort. You must find the right balance that suits you. If you are a beginner, focus on comfort. Nobody wants to come home after along hike with painful blisters at the heels of your feet. Not only is it uncomfortable and off putting, but they can become infected if they burst. We want to have fun on our hikes, not suffer for them.
Leather is the key ingredient for well-built hiking and walking boots, they usually have other materials stitched with them but leather is usually the main focus for brands such as bates, wolverine and vasque clarion. But a key feature in top quality hiking boots is the famous Gore-Tex fabric. This miracle material allows air into your boot while still being completely water proof. Allowing your boots to 'breath' and giving your feet that extra comfort.
There is of course different types of leather on the market, each changing the specs and qualities of the boots in question. Full grain leather is the toughest you can get. It is made from the entire thickness of a cows hide. Boots made from this are not very flexible but are more suited for extremely rocky terrain and dangerous terrain. In time, if not blisters, your feet will develop tougher skin to deal with this type of boot. A Gore-Tex layer improves comfort, but not a great amount.
Nubuk leather is the leather of choice for the casual hiker, being fairly comfortable but still packing a bit of extra durability. The nature of this leather makes it easier to lift than full grain making it more agile and adds flexibility to your movements.
Regular leathers are formed from the inner layer of the hide, which is used to make up those shoes you wore to your high school prom. Nubuk leather is made from the outer layer; the hair is chemically removed and moulded to shape. The skin is tough but flexible making it perfect for hiking conditions. Fusing the layer of Gore-Tex just adds to the comfort you can get from this leather.
Please be aware that any new boots you where must be broken in meaning you will need to where them a lot before going on an actual hike with them. This is for your own safety as a un broken in boot is very likely to cause blisters.
