Different Types of Hiking Shoes

Trail hiking

Photo by Austin Ban on Unsplash

A media sales executive from New York, Beecher Scarlett most recently was a vice president of national advertising sales for TVGN. There, he was involved with rebranding and transforming the network with pivot programming and a revitalized sales strategy. Aside from his professional responsibilities, Beecher Scarlett enjoys hiking.

No hiker is fond of having to stop to treat blisters in the midst of a hike. Even worse is being required to treat blackened toenails, sprained ankles, bone spurs, or plantar fasciitis. The best way for hikers to prevent these types of injuries is to make sure they buy the right shoes. The right hiking shoe should not be tight. Instead, it should be snug enough to prevent injuries, but roomy enough to wiggle one’s toes. Hikers should consider factors such as comfort, durability, stability, weight, warmth, and water resistance. The type and style of shoe a hiker purchases depends on the type of hiking they are planning to do.

Trail hikers should consider hiking shoes. These are low cut styles with flexible soles. Since they are made out of a combination of fabric and leather, they aren’t usually waterproof and require waterproof socks or a waterproofing treatment. 

Day hikers can opt for hiking shoes or a sturdier day hiking boot. Featuring a higher cut, they offer additional support for day hikes or light back packing trips.

Serious backpackers should invest in backpacking boots that are designed for excellent support and heavy loads. Usually made fully of leather, they are durable, supportive, and waterproof. 

Purchasing the right type of shoes can make all the difference on a hike. Hikers should consult with professionals to determine an appropriate style and fit.

Physical Benefits of Cycling

Cycling
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Beecher Scarlett is a Pelham, New York-based media sales professional who has served as an account executive at such companies as 20th Century Fox and NBC Universal. Beecher Scarlett pursues several hobbies outside of work and is especially fond of outdoor activities like camping and cycling.

Like hiking and running, cycling is a great activity that provides numerous physical benefits. When cycling, two pelvic bones called the ischial tuberosities absorb the rider’s weight and take pressure off the joints, helping to reduce pain and stiffness elsewhere in the body. Since cycling stimulates the heart and strengthens it, the activity is known as a buffer against cardiovascular issues, including heart attack and high blood pressure. Other than that, cycling is known to help with weight control. It not only improves metabolism generally but specifically aids in burning fat. Similarly, cycling is an aerobic workout, which triggers endorphins and makes riders feel good.