Ilham Ina

Hiking footwear is probably the most important apparel that a hiker will need. Without the proper footwear, a person might be exposed to the risk of injury and getting tired faster.

Hikers should consider some tips in hiking shoes. First is shoe type. There are various types to choose from, and among them are walking shoes. They may be the least suitable for hiking because it favors comfort instead of ruggedness, limiting its usability to urban and daily walks. Next is the fusion of walking and hiking footwear, known as trail-running shoes. It is suitable for off-road terrain, and maintains foot breathability and comfort.

Aside from types, hikers should also consider insole. Flat insoles are mere replacement of those that were included in the shoe, while customized insoles provide better flexibility and contour fit.

Insoles are another factor for hikers. 3/4 length insole increases support for heel and arch, while heel cups only add support in the heels. Both of them are not insole replacement.

Another tip is proper lacing technique for hiking shoes. Theoretically, two trillion techniques can be formed for a shoe with six pairs of eyelets, and some of those have features that are suitable for hiking. One of those techniques is the sawtooth lacing.

Hike lacing distributes pressure evenly on the entire shoe, and keeps the tie in one side. To have a hike lacing, shoelace should be run straight from the inside of the bottom eyelets so that the ends will be on the outside. One end is to be run outside to the next higher hole, and insert on its pair across the other side. The other end will be vertically run on the outside to the next unoccupied eyelet, and run across its pair on the other side. Both ends will continue the process, until the ends reach the topmost eyelet and are on the same side. This lacing is suitable for even-numbered eyelet pairs, but workarounds can be done for odd number of pairs.

Since the lacing was done in an inside-out manner, this technique can be messy to look at. As a variation, hikers can start on the outside of the eyelet, so that the vertical run of the lace is hidden inside the shoe. Other techniques can be done but as a rule of thumb, lacing should distribute pressure and keep the shoe firm.

Finally, hiking shoes lock lacing should be done. Locks are encouraged by stores to prevent slips and twisting caused by stress. Basic lace lock technique is the low lock. To do this, the shoe will be laced until the third pair of eyelets from the top. Both ends will be run diagonally to the topmost hole so that their tips are on the outside. Then, they will be vertically run on the lower hole, and will be crossed over so that they will be tucked on the vertical run of the other side. Lock lacing tightens the lace and prevents minor slips, but harder to loosen. If the user frequently encounters heel slippage, chances are their shoes are not suitable for hiking.

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