Hiking Boots

Hiking boots - A key to enjoyable hiking is comfortable footwear. Canvas type boots, while fine in summer and in rocky terrain, are not much use in wet Irish moorland. In the wet boggy terrain that makes up so much of our mountains few boots will keep you dry but they can still be warm if two pairs of hiking socks are worn.

Two thick pairs of hiking socks reduce the friction between boot and foot which usually causes blisters. Bring several extra pairs so you have a dry pair to change into when you get to your camp site or at night.

Foot care tips When hill walking your feet do most of the work so it pays off to look after them. Here are a few tips to make your trip more enjoyable • Before using new hiking boots break them in by wearing them around your house and in the street for a few days.

• You can cut down foot shock by using an insole.

• Inspect your feet occasionally and if there are signs of abrasion apply a plaster or put on another pair of socks.

• Use a foot-powder before getting into your sleeping bag at night.

• Blisters can be pierced with a sterile needle to let the fluid out (heat the needle with a match to sterilise). Do not remove the skin as it is a natural sterile dressing.

• Look for good ankle support and padded ankle cuff

• Look after your boots by cleaning and waxing them after every trip.

Dry them out slowly by putting crumpled up newspaper in them.

Do not dry boots by the fire as direct heat of this nature can cause the leather to crack.

• Buy boots a size bigger than your normal shoe size. Try them on in the shop with two pairs of socks.