If you enjoy spending time in nature, then hiking and camping trips might just provide you with the perfect weekend getaway. Because of the physically demanding nature of this activity and the possibility of extreme weather conditions to arise, choosing the right clothes is vital for your safety and well-being.
Arguably the most important aspect to focus on is represented by shoes. A suitable pair will provide you with the necessary amount of comfort to help you power through long walks, as well as keep you warm in the process. Here is everything that you need to know about choosing the right boots for your next adventure.
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Essential Camping Gear
The gear you bring can make or break your camping trip. Picking the right tent should be your number one concern. If paired with a superior sleeping bag, you will surely get a good night’s sleep. Other than that, you will need a flashlight, a Swiss army knife, and a sturdy cooler for food storage. Don’t forget to have plenty of water on hand as well.
Of course, the list of essentials doesn’t end there. The clothing you take with you is also an integral part of your equipment. Dressing in layers is recommended so that you stay comfortable in any situation. In addition to that, you need to prepare yourself for extreme weather conditions by wearing a pair of insulated work boots.
When your feet get cold or wet, it creates discomfort in the entire body. Thus, the appropriate footwear can make all the difference in the world when you’re hiking in the great outdoors. Throw on a high-quality jacket made from thermal and waterproof fabric, and you will be ready to face anything that might arise on the trip.
Choosing Insulated Boots
The benefits of insulated footwear are many. First of all, they provide the wearer with additional cushioning, which increases comfort. This makes them the ideal choice if you’re planning to take a hike that is longer than three hours, and potentially spend the night out in the wild. What is more, they also keep you warm due to their special lining.
Thanks to this feature, your feet will be able to withstand even the most extreme inclement weather conditions, such as slush or heavy snow. To ensure that the pair you go for is suitable for outdoor activities, it’s better to purchase items from heavier duty brands such as Sorel, Timberland, CAT, The North Face, Carhartt, or Doctor Martens.
Types of Insulation
You need to consider all the different types of lining that the most popular boots come with and settle on what suits your needs best. While some are thin and airy, other are bulkier and denser. Nevertheless, each trait comes with its own advantages. Let’s find out what those are so that the appropriate decision is made afterward.
- Thinsulate. This type of material provides the feet with warmth without as being bulky as more traditional fabrics. It is a market leader in the field of synthetic insulation due to its light nature that doesn’t diminish one’s range of movement.
- Heatseeker. Made from long fibers, this The North Face-patented insulating material is similar to Thinsulate. In fact, the only difference between is that one is copyrighted by a brand, while the other can be found in many generic types of footwear.
- Primaloft. Short and tightly packed microfibers construct Primaloft, an extremely comfortable waterproof option that isn’t as durable as other variants.
- Zylex. It is a removable lining that absorbs moisture and packs warm air to provide the wearer with the optimal amount of protection. Due to its flexibility, it is appropriate for people who desire a multipurpose boot.
- Opti-Warm. Designed by Merrell, Opti-Warm isn’t as bulky as other types of insulation that is similarly dense. By trapping body heat, your feet remain comfortable.
- Wool felt. This is the traditional heat-proofing material, and it has been used by people for centuries. It manages moisture reasonably, creating a seal around the foot. Its only downside is that it is rather thick, but this also helps it maintain its shape over the years.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the most suitable pair of insulated boots for your next camping trip is vital to your comfort, safety and overall sense of well-being. There are a few things to consider when doing so, but as long as you decide upon an appropriate type of insulation and invest in a pair that will stand the test of time, you are bound to succeed.
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