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Are BearPaw hiking boots good hiking boots overall?

What is the difference between hiking boots and work boots? Will hiking 7 miles in work boots hurt my feet?

  • I am going on a trip to Canada and will be hiking around 7 miles a day. I have a cheap pair of work boots that are broken in fairly nicely. Will these be sufficient? They seem like ...show more

  • Answer:

    Biggest difference is likely to be outsole--hikers tend to have deep lugs, so as to grip better on SOFT surfaces like snow/slush, and mud---but they are not worth much on hard surfaces--ice and rock, and many so called work boots also can be had with Vibram or lugged soles. Biggest issue for either style is COMFORT---any boot that doesn't fit well is a hazard; not only will you not enjoy your hike, you may end up with blisters, sore toes or other foot parts. Less important than the sole is the presence of a midsole (stiff layer in between outsole and inner sole/welt) to provide stability and puncture/pressure resistance to hard sharp objects like rocky areas. I've hiked all over the world--work boots are my general preference. Do NOT get steel-toed work boots for hiking, though--they'll kill your toes from lacking flexibility and room for expansion.

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It depends on what terrain you're hiking on. If it is extreme gradients and rough bush, I would go with some proper hiking boots. Hiking boots will support you ankle and prevent you from rolling them. I wouldn't mind wearing work boots if it holds your ankle and they are comfortable and light weight. But weight of the boot will be a main factor especially on extreme hikes (they will make your legs work harder). To find out if 7 miles will hurt your feet do a pack march around your block and fill you bag with weights. If weight, tiredness or soreness wasn't a problem but... your foot hurts( blisters, hot spots, flat foot etc.) get a new inner sole from your local pharmacy/doctor or camping store/disposal if you don't want to spend too much money. I recomend get a proper hiking boot.

Kevin

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