Are BearPaw hiking boots good hiking boots overall?

Are hiking boots the same as snow boots?

• I'm thinking about getting some hiking boots and go up to the mountains. Would "hiking boots" be recommended? If not, what kind of boots can I use?

• Answer:

  Having sold outdoor footwear for many years I can safely tell you there is a difference. However, even with hiking boots, you have to choose from a wide array of footwear designed to deal with specific weights, terrain, and seasons. If you only plan to buy one pair of boots, You may want to go with a mid-weight, waterproof, hiking boot. Nearly every hiking boot company makes something like this. Some are all leather (ie. The Vasque "Sundowner") and some are a leather/nylon mix (ie. The Asolo "Stynger"). These boots can be worn year-round and with the proper sock combination can be used in winter without much problem. Wearing gaiters over the boots will also help keep out snow and water. Some hiking boots are made for winter use only and are insulated. (The North Face and Salomon make some boots like this.) Snow boots come in two varieties...fashion or function. Something like a Sorel boot is very functional. They are great for ice fishing, snowmobile riding, or just standing around in the snow. They have a lot of insulation to keep your foot warm even if you are standing still. A hiking boot doesn't need as much insulation because your are moving and thus generating heat. Snow boots are also available for fashion. Uggs and Moon Boots top my list of guilty parties. They're not even really good for the snow...just for the cold. Decide what you will be doing and when you will be doing it and make your selection after you've tried on a few pair of boots.