If you love the outdoors, you don’t have to spend less time hiking just because you have joint pain. Instead, you may able to carry on doing what you live with the support of the right footwear. If you’re an avid hiker, you know the importance of having the right footwear anyway.

The Different Options

There are many different footwear options for hikers with joint pain. Different types of boots are suited to different kinds of hikes. When buying hiking boots, always remember to try them on first with some thick hiking socks, so you can be sure that your feet will fit in without causing discomfort. Some of the most popular styles of hiking boots include:

• Day Hiking Boots: – Low-cut designs that often come with a greater degree of flexibility than their more resilient counterparts. These boots are perfect for shorter hikes and provide support around the midsole and heel. If you’re looking for more mobility than support, these are the boots for you.
• Mid-Distance Hiking Boots: These boots are perfect for longer hikes and provide ample support around the ankle and the midsole. This type of hiking boot is best suited to people who aren’t going to be spending too long on the trails.
• Long Distance Backpacking Boots: This kind of boot resembles an all-terrain basketball shoe and is the boot of choice for people who are heading out on serious journeys. The ankle support on these boots is unparalleled, and they generally come with much stiffer midsoles than the other types of boot mentioned.

It’s important to get boots that you feel comfortable in. If you feel that you need the support of long-distance boots even though you’re only heading out on a short hike, go for it. It’s also vital to remember that where exactly your hiking can impact your needs. The terrain and weather often plays a big part in which kind of boot is up to the task of getting you to the end of your hike safely.

What to Look For Based on Your Unique Needs

If you’re living with joint pain, the wrong type of shoe can make it worse. It’s important that you get something that’s right for you to avoid further complications down the line.

Choosing boots with arch or ankle support is essential if you suffer pain in these areas, as are boots that are cushioned, if you suffer pain in your back, legs, or feet when hiking.

If you have wide feet, you should definitely only wear hiking boots that are a wider fit than the average pair – especially when consider you’ll have chunky, comfortable hiking socks on as well.

Getting boots that meet your exact requirement, means you can carry on hiking for many years to come, without running the risk of making your joint pain worse.