The right shoes for your outdoor activity is very important. The good old hiking boot has evolved into a few different types of footwear that is suited to very different situations. Let's have a look.

1. Anatomy of a hiking boot
1. Collar
2. Heel counter
3. Footbed
4. Outsole
5. Shank
6. Midsole
7. Tongue
8. Hooks
9. Uppers
10. Toe box
11. Scuff cap
2. Types of boots
1. Barefoot hiking shoes
2. Trail Running shoes
3. Hiking boot
4. Mountaineering boots
3. Boot Maintenance
1. Cleaning
2. Drying
3. Removing mould
4. Waterproofing

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Anatomy of a hiking boot

Collar

The collar is the padded bit that hugs your ankles and prevents them from rolling by giving added support

Heel counter

The heel counter is the molded cup that cradles your heel and increases support. A firm heel counter lock the foot into the boot and prevents the foot slipping inside the shoe.

Footbed

The footbed is a removable insole that can be replaced by a custom insert to suit the wearer.

Outsole

This is the outer sole of your boot. It's usually made from rubber and protects you foot from rough terrain and impact.

Shank

The shank is made from metal or strong nylon. It supports the arch of the foot and determines where the sole bends.

Midsole

The midsole is a cushioned layer that helps absorb impact and adds stability when walking on rough terrain.

Tongue

The tongue is a padded, flexible flap made from leather or fabric that adds padding to the top of the foot underneath the laces.

Hooks

Most hiking boots have hooks that ease the tightening and attaching of laces.

Uppers

The uppers is the skin of your boot. It is usually made from leather, canvas or GoreTex and gives shape to your boots. The uppers protect your feet and keep them in place.

Toe box

This is the solid box that protects your toes from impact while still allowing them to move.

Scuff cap

Some boots come with a strip of rubber on the front of the shoe that protects the toe box and the front of the uppers from impact.

Types of boots

Barefoot hiking shoes

Trail Running shoes

Hiking boot

Mountaineering boots

Boot Maintenance

Cleaning

1. Remove laces and insoles. These can be machine washed inside a washing bag.
2. Brush off any dirt. Don’t do this while the dirt is still wet as you will only make it worse.
3. Wash out any deep stains using special boot/shoe cleaner available in most camping shops. Alternatively you could dilute castile soap with water to clean your hiking boots using a rag or soft brush.

Drying

1. Find as cool dry spot for your boots to dry. Never place your hiking boots next to a heater as the hot air will dry out the leather causing it to crack. Cracked leather can let in water.
2. Stuff your boots with newspaper to soak up any sweat or water on the inside. This will speed up the drying process and prevent mould.

Removing mould

1. Brush the mould off the boots. Do this outside and away from your face to prevent inhaling it.
2. If you have stubborn mould, first wash your boots using the steps above.
3. Mix one part water with one part vinegar and apply this to the areas affected by mould and let it dry.
4. Keep mouldy boots away from other leather items to avoid contamination.

Waterproofing

1. There are many waterproofing products on the market, but a simple jar of wax works very well.
2. Using a rag, apply the wax generously concentrating on the seams as they are prone to leaking.