Fall is the best season to get out and go for a hike. With many mountain and nature lovers excited about their autumn hiking excursions up ahead, preparing the best and proper gear is crucially vital before going anywhere. Among all types of hiking gears, one must-have are hiking boots or shoes. Whether you already have a pair of your own or are looking to purchase some new ones, Pyeongtaek Insight wants to let you in on a few essential tips to consider before and while choosing your preferred hiking footwear.



The functionality and durability of any sort of product usually greatly vary and depend on the product's make and brand. Hiking boots are essential for hiking safely and comfortably. Functionality such as slip resistance, shock absorption, and durability are all equally essential qualities for hiking.

 

The Korea Consumer Agency targeted seven different hiking boot (North Face’s Dynamic 10 Boa Goretex, Millet’s Velociraptor, Black Yak’s 343D GTX, Eider’s Quantum Infinity Evo, Nepa’s Porte Gore-Tex, Columbia’s Grand Canyon Outdry BoA, and K2’s Lefter) to test and evaluate functionality, durability, safety, sole pressure, and to which degree the shoes are slip-free. The list below shows a selection of different hiking shoes according to the products’ best-obtained qualities.

 

<Slip Resistance>

· North Face (Dynamic 10 Boa Goretex)

· Millet (Velociraptor)

· Black Yak (343D GTX)

· Eider (Quantum Infinity Evo)

 

<Foot Pressure (pressure on the soles of the feet while walking)>

· Millet (Velociraptor)

· Black Yak (343D GTX)

 

<Shock Absorption (impact reduction) & Propulsion>

· All 7 products recommended

 

<Water Resistance (degree to how much rain or snow leaks into the shoes)>

· All 7 products cleared (waterproof)

 

<Wear Resistance (degree to which the shoes’ outsole do not wear out by repeated wear)>

· Nepa (Porte Gore-Tex)

· North Face (Dynamic 10 Boa Goretex)

· Columbia (Grand Canyon Outdry BoA)

· K2 (Lefter)

When purchasing your new hiking footwear, refer to some of the key quality points stated above before making your final choice for your upcoming hiking trips!