What To Look For
Gone are the days when women tried to make ill-fitting men's hiking boots work for them. Women have a wider variety of choice in hiking boots and shoes, from basic low-cut shoes to top-of-the-line mountaineering boots. Check the construction to see if it is an all-leather boot that can be treated with waterproof solutions. If it is a nylon/leather combination, check to see if it has a Gore-Tex liner. Check to see what kind of shank the sole has; a half-steel or full-steel shank will provide more support, while nylon shanks will be more comfortable out of the box.
Common Pitfalls
Women often buy shoes that are too small. Doing this with a hiking shoe can lead to blisters and substantial foot pain. Check the fit carefully; you should be able to easily slide your index finger between the heel and the back of the boot. Wear a good hiking sock that offers cushioning and wicking ability to keep your foot cool and dry. Don't buy new hiking shoes the day before a long hike. Give yourself a couple of weeks to break them in.
Where To Buy
Because all feet are different, and better-built hiking shoes will have slight variations in size, it's best to go to a hiking/outdoor store to buy hiking shoes. This will let you try on a variety of sizes and shoes to find the best fit.
Cost
Hiking shoes will cost $70 to $300 as of September 2009, depending on the type of shoe/boot and its construction.
Accessories
Buy several pairs of hiking socks. Even if you buy a shoe that has a Gore-Tex liner, treat the leather part of the shoe with Nikwax or something similar.
