When you start planning your backpacking trip, especially if it’s your first time backpacking, you’ll find the best choice of hostels and destinations. You’ll need to choose your backpack and think strategically about what to include in your basic backpacking luggage. But you’ll also need to assess whether or not your footwear is suitable for such an adventure.
As you read, the choice of footwear is fundamental for you to enjoy your trip without blisters, injuries or infections. Don’t miss this post!
At first glance, any trainer or boot would seem to be suitable for comfortable walking. However, in long treks, as you will surely be undertaking during your backpacking trip, not just any footwear is suitable and useful.
Choice of footwear
You’ll need to make the first decision is what kind of footwear to wear: boots, trainers or summer flip-flops. Of course, this choice should be made based on the places you will be visiting and the weather expected in each of them.
While boots are recommended for cold climates with abundant snow due to their better grip on the ground and waterproofing, trainers are practical in less extreme conditions.
Flip-flops are recommended for warmer climates as their openings allow continuous ventilation of the foot to prevent moisture build-up. However, remember that they also allow foreign objects, such as sand or pebbles, to enter and damage your feet. In the case of long walks in flip-flops, it may be advisable also to wear socks to prevent the skin from rubbing directly against dirt, dust and sand along the way.
The best fit
When you visit the shop, take the time to walk around in your chosen footwear to ensure no pressure points. Bear in mind that long walks cause the foot to expand, so if the shoes fit too snugly, they will be uncomfortable after several hours of wear.
It is worth clarifying that the fit should be perfect: not too tight and not too loose. Your heel should feel secure, and at the same time, you should have room at the front.
Lightweight and breathable shoes
Fortunately, in recent years, different kinds of lighter, breathable shoes have come onto the market, perfect for reducing sweat and stress on your feet. Check with your retailer before making your final choice.
The use of gaiters
Although they have come back into fashion, gaiters are very useful for backpackers to prevent sand and grit from entering the shoe. These materials and excessive sweating are some of the causes of blisters, as they increase foot friction.
Tie your shoes correctly.
Although this recommendation may seem obvious to you, we can’t help but remind you that tying your shoes prevents heel slippage, rubbing and other discomforts. Always try to walk with your shoes properly laced so that they don’t cut off the circulation of your feet. But don’t leave too much room between the shoes and your socks.
A recommendation: use laces of the correct length, which allow you to loosen or adjust your shoes according to your needs.
At night, when your exhausted feet need a place to rest, count on a safe hostel to do so. Our selection of youth hostels is waiting for you to choose with peace of mind.
