For any person, footwear is a most important part of their daily wear. However, various specialists have to wear certain kinds of specific footwear like protective industrial boots for factory workers...

For any person, footwear is a most important part of their daily wear. However, various specialists have to wear certain kinds of specific footwear like protective industrial boots for factory workers, and hiking boots for trekkers and outdoorsmen.

While finding the right kind of penny loafer or sneaker is easy; finding the right kind of footwear for the outdoors depends on a number of factors specific to the cause.

Here are 5 important tips for selecting the right hiking boots

#1 - Materials

Boots made for the outdoor may be made of swede, leather, or canvas materials; and the choice depends on the wearer. While swede leather is tougher, they are heavier than canvas hiking boots. That is why it is important to choose the right materials when buying boots for hiking or trekking - since you want it to be comfortable, and not a burden during your trek!

#2 - Terrain and Weather

Depending on the terrain and weather you'll be facing, you would want to select different materials for your hiking boots. In rainy weather, canvas footwear is more comfortable; while heavy leather is more comfortable for walking in the snow. Heavy duty leather needs to be both waterproof and padded on the inside, while light canvas boots are meant to ensure more ventilation during long hours of walking.

#3 - Buying Online

While finding the right kind of hiking boots or other kind of outdoor gear online is easy nowadays; be sure you buy from a reputed brand. The LAST THING you would want to ruin yur trek is a broken shoe sole or torn boots! Since people generally don't carry spare boots along for a trek, it is wise to select the right product from a reputed brand.

#4 - Sole Type and Sizes

Choosing the right kind of sole on your hiking boots depends on whether you want to walk on slippery rocks like on a beach / in wet weather; or dry gravel and sand! Remember, desert trekking is VERY different from a hike up a hillside. The "Tread" or cut on the underside of the sole is also extremely important. Deep treads and hard rubber soles are better for hiking boots meant to last dry and rough terrain; while smaller treads and soft rubber soles grip wet, smooth rocks and boulders better.

#5 - Guarantees

Most brands selling hiking boots provide guarantee on their footwear between 3 to 5 years. However, such a "guarantee" will be practically useless if you have a torn boot on your trek! It's not practical to carry back a damaged boot from your trek for a replacement either; so the smart choice is to buy a pair that you can depend upon to be hardy - regardless of guarantee papers or replacement assurances.