Looking for the perfect pair of winter hiking boots? It’s always important to take your time when choosing a new pair of hiking boots, however this is especially important when looking for a pair of boots that you can rely upon in winter weather. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pair of men’s or women’s winter hiking boots, these are the top 5 factors to consider:
Assess Traction & Grip
With winter weather comes snow, ice and many more slip hazards than we’re used to seeing in summer. That’s why it’s so important to look for good traction in your next pair of cold weather hiking boots. The shape and design of the tread will help to enhance grip. All LOWA sole units are specially designed to provide an exceptional level of traction. The LOWA Z8N Gore-Tex® C for example, is made using a LOWA® Tactical Z Trac® sole unit that provides enhanced grip and support when trekking on uneven terrain. The new LOWA Combat MK2 and Zephyr MK2 also feature their very own anti-slip soles - the new boots will be available to purchase from Taskforce soon.
Look For Waterproofing Properties
Another essential feature to look for in winter hiking boots is waterproofing qualities. You don’t want your feet getting wet from rain or snow. Not only is this cold and uncomfortable it’s also likely to cause soreness or injury. That’s why the best cold weather hiking boots are those that have been made using Gore-Tex®. This practical technology keeps water out of your boots whilst allowing moisture and sweat to escape the boot. Many LOWA boots are made using Gore-Tex® technology. Our top recommendations for winter hiking boots that benefit from this technology include the Zephyr Gore-Tex® Mid TF, the Innox Pro Gore-Tex® Mid TF, and the new LOWA boots that we mentioned a second ago.
Check The Boot Is Lightweight Yet Durable
Traction and waterproofing are both essential for keeping your feet protected from the elements. However, it’s also important to find a boot that is lightweight and will not weigh you down when trekking over long distances. Wearing heavy boots will cause you to become fatigued more quickly, making your hike more difficult and therefore less enjoyable. All LOWA boots are carefully designed to ensure they include all the supportive and protective features they need without compromising on an effortless, lightweight feel. The highest quality leather and materials are selected to make LOWA military boots using robust production methods, including an exclusive spray-on glueing process and cemented sole or slip-lasting construction.
Find A Boot That Is Supportive
Another key feature for any hiking boot is support. It’s essential that your winter hiking boots offer effective ankle support to prevent injury when walking on slippery or uneven terrain. During the production process, the uppers of LOWA boots are shaped precisely to ensure they offer users the exact support and comfort required. In addition to this, further support is provided by the technical sole units. For example, many LOWA military boots feature a PU cushioned midsole that provides extra comfort for users when exercising over long distances. The new Breacher range and Combat MK2 also benefit from innovative Ankle Shield, or AS® technology. A small circle of shock absorbing material known as Poron® is placed underneath the upper materials to absorb vibration and impact.
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Ensure Your Feet Are Comfortable
Last but certainly not least, it’s essential to ensure that the boot is comfortable. The properties that we’ve mentioned above will all affect comfort levels, however it’s also important to try the boot on for size and ensure your feet are feeling comfortable and supported. We recommend wearing your new pair of boots round the house for an hour to check for any signs of discomfort like pinching or rubbing - you can read more about how to check the fit of your LOWA military boots using our step-by-step fitting guide. LOWA choose materials that are durable yet flexible to ensure wearer’s comfort and include many additional features to benefit wearers, such as a Gore-Tex® extended comfort footwear lining including in many of their models, such as the Z8S.
For guidance on choosing the best winter hiking boots to suit your requirements this season please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by calling +44 (0)1752 344355 or emailing [email protected].
