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The right shoes for your feet can make all the difference for walking comfort. You should also have a variety of shoes to meet different climates and surfaces.
- Pavement: Athletic shoes do well on pavement. If your feet are feeling tired after you walk on concrete in malls or on sidewalks, you may want to look for shoes with some cushioning.
- Trail: If you walk on natural paths of dirt and rock, you may want more rugged shoes. Almost every brand of athletic shoes now has trail varieties. If you are still walking rather than backpacking, look for the lighter weight varieties and those with some flexibility. Many boots are very stiff and should be used when carrying a heavy load,
 but are not pleasant to wear for a day hike.
- Waterproof: Often you can find a pair of lightweight hiking shoes that are waterproof. You will pay more for this option, but it will help you keep walking through the dreary months and is a good investment. You can also invest in a silcone waterproofing spray to cover non- waterproof hiking boots.
Choosing the Right Shoes
 Hiking boots that are designed for day hiking and short trips, often with rugged-looking soles and outdoorsy colors are recommended. Designed to be breathable, comfortable, and cushioned, they sacrifice some support and durability compared to heavy boots. Hiking boots providing some ankle support are recommended.
The most important requirement is comfort. If the boots are not completely comfortable in the store, they will not be comfortable after 10 km. The best advice is that you try on boots at the end of the day when your feet are larger. Many people are quite satisfied with low cut boots to start with but higher boots will give better support on rocky ground. Expect to spend $150 to $200.
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