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For anyone planning long walks or hikes, footwear is the most
important item of equipment to consider.
If you're going to splash out on anything, invest in a good pair
of walking boots.
Try before you buy. Choose boots which fit correctly; they should
be cushioned, with adequate room at the front, with a gap of between
an eighth and half an inch between the longest toe and the boot,
when standing. The heel should not slip up over a quarter of an
inch and the ball of the foot should be a comfortable fit at the
widest part.
Boots which feel a bit uncomfortable in the shop will feel a
lot worse after a day's walking! Take the socks you intend to
wear with you when trying boots on. Don't buy footwear solely
on price.
As there are so many different shapes and sizes of feet, so there
are manufacturers of lots of different types of boot. Stockists
of footwear will cater for all foot shapes, sizes and requirements
so it is best to try on a variety to get the best fit for you.
It is better to try a size larger than you would normally wear.
If necessary, insoles can be worn or thicker socks. Where possible,
wear the boots and walk in them long enough to be sure they fit
comfortably before buying.
All new footwear tends to feel stiff at first, until the material
softens - especially leather. It is therefore a good idea to wear
them in first, by going on shorter walks.
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