Articles: 11
A good pair of hiking boots will take you far and keep your feet happy. To help you on your journey, this series covers everything from choosing the right boots and breaking them in to lacing them up and keeping them clean.
Buying Advice
Use our guide to find the right hiking footwear for you, including hiking boots and hiking shoes suitable for day hikes, backpacking, mountaineering and more. Learn more about boot and shoe types, components, materials and fit.
Gear Guides
Our testers spent months putting the best hiking and backpacking boots sold at REI through their paces. These 9 are the best hiking, thru-hiking and backpacking boots.
Care and Repair
Learn how to break in a new pair of hiking boots so you can maximize your comfort along the trail.
Skills
Increase comfort on the trail by learning simple boot lacing techniques that help you deal with heel slipping, pressure points and toe pain.
Care and Repair
With proper cleaning and care, your hiking boots will last you for many years and many miles along the trail.
Care and Repair
Leather boots last longer and perform better if you keep them clean and conditioned. We explain the supplies you need and how to use them.
Care and Repair
Learn how to tell when your hiking boots' durable water repellent (DWR) needs renewing and how you can restore their waterproof performance.
Buying Advice
Choosing the right hiking socks will keep your feet happy during the long haul. This article covers sock height, cushioning, fabric and fit.
Buying Advice
Insoles for your boots or shoes can improve fit and alleviate foot problems. This article explains the basics on how to choose a pair.
Buying Advice
Do you need big beefy boots to go hiking? Or will a pair of trail runners do just fine? Our expert gives you the pros and cons.
Skills
Learn the conditions that cause blisters, how to prevent blisters from happening and how to treat them after they form.