The quality of the hiking shoes and boots will determine how happy and comfortable you are on the trail. Similarly, your work boots mean the difference between enjoying your responsibilities at work or being miserable. Moreover, it determines your safety at work.
Whichever pair you wish to buy, you must consider several factors. For example, if you want work boots, you need to consider how long you will wear them each day, their impact on your back, knees, and ankles, and the safety features they possess.
Below, we look at the differences between hiking shoes and work boots. We will also point out things to look for when buying hiking and working boots.
The Difference Between Hiking and Work Boots
Do you need to buy a pair of hiking boots if you have work boots? There is nothing wrong with having a pair of hiking and work boots. But, you can use your work boots to go hiking.
However, you need to understand that work boots are heavier and stiffer. This is a good thing because they protect your foot from impacts, punctures, and cuts. You can wear work boots to hiking as long as they have good outer soles to promote grip as you maneuver through trails.
However, if your work boots are heavy, you will get tired quickly. That is why it is essential to use the proper hiking boots, especially if you plan to hike more. Here are some key differences between hiking and work boots and what to look for when buying any shoes.
1. Traction
Both hiking and work boots have slip-resistant lug soles. The difference is in the construction and shape.
Hiking shoes feature random patterns ideal for uneven grounds. Ideally, hiking boots have added tractions compared to work boots. So, if you plan to hike a few times a year, consider buying hiking boots that will see you through slimy algae, rocky floors, and uneven grounds.
2. Weight
Another difference is the weight. Ideally, hiking boots are lighter and flexible, while work boots are not. Wearing work boots to hiking will wear you down with every mile you cover. Unfortunately, this will be problematic, and you might not enjoy your hike.
Interestingly, you can wear your hiking boots to work if you do not handle heavy objects that might fall on your feet. But, if your work involves heavy lifting, consider work boots as they provide better protection.
3. Flexibility
Work boots are designed to protect you. So, you might have stepped on a nail once without realizing it because it did not penetrate to your feet. While the thick rubber sole can protect you, they are not flexible.
On the other hand, hiking boots foam insoles and water-resistant rubber outsoles. The foam is light and flexible and conforms to your feet gradually. The flexibility equals stability which makes it better when hiking.
Get a Pair of Nice Hiking Shoes and Boots
The best hiking boots are lightweight, flexible, and with more tractions. This makes your hiking experience better and more enjoyable.
At Nord Trail Outdoor Adventure Footwear, we pride ourselves on extensive knowledge about hiking and work boots. We also sell different types of hiking boots and other footwear. Contact us at (909) 390 – 3000 to order or inquire more about our shoes.
Reference:
https://nordtrailadventure.com/collections/hiking
