If you’re into hiking, bushwalking and outdoor adventures, you’re in good company. Our principal podiatrist, Trevor Lane, is also an enthusiast and has trekked mountainous terrain, snowfields and in rainforests!
Bushwalks in the Redlands
There’s also some great hiking tracks in the Redlands, suitable for all ages and stages, if you’re keen to go exploring on foot. For example:
Redlands Track Park
This area of bushland stretches from Cleveland to Alexandra Hills and Thornlands, and is criss-crossed with hiking paths, as well as tracks for bikes and horses
Indigiscapes
For rookie bushwalkers, there are three easy trails to try at Indiscapes in Capalaba with two suitable for prams and wheelchairs. All are less than 20 minutes in duration and a great way to enjoy the natural environment.
Venman Bushland Reserve
On West Mount Cotton Road, you’ll find the Venman Bushland Reserve. There’s half a dozen trails to choose from, rated from easy to moderate – some with a few steep climbs and creeks to cross. All are under 10km in distance.
Bayview Conservation Park
In Redland Bay you’ll find Bayview Conservation Park, which is popular with hikers, bike and horse riders. Facilities include toilets and a picnic area.
You’ll find plenty of information on these, and other walks, on the Redland City Council website.
As a trekking enthusiast from way back, and with a special interest in sports podiatry, Trevor knows firsthand the difference that a good pair of hiking boots can make: blisters, or bliss!
The Best Hiking Boots
The best hiking boots for you, may be completely different to what your mate wears.
And there are so many different types to choose from – trail boots and mountaineering boots; high cut, low cut, mid cut; leather or synthetic.
So here are a few tips to help you determine the best hiking boots for your needs.
How Will You Be Using Your Hiking Boots?
If you prefer shorter walks on well-constructed paths, a low cut hiking shoe should meet your needs.
Heading out for an all day hike with a lightly loaded backpack? Then a mid-to-high cut day hiking boot should provide you with the perfect combination of support and flexibility.
If a 2 week trek through rugged terrain is more your speed, look for backpacking boots with stiffer midsoles, and a high cut, as they offer superior support and protection. These will also serve you well if you are hiking in snowy and icy conditions, as crampons work best with rigid soled boots. However they do take a while to break in – something that is best achieved gradually, before you set off on your next trip!
The 3 Main Components of Hiking Boots
1 – The sole: While it’s certainly not the only component to consider, start by examining the sole of the boot. The lug pattern will determine your traction and grip – the greater the spacing, the better the traction and mud dispersion. Also, look for a heel brake on the outside back corner of the boot. Good boots will have a heel zone separate to the rest of the boot, to provide grip particularly during steep descents.
2 – Midsole: The midsole, like the middle child, is often overlooked. The midsole provides cushioning and support; if you are hiking longer distances and over more difficult terrain, a firmer midsole made of polyurethane will give your ankle and foot more support, and less fatigue. For less strenuous hikes, a midsole made of EVA will be comfortable.
3 – The Uppers: Again, your choice of upper material will depend on how you will be using your hiking boots. In rain and snow you will truly appreciate waterproof membranes like Gore-tex; leather may be the best option for challenging terrain; while synthetic might be a more affordable option for the casual hiker.
Getting the Best Fit
If you are investing in a pair of good hiking boots, here are some tips to help you get the best fit possible:
- A good boot should fit your foot snugly, without being tight. Make sure the boot is wide enough in the toe box area, that you can still wiggle all your toes.
- It’s best to time your boot fitting for afternoon or evening, as our feet tend to swell over the course of the day.
- If you wear orthotics, make sure you bring them to the fitting, as well as the socks you are planning to wear when hiking. From a podiatrist’s point of view, the style and fabric of Injinji toe socks not only optimises your foot’s biomechanics, it also creates a more comfortable – and less sweaty – environment within your boots when hiking.
- Take your time – Walk in the boot around the store, and on different angles and gradients (if at all possible) to test how your foot is sitting in the shoe. Check if the seams, stitching, or any other areas are rubbing on your foot, and that there is sufficient width.
- When it comes to length, your toes should not touch the end of the toe box: your longest toe should be a thumb width from the end of the toe box.
- Your boot lacing technique can help or hinder the fit. If you have narrow heels for example, the heel lock technique will stop your toes sliding forward in the shoe when descending, preventing you from bruising and damaging your toe nails.
Breaking in your Hiking Boots
Finally, make sure you break in your boots before heading off the beaten track. Hiking shoes with their lower cut and softer midsole may be comfortable from the very first wear, but the more rugged models usually take time to soften and conform to your feet. Just remember that the breaking in process does not convert a poor fit into a good fit.
Hiking Boots in the Redlands
At Trevor Lane Podiatry, our footwear range includes a European brand called Ecco, with styles including hiking shoes and back country leather high boots. I have worn a high cut Ecco hiking boot in Gore-tex, the Expedition, on hikes in the Snowy Mountains, Europe, and the Overland Track in Tasmania, and highly recommend them.
Wanting to step up (excuse the pun!) your walking and hiking? If you live in the Redlands, Trevor Lane Podiatry is your local podiatrist clinic, situated in Birkdale. We’d love to assist you with choosing the best hiking boots or shoes for your needs, boot lacing techniques, advice and exercises to help prepare your feet and legs for your next hike or overland adventure. Call our friendly team today on 3207 4736 or make an appointment 24/7 via our secure online booking system.