Taking a nice, leisurely hike can be a great way to enjoy the great outdoors, while also getting in some exercise. But what defines leisurely? Is it the distance? The pace? The attire? All three?
When you are going on a hike, there are various pieces of apparel and equipment that you will need to stay safe and protected. One of the most important parts is a pair of quality hiking shoes. The right boots should be supportive and comfortable. In fact, some people find them to be so comfy that they will consider wearing hiking boots casually… day in and day out.
But is this a good idea? It is important to consider various factors when determining if you should wear this type of footwear casually or not.
Can You War Hiking Boots Casually Every Day?
Generally speaking, our answer is “no”. You probably shouldn’t wear your hiking boots all of the time. While it’s true that the ankle and foot support they provide make it tempting to do so, there are factors to consider that suggest the opposite.
Hiking Boots Will Wear Out with Daily Use
One of the reasons why people may not want to wear them on a daily basis is because they can be more expensive than other types of shoes and wearing them daily can lead to the boots being worn out. If you wear your boots only when hiking, they can last a long time. However, when wearing them on a daily basis, you will put a lot of additional miles on them. This could lead to them wearing out more quickly.
Dress Code Challenges
Another factor that can impact your ability to wear hiking boots on a daily basis is the dress code. Depending on the type of work that you do, there is likely a dress code that you need to follow. In practically all situations, the types of shoes that you need to wear will not include hiking boots. Due to this, you will not be able to use them during professional hours.
Further, there are many activities you can enjoy during your time away from work in which wearing hiking boots may not be permitted. This can include if you go out to a restaurant, head to a local gym to run or play basketball, or are heading to a party where certain attire is necessary.
Benefits of Hiking Boots are Not Necessary for Most Situations
You can also find that using hiking boots on a daily basis is not necessary. Hiking boots are ideal as they provide great traction, ankle support, and can protect your ankles from poisonous plants or animal bites. In a typical everyday setting, you are not taking on the same risks as you would when hiking so these additional benefits and forms of protection are not necessary.
Reasons Why You Could Wear Hiking Boots
While most people will not need to wear hiking boots on a daily basis, there are situations in which it would make sense for someone to wear this footwear regularly.
You Need Ankle Support
One of the reasons someone may want to wear hiking boots on a regular basis is to receive the ankle support that the shoes provide. If you have recently suffered a twisted or sprained ankle, ensuring that you continue to have support is helpful and can aid in your recovery. When you continue to wear hiking boots on a daily basis, it will provide the support that your ankle needs for you to feel secure.
Poor or Cold Weather
You also may consider wearing hiking boots if there is cold or rainy weather. If the weather is bad and you are walking through normal city streets, you can find that ice, rain, and snow can affect your traction. If you have a set of hiking boots on, it will help ensure that you are supported. This could allow you to avoid a slip and fall that otherwise could be damaging.
You Work in Casual Setting
While many people will work in an environment in which they need to wear more formal shoes, there are plenty of workplaces today that are far more casual than traditional offices. If you work in an environment in which you can wear whatever you want, hiking boots can be a good option. While you will need to be cognizant of the wear and tear that comes with regular use, hiking shoes can be comfortable and supportive in any environment.
Final Thoughts on Wearing Hiking Boots Casually
Hiking boots are a very important part of anyone’s apparel when going on a hike. While they can be a great thing to wear when walking outside and through challenging terrain, they may not be necessary in everyday casual settings. Cost, alone, can be a reason to argue against wearing your boots too often. It’s much less expensive to alternate sneakers or flats, then hiking boots.
That said, there are situations in which wearing these shoes on a daily basis could be a good idea. If your walk to work involves uneven terrain or unpredictable weather conditions, wearing boots could be a smart move.
