Hiking Season - Let's Get It Started!
by Stormy of Monod Sports Ltd
Shop online at: www.monodsports.com

Ahhhh, it is spring and thoughts of hikes along the Iceline Trail and scrambles up Mount Cory may be entering your mind. THEN you look at your boots -- is it time for a new pair?

Take an objective look at your trusty hiking companions (if you can!):

* Are the bottoms and lugs worn smooth from all those hikes you did in previous summers?
* Is the leather and/or synthetic upper cracking or wearing out?
* When you take a short hike in the boots, do they "feel" different? (Our feet change as we age and consequently, a boot which served you well for years can suddenly be too narrow or short!)
* Are the soles separating from the boot?

Now it comes down to the hard truth: should the boots stay or should they go?

Tune-up tips
Okay, let's say you have decided you can make the boots last through another season. Let's talk tune-up:

1- Look at the boot's foot beds. Are the insoles almost worn through? A new pair of quality insoles like Superfeet can make an older boot feel like new again!
2- Wash the boot exterior with warm water and a soft nylon brush. Allow the boots to dry before applying any waterproofing.
3- Even if you have Gore-Tex boots, you need to condition and waterproof the boot's leather exterior. AVOID oil-based waterproofing as they soften the leather and attract dirt; instead, opt for a water-based waterproofing like Granger's.

Buying new boots
Perhaps you've looked the ol' boots over and said, 'sorry babe, but it's time for a new pair'. So let's start with some Monod Sports suggestions:

• Because each foot can be a different size, always try on both boots!
• If your feet are different sizes, buy for the larger foot and use insoles such as Superfeet to accommodate the difference.
• The best time to try on boots is after being on your feet all day.
• Bring in your usual hiking socks and any special insoles you may use.
• Lace the boot from the toe box up to the top, making sure not to pull it too tight nor allow it to be too loose.
• After lacing it up, your heel should feel snug in the heel cup while your toes should have some "wiggle" room.
• Your heel should not slip significantly when walking up stairs or a ramp.
• Your toes should not bang against the front of the boots when walking downhill.

Okay, almost done now!! Once you get the boots home:

• Take the time to walk around the house in them for a day or two just to make sure they are right for you.
• If you bought stiffer boots (once you've decided they're the boot for you), wear those boots as much as possible BEFORE you plan a big trip.
• Use the tune-up tips outlined above to keep the boots looking good for years.

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