Be sure that you’re wearing the proper footwear for mountsain trekking

Ever wondered if the boots you’ve packed for your next hiking trip are just right for the task at hand? Worry no more with these handy suggestions from our experts.

What type of boots is best for an extended trek in the Peruvian Andes?

When it comes to boots, there’s a wide range of choices based on the type and intensity of the hike you’re planning on doing. Look for good quality backpacking boots when you shop fortrekking or hiking footwear.

Backpacking boots designed to carry heavier loads on multiday trips are the best option. The high cut wraps around the ankle to provide support. They also offer extra durability.

Since you’ll be walking for long distances on your trek aroundMount Ausangate, this is the type of boots you should bring with you.

What to look for when you’re trying on new backpackingboots.

You’ll wear your boots for long periods of time, so take your time trying them on at the store, with the help of aknowledgeable store assistant.

As a good rule of thumb, backpacking boots should feel snug all around your foot, without any tightness. They should giveyou enough room up front to freely wiggle your toes.

If possible, try them on at the end of the day when your feet are more swollen from the day’s walking, and wear the type of socks that you’ll be bringing to hike in.

When buying boots, know your shoe size and give them a good tryout

This may seem like a given, but it’s really important for you to accurately know your shoe size when buying boots.

Boots that are too big or too small will hinder your ability to walk long distances, and could give you blisters and make the experience quite uncomfortable. When buying boots, try them on with the right socks and walk in them for as much time and distance as possible.

Try to find stairs to walk up and down several times at different paces. If you have a nearby sloped area, try walking on that. Kneel down, stretch them and really push the boots while trying them on. Carefully feel how they fit and be sure of their comfort – don’t rush to buy.

No matter how hard you treat them at the store, the treatment they’ll receive while trekking at Ausangate will be several times tougher. Keep in mind that your boots should be just right for taking you on many hiking adventures over several years.

Be sure to check out more suggestions to help you make the most out of your next trip at high altitude. Please feel free to contact Andean Lodges for an extraordinary trekking experience in Peru’s magnificent Andes Mountains.