Walking Shoes and Zip off Trousers for the Great Outdoors
Walking shoes are an integral part of everyday use for hikers and ramblers and simply everyone that gets out there walking! Walking shoes are a lightweight and practical alternative to traditional walking boots. Technically speaking there is very little difference between walking shoes and walking boots; the main difference is pretty much the height of the heel. Because of this, walking shoes don’t offer as much ankle support so if you’re planning on going on long walks and hikes then a hiking boot would be better. However, on short walks, due to their lightweight composition walking shoes help to improve flexibility and movement.
Comfortable walking shoes
The soles of walking shoes vary hugely. A Phylon midsole aids cushioning, comfort and flexibility while walking or running. A rubber midsole is very hard and sturdy and will provide you with an incredibly durable piece of footwear, however it may not be the most comfortable when out walking and hiking for long periods of time! A walking shoe with a rubber midsole is perfect for everyday use including walking the dog across commons and parks or simply going about your day to day tasks. A moulded foot bed is also popular as this will curve with the natural line of your foot providing cushioning and comfort. Great walking shoes have a varied range of attributes to them including waterproofing, breathability, being lightweight and comfortable whilst being fashionable too! Walking shoes should also offer great grip and shock absorbers making them perfect for varied terrain both in the countryside and about town in the city!
Walking shoes technicality
A Frame flex midsole provides 3 dimensional support, rigidity and flex throughout the natural cycle of movement during walking or running. This is an great feature for walking shoes and offers extra support and comfort. A Vibram upper sole provides strength and durability as well as additional support. Lacing is often a key factor with walking shoes; metal eyelets offer a way of quick lacing and tightening the walking shoes. Whether you are walking and hiking in the mountains or mooching through the park, a toe rand is an important element with the aim of protecting the material at the front of the shoe from debris such as mud and stones.
Zip Off Trousers
I’m a great fan of the zip off trousers and if you’re a keen walker, hiker or trekker and aren’t in the know with these great garments then you need to get involved! Zip off trousers pretty much are what they say they are – they’re a pair of trousers that you can literally zip off; typically around the knee area, to create a pair of shorts. Zip off trousers are fantastic for walking and hiking in the summer months and during milder weather as you can begin your hike in trousers when it’s cooler and then easily zip off to shorts to remain comfortable and warm.
Due to the fact that zip off trousers are for walking, hiking and the like it makes sense that they are created out of lightweight fabrics, many of which make them quick drying. There are some good rip stop fabrics out there which are ideal for walking through thorn ridden areas and forests where your zip off trousers may be liable to nicks and tears from shrubs. Rip stop fabric will catch the tear and stop it from spreading – something you don’t always consider when you’re hiking through densely forested areas.
Many zip off trousers are designed for either trek, terrain and travel – simply varying on the style and fit that you require and prefer. The difference between trek trousers, terrain trousers and travel trousers is defined through the different lightweight fabrics and quick drying materials used to manufacture the zip off trousers.
Well designed zip off trousers usually offer plenty of pockets for hiking and walking accessories. Pockets on zip off trousers usually include large cargo pockets – perfect for maps, small water bottles and other larger items. These cargo pockets are often above the knee so continue to provide the added storage that these pockets provide if you choose to zip off and wear in the shorts style. Other pockets can often include back security zipped pockets and the standard hip pockets that many trousers offer.
When going for a walk it is important to pick the right Walking Shoes and Zip Off Trousers to have a comfortable and fun experience
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