Category: Outdoors for Beginners

Best Hiking Boots For Morton’s Neuroma:

Post author By Dylan
Post date November 16, 2022

Best Hiking Boots For Morton's Neuroma:

We all know that hiking boots are an absolutely essential piece of equipment and if you are someone who suffers from Morton’s Neuroma having the right kind of hiking shoes becomes even more important. As an orthopedic PA I have seen and treated patients with many foot ailments, including Morton’s Neuroma, and I’m going to break down what you should be looking for in a hiking boot as well as the best hiking boots for Morton’s Neuroma.

What Is Morton's Neuroma?

Mortons neuroma is a medical condition that typically causes pain in the ball of your foot, typically between the middle and right toes. People usually complain of a “pebble in their shoe” sensation due to a thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve. If you want to learn more about Morton’s Neuroma, you can do so here.

Treatment For Morton's Neuroma

Morton’s Neuroma is initially treated with NSAIDs, rest, ice, and the proper footwear. Be sure to go to your orthopedist or podiatrist to get an appropriate treatment plan for your needs.

What Should Someone With Morton's Neuroma Look For In A Hiking Boot?

If you are a hiker who has recently been diagnosed with Morton’s Neuroma, there is a good chance you will need to get a new pair of hiking boots. Before you purchase your next pair of boots, you should make sure they have the following features:

Buy a size bigger
A wide-toe box
A low heel shoe
Consider an insole with increased arch support. Consult your podiatrist or orthopedist for the best insole for you.

Go A Size Up In Your Boot Size:

If you are suffering from Morton’s Neuroma, you may need to consider going up a half or full size in your boot. The reason being is the more you hike, the more your foot will swell. A bigger shoe size will allow your foot to swell without compressing against the inside of the shoe, thus reducing the risk of the nerve compression that causes the symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma.

A Wide-Toe Box

A toe box is the width of the shoe from the ball of your foot to your toes. Because this is the region where the nerve lays, you want to look for a shoe that offers a bit more space in the portion of the boot.

Wear Low Heel Shoes

While this isn’t much of a concern when looking at hiking boots, it is certainly something to keep in mind with your day-to-day. Studies have linked high heels to an increased risk of developing Morton’s Neuroma. So if you are a woman who loves high heels, they will only worsen your symptoms of Mortons Neuroma.

Consider Insoles

Lastly, consider purchasing insoles for your hiking boots that add additional arch support. Insoles can help take the pressure off the nerve, which classically causes the pain associated with Morton’s Neuroma. Consult your doctor before using an insole to ensure that you use the best one for your condition and natural foot shape.

Best Hiking Boots For Morton's Neuroma:

Below are some of the best hiking boots for Morton’s Neuroma. They include shoes that come in a wide version with a wider-than-average toe box.

Teva Grandview GTX

The Teva Grandview GTX is an excellent hiking boot for those suffering from Morton’s Neuroma. With its wide-toe box, this goretex boot will keep you comfy and on the trail for miles.

Altra Lone Peak 6

If you prefer trail runners, look no further than the Altra Lone Peak 6. Its Wide toe base, plenty of cushion, and low heel make it a great hiking shoe for someone with Morton’s Neuroma.

Oboz Sawtooth

Not only does the Oboz Sawtooth come with a wide toe box, but the shoe is also available in a wide size allowing more room for swelling

What To Do If You Are Still Having Pain:

If you are still having despite getting the proper footwear and following the plan of your medical professional, I would recommend following up with your foot care specialist, as you may require a more invasive procedure such as a steroid injection.

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Outdoors for Beginners backpacking for beginners backpacking tools Gear Articles

7 Best Backpacking Tools:

Post author By Dylan
Post date November 7, 2022

Best Backpacking Tools

When going on a backpacking trip, it is essential to have the proper tools. During my first trek through the backcountry, I struggled with purchasing poor gear that would break down on me while on the trail. Fortunately, I’ve detailed the 7 best backpacking tools you need to bring on your next trek below.

Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool

A high-quality and sturdy multi-tool is a must whenever venturing into the backcountry. The uses for these are endless from preparing meals to fixing equipment. There are many varieties of multitools on the market but my pick is the Leatherman Wave!

Paracord:

Paracord is another must-have tool for any backpacking trip. Like the multitool paracord as many different utilities such as making a bear hang, setting up shelter, or even acting as a shoelace!

Bear Vault Bear Canister

Proper food storage is essential when going on a backpacking trip, especially in bear country. Although some parks will allow you to make a bear hang, this bear canister is an excellent catch-all for food storage since it is widely accepted in most of America’s national parks. To learn more about food storage, read “How To Store Food While Backpacking.“

Foxelli Headlamp

Honestly, you will likely be okay with any headlamp you purchase as it is a simple piece of technology (basically a flashlight on your head) but nevertheless an essential piece of equipment for hiking or setting up camp at night. Here is the one I have used that has served me well for the past six years:

Stuff Sack

This waterproof stuff sack is the perfect combination between a dry bag and a stuff sack. Use it to save space or to make a bear hang. Either way this is a must have tool for your next backpacking trip.

Garmin Watch

Okay, while this is a bit of a luxury item, I will NEVER be caught in the backcountry without my Garmin watch. It has so many incredible features, such as GPS navigation, activity recording, and remarkable battery life. A Garmin watch is more than worth the investment if you are a serious backpacker.

Anker Power Bank

A power bank is a must-have for all your electronics when out on the trail. Pictures are important! What I love about the Anker is that it can provide you with several charges and works excellently, especially on a multiday backpacking trip. Not only that but it is also lightweight and easy to pack!

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links, and if you go through them to make a purchase or a booking, I may earn a commission. Using these links DO NOT affect the cost of the product/booking. The price remains the same affiliate link or not.

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Outdoors for Beginners backpacking for beginners Clothing Gear Articles

5 Best Men’s Backpacking Clothes:

Post author By Dylan
Post date November 7, 2022

Best Men's Backpacking Clothes:

Having the right gear is essential to any backpacking trip, and one of the most critical pieces of equipment for any backpacking trip is the clothes you wear. Remember that different trips may require other clothing depending on the environment, time of year, and weather conditions. But below are some of the best men’s backpacking clothes out on the market today!

The North Face Sierra Peak Down Hoodie

Down jackets are a must whenever you hit the backcountry, and my favorite is this north face. With an 800 fill count and its packability makes, it a must to keep you warm while backpacking.

Prana Men's Stretch Zion Pant

Easily one of the best investments you can make. Prana makes the best hiking pants. Not only are they incredibly comfortable, but they are sturdy. I have owned these pants for the past six years without so much as one hole in them!

Columbia Men's Watertight Rain Jacket:

You always need a rain jacket when you are out on the trail regardless if you are doing a day hike or a multi day backpacking trip. This Columbia men’s rain racket is light-weight comfortable and packs down easily.

Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Shirt

Okay, next up is the hiking shirt. So, to be honest with these, you can go with any breathable material, such as polyester or nylon. But I love this Under Armour Men’s T-Shirt. It’s lightweight, breathable, and affordable.

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

You need hiking socks! If you don’t believe that then read through my article “Are Hiking Socks Necessary 5 Reasons Why You Need A Pair.” I absolutely love the Darn Tough brand because of its variety of SKU’s, comfort, warmth, and not to mention they have a LIFETIME WARRANTY! If you do not already own a pair of these, you have to try them out.

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How To Keep Sand, Rocks, And Dirt Out Of Your Hiking Boots:

Post author By Dylan
Post date October 24, 2022

How To Keep Sand, Rocks, and Dirt Out Of Your Hiking Boots

Imagine you are hiking through a beautiful valley with pristine rivers flowing, wildflowers blooming, and trees blowing in the wind, then OW! You feel a sharp pain in your foot and realize an interloper is in your boot, causing you pain. As a result, you must stop your peaceful walk to remove your boot to get that rock, stick, or sand out of your shoe.

We’ve all been there. Having a lovely hike through the woods interrupted by getting debris in your boot is a pain! So the million-dollar question is how to keep sand, rocks, and dirt out of your hiking boots?!

Here are some tips on how to keep sand, rocks, and out of your hiking boots:

Use ankle gaiters
Wear high-cut boots
Hike with proper gait
Use stirrups
Make a DIY sock gaiter

Keep Rocks Out Of Your Hiking Boots With Ankle Gaiters:

For every good hiking boot or trail runner, you should also have a high-quality gaiter to help keep rocks and sand out of your hiking boot. Ankle gaiters are essentially covers that go from your ankles to your boot, creating a seal to prevent sand, rock, or dirt from entering your boot and causing your shoe pain. There are several different kinds of gaiters out there, such as:

Hiking Gaiters: These are usually lightweight and are designed to keep rocks and other debris out of your hiking boots. Some of these gaiters can be waterproof, and those can protect against rain and snow. Hiking gaiters are great for day hikes and backpacking trips alike.

Mountaineering Gaiters: Mountaineering gaiters are a higher cut gaiter meant to protect against harsher conditions, including rain and snow. These gaiters typically have added insulative properties and are used in mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing.

Trail Running Gaiters: Trail running gaiters are ultralightweight gaiters used primarily for keeping debris out of your shoe. These are typically not waterproof, but their extremely light weight makes them ideal for trail runners, ultralight backpackers, or any hiker that hikes in trail runners.

Be aware that most hiking boots do not come with their gaiter, but fortunately, you can pick up a relatively inexpensive pair at amazon.

Higher Cut Boots

Another way to help keep pesty pebbles or sticks out of your hiking boots is by investing in a pair of higher-cut boots. Compared to a low-cut hiking boot, high-cut boots provide an additional barrier to entry for dirt and other debris. This is accomplished by higher-cut boots resting above the ankle joint, making it more difficult for rocks and debris that are kicked up to land in your shoe.

Proper Gait:

The best boots in the world won’t protect your foot if you aren’t walking correctly. If you are walking with a limp or dragging your foot, you will likely kick rocks and debris up, which will inevitably find their way into your boot. If you have a limp due to pain, I recommend not being on the trail and going to a doctor to figure out why you are limping.

If you are on a long hike, you may find yourself dragging your feet as you fatigue. This is a problem for two reasons. First, it can cause “toe bang hiking,” which is repetitively banging your toe against your boot. This action will not only cause pain, but it may even result in losing a toenail. Second, dragging your feet will inevitably knock up dirt or sand, which will get into your hiking boot and plague you with every step you take.

Also, if you walk with an uneven gait, you should see a medical professional. There may be a neurological or orthopedic issue that is causing your balance issues. Hiking with an uneven gait can cause falls and injury. While a fall may not be a big deal at home in the backcountry without access to emergency medical services and a far cry away from a medical facility, it can become especially dangerous.

Stirrups:

Stirrups are basically rubber bands that attach to each side of the bottom of your hiking pants and go around the bottom of your boot and can shield the space on the top of your hiking boot from dirt and debris. These work similarly to gaiters by acting as a mechanical barrier to keep out the elements.

DIY Sock Gaiter:

Another option to keep sand, rocks, and dirt out of your hiking boots is by making a DIY sock gaiter. Okay, bear with me. All you need is to take a large pair of socks, cut out the end where your toes go, and voila, you have your very own DIY sock gaiter! Just slip these on over your boot, and you are good to go!

Conclusion:

Getting rocks and other debris in your hiking boots can be a total pain, especially if you are on a backpacking trip. No one wants to take a bunch of breaks to empty their shoes in the middle of the trail. So I hope the above strategies will keep you comfortable and happy in your travels!