If you're a walker, or if you're contemplating taking up walking for a hobby, then acquiring the right footwear is critical. So what do you want and how do you set about getting it. The kind of shoe or boot Firstly you should decide on the type of walking that intend to do. Are you looking at short walks of up to 5 miles (2 hours), medium walks of up to about 12 miles (4 to 5 hours), or far more extended walks that take a day or even longer. Secondly, what type of terrain do you intend to walk on? Will you be hiking on great high quality paths and fairly level ground, or do you intend to take on the challenge of rough terrain and steep slopes where the footing is uneven and also the path is rough. If your walking might be of a short to medium duration and you only intend to walk on very good high quality paths, then you may well be OK with what is occasionally referred to as a "day hiker". This is more of a shoe than a boot and, although it has a stiffer sole, a extra contoured tread and enhanced support, it looks something like a sneaker (trainer). This type of shoe is comfortable and fine for general walking. In case you intend to take on longer walks and walks where the ground will throw up an uneven surface, loose rocks or inclines and declines, then you will need a hiking boot. A hiking boot has a extremely stiff sole, an "upper" that extends to (and sometimes beyond) the ankle and a structural shank (the component of the shoe that runs up above the heel). This kind of footwear provides a high level of support to the feet and makes walking of a longer duration, or walking on uneven ground, a lot far more comfortable. Material Not too lengthy ago leather was the only choice for severe walking shoes and hiking boots, but these days you'll find a range of diverse synthetic fabrics that provide waterproof protection plus high levels of breathe-ability. The advantages of a waterproof shoe are pretty obvious, but having shoes that not only maintain water out, but which also let water vapour (sweat) escape can enhance foot comfort considerably. These shoes use unique fabrics and, when combined with thick breathable walking socks, they make sure that the feet are kept fresh and dry which in turn prevents blisters and soreness. Shoe size Buying walking boots or hikers that are the right size is crucial and here you need to be guided by how they really feel instead of how they look or your "regular" shoe size (measurement).