Here at ALTAI®, we have been in awe at the tireless frontline workers during this past year. To show our appreciation, we are taking $30 off all uniform style boots, which are our MFT100 series. If you are not a frontline worker yourself, share this with someone you know who deserves acknowledgement for their bravery and commitment.
When it comes to hiking gear, everyone has preferences. One thing almost all hikers have in common is the belief that hiking boots are superior to sneakers. Sneakers are comfortable; everyone has a pair. Even though sneakers are common for fitness purposes, hiking boots are the better option for hiking. See our guide if you have any doubts: there are many reasons to wear hiking boots instead of sneakers.
Support is one of the many reasons to wear hiking boots instead of sneakers. Although sneakers are advertised as comfortable, wearing sneaks for an extended period can become uncomfortable. This is because sneakers are not designed for long-time wear. Hiking boots are designed to support the foot and ankle all day. Hiking boots provide added ankle support, which isn’t an option with sneakers. Hiking on the uneven ground causes damage to the ankles, so wearing hiking boots provides support that isn’t possible with sneakers. Hiking boots are made to fit just as comfortably as sneakers, but with added support.
Hiking boots are the preferred option for hiking footwear because of their versatility. Sneakers might work for a short hike in the summer, but hiking boots work in any weather. Imagine hiking in the snow wearing sneakers. That’s a big mistake; you could get frostbite or slip on ice. Hiking boots have many features that keep you safe and functional all year long, including being waterproof and breathable, making for an all-around better choice when it comes to hiking footwear.
Think about how often you buy sneakers. Hiking boots are made to last, unlike sneakers that fall apart after a few months use. Hiking boots are durable because they’re made to keep you safe while braving the elements. Whether hiking on a trail or a rocky terrain, hiking boots are deigned to keep you safe. Buying new sneakers means wearing them a few times, regardless of the discomfort, to break them in. If you opt for hiking boots, though, this is no longer necessary. One pair of hiking boots will last much longer than a pair of sneakers, which means no breaking in uncomfortable shoes.
Altai’s ® waterproof insulated hiking boots are perfect for any hiking trip. Altai® boots are made with Super Fabric® material which is durable, lightweight, water resistant, and stain resistant. Our innovative boots are so comfortable you’ll wonder why you didn’t own them sooner. Feel free to give us a call with any questions you may have along the way.
Winter requires many people to change their wardrobe, including their shoes. In the winter, many people switch out their shoes for boots. Boots have many features that keep the feet warm in cold temperatures. Certain boots are also designed to function in the snow. Knowing what features you are looking for can help narrow down the choices when trying to find the right pair of boots. Keep reading to learn the key things to look for when purchasing winter boots.
There are many things to consider when purchasing winter boots. When looking at the various options to choose from, the first thing that stands out is usually the material. Some boots are a fabric material, whereas other boots have a stronger exterior. Choosing the desired material depends on preference, but a strong exterior tends to be more functional than a soft exterior, such as fabric. An example of a hard-exterior boot is leather or a scuff-resistant material. Make sure to look for a pair of boots that are breathable, as well. Having a breathable pair of boots is important so that your feet don’t overheat.
When thinking about the preferred material for winter boots, consider the chance of precipitation. One of the key things to look for when purchasing winter boots is whether they are waterproof. If you live in a place where it snows, then you must get waterproof boots. Boots that are not waterproof are extremely uncomfortable to wear in the snow. This is because the moisture is absorbed into the fabric of the boot, making the boot damp or wet. Having quick-drying boots is also important, especially if there is snow or rain present. There are many reasons waterproof boots are ideal, especially if you live or work in a snowy or rainy climate.
Choosing the right color is another aspect of buying winter boots that is should be considered. There are many different colors on the market, which can make the decision even more difficult. Deciding on a color for winter boots is simple when you know the function of the boots. If you work outside or spend time working near debris, that is something to take into consideration when choosing a color. Choosing a dark color is the best option when you wear the winter boots daily. Although light-colored boots can be alluring, light color is not practical in most settings. A light color can appear worn over time due to debris or precipitation.
Keeping it simple is an easy way to ensure the winter boots remain in good condition. Choosing a dark color, like black, ensures that the external elements don’t affect the appearance of the boots. Black boots are the preferred option because the color won’t change much over time. A light color would get dirty and look less professional over time. Choosing a black boot keeps you looking polished and professional, whereas a lighter pair that is dirty could make you look less put together. Having dark laces and soles is also important because the whole shoe is exposed to the outside elements. Another suggestion is looking for a pair of boots that are stain-resistant. This ensures that the boots remain in good condition all season.
Standing all day requires comfortable shoes, so many people choose to wear sneakers. Sneakers are not an optimal choice due to the lack of ankle support. During the winter, there is also a need for coverage and protection from precipitation. If you stand for a long duration of time during the day, then you need a pair of winter boots that offers coverage and good support. Having good support is crucial when purchasing winter boots because many people fail to support the ankle or the arch, causing issues like plantar fasciitis. One of the things to look for in winter boots is an appropriate height. You should purchase boots that are high enough to provide ankle support. Choosing winter boots that are above the ankle can keep your ankle supported all day. Having a supported ankle is important because the position of the ankle determines how you stand.
Buying winter boots is an investment. It may be tempting to get a cheap pair of boots to save some money, but this is strongly advised against. Investing in a quality pair of boots is the best thing for your comfort. Cheap does not necessarily mean price. When purchasing a pair of winter boots, it is smart to investigate the overall quality. Look at the stitching on the exterior of the boot. If the stitching is messy, then the boot is probably not high-quality. You should also investigate the material of the boot. Good quality material feels strong but also comfortable, and high-quality boots are typically very comfortable.
Trying on the boots is obviously the best way to tell if they are comfortable, but there are other ways to determine this. Checking the website for testimonials or reviews is a great way to see how other people like the boots. Hearing another person explain the features and what they enjoyed about the boots is usually one of the best ways to determine whether a boot is of good quality. Seeing the boots in a video or on someone can also give you an idea of how they fit and how wearing them feels.
The last thing to consider when purchasing winter boots is how the shoe is put on. Thinking about the closure feature is important because no one wants to struggle to get their shoes on and off. Many boots are slip-on which provides support, but they are difficult to get on and off. Purchasing a pair of boots with a functional closure is essential. A zipper is useful to have to winter boots because it makes pulling the boots on and off easily. The lightweight duty boots from Altai® are ideal because they have the perfect functional closure. The YKK® side zipper makes it easy to get the boots on and off, while also providing ankle and leg support.
Altai® tactical boots are superior due to the various features that make our boots comfortable and functional. Our patented SuperFabric® materials provide the strong scuff resistance you need. This material is innovative, breathable, and lightweight. Altai® waterproof boots are as comfortable as sneakers with the support you need. Check out our website and give us a call if you have any questions.
Backpacking is an experience that many people enjoy as they take in the beautiful scenery. Backpacking in the winter provides the same beauty as in the summer, but it also includes a few additional risks from low temperatures and precipitation. Backpacking in the winter can be enjoyable, but only if you make the proper preparations. Keep reading if you’re interested in picking up a few safety tips for backpacking in the winter.
Many people find solitude while backpacking. It can be a peaceful activity, but during the winter, you should avoid going alone. Reduced visibility and plunging temperatures make a solo trek more difficult. Going with someone else provides added safety because more than one person can see hazards. Additionally, having someone with you is essential if you get hurt or lost. If you must go alone, tell family or friends where you’re going and when you plan to return. You should also mention a rough outline of the trail you plan to take, as well as what you are wearing. Although they may sound extreme, these tips could save your life.
Staying hydrated is one of the tips for backpacking safely in the winter that many people overlook. In the winter, as with any other season, staying hydrated is just as important as staying warm and dry. Wearing layers keeps you warm, but sweating can dehydrate the body. Drinking water while backpacking will give your body the hydration it needs to function. Keep water close to the body while hiking—inside your coat, if possible—to prevent it from freezing. Staying hydrated is essential to your health and, therefore, to your safety, so don’t forget to hydrate while backpacking.
Wearing the proper gear is one of the best tips for backpacking safely in the winter. Snow can coat the scenery, which makes it look beautiful; however, this also hides hazards and makes the trail slippery. The low temperatures can make staying warm while backpacking more difficult as well. Investing in a pair of quality hiking boots is fundamental because you want to feel protected and comfortable while backpacking.
Consider Altai® outdoor boots if you prioritize safety and comfort. Our waterproof boots keep your feet dry while remaining breathable. Lightweight and durable, they’re perfect for backpacking in the winter, so check out our website before you hit the trails.
If you work on your feet all day, then you know the importance of wearing the right shoes. There is nothing worse than working all day while wearing uncomfortable shoes. Knowing when to replace your work boots is crucial to your comfort and safety. Follow these tips to know when it is time for a new pair of work boots.
Surface holes are the most obvious indication that work boots need to be replaced. External wear and tear is damaging to the overall safety of the boot. One of the hazards associated with wearing boots with holes is that something could puncture the foot. If there is a hole in someone’s work boot, rocks or sharp debris could make its way into the boot. This would make wearing the boots extremely uncomfortable while working.
Another risk of working in boots with holes is that water or chemicals could get into the boot. This could cause damage to the boot or injury to the foot. Lastly, holes can alter the fit of the boot. Having a boot that fits perfectly is important because foot protection must be secure around the foot.
Damaged soles are another indication that work boots must be replaced. If the soles on a pair of boots are damaged in any way, they should be replaced immediately. This is especially true for slip-resistant soles because they are designed for your safety. It is important to note that damaged soles do not function properly. Having cracked or worn soles can affect your balance, which presents a potential hazard.
A tip for staying on top of this is by checking the treads on the soles to see whether they are worn. If the treads are worn, then the boots are not functioning to their full capacity which means it is time for new work boots.
Knowing when to replace your work boots is not obvious by their appearance alone. Works boots are designed to keep workers safe, but work boots are also meant to support the foot. Having the foot properly supported benefits the entire body—work boots must provide the proper support. Damaged work boots are uncomfortable to wear as they cause blisters and sore feet. Wearing boots that are damaged can also cause back and leg pain. If you notice body pain while working that is not caused by an accident or new activity, then it may be time for a pair of new work boots. Body pain or random aches are a sign that your work boots need to be replaced.
Knowing when to replace work boots is essential to an individual’s safety and comfortability. Check out ALTAI™ for waterproof rugged work boots that are lightweight, durable, and breathable.
All boots are not the same, as different activities call for different features in footwear. As you decide between the assorted products available to you, knowing what to expect from common boot categories can help you find the right fit for you. Learn the difference between hiking and work boots with the information we share here.
Flexibility is one major point of differentiation between boots. For hiking boots, stability on uneven ground is the highest priority since users will wear them on rocky terrain. For this reason, hiking boot soles are flexible, allowing them to distribute weight more evenly, protect feet from sharp stones, and keep you comfortable. In contrast, work boot soles are thicker and more rigid. While this makes them somewhat harder on the feet, it is necessary to keep sharp nails from puncturing them.
Another difference between hiking and work boots is in their level of traction. A strong grip is necessary for both hiking and work scenarios, but the specific patterns that boots possess will vary depending on which activity the manufacturer made them for. If you look at the patterns on a hiking boot sole, you’ll notice that they are highly diverse. Bumps and grooves point in all directions and come in many shapes and sizes within a single boot. This variety allows them to maintain traction when you walk over snow, ice, mud, rocks, and slimy plant matter. Work boots, on the other hand, have more regular lug patterns that offer adequate slip resistance for the jobsite but not as much as the lugs on hiking boots. Work boot traction stands up to bad weather and water.
Hiking and work boots diverge in weight because of the safety features that they have. Since hikers will carry backpacks while walking over unpaved and bumpy earth, they have rubber reinforcement or toecaps at the front to reduce the likelihood of tripping. At the same time, though, hiking boots must remain lightweight so that people don’t become over-exhausted while wearing them. Work boots need to act as armor because the people who use them may stand and walk near heavy objects, tools, and machinery. They frequently contain composite or steel toes to prevent foot injuries, which increases their weight.
To find versatile waterproof outdoor boots and work boots, visit ALTAI™ today online. We have several models of varying heights that are lightweight and robust for physically demanding situations.
Going hiking in the cold is appealing for some because of the changing scenery in many regions. However, it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. Your primary concern becomes staying warm while you are outside, which requires you to take multiple preemptive measures to avoid injuries or sicknesses that the unforgiving conditions can cause. Following these tips for staying warm while hiking should keep you safe.
Food and drinks are essential supplies on any hike, but in the cold, they become even more important. The reason for this is that eating causes your body’s activity to heighten naturally as it works to digest the food. The byproduct of your metabolism is heat, which will then make you feel warmer. Carry food items that are easy to take out and consume on the go, as stopping for every snack or meal can also make you feel colder. Hot drinks in insulated bottles will also aid you in fending off the freezing air.
Layering usually comes into the discussion when talking about hiking. Again, this becomes highly critical when you’re concerned about finding tips for staying warm while hiking. You need to have an outer shell jacket and pants that will block wind and moisture. Underneath this, you should wear an insulating mid-layer that traps heat. Against your skin, go for moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics or wool. Wetness can come both from the outside and from your own body, and staying wet for a long time will make you feel especially uncomfortable when temperatures are low.
Don’t forget to protect your extremities as well. You want to stop frostbite before it has a chance to set in. Seek to cover up any exposed skin with additional gear that you wouldn’t normally have with you while hiking. To start with, you should put on a warm winter hat that covers the top of your head and ears. For the lower portion of your head and your neck, wear a neck gaiter. On your hands, it’s smart to layer insulating fleece gloves under shell gloves that block out moisture. Guarding your feet is a matter of combining thick wool or synthetic socks with waterproof boots. Make sure the extra sock thickness isn’t cutting off circulation to your feet, as this is dangerous in the cold, and bring back up socks just in case your primary ones get wet.
You can get military-grade boots that have rugged durability, high traction, comfort, and waterproof materials for your next cold-weather hike at ALTAI™. Don’t hesitate to call us today!
While you’re working, you may get your boots soaked walking in the rain or stepping through puddles. When this happens, you need to find an efficient method to dry them completely so they’re ready the next day. Otherwise, your boots can cause general discomfort and blistering. They may also come to contain bacteria that could cause feet infections. We show you how to dry work boots with three different tried-and-true techniques you can easily do at home.
Air circulation aids the drying process because it moves water particles away from the wet object. Since this is the case, placing your boots in front of a fan can get them back into a wearable state quickly. If you want to know how to dry boots fast, learn this technique. Before you begin, take off the laces and foam insole, which you can place in a clothes dryer safely. (You should also clean your boots to prevent mud from damaging them as they dry.)
With this done, put your boots on top of a towel, which will soak up any water drips. Bend wires—such as hanger wires—into “s” shapes. One end will hook into the fan’s exterior frame while the other will hold the boots by their openings. This position will allow the fan’s air to blow inside the boots. Leave this arrangement with the fan on its high setting overnight. Your boots should be good to go come morning.
Drying with a towel is suitable for thinner boots, so if you want to know how to make work boots last longer, this information is for you. As with the fan method for how to dry waterlogged work boots, you should remove the laces and insoles and clean your boots before starting. Then, take dry towels and stuff them into your boots. With the remaining part of the towel hanging out of them, wrap your boots completely. Place your boots like this in front of a fan and be sure to check on them occasionally until you go to bed. If you notice the towels are soaked through at any point, replace them with fresh ones.
This technique is almost identical to the towel drying method but utilizes newspapers to dry boots instead and forgoes the fan. After taking off the laces and insoles and cleaning your boots, stuff them with newspapers. Subsequently, you should completely wrap them with newspapers. Wait a few hours and replace the newspapers when they become drenched. Although this is more involved and may take longer than the fan method, the advantage of using this approach is your boots will maintain their form better since they aren’t hanging from wires. Moreover, leather boots won’t be in danger of drying excessively to the point of cracking if you learn how to dry your work boots correctly.
If dealing with cleaning and drying is challenging or inconvenient for you, consider getting waterproof construction boots from ALTAI™. Our boots are waterproof and quick-drying and will repel dirt easily.
Hiking is an activity that allows you to exercise while immersing yourself in remarkable natural landscapes. Much of your experience on each hiking trip that you take is determined by the particular trail you choose. With so many options frequently available across the country and even within the same location, however, you may not know how to best decide on which path to take. Take our tips for choosing a hiking trail as a trusty framework to work off of when you find yourself in this situation.
Trails can vary widely in terms of difficulty, and attempting one that is too challenging can potentially make your excursion more painful than enjoyable. You want a good trail for you—not an overly intimidating trial that you aren’t prepared for. Given this, you should think about how experienced everyone in your group is. Don’t settle on a hike where you expect to meet steep inclines, narrow passages next to sheer drops, and areas that you can only proceed through by climbing if there is a person with you who is new to hiking. The same goes for yourself. It is smarter to slowly build up to harder trails than to tackle them immediately when you’re a novice.
The duration of a trail also factors into how you will feel as you walk along it. Of course, a lengthier trail will take more time and tire you out to a greater degree than a shorter one. You must also account for the presence of sloped ground, as this will slow you down as you trek upwards. Ask yourself how much time you want to put into your hiking and pick a trail accordingly. Also, you should remember that a longer hike will necessitate you to bring more supplies, such as food and water. You can find light paths that only take an hour and also more involved ones that you may spend the entire day on, so regardless of your preference, you should be able to find a suitable track to take.
Seasons have to potential to deeply affect you while you are out. Thus, another tip for choosing a hiking trail is to think about the time of year, the climate at that trail, and the weather. The seasons will change how many layers you must wear to stay comfortable. In the cold, you may need a base, mid-, and outer layer, while when it is hot, you may just wear one. However, bright, warm days will mean that you must put on sunblock and cover up your extremities to avoid sunburn. If you are hiking during a rainy season, you must also pack a breathable rain jacket and wear waterproof boots.
No matter what kind of trails you choose, come to your hiking trips prepared by getting tactical performance boots from ALTAI™. Our hiking boots are comfortable, waterproof, resistant to abrasion, and provide you with ample traction in all conditions.
To the uninitiated, hiking might not seem like an intense physical activity, since it is not very fast-paced. This cannot be further from the truth, though. Trekking for several miles over rugged ground that is often on an incline takes a great deal of energy and a high level of fitness. Moreover, you must come prepared with the right supplies and gear to evade injury and exhaustion. Discover some of the biggest hiking mistakes to avoid making, so you aren’t caught off-guard when you venture out to your first trail.
As stated, hiking will tire you out to a much greater degree than you may be used to if you spend most of your time sitting. This is why it is critical that you bring enough food and water to sustain you along the way. The quandary that you will run into, though, is finding a balance between carrying adequate fuel and fluids and keeping your pack light. The solution that hikers have found for this is to pack energy-dense foods, including nuts, dried fruits, jerky, granola bars, and sandwiches. These items won’t weight you down, but they’ll still provide you with enough nutrients and energy to keep you moving. You can’t get around the weight of water, but you should still bring a large bottle or two, so you don’t become dehydrated as you perspire.
You might think that you’re ready to tackle a hard trail right away, but this is one of the biggest hiking mistakes to avoid making. Not only are you uncertain about how physically challenging hiking can be in general, but you also do not have a good idea about what kinds of situations you may face while on the trail. It is more prudent to gain a general feel for hiking through shorter, less taxing trails first. There, you can work out how much food and water you need relative to the difficulty of the hike, how much time it takes you to travel a certain distance, and what supplies you need that you didn’t think about before. Approaching hiking with care will help you prevent extreme fatigue and dangerous situations that you may not know how to respond to.
Having the right clothing is imperative for hiking, but many newcomers to the activity may not realize this. As with the other mistakes we’ve mentioned, wearing unsuitable clothes can increase your risk of getting hurt. You should wear fabrics made of wool or synthetics, such as polyester, instead of typical cotton because these materials wick away moisture. Not only will you be more comfortable this way, but this will also help stop you from losing too much body heat in colder temperatures. For this same reason, you should pack a waterproof jacket to protect you if it starts to rain while you’re on the trail. As for your feet, you need hiking boots that provide good grip, comfort, and a hardy construction. They’ll support your ankles and keep you from slipping or otherwise injuring yourself while hiking.
Contact ALTAI™ today if you are interested in getting into hiking. We provide sturdy hiking, work, and uniform boots that work effectively in outdoor settings.
