hiking gear - ALTAI® Footwear

ALTAI™ Fall Hiking Tips: 5 Important Things To Remember

altaidev on September 22, 2017

It’s officially fall and we know you adventurous types will be gearing up, embrace the cool autumn air, and venture out for an awe-inspiring journey. But like most things, staying up-to-date on best practices are always a good idea. When it comes to hiking, even more so; it can mean saving your life.

Here are 5 Simple Tips for making sure your fall adventures are filled with unforgettable memories and not unshakable tragedies.

Always check plan out the entire journey. This means checking weather conditions where you plan to hike, including road conditions which can vary in remote sites. Seasonal changes occur quickly so be sure to check these conditions daily.
Pack a blaze orange hat or jacket if you plan to explore near hunting areas. Be sure to have some for your four-legged companions as well.
Bring layers! While during some points of your hike you may warm up and lose a layer, you’ll want warm layers around when temperatures suddenly drop or if you hike longer into the evening.
Think carefully about your footwear and socks. Consider steepness, elevation increase, and weather conditions. Will you be crossing a small stream? Climbing a few log jams? Be sure to know what obstacles lay ahead of you to inform you on the right footwear/sock combinations.
Pack as if you need to spend a night in the woods. The essentials should include flashlight with working batteries, food, water, and a fire starting mechanism.

Introducing: the All New MFH200-Z

altaidev on September 19, 2017

A new season has arrived and we have all new styles to tackle whatever obstacles you face this fall. Whether you’re finishing up the last touches on that remodel, sneaking in those last minute yard projects, or simply extending your summer adventures into fall, any of these styles got you covered.

Side-zip models in both 6″ and 8″ versions are perfect for anyone who needs an exact fit, fast. Our quick lace models are also ideal for those who prefer to fine tune their gear each time they gear up.

Available now at our online store.

How to Pick the Best Socks for Your Boots

altaidev on May 26, 2017

Behind every great pair of boots, is a great pair of socks. We’ve all experienced a horrible mismatch between the two: too hot, too ‘slippery,’ blistery, the list goes on. Finding the right match between which socks to wear with your boots can mean a world of difference while you’re on your feet for extended periods of time.

Some sock materials will be better for certain temperatures, wetness, or sometimes just come down to personal preferences. Here’s a general guide to the typical socks materials to consider:

Synthetic Fabrics: There are a huge array of synthetic fabric socks. From cooling polyester fibers for the summer, to fabrics that “trap in” heat, without the bulkiness of thicker materials.

Wool: Known for its incredible insulating abilities, wool is one of the most popular types of socks for many adventurers. Synthetic blends of wool or merino may be preferable, since wool can be considered scratchy for some.

Cotton: Although the most common sock material, cotton socks are not recommended for hikes or long excursions. Cotton is extremely absorbent (imagine foot sweat!) and tends to dry very slowly.

Silk/Wicking Materials: Other kinds of socks, like silk, can be used as a liner inside your sock. These materials can help wick away moisture, keeping your “main sock” comfortable and dry.

Amongst these sock options, you will also want to consider whether your adventure will require lightweight, middle-weight, or mountaineering socks. Choose based on the temperature, dry/wet environment, and weather you will be facing. And it’s never a bad idea to have a back-up pair, for the unexpected.

Your boots should allow “extra” room for a variety of sock options. Our boots are designed to allow for whatever sock or combination of socks you might need; it’s why our boots are sized about half a size larger. (In most cases, if you are a men’s 9, we recommend an 8.5; this will depend based on your sock needs).