Matthew Utz
Composition 1301-053
Mrs. Adams
22 October 2013
Theme 3, Process Paper
How to Have a Successful Hiking Trip
Throughout my years I have always been interested in nature and the sights, sounds, and smells that came with it. Although I now work fulltime along with being a full time student, anytime I have the time, I always try to take that chance to go on a hiking trip. Some of my favorite places I’ve been to have to be The Black Hills in South Dakota, and Lake Tahoe in California. Through the trials and tribulations of hiking I have found that if you are not fully prepared for your hike your trip can turn into an utter hellacious trip. That’s why I have found that in order to have a successful hiking trip it is necessary to have a good pair of hiking boots, a sturdy backpack, and a proper tent.
Before embarking on your hike it is always smart to attain a good pair of hiking boots. In my opinion, your boots should be solid on the bottom, so that you cant feel rocks or stones through the soles. Also, the top of your boot should be stiff to hold the ankle in place provide it with good support. But keep in mind; your hiking boots will change shape to better fit your foot. That being said, during the reshaping your boot may rub places on your foot, causing painful blisters. All boots are made on different lasts. The last is the form the boot is built around at the factory. The size and shape of these lasts, even between identical sizes of boots, can vary greatly. For instance, some boots are built around a European last, which is typically narrow in the front, compared to the American last, which are not. Also, some brands are narrower all over, or shorter in sole length, such as my favorite boot, made by The North Face. A boot that fits well will not slip in the heel area, and provide your toes with plenty of room in the front. Hiking boots are usually sized a little longer than your standard street shoe. I suggest you wear the socks you intend to...