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Uncomfortable shoes can ruin many things, including a hike. If you’ve ever hit the trails in high-tops (guilty) or shoes without the proper support, you know how achy and unstable you can feel.

Whether you’re a casual hiker, a seasoned backpacker, a thru-hiker chasing the triple crown or a world traveler, you’ve likely faced a classic footwear dilemma: hiking shoes vs. hiking boots. It’s a ...