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Your feet are very important when hiking and backpacking. Take good care of them. Sneakers are OK for short hikes when carrying light weights, but boots give the necessary foot support for longer hikes with heavier backpacks. You can spend a lot of money on boots, but you can also get a good pair at a resonable price.
Features to look for include a waterproof but breathable lining, instep support and a padded collar at the ankle. Waterproof boots are necessary for those times when you need to walk thru a few inches of water. The boots need to breathe so the perspiration from your feet will not build up. A steel or synthetic shank in the instep supports your feet when hiking over rocky or uneven surfaces. A padded collar at the ankle keeps the boot from iritating the ankle. A higher boot will support the ankle better than a lower one.
Many years ago, boots were made from thick leather and required a break-in period. Modern boots are made from thinner leather and synthetic materials and are flexible even when new. The boots you purchase should feel comfortable in the store.
Cotton socks were standard in the past but newer synthetics are far superior. Cotton absorbs perspiration but does not lose it easily, leaving your feet damp. Modern synthetic socks wick the moisture to the ankle, where it evaporates, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
Sock liners are thin, synthetic socks that you put on before the normal hiking socks. Perspiration passes thru the liner to the sock. When the foot moves inside the boot, the liner stays with the foot. The sock rubs against the liner instead of the foot, reducing friction that causes blisters.
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