There are very few boots made that are specifically designed and manufactured for hiking. However, one of the many types of army boots available have this distinction. These boots are made to be worn in any time of hiking environment.
Until recent years the popularity of army boots was limited to a very small group of individuals. This was primarily due to the fact that army boots were made of a heavy black leather that was stiff and did not provide the flexibility to be worn in many instances.
As the environments that the armed forces work in has changed manufacturers have been challenged with creating a boot that meets government specifications. These specifications require that the boot protect the feet and ankles but also allow the foot to breathe in many different climates.
Most of the boots have a thick sole made from rubber that has a pattern which grips any surface that it is used on. The boots also have a steel toe which protects the toes from falling rocks or debris when climbing.
Manufacturers of hiking boots follow many of the exact specifications of army boots. They are aware of the need to protect a hiker's ankles and feet. In addition great care is taken to insure that there is proper ventilation throughout the boot so that a hiker's feet do not sweat during hiking.
Many people find that the army boots manufactured for the public do not meet the same standards as standard army boots. These boots are often made of lighter weight materials that do not withstand the types of use that they will receive in mountains or on hiking trails.
There are several different types of army boots used that each serve a different purpose. Boots that are going to be worn primarily in freezing climates have extra insulation built into the body of the boot which keeps the feet warm.
Army boots that are worn in hot desert climates have more ventilation areas and also materials that absorb sweat built into the body. The soles of these boots are also manufactured to get better traction on the gritty surface of a desert floor and are not compatible with the rocky terrain of the mountains.
For wearing in hot climates manufacturers have instituted the use of many materials that will allow the foot to breathe and stay comfortable. The older army boots did not have the capability of allowing ventilation around a foot and still protect the ankles and lower legs. However today army boots are made of a lighter weight leather and have built in shanks made of lighter materials than the heavy steel that was used previously.