Boy Scouts of America - Troop 496

Note what kind of ground you will be hiking on. If it is primarily asphalt roads, you may want a softer sole than a hiking boot. If you are hiking through woods and hills, you may need the stability of  good hiking boots. It is absolutely critical that the boots/shoes be broken-in.

Heavy hiking socks (wool, wool blend, or synthetic) and polypropylene sock liners are absolutely necessary for long hikes. As a rule, you should bring enough extra socks/liners to put on a new pair every 5 miles. This keeps down on moisture which is the major cause of blisters.

Extra filled water bottles will be needed if there are no refill stations along the way. It will be very important to keep everyone hydrated. Calculate 3 quarts every 5 miles per person. The amount used will depend on the person, temperature, and terrain. It cannot be adequately predicted ahead of time.