It goes without saying that buying a new pair of hiking boots is an irksome process. It’d take a lot of effort on your part to find the right set of boots. There would be times when you’d say no to a pair of boots just because the fitting is a bit too tight. There’s nothing as bad as having a good pair of boots with the wrong fitting. Today, there are different types of boot available, both offline as well as online. Given the countless choices we have, it becomes very important for you to choose the ideal pair of boots carefully.

Choosing the Right Fit Matters

If your boots are a bit too big, pair them with thick socks. Shoes having an uncomfortable fit can cause a lot of problems. If you get to wear a pair of hiking boots that are bigger than your feet, your feet can get twisted inside the boot, creating an increased risk of slipping.

Also, it isn’t advisable to replace your hiking boots without any concrete reason. Buying hiking boots takes a lot of money, time, and effort. It does not make sense to throw away a pair of hiking that is comfortable after just a few hiking trips. One should always look at hiking boots as a long-term investment.

Buying Your Boots from a Store

It is better to be assisted by a professional while buying hiking boots. It would be great if you tell them about your skill level and the activities that you’re going to undertake. If protection and stability happen to be your requirements, then don’t go for boots that are too flexible.

The Questions You Need to Answer Before Choosing the Boots

  • Where will I be hiking?
  • When will I be wearing these hiking boots?
  • Am I planning to climb the mountains?
  • What sort of hiking boots do I wear regularly?

Furthermore, measuring your foot also is an integral part of the buying process, both in terms of length and breadth. It would help you get the boots that are perfect for your feet. Also, it is equally important to have a pair of proper hiking socks. Hiking socks help you modify your foot’s volume.

Ascertaining if the Boot is Fitting Properly or Not

  1. First of all, put on your hiking socks
  2. Open your boots completely and place your feet inside
  3. Your boots need to be laced up tightly; your boots should be snug, but not very tight
  4. You need to kick the ground until the toes touch the boot’s front
  5. Place a finger between the back and the heel of your boot
  6. If you are able to place more than a single finger into it, the boots are a bit too big
  7. In case the finger does not fit inside, the boot is perhaps too small

Once your boots have passed the test, it is important for you to walk around while wearing those boots. You can perhaps search for an inclined slope in order to test them.

What Causes Discomfort?

  • Squeezed toes
  • When laces are pressed on the foot directly
  • When the collar bends against your Achilles
  • A gusset tongue having wrinkles

Here’s How You Can Make Your Existing Boots Feel Comfortable

  • You can take your boot to a repairing shop in order to get it stretched in case you want a boot that’s a bit wider
  • If you’re planning to buy a new pair of hiking boots, remember to take the older ones along
  • You also need the check the outsole, if it gets worn and torn, get it repaired immediately