How to Fit Hiking Boots

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Hiking boots are a very important piece of gear when backpacking or hiking. Since you'll be relying on your feet to get you where you're going, it's imperative to be wearing a pair of hiking boots that fit properly. Ill fitting boots can cause painful blisters and turn your hike or backpacking adventure into a nightmare. When choosing a pair of hiking boots its best to go with comfort rather than what looks stylish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Tips on Fitting Hiking Boots

Things You’ll Need:

Shoe stretch spray Shoe conditioner
Shoe stretch spray
Shoe conditioner

Step 1

Purchase a pair of boots you can try on rather than buying online or through the mail. Unless you'll be able to return the merchandise, it's best to be able to try on your boots before your buy them. Though you may think you wear a certain size, different shoes fit differently, so you can't always rely on size alone.

Step 2

Try on your hiking boots with the socks you'll be wearing while hiking. The thicker the sock, the more space it will take up inside of the boot. You'll want to make sure that the boots fit comfortably even with the socks on.

Step 3

Walk around in your boots and feel for any pressure spots you might feel due to the seams on the boots. If you feel them pressing against your foot, chances are they'll keep on pressing while you're walking and cause sores or blisters. It takes a little bit to break any hiking boot in, so if you choose an uncomfortable boot, it might take months (if ever) to break them in to the point they're comfortable to wear.

Step 4

Check to make sure that the boots aren't too loose or hit you in uncomfortable spots like at your ankles. Some boots may hit your ankles in the wrong spot and will rub, causing blisters. You also don't want a boot that is so loose that even socks won't fill the gap.

Step 5

Purchase a conditioner or shoe stretch spray at your local shoe dealer. These will help soften the outer material, help break the shoe in and help it fit better. Make sure to purchase a conditioner that's made for the specific material your shoe is made out of.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

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