How Should Hiking Boots Fit? (Simple Methods + 7 Hints)

Getting a pair of hiking boots that are too big or hiking boots that are too small can prevent you from having an enjoyable hiking experience and even damage your feet. Hiking boots should fit snugly in the heel while comfortable at the forefoot, with just enough space so you can wiggle your toes in the toe box. 

From experience, I’ve seen that most hiking shoes that fit well are about a full size or half size bigger than normal shoe sizes. But there’s much more information that can help ensure you choose the right-fitting hiking boots.

Check out our suggestions for widening the toe room in your hiking boots if your shoes have a narrow toe box.

Quick Summary 

  • Finding the right hiking boot fit is of utmost importance as it protects your feet from painful fitting issues like blisters, swelling, and hot spots. 
  • You can easily get the right fit by standing on the insoles of the hiking shoes.
  • Hiking shoes are made from different kinds of materials that each gives your feet a unique feeling. 
AspectDetails
Measurement TechniqueUse insoles for fit measurement; ensure a gap of about an inch and a half from the longest toe to the insole end. Check width for proper fit. Perform a “finger test” by sliding a finger between heel and boot back when foot is forward.
Potential IssuesIll-fitting boots can lead to blisters, hammer’s toes, heel and ankle soreness, swollen feet or toes, ingrown toenails, bunions, soreness in legs, knees, back, hips, calves, pinched toes, and flattened arches.
Fitting Tips1. Know your foot size.
2. Wear suitable hiking socks for testing.
3. Shop in person.
4. Stick to familiar brands for online shopping.
5. Break in boots before first trip.
6. Try boots at day’s end.
7. Prioritize fit over features.
8. Test thoroughly in store.

How to Determine Whether Your Hiking Boots Fit Correctly

There are several easy ways that you can determine whether your hiking boots fit correctly, and this is essential as getting the right hiking boots fit is the most important factor to consider when you go out to shop for some new hiking shoes. 

A highly recommended method for assessing boot fit involves using the insoles. Start by selecting a pair of high-quality hiking boots and removing the insoles.

Place these insoles on the floor and stand directly over them, ensuring that your foot aligns with the arch and heel cup. This examination allows you to determine if your foot fits properly within the boot. Wearing your hiking socks during this measurement ensures a precise fit.

new pair of hiking boots that fit well

To achieve the correct fit, aim for approximately an inch and a half of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s insole. You can gauge this by using a rough estimate of one finger or thumb’s width; no ruler is necessary.

Pay attention to the width of the shoes to ensure that the insole aligns with the contours of your feet. If your foot extends beyond the insole, consider trying a wider boot. Conversely, if you notice a significant gap between your foot and the edge of the hiking insole, opt for a narrower fit.

After making sure the insoles match your feet properly, put them back into your shoes. Tighten the laces and go on a trial walk. It might take a bit of time, but it’s the best way to check for a proper fit.

There’s also the “finger test.” First, loosen all the laces. Then, with your bigger foot, step into the shoe and push your foot forward until your toes touch the end. Now, try to fit your index finger between your heel and the shoe’s back.

If your finger doesn’t slide in easily, the shoe is too small. You might need a larger size for more comfort. If there’s just enough space for your finger, then the fit is likely fine. If there’s a lot of extra room, you might need a smaller size.

Make sure the boots are also wide enough. They should be snug but not too tight and shouldn’t cause your feet to sweat a lot. Your ankles should be comfortable without any squeezing or discomfort at the heels.

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Can the Wrong Shoe Size Cause Foot Problems?

Wearing hiking shoes with fitting problems can lead to various issues, especially on extended hikes and challenging terrain. The most effective solution is to invest in a new pair that offers an optimal fit.

Choosing the correct pair is vital for a comfortable hike and prevents your feet from experiencing unnecessary discomfort. Some problems you might encounter with ill-fitting boots include:

  •  Blisters
  •  Hammer’s toes 
  •  Heel and ankle soreness
  •  Swollen feet or toes 
  •  Ingrown toenails 
  •  Bunions 
  •  Soreness in the legs, knees, lower back, hips, and calves 
  •  Pinched toes 
  •  Flattened arches

7 Tips for Buying the Right Boot Size for Your Feet

one guy hiking on the mountain during spring

Buying the right size of hiking boots is crucial for a positive hiking experience. These valuable fitting tips, gathered through extensive research, will guide you effectively.

1. Know Your Size

Understanding your foot’s length, arch length, and width is essential before shopping for hiking boots. Consider having your measurements taken at a shoe store for accurate sizing, enabling you to select suitable boots more efficiently.

2. Wear Suitable Hiking Socks When Testing the Shoes

Testing new footwear with comfortable hiking socks, such as wool or cotton socks, provides insights into the fit and feel of the shoes, giving you a preview of what to expect during your hike.

3. Stick to the Same Brands

Sticking to familiar brands, especially when shopping online, can be advantageous. Consistent foot models used by most companies often result in similar sizing and a snug fit.

4. Break in the Boots Before Your First Trip

Don’t overlook the importance of breaking in your hiking boots before your first trip. Wearing them indoors allows you to assess their comfort and avoid potential foot discomfort during your hikes.

5. Try on the Hiking Boot at the End of the Day

It has been proven that our feet swell and stretch significantly after the activities of the day and will be at their largest at the end of the day. Trying on boots in the evening will help you avoid buying boots that are too small. 

6. Fit Is More Important Than Features

I have found that most boots that fit snugly but have fewer features are always better than boots with a load of features that don’t fit well. Getting the proper fit of your hiking boots will ensure that your feet are held securely and there is no cause for irritation.

7. Take Your Time in the Store

Avoid hurrying to purchase hiking boots. Make sure you mimic the movements you’ll do on the trails after putting them on. Wiggle your toes, hop, and simulate ascending by using stairs or a slope. If you feel slightest discomfort, pass on those boots.

Consider consulting a shoe expert or an outdoor store for advice on hiking boots. They can help navigate the array of options.

They’ll size up your feet, tailor suggestions to your activities, and find boots that fit just right, whether you’re into backpacking, mountaineering, or transitioning from trail running.

The Impact of Material on Hiking Boot Fit

merrell yakota 2 boots

The material that makes up your hiking boots plays a part in how well it fits. It affects the boot’s breathability, water resistance, durability, as well as its weight, all of which could play a significant part in affecting how your feet feel inside the shoes.

The most common materials used in producing hiking boots include: 

Full-grain leather

This material provides some great durability, water resistance, as well as abrasion resistance. It might not be as breathable or light as some of the other materials on this list and you would need some time to break it in before you start hiking for extended periods.

It is most commonly used in backpacking boots and winter boots, as well as for extended trips, uneven terrain, and heavier loads. 

Split-grain leather

This is most commonly used to produce lightweight trail running shoe boots with great breathability. It is quite cheap when compared with other materials, although it also provides less resistance to abrasion and water. 

Nubuck leather

This is full-grain material that has gone through a process of buffing till it resembles suede. It is quite durable and highly resistant to abrasion and water, while also being pretty flexible. You will still need a fair bit of time to break in shoes made with this material before going on an extended time of hiking. 

Synthetics

This includes materials like nylon, Kevlar, and polyester which are used to produce mountaineering boots. They are significantly lighter than the other materials, cost less, dry faster, and break in more quickly.

The primary downside is that they tend to wear more quickly than leather boots. 

Our team tested and analyzed hiking boots for every foot condition. Check our reviews for:

Follow these tips and get the best fit for a great hike.

Catalin Geangos

Catalin Geangos

Catalin is a writer and outdoor specialist who has been traveling in over 35 countries so far. He loves spending time in nature, enjoying mountains and nature adventures, and ultimately inspiring people to travel more. In his time off, he tests, analyzes, and reviews hiking, and other outdoor gear and accessories.
E-mail: [email protected]

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