Why Properly Fitted Hiking Boots Are Non-Negotiable
A good pair of hiking boots can be the difference between an epic adventure and a painful trudge of regret. And no, just ordering your usual shoe size online and hoping for the best is definitely not the way to do it.
Get them professionally fitted—seriously. A specialist outdoor store will measure your feet properly, check for width, arch support, and even assess your gait. Some even have incline ramps so you can test how your feet move inside the boots when walking uphill and downhill.
💡 Pro Tip: Go boot shopping in the afternoon—your feet swell throughout the day, and you’ll get a more accurate fit!
These Boots Were Made for Walking
How Should Hiking Boots Feel?
Think of hiking boots like a really good hug: supportive but not suffocating. Here’s what to check for:
Snug around the ankle and heelYou don’t want your foot slipping around inside the boot, as that’s a recipe for blisters. The ankle support should feel secure but not restrictive.
Plenty of space for your toesYou should be able to wiggle your toes freely without them touching the front or sides. If they feel cramped at all, you could be in for some unpleasant consequences (trust me, black toenails are no fun).
No toe-bashing when walking downhillThis is crucial. When you’re descending, your toes shouldn’t hit the front of your boots. Try the "kick test"—lace them up, stand on a downhill ramp, and give your boots a firm kick forward. If your toes smash into the front, they’re too small.
Comfortable out of the box (but will need breaking in)Hiking boots shouldn’t feel like medieval torture devices when you first put them on. They should be comfortable but firm, and they’ll soften slightly with wear.
Breaking in Your Boots: Don’t Skip This Step!
Even the best hiking boots need a bit of time to mould to your feet. If you take a brand-new pair straight onto a long hike, you’re basically asking for blisters. Here’s how to break them in properly:
1️⃣ Wear them around the houseStart with short periods, wearing the socks you’d normally hike in.
2️⃣ Take them on short walksA few gentle outings on flat terrain will help them soften.
3️⃣ Increase distance and terrain graduallyBefore you tackle a big mountain day, make sure your boots have been tested on uneven ground.
If something feels “off” during the break-in period—rubbing, pinching, or pressure points—don’t ignore it! That minor discomfort will be unbearable on a full-day hike.
Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes: Which Do You Need?
Not sure whether you need boots or shoes? It depends on what type of hiking you do.
Hiking Boots (Best for rugged terrain, heavy packs, multi-day treks)
Better ankle support, which is great for rough or uneven terrain.
More durable and protective for your feet.
Often waterproof, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
Slightly heavier than hiking shoes.
Hiking Shoes (Best for fast-paced hiking, summer trails, lower elevation)
Lighter and more breathable, great for warmer weather.
More comfortable straight out of the box—little to no break-in time.
Less ankle support, so not ideal for technical or rocky terrain.
Some are waterproof, but many aren’t.
💡 If you mostly hike on well-maintained trails, a sturdy pair of hiking shoes might be fine. But if you’re tackling rocky, mountainous, or unpredictable terrain, boots will be your best bet.
How to Look After Your Hiking Boots
So, you’ve got your dream pair of boots—now you need to look after them properly so they last for years (because let’s be real, good boots aren’t cheap). Here’s how to keep them in top condition:
1. Clean Them After Every Hike
Dirt, mud, and grit can damage the materials and stitching over time, so don’t just chuck your boots in a corner when you get home.
Brush off dried mud with a soft brush or damp cloth.
Rinse them with lukewarm water (avoid soaking them unless really necessary).
Use a mild soap or boot cleaner such as Grangers Outdoor Footwear Clean and Re-proof Kit if they’re extra dirty—no harsh chemicals!
2. Dry Them Properly (No Radiators!)
If your boots get wet, never dry them directly next to a heater or in front of a fire—that can crack the leather and weaken adhesives. Instead:
Remove the insoles and loosen the laces to let air circulate.
Stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture (change it every few hours).
Let them dry naturally at room temperature.
3. Reproof Them to Keep Them Waterproof
Even waterproof boots need a little TLC to keep performing. Every few months (or when water stops beading on the surface), reproof them with a waterproofing treatment:
For leather boots – Use a wax or cream to nourish the leather and keep it supple.
For synthetic boots – Spray-on waterproofing treatments work best.
4. Store Them Correctly
Keep them somewhere cool and dry – Avoid damp areas where mould can grow.
Don’t leave them in direct sunlight for long periods—it can dry out leather and weaken glue.
5. Check the Soles & Laces Regularly
Worn-out soles? If they’ve lost their grip, look into getting them resoled rather than replacing the whole boot.
Frayed laces? Swap them out before they snap mid-hike (because nobody likes lacing their boots with bits of string).
Best Hiking Boot Brands (Tried & Tested!)
There are a lot of hiking boots out there, but here are some of the best:
🥇 Hanwag – Bombproof German engineering with premium materials. Great for serious hikers. Check them out here
🥾 Scarpa – Fantastic fit and quality. Their leather boots last forever. See Scarpa boots
⛰ La Sportiva – Great for more technical hiking and scrambling. Explore La Sportiva
🛠 Lowa – Known for their ultra-comfortable and durable boots. View Lowa boots
💰 Salomon – A solid mix of comfort and performance, often a good choice for hiking shoes too. Find Salomon boots
🔥 Meindl – Another German brand making excellent high-quality boots. Browse Meindl
Whatever brand you go for, make sure they fit well before committing. And remember—a great pair of boots is an investment in happy, pain-free hiking!
Final Thoughts: Your Feet Will Thank You
Hiking boots aren’t just another bit of gear—they’re the foundation of every step you take on the trail. Getting the right pair, having them properly fitted, and breaking them in will make all the difference between loving your hike and limping back to the car in agony.
So, whether you’re trekking up a mountain, navigating muddy trails, or just enjoying a scenic walk, treat your feet right—they do a lot for you!
Got a favourite hiking boot brand? Or a horror story about bad boots? Drop a comment and let me know! 👣⛰️
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