How to fit new walking boots?
Your new walking boots may be packed with features, but without the right fit they can't support your feet as they should (and could potentially even cause more damage). To ensure your boots fit, follow these top tips:
Check the time of day
Your feet swell slightly as the day goes on, so bear this in mind if you’re trying new boots on. You might even need to take into account the time of year, as your feet will swell more in summer than they will in winter.
Wear suitable socks
It’s very important that you wear your normal walking socks when trying on a pair of new boots. If you don’t then you won’t get a true feel of how well they fit and how they’ll feel when you’re out on the hill.
Lace them up properly
If the boots aren’t properly laced up then you won’t get an accurate feel for how well they fit. Make sure the tongue is central and firmly lace the boots up, using all the eyelets. However, be careful not to lace them too tight or the boots will be uncomfortable.
Leave enough room at the end of the boot
Just like when you used to get new shoes, leave enough room at the end of the boot. This is particularly important with hiking boots because when walking up or downhill, your feet will need room to move depending on the angle of your feet.
Take a walk in them
If you really want to know what the boots feel like, then have a walk around in them. If possible, try and walk on different gradients to see how your feet feel in them going uphill and downhill.