What To Know
- It depends on a variety of factors, including the type of hiking you plan to do, the terrain you’ll be traversing, and your personal preferences.
- Some hikers prefer a little extra space in the toe box to prevent their toes from hitting the front of the boot.
- If you know your feet tend to swell, it’s best to try on boots at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest.
Do you want hiking boots to be a little big? It’s a question that plagues many hikers, especially those new to the sport. The answer isn‘t a simple yes or no. It depends on a variety of factors, including the type of hiking you plan to do, the terrain you’ll be traversing, and your personal preferences.
The Importance of Proper Hiking Boot Fit
Before diving into the specifics of sizing, it’s crucial to understand why a proper fit is so important for hiking boots.
- Comfort: Hiking boots are designed to support your feet and ankles during strenuous activity. An ill-fitting boot can lead to blisters, hot spots, and even more serious injuries.
- Stability: Hiking boots provide ankle support and stability, especially on uneven terrain. A boot that is too big can compromise this stability, making you more prone to rolling your ankle.
- Performance: A properly fitted boot allows for efficient movement and reduces fatigue. A boot that is too loose can cause your feet to slide around, leading to discomfort and inefficient strides.
The “Little Big” Dilemma
The phrase “a little big” is intentionally vague. It doesn’t specify how much bigger the boot should be. Here’s a breakdown of the different scenarios:
1. Room for Thick Socks
Most hikers wear thick, moisture-wicking socks to keep their feet warm and dry. These socks add bulk to your feet, so it’s essential to have a little extra room in your boots to accommodate them.
- Recommendation: When trying on hiking boots, wear the thickest socks you plan to hike in. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the boot.
2. “Wiggle Room” for Descending
When hiking downhill, your feet tend to slide forward in your boots. Some hikers prefer a little extra space in the toe box to prevent their toes from hitting the front of the boot.
- Recommendation: If you plan to do a lot of downhill hiking, you might consider going up half a size. However, be mindful that too much wiggle room can lead to instability.
3. Accommodating Foot Swelling
Your feet naturally swell during long hikes. This swelling can be exacerbated by hot weather or high altitude. If you have a history of foot swelling, you may want to consider a slightly larger size.
- Recommendation: If you know your feet tend to swell, it’s best to try on boots at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest.
When a Little Big is Not Enough
While some wiggle room is generally recommended, there are situations where a larger size is not ideal:
- Stability: Too much space in the boot can compromise ankle stability, especially on challenging terrain.
- Heel Slip: If your heel lifts out of the boot during walking, it’s a sign that the boot is too big. This can lead to blisters and discomfort.
- Blisters: While a little extra room can help prevent blisters, too much space can actually increase the risk of blisters by allowing your feet to slide around.
The Importance of Trying On Boots
The best way to determine the right fit is to try on boots in person.
- Wear the socks you plan to hike in.
- Walk around the store for a few minutes.
- Pay attention to how the boot feels on your feet.
- Don’t be afraid to try on different sizes and brands.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit
Here are some additional tips to help you find the perfect fit for your hiking boots:
- Consider your foot type: Do you have high arches, flat feet, or a wide foot? Different boot brands and models are designed for different foot shapes.
- Think about the terrain: If you’ll be hiking on rocky trails, you’ll need a boot with more support and protection. If you’ll be hiking on smoother trails, you can choose a lighter boot.
- Break in your boots: New boots can take a few hikes to break in. Wear them around the house for short periods of time to get used to the feel.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: The staff at your local outdoor store can help you find the right boot for your needs.
Making the Right Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to go up a size is a personal one. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider your individual needs and preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Fit
Finding the perfect hiking boot fit is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s also important to consider the overall quality, durability, and features of the boot. Do your research, read reviews, and talk to other hikers to find the right boot for your adventures.
What People Want to Know
Q: How much space should there be between my toe and the end of the boot?
- A: There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the boot.
Q: Should I go up a size if my feet swell?
- A: If you know your feet tend to swell, it’s best to try on boots at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. You may want to consider going up half a size.
Q: Is it better to have a boot that is a little too big or a little too small?
- A: It’s generally better to have a boot that is a little too big than a little too small. A boot that is too small can cause blisters, hot spots, and other problems.
Q: What should I do if I’m not sure what size to get?
- A: The best thing to do is to try on boots in person at a local outdoor store. The staff can help you find the right size and fit.
Q: Can I break in a boot that is too big?
- A: You can try to break in a boot that is too big, but it’s not always successful. If the boot is too big, it may never feel comfortable. It’s best to find a boot that fits well from the start.
