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Do hiking boots run small?

A common question when buying hiking shoes is whether hiking boots run small. Some hikers suggest going a size bigger, but that isn't always the case. Sizing can vary by brand and style. Buying shoes that are too large can result in a poor fit, making your hike uncomfortable and stressful.

At Columbia Sportswear®, we are passionate about helping people enjoy the outdoors. We offer an impressive range of all-terrain shoes and snow boots for different terrains, activities, and hikers. Shop our store to find the perfect footwear for your favourite trails.

Do hiking boots come up small?

Whether a hiking boot runs small depends on the brand and style. Some brands of walking shoes offer hiking footwear in wide or narrow fits, so it's important to know your exact size to get the perfect fit. Don’t assume you need a bigger size; oversized shoes can cause problems. Footwear that’s too big, whether heavy-duty boots or light hiking shoes, can cause your feet to slide inside, resulting in blisters and lack of support. Too-small boots can lead to uncomfortable pressure points, blisters, and squashed toes. This is why it's critical to wear hiking shoes that fit well.

You can measure your feet at home to ensure proper size. Don hiking socks and stand on a piece of paper. Draw around your foot and measure the distance from the heel to the tip of the longest toe. You can then refer to a sizing guide to check the boot size you need. Product descriptions can also provide hints if you need to size up or down.

How to check the fit of hiking boots?

The best way to check if your mountain hiking shoes. fit is to try them on. Even if you think you’ve got the right size, ensure they fit properly before heading on a hike:

  • Always try on your new boots with a pair of hiking socks to get an accurate fit for your mountain shoes.
  • Feet tends to swell throughout the day, so try on your shoes in the late afternoon or evening for a better idea of their fit.
  • Put your feet in the boots and ensure your heel is securely in the back. Lace them firmly, but not too tightly, leaving some room at the top of your foot.
  • Go for a walk in your winter shoes to test the fit. There shouldn’t be any heel lift when you stand on your toes. Test the shoes on soft and hard surfaces if possible.

Also, check if your new comfortable hiking shoes are the right weight for your hiking style. Light shoes are best for fast hiking, while heavier boots are better for winter hikes.

How should hiking boots fit?

Men’s and women's hiking shoes should feel comfortable around your foot, heel, and ankle, with a little wiggle room for your toes. Ensure there’s about a finger’s width of space in front of your toes, as you don’t want them touching the front of the boot when going downhill, which can cause bruising. If your toes feel squashed or your heel slips, try re-lacing them. Good hiking boots not only fit well but are also suitable for the types of terrain and weather you’ll face. Waterproof shoes for men are essential for wet conditions, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable even in unpredictable weather.

How to break in new hiking boots?

Not all hiking boots need a long breaking-in period; it depends on the boot style. Compared to leather hiking boots, a low hiking shoe or mens walking sandals will not need much breaking in time. However, getting your feet used to a new boot is still a good idea, especially before embarking on a big hike. After all, it's too late to realise your shoes are uncomfortable or rub once you've hit the trail. To break in new men's or women's hiking boots, we recommend you:

  • Wear them around the house (with hiking socks) to give them time to mould to your feet.
  • Take them on short walks on flat ground and gradually increase your distance as they become more comfortable. Begin to incorporate different terrain and some uphill routes.
  • Go for longer hikes while wearing a fairly heavy backpack to see how far you can go before your feet feel tired.

Are you planning your next hike and need a new hiking jacket? Browse our great range hiking clothes for women and men to find everything you need for the ultimate outdoor adventure.