Hiking boots too big | Columbia Sportswear®

Did you know that wearing hiking boots too big can cause discomfort, instability and painful blisters? Some hikers believe you should always size up. But while your feet need some room, a hiking boot that's too large can do more harm than good. This is why ensuring your walking shoes fit correctly is important, especially on long hikes. But with hiking brands sizing their shoes slightly differently, you can't always rely on size alone.

At Columbia Sportswear®, we're passionate outdoor adventurers and hiking specialists eager to share the beauty of the great outdoors. Our high-performance hiking gear makes it easy for beginners and seasoned hikers to get the most out of every adventure.

Whether you're shopping for new boots or checking your existing ones, our expert tips will help you to tell if your hiking boots are too big.

How can you ensure you buy the right size hiking boots?

Sizes can vary between brands of hiking shoes and sometimes even within the same brand. While each has its own sizing guide, they may also use different construction methods and materials in their footwear. That's why it's a good idea to refer to the product descriptions before you buy, which can give you an idea of whether the shoe comes up big or small. Also, check customer reviews to see what customers say about the sizing. But the only way to know if your new light hiking shoes fit correctly is by trying them on. Wait until the end of the day to check the fit of your shoes, as feet naturally swell over the day. And don't forget to don your hiking socks!

8 ways to tell if your hiking boots are too big

While everyone's feet are different, there are some tell-tale signs to look out for when determining if your leather hiking boots are too big.

Is your heel slipping out of the back of the boot as you walk?

Your heel should stay snugly in place, whether walking on level ground or going uphill. If your heel is lifting while walking, your snow boots are too big, which could cause rubbing and blisters and leave you feeling unstable on the trail. You can test this by walking up and down the stairs.

Is there a lot of space in the toe box?

If there's a lot of extra space in the toe box, your women's hiking boots are probably too big. The toe box is the area at the front of your mountain shoes that protects your toes. While you need wiggle room for your toes, too much space can cause your feet to slide back and forth. This can cause painful blisters and other foot problems that can affect you even post-hike.

Are you getting frequent blisters?

Blisters on your toes and heels are probably the biggest red flag that your all-terrain shoes are too big. Friction caused by your feet moving inside your shoe is generally down to footwear being too big. Blisters can also be caused by not breaking in your boots properly or wearing the wrong type of socks. It's a good idea to rule those out before determining your boots are too big.

Do your laces frequently come undone?

If your laces keep coming undone or you must tie them very tightly, your hiking boots are too big. While you may have to tie the laces tightly to keep your boot on, it can create pressure points and blisters. With a well-fitting low hiking shoe, you can lace them comfortably without pulling the laces very tightly.

Do you have to add insoles or extra socks for a better fit?

If you regularly add insoles or wear thick socks to make your waterproof shoes for men feel comfortable, they are probably too big. While thick hiking socks are invaluable for a winter hike, relying on them just to make your boot fit better shows the size isn't right. Likewise, insoles are great at providing support, but if you need them for extra cushioning, your boots don't fit.

Do your ankles not feel supported?

Good, well-fitting, comfortable hiking shoes provide your ankles with support and stability, especially on rocky or irregular terrain. Your boots are likely too big if you feel your ankles need more support. If there's excess space between your ankle and boot, your footwear won't be able to support you. You want your ankles to feel snug and secure but not restricted.

Are you struggling to maintain your balance?

You must feel stable while wearing your mountain hiking shoes. They could be too big if you're struggling to stay steady or tripping up while wearing them. If your feet are secure in your boots, you'll find walking easier on uneven and rough terrain.

Are your feet sliding or slipping a lot in the shoe?

A clear sign that your women's hiking shoes are too big is if your feet slide backwards or forwards. You may need a narrower or smaller shoe size. Your feet should be secure and supported inside the shoe, but if they slide, it can cause friction and blisters. Ensure your boots are properly laced to secure your feet and reduce unwanted movement. Check the length and width of the boot by standing and walking around. While your toes should be away from the front, your foot shouldn't slide back and forth.

Make sure you're ready for your hiking trips with our range of hiking clothes for women, hiking jackets and hiking sandals for men.

How to tell if hiking boots are too big: 8 ways to know

How can you ensure you buy the right size hiking boots?

8 ways to tell if your hiking boots are too big