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Looking at testing the fit of your walking boots?

A well-fitting hiking boot is one of the most important ingredients for a successful hike. Hiking shoes should provide support and cushioning for your feet and ankles. They enable you to hike longer and without worrying about fatigue or blisters. Men's and women's hiking boots from Columbia Sportswear® are developed with innovative waterproofing and cushioning technologiess and traction soles. From mountain hiking shoes to waterproof shoes for men, we have footwear for every type of terrain and conditions. We ensure you can always put your best foot forward.

How can I find out my hiking shoe size?

Don’t automatically go for a bigger size just because they’re mountain shoes. You should start with your regular shoe size. If you don't know your size, you can measure your feet at home. It's common for people's feet to swell over the day, so wait until later to measure your feet. The same goes for trying on your hiking boots.

  • Tape a piece of paper to a hard floor

  • Ideally, with your back against a wall, stand with your foot on the paper.

  • Get someone to draw around your foot or mark the back of your heel and the tip of your longest toe on the paper.

  • Do the same for your other foot.

  • Using a ruler, measure between the two marks on the paper. This is the length of your foot.

  • You can now refer to our conversion size guide to find your correct size for either men's or women's hiking shoes.

How to test the fit of hiking boots?

Just because they are the correct size, don't assume your new walking shoes or comfortable hiking shoes will automatically fit. You need to test out the fit to be sure.

Trying on

Don a pair of hiking socks, put your foot inside the low hiking shoe and push it to the front so your toes touch it. With your foot flat on the ground, put your finger between your heel and the back of the boot. Your finger should fit snugly without having to force it. If there's too much of a gap around your finger, there's a risk that the boot might slip and cause blisters. If there is too little space, your boots may be too tight and uncomfortable, especially by the end of a hike.

Lace up

Make sure your heel is positioned firmly at the back of your hiking shoes and then lace it up using all the hooks and eyelets, pulling the laces firmly. There are different ways to lace up your boots and adjust them to the shape of your foot.

Are you looking for hiking footwear for warm climates? Our hiking sandals for men and light hiking shoes are perfect when you want something lightweight. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a new hiking jacket too!

Take them for a test drive

With your boots all laced up, stand up and take them for a walk. Make the most of the steps or stairs in your home to see how the boots feel as you go up and down. Before heading out on a long trek, take your new mountain hiking shoes outdoors on a short trail or walk around the block. The point is to check for any problems before committing to a long hike, so you can focus on the trail, not your feet. While checking the fit, ask yourself these questions:

  • Are your feet rubbing on the sides of the shoe or touching the end of the boot?

  • Does your foot fill the space of the boot at the front?

  • When you go up and down the stairs, do the heels lift or do your toes touch the front of the boot?

  • Does the weight feel comfortable for what you’ll wear them for?

  • Do they fit your arch and foot shape?

If you have fairly wide feet, you'll need room to spread them, so ensure they feel comfortable. If the width feels a little tight but not uncomfortable, remember that leather hiking boots will stretch over time. The fit will improve as you wear them. You can also try them with a pair of thinner socks or add an insole for extra comfort. If you find the heel slips while walking, they may be too large and you need to buy a smaller size.

Need better-fitting hiking gear? You've arrived in the right place! Shop our extensive range of all-terrain shoes and hiking clothes for women and men. You'll find the perfect fit for wherever your adventures take you.