Choosing Walking Boots: Fit, Break-In and Care

Good boots rarely get a mention on a walk. Bad boots get all of it. Nothing ruins a day outside faster than blisters or sore feet, so choosing footwear is worth the time. Here is how to find a pair that suits you, and how to keep them in good shape.

Boots, shoes or trail shoes?

There is no single best option. It depends on where and how you walk.

• Walking boots have ankle height and stiffer soles, giving more support and protection on rough, wet or steep ground. They suit hills, heavy packs and long days.
• Walking shoes are lighter and cooler, and suit well-made paths and gentler country.
• Trail shoes are lighter again, with a grippy sole, and suit quick walking on easier ground.

Some people prefer boots on all hills for the support, while others walk comfortably in shoes. Try both and see how your feet and ankles feel.

Fitting: what to look for

Fit matters more than brand or price. When trying boots:

1. Go late in the day. Feet swell slightly through the day and after activity, and this is when they are closest to their walking size.
2. Wear your usual walking socks. Bring the pair you plan to use.
3. Check the length. There should be space for your toes to move, about a thumb's width in front of the longest toe, so they do not hit the front on descents.
4. Check the heel. It should feel held, without lifting much as you walk. Heel slip is a common cause of blisters.
5. Check width and pressure points. No place should feel pinched or rubbed.
6. Walk on a slope. Many shops have a ramp. Walk downhill and see whether your toes press forward.

If possible, visit a specialist outdoor shop where staff can measure both feet. Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other, so fit the larger one.

Materials and waterproofing

Leather boots tend to be durable and moulded to your foot over time, but can be heavier and take longer to dry. Synthetic or fabric boots are lighter and dry faster. Many have a waterproof lining. These keep out rain and puddles, but can feel warm in summer. Think about when you will wear them.

Breaking them in

Even the best boots need some wearing in.

• Wear them around the house for an hour or two.
• Take them on short walks, then build up to longer ones.
• Pay attention to any rubbing, and stop and adjust before it turns into a blister.
• Learn lacing techniques to hold the heel or relieve pressure on the top of the foot.

Do not take a brand-new pair on a long hike.

Socks matter

Wool or wool-blend walking socks cushion the foot and manage moisture. A thin liner sock can reduce friction for some people. Avoid cotton, which holds moisture and encourages blisters. Carry a spare pair in the rucksack, as dry socks on a long walk can feel like a small miracle.

Looking after your boots

• Brush off mud after each walk and rinse if needed, using lukewarm water.
• Remove the insoles and let boots dry slowly at room temperature. Do not put them next to a fire or radiator, which can crack leather and damage adhesives.
• Treat leather with a suitable wax or proofing product, and re-proof fabric boots when water no longer beads on the surface.
• Check soles and stitching regularly and replace laces that fray.
• Some good boots can be resoled by a specialist.

You can see how footwear fits into the whole pack in our kit list for British hills, and our article on layering for British weather completes the picture.

Frequently asked questions

How long do walking boots last? It depends on use and care. Regular walkers may replace boots every few years, while occasional walkers may keep them for longer. Replace them when the grip is worn or the support has gone.

Are waterproof boots always better? Not always. They help in wet conditions but can be warmer. Breathable non-waterproof footwear can suit dry summer walks.

What can I do about blisters? Stop at the first sign of a hot spot and cover it with a plaster or blister pad. Better fit and socks usually prevent the problem.