Boots - A Primer To Comfortable Feet

Step after step after step, it's our feet that takes us where we want to go. And nothing can make a hiker more miserable than a pair of ill-fitting boots. Finding the right pair of boots is easily the most important decision a backpacker can makes. But it is easier said than done.

Hiking requires the support of a proper hiking boot. You need the traction of a decent sole, the support for your ankles and arches, and something to absorb the impact of roots and rocks. If you're going into the backcountry for any length of time (and more important, any distance), boots ought to be your first major purchase.

Buying That Right Pair of Boots

Start by wearing the socks you intend to use when hiking: a pair of liners against your skin and a pair of midweight or heavy synthetic-blend hiking socks. Make sure that the liners are polypropylene or coolmax or other high-tech wicking fabric which will draw the sweat away from your skin and into the outer socks, leaving your feet pretty dry. Do NOT purchase COTTON liners which will absorb your sweat and give you blisters.

When the boots are unlaced, you should have enough room so that if you scrunch your toes toward the front, you can squeeze a finger between your heel and the back of the boot.

When the boots are laced, there should be little or not heel slippage, but you should be able to wiggle your toes freely. Kick the toe box of the boots hard against an obstacle such as the wall. Your toes should not feel the impact.
Finally make sure the boots are wide enough. For women with large or wide feet: Try men's boots. Whatever you do, DON'T compromise on fit ! If the salesperson try to persuade you that the leather will stretch after some wear, don't buy the argument.

Your new boots will be a little stiff at first, which is fine. But if you notice significant pinching, rubbing or pain right off the bat, you may want to take the boots back and try a different style.

NOTE: Make sure your new boots fit comfortably before you can wear them outside!

Breaking In Your Boots

Begin by wearing your boots for short periods of time inside the house. Wear the kinds of socks you're likely to be wearing out on the trail. Lace your boots up tight, and make sure your tongues are lined up and the gusset material is folded flat. The creases you form as you break-in your boots will likely remain for the life of the boot.

If after several short indoor sessions your boots seem to fit comfortably, expand your horizons. Wear your new boots to the local store, around town or while working in the yard. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend in your boots and the distances you cover. Make sure your boots feel good at each stage before increasing your distance.
Be vigilant throughout the break-in process for any pain or discomfort. As soon as you notice either, take the boots off. Remember -- small problems can become big ones very quickly. If everything feels good, try adding a little weight on your back as you hike, and/or hiking on more challenging trails.

There is no fast and easy method when it comes to breaking in new hiking boots. To do a good job, you have to put in the time.

Caring For Boots

Leather boots need care. Like your own skin, it reacts to environmental stress (sun, heat, water, snow, wide swings of humidity and dryness) by drying out and cracking.

Conditioning your boots will lengthen their life. Sample conditioners include silicone water guard, waterproofing wax conditioner, liquid Aquaseal, Sno-Seal, and Nik-Wax. Condition your boots before a trip, during the trip if it's for an extended period, and condition it again after the trip before packing it away for storage.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for care, particularly if they recommend a specific conditioner or waterproofing compound. Even if thoroughly treated and lined with Gore-Tex, no boot is completely waterproof in a downpour, so if it rains for days and days, you'll probably end up with wet feet. Gaiters or rain pants help keep water from leaking in.

Never dry boots by a fire. Never, ever. At best, you will end up with damaged leather. At worst, you will end up with leather burnt to a crisp.

Remember: If you take care of your boots, your boots will take care of you.

THIS SECTION

• Buying That Right Pair of Boots
• Breaking in Your Boots
• Caring for Boots