How Tight Should Hiking Boots Be

Well fitted boots will help you go faaster and farther.

Hiking Boots Should Firmly Hold Your Feet

The boot should hold your heel securely in place and prevent your foot from moving back and forth or side to side. When you flex at the knee and walk around the store your heel should lock tightly in the boot's heel cup.

You May Wear Them All Day Long

A hiking boot should allow circulation to get to all parts of your foot. It should be fairly comfortable out of the box. Having enough room in the toe box is critical: You should be able to comfortably wiggle your toes.

Bottom Line

Hiking boots should be tight enough to hold your feet in place, but comfortable enough to spend all day in without feeling any pain. Spend at lest ten minutes in them before buying. Boots can vary from one manufacturer to the next, even within sizes. Try on many different pairs.

References

• Backpacker Magazine: Gear: Choosing the Right Pair of Hiking Boots