Hiking boots are essential for long hikes and backpacking trips. They provide superior protection, support, and comfort on the trail.
To make sure that you’re getting the most out of your hiking boots, you need to know how to properly lace them up. Lacing your boots for a better fit can help reduce blisters and keep your feet comfortable throughout the hike.
1. Start at the Bottom: Start lacing your boots from the bottom eyelets and work your way up.
This will ensure that the laces are evenly distributed throughout the boot. Be sure to crisscross each lace across each other as you work up the boot.
2. Heel Lock: As you reach the second-to-last eyelet, cross one lace over the other and pull it tight before going up to the last eyelet. This technique is called “heel lock” and it helps to prevent your heel from slipping out of place while walking.
3. Make It Snug: Once you reach the top eyelets, tie a double knot in both laces before tightening them. Make sure that they’re snug enough so that your heel doesn’t slip around but not so tight that it feels uncomfortable or restrictive.
4. Adjust as Necessary: You may also want to adjust certain parts of the lacing depending on how wide or narrow your foot is or what type of terrain you’ll be hiking on. For example, if you have a wider foot then you may want to loosen certain sections of lacing for more room or vice versa if you have a narrower foot.
Conclusion: Lacing your hiking boots correctly can make a big difference in terms of comfort and performance on long hikes or backpacking trips. By following these tips, you can make sure that your feet stay comfortable and supported throughout your journey while avoiding any painful blisters along the way.
