Hiking boots should be the perfect fit for your feet. No matter if you’re a veteran backpacker or just starting out, the right pair of boots can make all the difference when you’re out on the trails. It’s important to choose a hiking boot that fits properly, providing enough room to wiggle your toes while still keeping your feet secure. That’s why it’s important to ask yourself: should hiking boots be a little big?
When it comes to finding a proper fit for your feet, there are two schools of thought when it comes to buying hiking boots: go with one size bigger than what you normally wear or stick with your normal shoe size. Both options have their pros and cons, so let’s take a closer look.
Going one size bigger: One of the main advantages of going one size up is that it allows for more room in the toe box. This means more circulation and less rubbing which can lead to blisters and other hot spots on your feet.
This extra space also helps minimize foot fatigue and cramping while on longer hikes. The downside is that having too much room in the toe box can lead to instability, as your foot will be sliding around inside the boot as you walk instead of being held firmly in place.
Sticking with your normal shoe size: The biggest benefit of sticking with your normal shoe size is that it will provide the most secure fit, helping reduce potential instability issues caused by having too much room in the toe box. On top of that, choosing a boot that fits snugly will also help minimize foot fatigue and blisters as there won’t be any extra room for friction points between your foot and the boot itself. The downside is that this option may not provide enough breathing room for long hikes and could potentially cause discomfort and cramping due to lack of circulation.
At the end of the day, choosing between going one size up or sticking with your regular shoe size comes down to personal preference and comfort level. If you tend to get sore feet after long hikes or struggle with too much foot movement while walking, then going one size up may be beneficial as it provides more room for circulation and comfort throughout your journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a snugger fit then sticking with your normal shoe size might be best as this will help keep your foot secure inside the boot while minimizing potential instability issues caused by excess movement inside the toe box.
Conclusion: Ultimately whether hiking boots should be a little bit bigger or not depends on individual preference based on comfort level and stability needs when walking on trails. If possible, try different sizes before making a purchase decision in order to find what works best for you.
