Choosing hiking boots: how to find the perfect fit

Good hiking boots are the most important investment you'll make if you love walking outdoors. Whether you're doing a loop through the hills of Limburg or planning a multi-day trek through the Alps: with the right boots you walk comfortably and avoid injuries. But how do you choose the perfect hiking boot? In this blog we help you get started.

Low, mid or high hiking boots: which suits you?

The height of your hiking boot determines how much support your ankle gets. Low hiking shoes are light and flexible, ideal for short walks over flat to gently rolling terrain. They feel almost like a trainer, but with better grip and more protection.

Mid-height hiking boots offer more ankle support and are suitable for longer walks and varied terrain. For most hikers, this is the best all-round choice. High hiking boots, also known as mountain boots, are designed for tough terrain with loose rocks, steep slopes and prolonged use with a heavy backpack.

The right sole makes all the difference

The sole of your hiking boot determines your grip and stability. A Vibram sole is the best known and guarantees excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. Also pay attention to the stiffness of the sole: a stiffer sole gives more support on technical terrain, while a more flexible sole is more comfortable on flat paths.

The cushioning of the midsole is important too. On longer walks, your feet absorb thousands of steps. Good cushioning reduces the strain on your joints and prevents tired feet at the end of the day.

Waterproof or breathable?

Many hiking boots feature a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex. This keeps your feet dry in rain and on wet ground. The downside is that waterproof boots ventilate slightly less well. Do you mostly hike in summer and in dry weather? Then a non-waterproof shoe with good ventilation may be more comfortable.

For the Dutch climate, where you always have to reckon with a rain shower, a waterproof hiking boot is generally the safest choice.

Fit: the most important thing of all

A hiking boot can have all the great features in the world, but if it doesn't fit properly, it's no use to you. Always try on boots in the afternoon or at the end of the day, because your feet swell slightly over the course of the day. Bring the hiking socks you'll actually wear on the trail and make sure you have enough room at your toes.

A common mistake is buying boots that are too small. On a descent, your foot slides forward a little. If you don't have enough room, your toes hit the toe of the boot. This leads to painful, bruised toenails. So always leave a finger's width of space in front of your longest toe.

Care: how to make your hiking boots last longer

Good hiking boots are an investment you want to protect. Clean your boots after every walk with a soft brush and lukewarm water. Let them dry at room temperature, never on the radiator, as that damages the leather and the glued joints. Treat leather boots regularly with a care product to keep the material supple.

Only use your boots for what they're intended for. Hiking boots are designed for the trail, not as everyday shoes in town. Also replace your insoles regularly: they wear out faster than the boot itself and have a significant effect on comfort.

Hiking boots for the whole family

At Kampeerwinkel Roermond we have an extensive range of hiking boots for women, men and kids from top brands. Our hiking specialists will gladly help you find the perfect fit. Drop by our store on Schaarbroekerweg in Roermond and experience the difference personal advice makes.