When breaking in walking boots, always remember to consult experts with correct fittings. Make sure before purchasing the boots they fit comfortably in correctly. Spend the time to make sure you are happy before settling on buying a pair. Breaking in hiking boots vary depending on the type used. If you have a lightweight boot made mostly of material, this will have a shorter break in period than a leather or mountaineering stiff boot.
Article Contents
Things to avoid at first when breaking in walking boots
- Avoid fully submersing in water
- Avoid long arduous hikes with difficult terrain
- Not trying different lacing techniques
- Assuming they will break in easy like previous pairs
Wear the right socks
Try and use a pair of socks that are appropriate for the conditions when breaking in hiking boots. This will help the boots be more comfortable and feel exactly how they would when out on the trails. Use synthetic fibres or wool as these are thicker, will last longer and will not retain as much sweat/moisture as cotton.
Lacing technique when breaking in hiking boots
Did you know that how you lace your walking boots can also make a significant difference? Different lacing techniques can help alleviate common foot problems, provide better support, and even enhance the overall fit of your boots. There are some popular lacing methods from heel lock technique to surgeons knot technique, all to help you find the one that suits your needs. Check out the guide to lacing hiking boots article or visit YouTube for easy guided videos.
Softening the soles
Depending how stiff the soles are, a crease will begin to form at the top of each boot (roughly between the toes of the balls of your feet). With the boots in your hand, flex the toes up and down occasionally each day. This will make the soles more flexible and decrease the stiffness which will give a wider range of movement for your feet. Try not to be too aggressive as you do not want to tear or overstretched the sole. Using stairs or squats while wearing the boots can also loosen the sole.
Breaking in walking boots around the house
When boots are new, they are clean (too clean for hiking boots). Why not use them as slippers after the first few days of purchase. Use them when cooking food, chores or simply just walking around rooms.
Blisters
Doing Short walks, you will find certain hotspots or places that are prone to blister/rub. If venturing too far on a walk, these areas will turn into blisters. Keep an eye out on these areas over the coming short walks and see how the situation improves or deteriorates.
Long walks
Once you’re more comfortable in your boots, increase the length occasionally. 30-minute walks through the streets or paths. If feeling fine by the end of the week use the weekend to take a longer hike in the nearby park or trail. Over time keep adding an extra 15 to 20 minutes on the walk but be careful to increase the duration of each walk so you don’t up end hobbling trying to get home. It will be good to incorporate pacings while wearing the boots in case it has changed.
Breaking in walking boots could be a long process and all depends on the style or type purchased. Once broken in and laced correctly, we have to think about maintenance and look after them.