Buying the right pair of hiking boots can be a challenge, and one of the most common mistakes hikers make is buying boots that are too big.
Here’s how to tell if your hiking boots are too big—and what to do about it.
How to Tell If Hiking Boots Are Too Big
One way to tell if your hiking boots are too big is if you experience heel slippage when walking downhill.
If your heel slips out of the boot with each step, that’s a sign that the boot is too large and needs to be replaced with a smaller size. Heel slippage can also lead to blisters, so it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible.
Another way to tell if your hiking boots are too big is if you can fit more than one finger behind your heel. This is called the “thumb test” and it’s a quick and easy way to check for proper fit.
Simply slip off your boot and try to insert your thumb behind your heel. If you can fit more than one thumb, the boot is too big and you’ll need to size down.
Finally, you can also tell if a boot is too big by its overall appearance. If the boot looks saggy or loose, especially around the ankle, that’s another sign that it’s too large.
When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of a smaller boot—you can always add thick socks or an aftermarket insole to make up for any lost space.
Conclusion
If you’re not sure whether your hiking boots are too big, there are a few things you can check for proper fit.
First, see if you experience heel slippage when walking downhill—if your heel slips out of the boot with each step, chances are the boot is too large.
Second, try the thumb test—slip off your boot and try to insert your thumb behind your heel. If you can fit more than one thumb, the boot is probably too big.
Finally, take a look at the overall appearance of the boot—if it looks loose or saggy around the ankle, that’s another sign that it might be too large.
When in doubt, go for a smaller size—you can always add thick socks or an aftermarket insole to make up for any lost space.
