Do hiking shoes need to be broken in?

Different boots take different break-in times. Light hikers may feel perfect right out of the box, while burly leather models may require weeks. The leather needs time to soften up so your boots and feet can conform to one another. The break-in process won’t turn a poor fit into a good one.

Do hiking shoes loosen up over time?

Hiking boots don’t necessarily stretch, but they do break in. That is to say that while they may be very stiff when you purchase them, once they have had some miles put on them, they tend to become slightly more flexible. Man, a nice worn in pair of boots is my best friend on the trail.

How do you break in a new pair of walking shoes?

Here’s what to do:

1. Put thick socks on your feet.
2. Blast one of the shoes all over with a hair dryer for around a minute, until it’s warm and soft.
3. Put the shoe on your foot.
4. Repeat with the other shoe.
5. Walk around your house at least until the shoes have cooled – the longer you can keep them on the better.

How many miles does it take to break in hiking shoes?

After about 1-2 weeks or about 3-5 hikes, your boots should be fully broken in and you can start using them to their full potential.

How long does it take to break in new shoes?

The break-in time depends on your choice of style, sole, leather and personal preferences for how you like your shoes to feel, but it will typically be between 3 and 4 weeks.

Should hiking shoes be tight or loose?

Hiking boots should fit snug everywhere, tight nowhere and offer room to wiggle your toes. Try them on at the end of the day (after feet swell) and with the socks you plan to wear.

How long does it take to break in a pair of boots?

Keep a Spare Pair New boots can take around 80 to 100 hours to break in. That being said, don’t subject yourself to wearing your boots for 4 days straight and expect your feet to be happy with you. Instead, space this time out to about 2 to 3 hours a day and keep a second pair of boots to change into.

How long does it take to break in walking shoes?

How To Break In New Walking Boots. Buy your boots well in advance of any big walks you have planned, to give yourself plenty of time – ideally at least three weeks – to break them in properly.

How tight should hiking boots be?

Hiking Boot Fit. Hiking boots should fit snug everywhere, tight nowhere and offer room to wiggle your toes. Try them on at the end of the day (after feet swell) and with the socks you plan to wear.