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Breaking in hiking boots

Breaking in hiking boots needs to be done slowly and over a period of time. Do not think that after wearing them once or twice they will be “good to go”. You can and probably will end up with blisters and other things. Different types of boots will take different time periods to break in. Some of the lighter boots or shoes may be fine after 3-6 times of wear and the heavier, leather boots will take much longer. Expect weeks.

Note: Make sure your new boots fit snug when you buy them. They will probably stretch some after you wear them for a while.

There are several basic things that you will need to do to start with:

  • Your new boots will be a little or quite stiff at first. Wear them a couple of times and if you feel pinching, rubbing or any kind of pain. Take them back for a different style.
  • Wear them around the house first and make sure you wear the same socks that you will be wearing out on the trail. Lace up your boots so they are tight and make sure your tongues are lined up right. Also make sure the gusset material is folded flat. Any creases that you wear into the boot during the break-in period will most likely stay there as long as you have them.
  • After you have worn them around the house for a while and you are sure they fit the way you want them to fit, take them outdoors and try them on short walks or when you are puttering around the yard. Take them for longer uses after you are comfortable that they will work for you.
  • If you notice any pain at all, take them off. Once blisters start they don't take long to get bigger.
  • Try putting some weight on your back with them on and see how they feel.
  • Note: If you don't follow this procedure when you're breaking in hiking boots then the chances of damaging the boots go up. If they get damaged then you probably can't return them. That is the reason for trying them indoors first. You should know after the first couple of uses whether they will work for you or not.


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