Hiking Boots

Learn how to fit, care for, and lace your hiking boots for better comfort, durability, and trail enjoyment.

A pair of hiking boots that fits both your feet and your adventures will allow you to enjoy the outdoors for as long as you like. Looking to take care of your boots? Not sure how to lace them properly? Here are some of our tips.

What to do with new hiking boots?

Once you get home, wear your boots both indoors and outdoors to help your feet get used to them and to soften the material. Try this at different times of the day, as your feet can swell or change in volume. Don’t forget to wear the same type of hiking socks you’ll use on your hikes.
Take the time to lace your boots properly to ensure a comfortable fit. Not sure how to lace them? See our lacing tips below.
If needed, apply a waterproofing treatment to keep your feet dry and extend the life of your boots.

How to care for your hiking boots?

After the hike

Remove the insoles and open the boots fully to allow moisture to escape and the boots to air out.
If your boots are wet, stuff them with newspaper to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.
Never dry your boots in front of a high heat source. Heat can compromise the glue that holds the outsole in place. Instead, let them air dry in a well-ventilated space.

Cleaning

Rinse your boots to remove mud and dirt.
If needed, clean them using a soft cloth or brush to get rid of any remaining debris.
For a thorough clean, use products specifically designed for hiking boots.

How to lace your boots for different terrain?

For uphill terrains, give your feet a bit more freedom. Lace the lower part of your boots snugly, but keep the upper part looser to allow for more ankle flexion while still providing support. For downhill terrains, go for a tighter lace throughout the entire boot. This helps keep your foot secure, offering more rigidity and ankle support.

Still have questions? Check out our blog for more tips and tricks, or come visit us in-store.