Breaking in new hiking boots

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So, you were able to get advice on which pair of hiking boots to buy, you got your perfect fit and you’re eager to take them for a spin. Not so fast, please! I understand the excitement and the urge to take them to your next hike, but that may leave you feeling let down by your new buy or the shopping assistant, or both. Your new boots need some breaking in for them to serve you well. It is crucial that they are a good fit as no amount of breaking in will correct a poorly fitting pair.

Patience

We live in an era of instant gratification where we’re used to popping something into a microwave, air fryer or pressure cooker for an almost instant meal. Well, with your new hiking boots you may have to practice a little patience. It is important for your pair to be in sync with your feet, and that will not happen instantly. By taking time to break in your new pair of hiking boots, you will be setting yourself up for many comfortable trail moments with your pair. Light, synthetic boots may not need that much breaking in, but I still recommend getting used to them before taking them to the trail. Leather boots may require a longer period to break in as the leather needs time to soften up. As a hiker, you will soon learn the Swahili term, pole pole which means slowly slowly. A similar term I learned while hiking in China is màn man de màn man de. While these terms are generally used to remind hikers to take their time, especially on inclines, it may be beneficial to apply the same principle to your new hiking boots. Take time to get used to them; you’ll thank yourself later.

 

How do you do it?

Wear them at home

The best place to start is always where you are. And in this case, that will mean your house. I must confess that I’m always barefooted in the house. So, even if you, like me, don’t fancy wearing shoes in the house, I’d advise you to ‘get out of your comfort zone’ and just do it. Make sure you wear the socks you’ll be hiking with and tie the boots as you would when hiking. Avoid tying them too loose or too tight so you can continue doing life your way. They may feel a bit stiff, but they shouldn’t feel too tight or uncomfortable. 

·       Take them to the shops, work or around the block

Once you’re comfortable walking with them around the house, you can increase the distance by taking them to the shops, and if your work wardrobe allows it, take them to work. That at least will ensure that you wear them for the better part of the day, and that will give you an idea of how you will feel during a hike. Always listen to your feet and never ignore any discomfort. Adjust the laces, change the socks, and do whatever brings comfort to your feet.

 

·       Take them to the trail

The next step will be to take your hiking boots for a ride on rugged terrain for a proper breaking in. Put on a light day backpack and go test your new buy. The more you use them, the more you will enjoy them. The slowly slowly concept is still relevant here. Start with a shorter distance and a light daypack and gradually increase both distance and weight. Before you know it, both feet and boots will be in sync, and the more mileage they cover, the more you will love them.

 

Remember

Hiking boots are not very cheap, but getting a proper fit may be the best investment for your feet and hiking journey. I had to buy many wrong boots, both in make and size, before I found my perfect fit. I made the mistake of hiking with boots that are not properly worn in, and I’ve had monstrous blisters and a lot of discomfort to show for that. I hope through sharing these tips, your journey will have fewer discomforts.

Màn man de màn man de! Pole pole! One step at a time!

Td