Hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors, but some less-than-ideal elements are associated with it. Are you pitching your tent in a downpour and swatting at pesky bugs? Don’t even get us started on How much time does it take to break in hiking boots.
While you can never rush quality footwear prep, there are fortunately ways of hastening their readiness for use: from running through shallow streams to vigorously rubbing moisturizer into leather material – whatever works best for your situation (but hurry – those trails won’t wait forever).
Breaking in a pair of brand-new hiking boots is an essential step before embarking on any long excursions, but the time it takes to accomplish this depends heavily on factors such as how well they fit your feet and the material. It’s also important not to forget about breaking in one’s own feet – regular hikers who do so will be able to enjoy their new shoes comfortably with minimal blisters.
However, should you find yourself short for a time before taking off into nature, worry not – although it might take some (temporary) discomfort from minor blisters here and there, getting used quickly enough shouldn’t prove too tricky.
Proper Hiking Boots Need only Little to No Breaking In
Choosing the perfect hiking boots can seem daunting, but with a bit of research and careful consideration, it’s possible to find such a pair – no break-in required.
We were pleased to discover that this was true of Merrell Moab 2 Ventilators; they immediately gave us total comfort. But before you buy any footwear online, check out customer reviews so that others who have already tested them can advise on how comfortable they are.
To ensure maximum comfort on long hikes, the best choice is to go into a hiking store with friendly customer service and find your perfect pair of boots.
Consider different aspects such as toe width, ankle space, and foot slippage – it’s worth taking the time so that you can enjoy every step without sore feet later. Sure, there are “good enough” options, but only correctly fitting boots will feel tailored for your unique shape. After all – adventures should be enjoyed, not endured.
How to Break in Hiking Boots
It’s not just about the destination with hiking – breaking in your boots is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you need more time or looking to do it right, we’ve got tips that will help you get prepped adequately before hitting the trail.
Correctly Breaking in Hiking Boots (1 – 4 Weeks)
If you’re ready to explore the trails, start with a well-fitting pair of hikers. Wear them around your home and on short errands for one or two weeks – break in gradually so that they can mold to the shape of your feet. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking socks, too – these will help reduce nasty blisters during those first few hikes.
Once everything’s feeling snug, hit the trail correctly by going out on shorter outings (around 3 – 8 km) while packing all necessary gear as if it were a more extended hike: this way, when you have time for an extended journey into nature, nothing unexpected should come between you and adventure.
Breaking in your hiking boots is a two-step process. The first step requires simply lacing them up and getting out there on the trail – but be sure to keep an eye (and foot.) out for any pressure points, typically around the heels or toes of your feet where too tight of laces can cause bruising, blisters and more.
Quickly remedy this with leuko tape, moleskin bandage, or duck tape applied directly to sore spots. After about 3-5 hikes over 1-2 weeks, you will fully break them in. Now get ready to maximize their potential whenever you hit that hilly terrain.
How to Break in Hiking Boots Quickly (1-3 Days)
For those who want the perfect fit and feel when they hit the trails, breaking in their hiking boots before trekking is essential. But if you’re pressed for time, an even faster way to prep your shoes involves soaking them in water first.
Drinking new boots will make them more moldable so that a hike can do its magic as soon as possible. Fifteen minutes of warm-water immersion should be enough to prepare your feet for adventure – remember, waterproof socks too.
Immerse yourself in a shallow stream or river to accelerate the breaking-in of your hiking boots – but take caution. Despite achieving quick results, doing this can damage gear: water may reduce waterproofing on quality leather and cause blisters due to wetness. Wear thick merino wool socks with some moleskin applied around possible hotspots for irritation to prevent sore spots while still enjoying time by the shoreline.
Can You Start Hiking With Brand New Hiking Boots Without Breaking Them In?
Immerse yourself in a shallow stream or river to accelerate the breaking-in of your hiking boots – but take caution.
Despite achieving quick results, doing this can damage gear: water may reduce waterproofing on quality leather and cause blisters due to wetness. Wear thick merino wool socks with some moleskin applied around possible hotspots for irritation to prevent sore spots while still enjoying time by the shoreline.
What Causes You to Get Blisters From New Hiking Boots?
Nothing can ruin a hiking adventure like an unexpected blister. Fortunately, you can avoid them by taking some simple steps. Before hitting the trail, ensure your socks are made of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial material to ward off bacteria that may cause blisters in wet conditions.
Also, ensure that your shoes fit properly – if they’re too tight anywhere (like around the ankles), break them in first or wear different ones before heading out on longer treks.
And finally, remember yourself: use lighter loads when starting, as heavier backpacks might strain unaccustomed feet and result in painful surprises later. Just follow these tips for happy blister-free hikes every time.