How To Break In Hiking Boots | Learn The Proper Way
So you just got a new pair of hiking boots; let's learn how to break them in properly. Hiking boots break in easily, but some people find it tedious, especially if they don't fit properly. Over the past 15 years, I have worn over 100 pairs of hiking boots, and each one has a unique break-in period.
The Experts at REI say the breaking in process will not turn a poorly fitting boot into a well fitting one. See our guide on how to choose hiking boots.
Key Takeaways
When breaking into a hiking boot, it can take some time. We suggest starting slowly, even wearing them throughout the house if needed. Do not start hiking with a backpack or any extra weight.
We recommend choosing nice, comfortable socks and starting off on your easier hikes. Avoid thin socks at this time, as your body is still getting used to the material in the hiking boots. The break-in process is different for every different type of hiking boot, and you must treat it like so.
Start Slow
Generally, we do not recommend wearing your hiking boots for leisure activities; however, when you first break them, we do recommend doing so.
You can start wearing them while walking through your neighborhood or even inside the house. Get a feel for how your toes and heel fit into the boot. Observe these pressure points closely to determine if they disappear. If these pressure points disappear, it indicates a proper break-in of the boot.
If they don't, then the boot may not fit properly.The next step is to use the hiking boots on a trail. Like we said in the beginning, it's best to start off on an easier, more mild trail. Avoid choosing a trail with uneven terrain, as your feet may not be accustomed to the shock absorption of your new hiking boots.
The shock absorption of each hiking boot varies, and neither you nor your body are accustomed to it. Once broken in, you may start on more challenging terrain.
How Hiking Boots Differ in Break-In Periods
Certain hiking boots take longer to break in. Typically, hiking boots with a higher leather content, like the Salomon Quest 4, require more time and effort to break in. Leather boots typically exhibit a stiffer and less forgiving nature compared to the synthetic material commonly used in many new hiking boots.
For instance, the Salmon X 4 Ultra, with its high proportion of synthetic material and minimal leather, required just one day to break in for me.
The break-in period may vary depending on the type of leather, such as Columbia Newton Ridge's PU leather. Nubuck leather certainly takes the longest out of all the types of boots that I have broken in.
How to Break in Hiking Boots Fast
Unfortunately, there is no way to break in your hiking boots faster. Rushing this break-in period will only lead to more discomfort and pain. You cannot rush this process, as your foot needs to adjust to the leather and synthetic material that the hiking boot carries.
Also, your body must adjust to the new insole and midsole, where a lot of the shock absorption occurs. Trying to break in your hiking boots too fast only leads to more frustration and discomfort.
How Long Does It Take to Break in Hiking Boots?
Synthetic, lightweight boots can break in after one or more hikes. It may take several weeks for heavier-grain leather boots, such as the Hoka Kaha 2, to break in. Generally, it takes a couple of weeks to break in most hiking boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Miles to Break in Hiking Boots?
There's not a specific mileage per se; however, as we said, lightweight synthetic material hiking boots can be broken in after one hike or several. The more robust leather boots may take longer. Remember to go slow and low.
How to Break in Hiking Boots in One Day
We do not suggest this unless you have very lightweight hiking boots. If you happen to break them one day, you'll notice they won't have any sore spots or discomfort after your first hike.
Breaking in leather boots with water
Unfortunately, this is a commonly held misconception. Your foot needs to adjust to the material inside and outside the boot; soaking them will not help break in hiking boots.
Is it normal for hiking boots to hurt at first?
Indeed, this is particularly true around the toe box and heel. During the break-in period of your boots, your foot is still acclimating to the material. Imagine this process as if you were wearing a new shirt or sweatshirt made of a material you are not accustomed to; it will take a few wears for you to become comfortable.
Does Vaseline help break in boots?
Unfortunately, this only damages the boots' leather, which subsequently softens them. Avoid this as it may damage your boots and hinder break-in.
How We Tested And Our Methodology
When it comes to reviewing hiking boots, experience, and expertise matter.
We have personally hands-on tested over 100+ hiking boots so we have no problem saying we are an expert to give you the right information on how to break in your hiking boots.
MountaineerJourney.com is a 100% independent publisher with over 12+ years of experience testing and reviewing outdoor products especially hiking boots.