HOW SHOULD THEY FIT?

When trying on footwear for the first time, there are a few simple tests you can use to check the fit:

Make sure your toes aren't pressing the front of the boot. Your foot should feel secure, with no heel lift, but your toes should have some room for movement. Try squeezing a finger down behind your Achilles tendon with your toes pushed into the front. If you can manage it (just), then your boots are about the right length.

Outsole

Typically made from vulcanised rubber for its unrivalled grip and durability. The depth and pattern of the lugs (teeth) have a direct effect on the boot's performance. Chunkier treads shed mud easily and will be more at home in wet, slippery conditions. Thinner patterns handle better on rocky terrain since more surface area is in direct contact with the ground. Vibram is the most common brand of sole manufacturer, though there are excellent alternatives, such as Salomon's Contagrip.

LEATHER OR SYNTHETIC?

Leather has been a tried and trusted technology for as long as we’ve been selling boots (that’s 90 years!). Sturdy, protective and very supportive, a leather upper is perfect for year-round use in the rugged British mountains and – when looked after properly – it can last a very long time.

after making

A synthetic upper, on the other hand, will usually be lighter weight and more breathable, making it ideal for summer walking and milder temperatures.

3 4 5

Check the width. While the uppers of leather boots will soften a little with time, the rest of the boot won't. The upper should be holding your foot in place, and the insole should cradle your foot at the edges almost perfectly. If it feels too narrow or wide at the ball of the foot, then consider a different option.

Try your boots on in the afternoon. A day in the hills causes your feet to expand slightly – particularly in hot weather – so trying them in the afternoon will give you a more realistic idea of how they'll feel when you need comfort the most.

Wear your new boots around the house before taking them on a walk. This gives you a chance to double-check the fit, see how they feel at a different time of day, and test them with your own socks.

Only use one pair of socks! Modern footwear is designed to be secure, warm, and breathable. Wearing multiple pairs of socks will not increase comfort; in fact it will only heighten the risk of blisters since the materials will rub against each other.

For total peace of mind, speak to one of our experts in-store. Our dedicated boot-fitting service can be booked in advance and ensures you leave with the most appropriate and comfortable footwear for your chosen activity. From introducing new lacing techniques to checking for toe-shunting or heel-slipping, we pride ourselves on finding the perfect fit for your feet.

FOR MORE BUYING GUIDES ON ALL YOUR OUTDOOR GEAR, SCAN HERE: