How to tie hiking boots correctly

THERE ARE MANY OPTIONS FOR THE MOST COMFORTABLE LACING

Naturally first and foremost the right size and fit is crucial. However, many of you will be surprised what a huge difference the correct lacing of hiking shoes/boots makes. That way you can totally avoid uncomfortable pressure marks and blisters. We compiled a number of tips, which will be helpful for any hiking tour and considerably increase the comfort of your hiking boots. It is incredible how many factors need to be taken into account. More about that in today’s hiking blog, your feet will certainly appreciate it!

General remarks:

At the start of a hiking tour your circulation increases, which means your body is supplied with more blood and feet automatically expand. So, your feet change constantly and this depends on activity, temperature and time of day. The shoe/boot too changes during a hiking tour due to warmth generated when hiking, which means the material of the shoe warms up and expands. The correct lacing helps to achieve the perfect fit of the shoe in any situation. It probably goes without saying that buying the right shoe size is crucial. As a rough guideline it is recommended that you have a space of approx. 15-20mm in the toe area.

Helpful tips for any hiking tour:

Since the feet swell in the first few minutes we recommend you tie your laces again after the first 20 minutes. That way you avoid uncomfortable pressure from the start.
When walking downhill tie your laces tighter towards the ankle. That way you do not slide forward and avoid bruised toenails and blisters.
When walking uphill you can loosen your laces slightly, since the foot needs a little bit more mobility. This is particularly important for the front part of the foot. The heel however should be a tight fit. At the top of the shoe keep the laces slightly more loose, so the shoe does not push against the heel.

… and there is more:

The tongue of the shoe always has to sit in the middle. Often the tongue slightly twists if you are not careful when slipping on your hiking boot. Many sport- or hiking shoes therefore feature a loop or a hook in order to position the tongue permanently in the middle.
Just as important as the correct lacing are proper hiking socks. Socks need to fit just like a second skin, absorb moisture and cushion taxed spots on the foot.
Not all hiking feet are the same. Lots of them have irregularities or ganglions at the top of the foot. If the shoe hurts in places like that, simply thread the laces through two eyelets on the same side instead of crossing them on pressure spots like that. This allows more space for any foot irregularities.

The lesson is clear:

Ultimately appropriate hiking boots are essential for any hiking tour and they need to be worn correctly and naturally the lacing needs to be adjusted depending on circumstances. Different to trainers or classic sneakers hiking shoes are also suitable for uneven terrain, forest- and dirt paths and hiking trails. In actual fact every hiking holiday requires proper hiking shoes. Hiking boots are not cheap, but are a worthwhile investment, which pays off a 100%, since only with the right equipment can you ensure you do not end up with sore areas and blisters. This is the reason why you always find hiking shoes/boots on all our equipment lists as part of your travel documents you receive from us. That way you are ready and prepared for the next hiking holiday!

Please find our tips regarding correct footwear and your perfect hiking equipment here!