How to Choose Your Perfect Hiking Boots

EXPERT ADVICE FOR THE BEST FIT

Choosing the best hiking boots to fit your needs isn't an easy process!   

Are you the sunny day hiker looking for out of the box comfort? Maybe you have a history of rolling your ankle?  Will you be exploring nature walks with your young family or backpacking the Long Trail?  

Your ideal hiking boot is the match between your unique foot shape AND your personal hiking goals. Whatever the combination, Danform Shoes Fit Experts can guide you to the top fit, whether you are novice to expert, kid-sized to grown up!

THREE CORE QUESTIONS 

Finding the best hiking boots for you involves three considerations: 

• Instant Comfort vs Stiffer Performance Construction 
• Low vs Mid Height, and
• Waterproof vs Non-Waterproof Materials

At first glance, you'd ask, "Who wouldn't look for instant comfort?"  Some hiking boots are designed with a flexible sole, roomy toe box and forgiving materials that let you walk out of Danform Shoes and up Camel's Hump an hour later.  Hiking boots like the Oboz Sawtooth are best sellers because of their out of the box comfort and solid construction.  So who doesn't want that instant, easy fit?  That's our hard-core, rugged trailblazing, backpacking advernturer looking for a stiffer outsole like the Oboz Tamarack or Oboz Bridger to match up to more rugged trails.

A boot's height is the next factor.  While some of this involves personal preference, there are performance features to note.  A lower boot conforms to your foot more quickly , but a mid-height boot provides more ankle stability and a taller barrier if you like to cross streams or tackle tangled terrain.

Waterproof is another feature that can be confusing.  Our fit experts can explain that waterproof boots sound magical  but can come with some drawbacks.  Boots that repel moisture can be less breathable making for a sweaty foot.  If you are hiking mainly under summery, dry skies, a vented, water resistant boot might be a smarter choice.   Not to mention, if you're a heavy foot sweater - no judgement zone! - a waterproof boot might not be your best bet.

THE RIGHT FIT IS RIGHT HERE

Because we know that no two feet are alike, even the two that belong to you, Danform Shoes believe investing time in the in-person fitting pays dividends.  Not only by eliminating online returns but because boots that have been fit by our trained experts fit sooo well, motivating you to get outside and move!

Stop in to learn how your foot structure influences your choice of boot and check out our favorite hiking boot brands: Oboz, Keen, Merrell and Hoka One One! 

Our Fit Experts love to analyze.  By watching you walk and taking your foot shape into account, Danform experts can narrow down your choices.  You'll find an eager listener asking questions to learn what you want out of your hiking boots. 

There's nothing better than exploring Vermont's beauty in the heart of the mountains and no better gift to give your family than sharing fun outdoors.  Our Vermont locals are lucky to have a hiking boot selection that rivals the e-commerce giants right in their own backyard. All the convenience of online shopping, with a lot more caring!

Ready to gear up?  Browse our online selection of hiking boots and head over to any of Danform Shoes 4 locations to get fit!