Do you know the difference between a walking shoe and hiking boot? Or perhaps you’ve had uncomfortable or ill-fitting shoes before? We caught up with Paul Trepte from leading outdoor retailer Trekitt. Paul advised us on how to choose the right pair of walking shoes, and how to buy the right size. Bought a pair of shoes that don’t hit the spot? Read on!

Should you size up?

We often get asked if you should buy a size up when buying walking shoes, but you absolutely should not.  Ideally, you would go to an experienced and knowledgeable boot fitter who will gauge the right size and fit for your foot.  

Any tips for finding the right fit?

A consumer tip to know that the boots that you’re intending to buy could be the right size. When you get your boots or your shoes, take the insole out and stand on it with your heel right on the back.  You should have a finger’s width of 1 cm between the end of your toe and the end of the insole.  That’s very rudimentary, but if you haven’t got that gap you will bash your toes on the end of the boot – especially when going downhill – which is very uncomfortable. 

What is a common issue that can easily be resolved?

Ninety per cent of people that come into the Trekitt shop to complain about their boots being uncomfortable is because they have bought too small.

Lastly, what’s the difference between walking and hiking boots?

There is a difference between a walking boot and a hiking boot. Hiking is generally thought of as longer in duration and over rougher terrain. Walking is about gentler terrain and is less arduous.  A hiking boot will offer more support and will generally be stronger. 

Bonus Tip: If you are buying your shoes online, use the finger trick on the insole before you take your shoes out for a spin to make sure they’re comfortable and that there’s enough wiggle room for when you’re going downhill. What you need to do is take the insole out of the shoe, place your foot on top and then check there’s enough room for your index finger to fit between your toes and the end of the insole. Happy hiking!

Established in 1986, independent outdoor retailer – Trekitt – was founded by the Trepte family.  The entire Trekitt team is driven by a love of the outdoors and a passion for sharing years of outdoor knowledge and experience with like-minded people.  Honesty and trust are important values to the brand and the inspiration behind Trekitt’s hugely successful YouTube channel.