Snow, mud, loose rock, slick rock, wet rock – you could encounter all of this terrain and more on your backpacking trip with Colorado Outward Bound School. These rugged hiking conditions require equally rugged footwear.

In fact, picking the right pair of boots might just be the most important choice you make ahead of your expedition. The options can seem endless and sorting out the best boots from the not-so-good boots can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help! This blog will help you choose the right boot for your your backpacking trip.

Getting started

Here’s the most important piece of advice we can provide you for buying boots – try them on first! Go into a store and take your time, trying on several different brands and styles while wearing thick hiking socks. Pick the best one for your foot, not the best-looking one in the store.

If you are buying new boots, you can expect to spend between $100 – $400. Looking for something a little more affordable? You may be able to find high-quality boots on sale or at a second-hand store. If you’re purchasing new, we encourage you to buy at REI through this link. REI is a proud partner of COBS, so when you buy through our REI link, you’re financially supporting our efforts to increase outdoor access for youth! Plus, their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and they have a great return policy.

Boot Design

Height: High-cut boots are a necessity. They provide good balance and ankle support for off-trail terrain and heavier loads.

Material: There are two primary boot materials: synthetic and leather. Synthetic boots are lighter and easier to break in. Leather boots have a much longer lifetime but take longer to dry when they get wet. If you only have a few weeks before your expedition, opt for synthetic boots to ensure your boots will be fully broken in before your expedition.

Sole and Tread: Your soles should have a heavy, stiff tread that will improve traction on slick or snowy surfaces. Vibram soles are a great reliable and high-quality option. To test stiffness, try to bend your boot in half (the long way.) If the boot folds entirely, it is too flexible. If the boot does not fold at all, it may be too stiff for your expedition. Look for a boot with a moderate amount of flexibility.

Trying on your boots

When boot shopping, wear the socks you plan to bring on course. Make sure to also bring any special orthotics you regularly use. Try on at least three pairs of boots before deciding. Ask a salesperson for help – they can guide you in the right direction.

To start, fully lace the boots and walk around the store to get a feel for the boot fit. If your store has an incline ramp, walk up and down it several times. Jump around – get wild 😊

While walking around, pay attention to:

• Toes: You should have some room to wiggle your toes at the front of your boot. Your toes should not be pressed against the front.
• Heels: Your heel may slip a little in the back of the boot, especially while walking uphill, but no more than ¼”. If your heel slips at all, try retying the boot tightly around the ankle.
• Pressure Points: There should be no pressure points. These will become worse over time and cause to blisters.
• Stiffness: Your boots should feel stiffer than usual footwear, but still comfortable.

If you are worried about your boots fitting correctly, ask the salesperson if you can wear them around the house for a few hours and return them if there is a problem.

Breaking in your boots

Once you have your new boots, it is critical that you break them in. A boot that isn’t broken in will give you blisters and cause foot pain on your course!

Wear your boots as much as you can – walk around town or go on a hike with friends! You should wear them for at least 10 miles. Leather boots take even longer to break in, so plan on wearing these around for several weeks before your course.

Still have questions or concerns?

Contact your course advisor at [email protected] or 720.381.6589

About the Author