Hiking Boot Basics

Articles: 11

A good pair of hiking boots will take you far and keep your feet happy. To help you on your journey, this series covers everything from choosing the right boots and breaking them in to lacing them up and keeping them clean.

  • hiking boots with socks on ground

    Buying Advice

    How to Choose Hiking Boots

    1030 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Use our guide to find the right hiking boots for you. Includes expert tips from heel to toe and info on boot types, materials and fit.

  • A hiker scales mountains in Boulder, Colorado, while wearing the Lowa Renegade GTX hiking boots.

    Gear Guides

    The Best Hiking Boots of 2023: Tested

    380 reviews with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars

    Our testers spent months putting the best hiking and backpacking boots sold at REI through their paces. The 11 in this list are the top performers.

  • a hiker wearing boots while standing on a curb

    Care and Repair

    How to Break in Your Hiking Boots

    901 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Learn how to break in a new pair of hiking boots so you can maximize your comfort along the trail.

  • person tying hiking boots

    Skills

    How to Lace Hiking Boots

    1040 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars

    Increase comfort on the trail by learning simple boot lacing techniques that help you deal with heel slipping, pressure points and toe pain.

  • a hiker wearing a pair of muddy boots along the trail

    Care and Repair

    How to Clean Hiking Boots

    672 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    With proper cleaning and care, your hiking boots will last you for many years and many miles along the trail.

  • A woman cleaning and conditioning leather hiking boots

    Care and Repair

    How to Care for Leather Hiking Boots

    110 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars

    Leather boots last longer and perform better if you keep them clean and conditioned. We explain the supplies you need and how to use them.

  • a hiker in hiking boots doing a shallow stream crossing

    Care and Repair

    How to Waterproof Hiking Boots

    231 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars

    Learn how to tell when your hiking boots' durable water repellent (DWR) needs renewing and how you can restore their waterproof performance.

  • 4 hiking boots with socks in them

    Buying Advice

    How to Choose Hiking Socks

    910 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars

    Choosing the right hiking socks will keep your feet happy during the long haul. This article covers sock height, cushioning, fabric and fit.

  • hiking boot on a rock

    Buying Advice

    How to Choose Insoles

    639 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars

    Insoles for your boots or shoes can improve fit and alleviate foot problems. This article explains the basics on how to choose a pair.

  • Two pairs of feet walking on a trail; one in hiking boots, the other in trail runners

    Buying Advice

    Hiking Boots vs. Trail Runners: The Great Debate

    532 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Do you need big beefy boots to go hiking? Or will a pair of trail runners do just fine? Our expert gives you the pros and cons.

  • a hikers boots on rough terrain

    Skills

    Blister Prevention and Care

    410 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars

    Learn the conditions that cause blisters, how to prevent blisters from happening and how to treat them after they form.