How to Break In Your Mountain Boots

📬 Mountain Minute #03 – How to Break In Your Mountain Boots
Your weekly 3-minute read for safer, smarter adventures in the hills.

New boots? Great—but don’t take them straight up Snowdon. Breaking them in properly can save your feet from blisters and bruises.

Here’s how to do it right:

👣 Wear them indoors first
Start by wearing them around the house for a few hours a day. This helps your feet adjust and spot early pressure points.

🏞 Take short, easy walks
Begin with 1–2 hour local walks. Choose mixed terrain—grass, gravel, maybe a few hills. This helps flex the soles and mould the inner to your foot.

🧦 Use your mountain socks
Don’t wear everyday socks—train with the ones you’ll hike in. Bonus tip: try different sock combos if hotspots appear.

💧 Treat the leather (if applicable)
If your boots are leather, apply conditioner or wax before heading out. This helps soften the upper and protects against the wet.

⏳ It takes time
Some boots (especially stiff-soled or winter models) can take weeks to fully bed in. Plan ahead.

Pro Tip: Any rubbing or pain early on usually means trouble later. Fix it now—adjust lacing, insoles, or try a different boot.

➡️ Need some help getting the right boots? Drop me an email, I’d be happy to help! perry@maverickmountaineering.com