Do you know when to replace hiking boots?
But wait:
Do hiking boots wear out?
These boots are durable, made with high quality material to withstand rough terrain and diverse weather conditions. In fact, they look so invincible!
However, just like any other shoes, they wear out. Therefore, how do you tell if your hiking boots are worn out?
It is simple. First, make a habit of checking your footwear regularly. That way, you will notice signs of wear and tear easily.
There are many telltale signs to show you that you need to replace your hiking boots.
Table of Contents
How long do hiking boots last?
If you don’t want to be caught unawares, you may wonder, It will depend on the way you use them, their quality, brand, maintenance and your body weight. That is why a good hiking boot mileage ranges between 500 to 1000 miles.
If you see these signs, then know it is time to buy a new pair of boots. Also, you can do a simple test on the boots to see if you need to replace.
It is called the press test. You press the outsole upward using your thumb. If the midsole has cracks and compression lines, then you need to replace the boots.
How to know when to replace your boots
You will know it is time to order a new pair when you start seeing the following signs of age, and wear and tear.
1. Check for torn soles
Torn soles indicate that you need new hiking shoes. If the outer sole is bent, has cracks and the treads are thinner, then you will need a new pair.
A torn outer sole cannot give you the support that you need when hiking. You can slide easily because of the thin treads and water can seep through the cracks.
As for the insole, if it does not have sufficient padding, then it will be uncomfortable for you.
A cracked midsole is a sign that the boots have had enough trekking and they need replacement. You cannot hike comfortably with cracked midsole.
2. It is leaking
One of the qualities of hiking boots is waterproofing. You can wear them and not worry about water seeping inside even if you get into a puddle or it rains when you are hiking. Waterproofing treatment helps to keep the boots waterproof.
If the boot is leaking even after applying your waterproofing treatment, it is time to let it go. It means that the material and stitches are too worn out.
3. It is not comfortable
Hiking footwear should be comfortable. You are likely to wear them for long in uneven terrains and unfavorable weather conditions. Therefore, if you feel uncomfortable in the shoes, you start getting blisters, chaffing and aches, then you need a new pair.
4. They look too old
If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck …
What is the appearance of the shoes? If they look old and tattered, then it is a sign of the mileage they have covered. The torn upper part, worn out stitching and finished treads are signs of a worn-out boot.
5. No Support
Hiking shoes are made to cushion the feet from the harsh terrain. Therefore, if the midsole no longer provides support and the ankle support doesn’t work, replace them.
Without proper support, you can be injured. Your ankle may sprain, or your feet ache during the hike.
6. Frayed laces and lose eyelets
Laces help to fit the boots into your feet such that they are not too loose or too tight. If the laces are frayed, or the eyelets are loose, it will be hard to tighten up the boots.
You could replace the laces and repair the eyelets. However, you may also opt to buy new boots, especially if there are other problems.
Conclusion
You have seen how easy it is to tell when to replace hiking boots. If you start noticing the signs, it could be an indication that you are too late. Therefore, make a habit of checking the boots so that they don’t die on you completely when you are on the trail.
You can find new boots on Amazon.com.
