One of the most important considerations for successful (or at least comfortable) hiking and backpacking is your connection to the ground. While discussion regarding the best hiking shoes can and does go on and on, regardless of which shoe or boot you choose you need to make sure you get the right fit.

If you follow size charts and measure your feet at home, it is likely you’ll end up with too small of a shoe size which can lead to blisters or other discomfort on the trail. Not to mention, on long hikes and on backpacking trips your feet tend to swell, complicating sizing and this is something that should be accounted for when sizing a shoe or boot.

Further complicating the process is that shoe sizes are standardized but vary a bit between brands, along with other fit characteristics, and every hiker has their own personal preference regarding getting the right fit.

How Much Space in a Hiking Shoe?

For me, I like a shoe that is secure around the heel, with enough length that I have around an inch or so of space at the end of the toe box when standing. For a flexible shoe, I typically find that toe wiggle room is usually sufficient; however for a stiff boot if I can’t move my toes up and down for comfort, I choose a different boot.

The extra space may at first seem like a bit much, but as the feet swell and so long as you get your lacing tension set well it becomes just right – plenty of toe room for comfort and long days. Hikers heading for more technical terrain may prefer a tighter fit when there will be less miles but more angled and varied terrain. But either way, I’ve found if in doubt it’s best to go for that half size up when in doubt when it comes to hiking footwear.

For more on footwear selection across the seasons, read our guide on choosing the best hiking / backpacking shoes / boots. Ready to pick up your next pair? You can find a full selection of hiking shoes and boots here at REI Co-op.

Editor's Note: This Trail Tip originally appeared in Issue 58 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here.