Achilles tendon issues with hiking boots… any solutions?

Discussion
1

I love hiking, but I usually wear running shoes, which I’ve heard might not be the best choice for long-term foot health. I’ve been trying trail runners and hiking boots, but every pair rubs my Achilles tendon so badly that it bleeds through my socks.

I’ve tried moleskin, double socks, different brands, and sizes. I thought maybe I wasn’t breaking them in properly, but I’ve put over 200 miles on my current pair. Still, after a 5+ mile hike, I’m in so much pain I can barely walk.

Is it okay to stick with running shoes even for long-distance hikes (15+ miles)? Or is there something I’m missing here?

2

Have you been professionally fitted for your hiking shoes? If not, it might be worth getting properly measured instead of relying on your running shoe sizes.

3

Why do you think running shoes will damage your feet? Plenty of thru-hikers use running or trail running shoes.

It’s surprising you haven’t found a trail shoe or boot that doesn’t tear up your Achilles. Do you know what’s causing it? Blisters? Friction? Does your heel slip around in the shoe?

4

@Indigo
I guess I don’t know running shoes are bad—it’s just something I’ve heard over the years. Honestly, they’ve worked well for me.

I’ve tried different sizes, even shoes that felt too tight, with double socks. Unfortunately, I’ve had the same problem with every pair.

5

Stick with what fits you best. Hiking boots or shoes should feel comfortable right out of the box—no rubbing, hot spots, or discomfort. Break them in gradually by wearing them around the house, then on light hikes. After a couple of weeks, they should feel great, but there shouldn’t be any pain during that process.

Here are some tips:

  • Try boots on at the end of the day when your feet are more swollen. Wear the socks you’d use for hiking.
  • Check the insole fit. Stand on it; your foot should sit fully on it with about 1/3 to 1/2 inch of space between your toes and the edge.
  • Recommended trail runners: La Sportiva, Altra, Saucony, Scarpa, Hoka.
  • Insoles: Superfeet, Tread Labs, PowerStep, Currex.
  • Socks: Smartwool or Darn Tough.

Getting a proper fit might solve your issue entirely.

6

I had an old Achilles injury that flared up when I tried hiking in midsole boots. Every uphill step felt like I was re-injuring it. Switching to zero-drop Altras was a game-changer for me. If your tendons are already stretched or sensitive, zero-drop shoes might help reduce the strain.

7

What brands of boots and shoes have you tried so far? Some are excellent, but most are subpar. Also, try using Darn Tough or Smartwool socks; they can make a big difference.