I’m looking for hiking boots for narrow feet, and I need good ankle support. I twisted my ankle in the past, and it hasn’t been the same since, so support is essential. I’ve been looking at the Merrell MOAB 3 Tactical (mostly because I like the color options). I’ve heard they’re good for narrow feet.
I’m hoping to stay under €150 if possible. Any recommendations?
Before focusing too much on boots, I recommend doing some physical therapy and ankle exercises to strengthen it. Relying on boots for ankle support isn’t enough in the long run. And when it comes to finding the right fit, the best option is to try different models on.
Merrell is typically better suited for wider feet. Since you have narrow feet, you might want to look at brands like Asolo, La Sportiva, or Scarpa, as they cater to narrow feet really well. It’s better to invest in high-quality boots that last longer (5+ years) than cheaper ones that only last a year.
Here’s some advice on fitting boots: They should feel comfortable right out of the box without any discomfort like slipping, hot spots, or pinching. You’ll still need to break them in, but there shouldn’t be any initial issues. Try boots on at the end of the day, when your feet are more swollen, and wear the socks you’ll use for hiking. Stand on the insoles if possible, and make sure there’s about a third to half an inch between your toes and the end of the insole for the right fit.
@Oli
Thanks for the advice and the recommendations!
What would you consider a light hike for breaking in new boots?
Yan said:
@Oli
Thanks for the advice and the recommendations!
What would you consider a light hike for breaking in new boots?
For breaking in boots, it depends on the material. If you’re using rigid leather boots, keep your first hikes under 1.5 to 2 miles. For lighter, synthetic boots, you could go for 4 to 5 miles. Make sure to tape up areas prone to blistering, like your heels, before starting. Use foot powder (I recommend Gold Bond Triple Action) and wear merino wool blend socks, like Smartwool or Darn Tough. This should help with the break-in process.
And definitely do some PT for your ankle, as the other poster mentioned!