What is the difference between hiking boot size vs. shoe size? Hiking boots seem bigger, but do they? We will reveal the truth in this post. Let’s join us!
#1. Hiking Boot Size Vs. Shoe Size: Comparison Table
We use the same method to measure hiking boots and shoes. However, since they work for different purposes, users often change their requirements in shoe sizes when shopping for footwear.
| Hiking Boot Size | Shoe Size | |
| Measurement | Brannock or classic | Brannock or classic |
| Fitness | Half or full size bigger | Fit snugly |
| Construction | Size varies depending on the construction. | The construction does not vary a lot in shoes. |
#2. What Is The Difference Between Hiking Boot Size Vs. Shoe Size?
Hiking boot and shoe sizes are the same when we only look at the numbers.
Yet, we use them differently. Sometimes, a person may need hiking boots and shoes in two different sizes. Let’s see how it happens.
Measurement
We have British and American shoe sizes after measuring the last length in barleycorns, which equals 1/3 inch.
The shoe size is the result of multiplying the last length by 3 and subtracting 23 for women and 25 for men. So we have:
- Women’s shoe size = 3 x (last length) – 23
- Men’s shoe size = 3 x (last length) – 25
US sizes begin at a size 1, but the UK system starts at 0. Thus, US size 10 corresponds to UK size 9. Typically, the foot will be two barleycorns shorter in length than the previous one.
Shoemakers and bootmakers use Brannock size measurements. This method is related to the US/UK measurement but works on the foot size.
The standard sizing system, which bases sizing on the last length instead of the foot length, will generally be around one-half size smaller than a Brannock size.
The sizes used by a shoemaker and bootmaker can be Brannock or conventional sizes. A Brannock size is the same size as your foot, whereas a traditional one is somewhat larger.
If you take note of how a boot manufacturer recommends you to be fitted, that will typically give you a good indication of how their sizing methods work.
So, if you buy a pair of sneakers in size 13 but use boots in size 11.5, it may mean that the lasts from one company are different from those from the other.
How to measure your shoe size?
You’ll need a sheet of paper bigger than your foot, a measuring tape, and a pencil to measure your shoe size.
- Place the sheet on the floor and stand on it. You can use tape to prevent the paper from sliding.
- Trace around your foot with the pencil. Remember to keep your pencil perpendicular to the sheet.
- Turn the paper over and do the same thing with the other foot.
- Measure the length and width of your foot trace using a measuring tape. They must be the longest and widest points.
- Take note of the numbers and subtract 1/4 inch from both the width and length, which is the pencil outline.
- Use what you have noted to find the right shoe size on the sizing chart below.
Size chart
Hiking boots and shoes use the same measurement methods. Hence, you can use the size chart below for both.
1. Women’s shoe size
| Length (inches) | US Size | UK Size |
| 8.8 | 5.5 | 3 |
| 8.9 | 6 | 3.5 |
| 9.1 | 6.5 | 4 |
| 9.3 | 7 | 4.5 |
| 9.4 | 7.5 | 5 |
| 9.5 | 8 | 5.5 |
| 9.7 | 8.5 | 6 |
| 9.9 | 9 | 6.5 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 7 |
| 10.2 | 10 | 7.5 |
| 10.3 | 10.5 | 8 |
| 10.5 | 11 | 8.5 |
| 10.7 | 11.5 | 9 |
2. Men’s shoe size
| Length (inches) | US Size | UK Size |
| 9.6 | 7 | 6 |
| 9.8 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
| 9.9 | 8 | 7 |
| 10.1 | 8.5 | 7.5 |
| 10.3 | 9 | 8 |
| 10.4 | 9.5 | 8.5 |
| 10.6 | 10 | 9 |
| 10.8 | 10.5 | 9.5 |
| 10.9 | 11 | 10 |
| 11.1 | 11.5 | 10.5 |
| 11.3 | 12 | 11 |
| 11.6 | 13 | 12 |
| 11.9 | 14 | 13 |
Fitness
When buying shoes, we always aim for the most fitted models. They allow us to move freely without getting hurt in any part of our feet.
However, things are different when shopping for hiking boots. Generally, hikers look for boots that are half or full size bigger than their regular shoes.
The extra space is for two purposes:
- You can walk across multiple kinds of terrain comfortably.
- Your feet will swell after hiking for hours. Wearing bigger shoes ensures that they can fit your feet nicely in this case.
Construction
The design of hiking boots and shoes is another factor that may affect their fit and size.
Most shoe manufacturers stitch the insole, midsole, and upper sole together.
Then they glue those sections to the outsole. A lot of boot manufacturers use the same method.
Yet, boots have more construction methods. Some use Goodyear stitches and have a strip running outside to attach the upper to the outsole and midsole.
Another construction for boots is blake. In this method, you have your insole, and upper sole stitched directly to the outsole.
Blake construction in hiking boots typically has a little more space around the toe box than other shoes.
As a result, depending on the manufacturer, some hiking boots will fit true to size while others may be smaller or larger.
#3. Hiking Boot Size Vs. Shoe Size: Which One Should You Use?
Hiking boot size and shoe size are the most important factors when buying footwear. Knowing what they mean, you can determine the best way to use them.
For example, if you buy shoes, check the shoe size chart carefully and pick the one that fits your feet most.
On the other hand, when buying hiking boots, you need to opt for bigger models. Then, you won’t have to worry about getting hurt when hiking.
#4. Frequently Asked Questions
So that’s all the differences between the Hiking Boot Size Vs. Shoe Size. If you still have more questions about these two products, this section will greatly help.
How much room should I have in my hiking boots?
Hiking boots should leave some room for your toes to wiggle. The extra space should be around one inch.
Should you size up or down in hiking shoes?
It’s better to size up hiking shoes as bigger footwear will make you feel at ease when hiking. Meanwhile, tight shoes will cause irritation or even damage to your feet.
How do I know what size hiking boots to buy?
Your feet will swell after walking for a long period. Try to get boots that are a half size or full size bigger than you need.
Will hiking boots stretch?
Yes. Those boots may slightly stretch with use.
However, they tend to become snug and fit your feet better once you break them in. If you have stretchy boots, they must be leather ones.
What Jeans go with hiking boots?
Since the boots fit perfectly over the top, pairing them with skinny jeans is the best. Discover more ideas to style your hiking boots right here:
How do I figure out my shoe size?
You can place your foot on the paper, trace it, and measure your sketch. Then, check your shoe size on the chart.
How do you know if your hiking boots are too small?
Your hiking boots are too small if you feel pressure on your toes, especially when going down the slope. Another sign is overlapping toes.
