How should pull-on work boots fit? In any job where work boots are part of the uniform, getting the right fit is critical. The consequences of wearing an ill-fitting work boot day in and day out can be nearly catastrophic for your health.
we're talking back pain, foot pain, ankle pain, knee pain, and more! Instead of risking your health and well-being with a cheap, ill-fitting work boot, make sure your boots fit you right from the start. Here's how to find your perfect fit:
1. Start with the right socks. We recommend wearing socks because they are designed to reduce bulk, improve circulation, and allow your foot to breathe, unlike cotton socks that wick away moisture.
2. Always try on both boots at the same time. If there's anything preventing your feet from moving freely (like if your boots are tied at the laces), untie them so your legs can move independently and you can walk at a natural pace.
3. With your boots on, try walking, jumping, knee lifts, standing in place, and running (just try not to knock over store employees while you're doing it). If you try on the boots in the comfort of your own home, it will be easier for you to try them on without feeling silly.
4. When you walk:
Your heel should not come out of the boot or rub against the rear.
The toes should have about an inch of space in front of them at all times.
The sides of your feet should not feel painful pressure.
The toes must not slide forward or hit the end of the boot.
5. Slowly rotate your ankle and stand on the sides of your feet to test the ankle support of the boot.
6. Check that the tongue, inside seams, and any other parts of the boot do not rub or dig into your foot.
7. Take your feet out of the boots to see if there are any red spots. Red dots indicate places where the boot has been rubbing or rubbing against your feet and can point to potential problems in the future where rubbing may worsen and blisters may appear.
8. Once you find a pair of work boots that fit well, lace them up in a Heel Lock pattern to keep your feet safer and help prevent blisters. This special boot lacing pattern relieves pressure on the forefoot while ensuring the heel stays in place and the ankle is securely supported. It can also be used in running shoes and hiking boots to prevent similar problems from occurring.
Special Notes
1. If you have wide feet, don't try to fit your foot in a boot that is too narrow for your foot. You should also not try to size up regular boots, because even if the largest boots fit the width of your foot, the boot will be too long and will cause blisters, chafing, and heel slippage. Instead, try on boots that naturally come in wide sizes like Chippewa, Rocky and Wolverine.
2. If your feet are two different sizes, you can choose to buy two pairs of boots in the sizes you need, or buy one pair of boots that fit your larger foot and use a heel insert in the shoe for your smaller foot.