broken in hiking boots

When “Broken” Is Better! | How To Break In Your Hiking Boots

on . Posted in Blog, Hiking

After months of dreaming, your hiking adventure in your dream location is just around the corner. You have probably meticulously planned your hike, researched the perfect route, and packed your essentials, including your newly bought hiking boots.

However, amidst the excitement, there is a slight problem: your new hiking boots. Why? Because those brand new hiking boots are too stiff and uncomfortable because they have not yet been broken in.

hiker standing on a peak

But no worries—we’ve got you covered!

This guide explains some simple and fast techniques to break in your hiking boots so that you can hike in comfort. and, even though the majority of hiking footwear from reputable online shops don’t take too much work to break in, you should always try your hiking boots out before you embark on your big adventure.

So, let’s get started!

Choosing the Right Hiking Boots

hiking boots on white background

Type of Hiking

First things first… determine the type of hiking you’ll be doing. Here’s why this is an important first step… Lighter boots will be good for day hiking, and sturdier hiking boots with ankle support should be used for trips like backpacking

Material

Leather boots have long been long known for their excellent durability and support, but they require more breaking in. On the other hand, synthetic materials are easy to break in and also lightweight and breathable, but they don’t provide the same level of support as leather boots. 

Support

Always select hiking boots with adequate ankle support and soft soles, especially when planning to hike in rugged terrain or carrying a heavy backpack.

Fit

The most important factor when buying hiking boots is getting them in the right fit. You can get your footwear from reputable online shops or professionally fitted at an outdoors store.




Breaking In Your New Hiking Boots

hiking boots on feet

Around The House

This one’s easy… simply put on your new hiking boots and simply walk around inside your house. This is probably one of the most common methods used to loosen up the boot material, but it’s quite useful! So, whether you’re doing laundry, cooking in your kitchen, or doing daily household chores, keep wearing your hiking footwear to help with the breaking in process!

Also, be sure to tighten the laces and wear the socks and insoles – in short, the same way you plan to wear them outside, do just the same inside.

This “around the house” process could take from an hour or two to a day or two, depending on the boot. This will help you to note any discomfort or friction and identify any potential issues early on. You can typically return or exchange for a more comfortable pair if you need to. 



Go for Short Walks

group hiking on trail

Start with short and simple walks around your neighborhood or your nearest park. After some time, increase the distance and try various terrains and activities as your boots soften.

Be sure to try different surfaces, such as pavement and grass, and walk on even slightly uneven terrain to simulate trail conditions. If the boots feel good, you’re ready for your adventure! 



Wear the Right Socks

Are you new to hiking? If yes, you are probably thinking, “I’ll just throw on my cotton socks, and I’m good to go.”

Not so fast!

You likely will not be comfortable, since cotton retains moisture, which can create friction and lead to severe blisters. 



So, what kind of socks should you wear? 

Always wear thick, moisture-wicking socks, like merino wool socks, when hiking. If you’re planning a thru-hike or any long distance, buy liner socks for extra comfort. If pressure points arise, try wearing two pairs of thin socks for a short period of time to create more padding.

Use a Boot Stretcher

If you feel that some areas of your boot are still tight, you can use a boot stretcher. That’s right, a high-quality boot stretcher will help to loosen specific areas of your boots, such as the toe box or heel. If you have leather hiking boots, this simple tool can gently stretch the leather to alleviate discomfort.




Tighten Your Laces

Another helpful way to assist in breaking in your new hiking boots is to simply lace them up snugly.

To keep your foot comfortable inside the shoe, you have to tighten your laces carefully so that your foot doesn’t move much. More movement means more friction, which can result in serious blisters.

hiking boots with mountain background

So, make sure to tighten those laces well, but not too tight, before you start walking around in your boots. Pay attention to different sections of your foot, adjusting the tightness as needed.

You can also experiment with different lacing techniques to find the most comfortable fit. 



Final Thoughts On Breaking In Hiking Boots

The information listed above will not only help you select the right hiking boots, but also assist you in being able break them in. This way, you can quickly turn your brand-new, not-so-comfortable boots into comfortable companions for your outdoor adventures!

Just remember that breaking in hiking boots takes time, and some boots take longer than others. Also, if you experience persistent pain after breaking in your boots, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice or get new hiking boots.

Happy hiking!

floating dock EZ Dock

Whatever floats your… | The Best Types Of Floating Docks for Boaters

Boating on any body of water is a gateway to a spectacular outdoor experience.

And, whether your love fishing, or just enjoy breathing the fresh air, it helps to have a dock to secure your boat, to make it easier for your friends, family and loved ones to climb aboard.

Floating docks also give you the flexibility to start your journey in different locations. So, let’s take a look at the numerous options you have for floating docks and premier outlets where you can make your purchase.

What Is a Floating Dock?

You might be wondering, what’s a floating dock anyway?

EZ Dock Idaho

A floating dock is a movable (and floating) platform on which you can safely board a boat or personal watercraft.

Many floating docks are barefoot-friendly and allow you to piece together sections, similar to a puzzle, to accommodate the number of people in your party.

Advantages of Owning a Floating Dock

There are multiple types of floating docks on the market to accommodate boats and watercraft. The main differences between products relate to their sizes and materials. However, you can expect most floating docks to provide the following advantages:

  • Adaptable: You can find floating docks that adapt to changing water levels. This is perfect for lakes and reservoirs in which water levels rise and lower due to weather.
  • Removable: Change your setup between adventures to board in new locations.
  • Configuration options: Join more than one floating dock together for a larger platform.
  • Ease of use: Adjusting the size of a floating dock allows you to easily set out on your boat, jet ski, kayak or canoe without trouble.
  • Weather-ready: Floating docks adapt to inclement weather without submerging.


Top Types Of Floating Docks

Picking the right floating dock for your setup requires looking at the materials used to make them. Any dock from a reputable brand should serve you well, but you might be more inclined to choose one over another due to its characteristics.

1. Polyethylene

EZ Docks Polyethylene floating dock

Polyethylene floating docks are popular options for enthusiasts like you. The surfaces last for long periods of time with zero chance of rusting or rotting due to the lack of metal or wood in the designs. These docks are also affordable to fabricate, leading to a surplus of shapes available.

2. Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight metal that stands strong against surface damage — imperfections like scratches and dents are of minimal concern. Similar to polyethylene floating docks, aluminum varieties are incapable of rusting.

aluminum floating dock

3. Inflatable

Inflatable floating docks are versatile for small watercraft. As the name implies, these floating docks fill with air to stay above the water and you can fix them to permanent docks or other structures with rope.

Most inflatable floating docks are manufactured with polyester threads and PVC. These products are less durable than their polyethylene and aluminum counterparts, but the high-pressure inflation process gives them a solid feel all around.




The Best Places to Get Floating Docks

EZ Docks Connecticut 1

Here are some of the best floating dock suppliers for lakes…



1. EZ Dock

EZ Dock has been a pioneer in the floating dock industry since 1991 with fully customizable options for residential, commercial, government and industrial customers.

EZ Dock in Florida

EZ Dock manufactures polyethylene docks that are slip-resistant and feature impressive weight capacities.

Products from this manufacturer are some of the best docks for lakes that freeze, as recycled rubber couplings are used to add strength and flexibility under changing conditions. Your floating dock stays intact while being straightforward to disassemble, should you need to.



2. AccuDock

accudock floating dock amd boat

AccuDock is well-known in the industry for manufacturing floating docks for rowing competitors. This company allows you to customize aluminum docks in virtually any size or shape, and its staff assists with permitting consultations and installations, too.

Whether you need an ADA-compliant dock or want to create a floating dock to precise specifications, this brand, based in Pompano Beach, Florida, stays current on the latest trends to create stellar products.

3. Bellingham Marine

Bellingham Marine prides itself on providing infinite solutions for waterways. One advantage of this manufacturer is that you can find concrete, wood and aluminum floating docks.

bellingham marine docks


Final Thoughts On Best Types Of Floating Docks

A floating dock is the key to unlocking the full potential of a lake, pond, or spring. Whether you need a docking solution for work or leisure activities, the types of floating docks and the top makers mentioned in the lists above will help you make a logical decision for your boating adventures.

So, explore the waters and make new memories with friends and family like never before once you settle on a polyethylene, aluminum or inflatable floating dock that exceeds your expectations!

Happy and safe boating!

Hedgehog Dryer Review

This Stickman Is HOT!🔥 | The Hedgehog Dryer Review

Let’s face it. Nobody wants to go back out into rainy, cold, and even snowy condition in gear that’s still wet and cold from your previous outing.

That’s where the Hedgehog Dryer comes in as a helpful piece of equipment and technology.

hedgehog dryer in box with N1 Outdoors logo in background

Hedgehog Dryer Features

hedgehog dryer arms

The Hedgehog Dryer really is easy to assemble. It took about 5 minutes without even really reading much of the directions.

hedgehog dryer octopus legs
hedgehog dryer pre-assembly
hedgehog dryer settings



hedgehog dryer with boots gloves hat
hedgehog dryer optional adapters list



Final Thoughts

So what do you think of our “stickman?”

man holding hedgehog dryer

Well, hopefully the Hedgehog Dryer with ionic technology is something that could be helpful for you whether you’re hunting, fishing, hiking, or camping, or anything where your gear might get wet or cold.

After all, it helps keep your gear dry and smelling great!

Have fun out there!

(Be sure to check out all the N1 Outdoors apparel and merch as well as Rod Togs fishing rod wraps, as well as our N-Tune arrow wraps and tracers.)