How should my waterproof hiking boots fit?

Without trying on your boots in-store, it might be tricky to find the right fit. Our boot-fitting experts focus on four key areas, which could be useful to know about before you buy your new waterproof boots. These include:

Insole

Firstly, take the insole out of the boot. When you place your foot over it, there should be a gap above your big toe. Ideally, this gap should be as wide as a couple of your fingers. With this little bit of room at the top end of the boot, you'll stay comfortable on steep downhill sections.

Heel

Like an egg in a cup, your heel should fit naturally. Making sure it's held securely enough by your boot will prevent it from getting too hot, protecting you against discomfort and lowering the risk of getting blisters too.

· Width

Any men's waterproof boot should be wide enough to accommodate the natural swelling of your feet throughout the day. During strenuous activities like hillwalking, this is even more important. Make sure your new boots don't pinch anywhere and test them out indoors before you hit the trails.

· Depth

The depth of your shoe is worth thinking about, especially if your feet are on the larger side. Adding another insole or wearing thick walking socks could help you find the perfect fit in a boot that doesn't feel snug enough. It's always worth trying your shoes in the afternoon, too, when your feet will be at their widest.

Check out our 'Do my Walking Boots Fit?' video guide to learn more about choosing the right pair of waterproof boots for the shape and size of your foot. Don't forget that replacing the insole in your boot could make a big difference to the way it fits and feels.

Are all hiking boots waterproof?

Not all walking boots are waterproof. You'll find a lot of pairs with water-resistant fabrics but, if you want to keep your feet dry through anything close to a Scottish climate, it's worth investing in a technical pair of men's waterproof walking boots.

Our guide to walking boots explains the different types available and offers more guidance on choosing the most suitable pair for your activity. Our waterproof walking boots are brilliant for hiking and mountain walking but, if you're going on a winter expedition, a pair of specialist mountaineering boots could make a better choice.

Are Gore-Tex walking boots worth buying?

If you need your new pair of waterproof winter boots to keep your feet dry through extremely wet weather, you definitely should consider buying a pair that features Gore-Tex waterproofing technology.

Gore-Tex is a combination of innovations used on the outer fabric of high-performance boots. It's also used in other gear like waterproof jackets and trousers to deliver optimum waterproofing performance. All Gore-Tex garments feature an outer membrane that's waterproof, windproof and breathable.

We provide Gore-Tex men's waterproof walking boots from leading brands including Scarpa, Meindl and Salomon, plus many more. If you have any questions about Gore-Tex or whether it's the right choice for you, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Tiso team.

Are leather boots waterproof?

Yes! There are plenty of leather waterproof walking boots for men, including those with traceable and sustainable fabric certified by the Leather Working Group. Not all leather boots are waterproof, though, so it's important to check the product description and manufacturer's guidelines before you buy a new pair.

Find the best waterproof boots with Tiso

Whether you've got your eyes on some Zamberlan waterproof boots or are adding to your collection of equipment made by The North Face, we've got you covered.

Head to your nearest Tiso store for tailored advice from our team of experts. When you buy waterproof walking boots with us, we listen carefully to your plans and preferences to find you the right boots. We never pressure you to choose one brand or type over another and we always recommend the highest-quality boots.

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about buying or trying waterproof boots for men. We're also here to help recommend other technical gear you might need on your next adventure, including tents and windbreakers.

Looking for some inspiration? We love to share our own stories and advice for exploring the great outdoors on the Tiso Instagram.