There are socks that "wick," or draw perspiration away from your skin. And if you are breaking in new boots, or you are prone to blisters, it is often advisable to wear two pairs of socks, a thin wicking pair inside a thick pair. This way, the socks slide against each other instead of against your feet, helping to prevent blisters.

2torial #0530: Learn2 Shop For Hiking Boots (Continued) Check the fit Try on boots with the same socks (or the same thickness of socks) you'll wear with the boot. A small difference in sock thickness can dramatically change the fit. Bring your hiking socks with you. Or if without, have the salesperson help you purchase some. Try them on with your boots. Even if you don't buy your boots at the first store, at least you'll have your socks.   Hiking boots often vary in size from one manufacturer to another. A size nine in one maker is not necessarily a size nine in another. Sometimes they aren't even the same size from the same maker. Try on any pair before purchasing them.   You need more room at the end of a hiking boot than you do in a regular shoe. A thumb's width is probably best. When you're coming downhill with some weight on your back, you'll want enough room to allow your foot to slide forward without banging against the front. When you put the shoe on, kick your toe on the ground. If it hits the front hard, the boot is too small.   The boots should be snug (not tight) around the ankle. For best support, they should lace up to the ankle. Hiking boots feel strange if you've never worn them before. But you'll need this type of support off-road.   If you have narrow feet, your heel will most likely lift up when you walk around in the boots, although you can lesson it by additional insoles, various lacing methods, or a different pair of boots. If you have medium to wider feet and you heel lifts, either your socks are too thin, your shoes aren't laced properly, or they boot fits too wide for you. Ask your salesperson.   Walk around the store for a few minutes in the boot. They will begin to be more flexible after a few minutes. Step 3