Fit
The single most important rule is that the shoe must fit! Trying on shoes thoroughly in the shop is very important to make sure they fit correctly. Shoes that are too narrow lead to pressure zones. If there is play because the shoe is too wide, you risk getting blisters.
Generally speaking, the shoe must fit your foot snugly without any play, especially in the heel zone, and without any pressure points. The toes should not touch at the front, even when walking downhill. They must never constrict the foot, either at the sides or at the top.
As a rule of thumb, you should be able to "play the piano" with your toes.
Use
Another factor to consider when buying footwear is the likely use to which it will be put. If you will mainly be walking on well maintained paths and flat terrain, you probably do not need a pair of extremely sturdy, heavy mountain boots.
On the other hand, it can be tiring and even dangerous to wear footwear that is too light and flexible on alpine terrain. Experienced hikers, whose foot muscles are well developed, can generally get away with using a lighter more flexible shoe than a beginner, whose feet need more support and rigidity.
Trying the footwear on
It is advisable to try on shoes in the late afternoon, since your feet are usually more swollen than they are first thing in the morning and this will simulate the "hiking situation" more accurately.
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