How can I prevent my feet from sweating in hiking boots?

Sweaty feet are no fun. They can actually cause you real issues when you're out in the middle of nowhere. Wet, damp socks rubbing against your skin is the perfect recipe for blistered feet. If you're tired of that unpleasant damp feet feeling, we’ve put together this handy guide for hikers with some easy ways to keep them fresh.

It may seem a little nonsensical when it comes to sweaty feet, but socks are your first line of defence. They might seem somewhat unimportant to some but the right pair can work wonders.

If you're still relying on thin cotton socks for your serious hikes then it's time to upgrade. This is because cotton absorbs sweat and traps it against your skin, creating that damp sensation. Instead, we recommend synthetic materials or merino wool. These fabrics wick the moisture away from your skin and keep your feet drier for longer.

You should also carry an extra pair in your bag. That way you can swap them out for a fresh pair halfway through your hike if your feet feel damp.

Your walking boots play a huge part in how sweaty your feet get. If they’re made from non-breathable material, we’re guessing your feet feel like they're in a sauna. Look out for hiking boots that let air in. Take a look at the specification to see if they have mesh panels, lightweight synthetic materials, leather (which is naturally breathable), or any other features that are conducive to ventilation.

If you’re hiking in wet conditions, you’ll want waterproof boots. However, just make sure you don’t compromise on breathability. Boots that keep water out but trap moisture inside can be just as bad as those cotton socks!

If you’re someone who’s prone to sweaty feet then give foot powders a try. These products absorb the extra sweat and keep your feet feeling a lot drier. You can either sprinkle some inside your boots or apply directly on your feet before you put on your socks.

There are also moisture-wicking insoles available. These are great because they not only pull the sweat away from your feet, but they also provide an extra layer of cushioning.

When you're taking a rest on the trail, we recommend taking a minute or two to kick off your boots and let your feet air out naturally. Just five minutes can work wonders when it comes to stopping your feet from getting too sweaty.

It’s not just your feet that need airing though. At the end of your hike, you should always give your hiking boots a chance to dry out, too. There’s nothing worse than pulling on wet boots the next morning.

Still having trouble keeping your feet dry? Try these simple tips:

• Don’t wear too many socks. This can actually trap heat, making your feet sweat more.
• If it’s a hot day, avoid trails with little or no shade, which will help to reduce sweating.
• Drink plenty of water! Staying hydrated helps stabilize your body temperature.
• If it's likely to rain, wear your waterproof boots and clothes, but keep breathability in mind.
• Always give your boots and insoles time to dry out between hikes.

Now that you’ve got a better idea of how to keep your feet fresh, here are the answers to some of the most common questions we get asked:

• Are hiking shoes necessary?
• Are there hiking boots that are designed to be slip-resistant?
• High or low hiking boots?
• Hiking shoes, how much money is good quality?
• How important is the weight of a hiking boot?
• How long do hiking shoes last?
• How much distance do hiking shoes last?
• When buying hiking boots, should you generally go for a size larger than you normally wear?
• How to choose the right walking boot for you?
• How to clean hiking shoes?
• Is there a difference between summer and winter hiking boots?
• What is the difference between hiking shoes and hiking boots?
• What kind of hiking boots are suitable for forest treks?
• What’s the best hiking shoes for kids?
• What’s the difference between synthetic and leather hiking boots?
• When to replace your walking boots?
• Which hiking boots are the most comfortable for long treks?