GET PROPERLY FITTED
Why fitting counts, and how the experts do it.
The infinite diversity of human feet means it’s a very rare and lucky walker who finds a pair of boots straight off the shelf that fits them perfectly. The surest way to make it work – and to avoid rubs, rolls, pinches and plantar – is to get fitted. Not just the standard Brannock device measurement, but a detailed fitting that can match you to the boot that was built for your feet. There are a select few places round the country which offer specialised fitting – but few do it with as much passion and skill (and in such fine surroundings) as Whalley Warm &
Dry in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley.
RELAX AND ENJOY IT
A pre-booked fitting session at Whalley is infinitely more relaxing and reassuring than the average rushed visit to an outdoor store. It begins with a chat with a specially trained fitter, covering what type of footwear you’d like, the activities you need it for, and any pre-existing podiatric issues.
THE MEASURING
The fitters then take ten detailed measurements of your feet to provide the fullest picture of their length, width and volume.
THE SCAN
An electronic scan of your soles analyses the pressure distribution across your feet, as well as measuring vital details like the height of your arches and the splay of the toes. This gives the fitters a detailed insight into how your feet move and what your footwear will need to do to stabilise and support them.
THE MATCH
The fitters use this data to help you select footwear that is the right size, width, volume and shape for your feet. Their range includes scores of brands and styles (including many that are featured in our test, and exclusive boots not found anywhere else in the UK), in over 170 fittings.
THE ADJUSTMENT
Once you’ve chosen the footwear that fits best, the team can personalise the fit to match the unique features of your feet in a way that no boot could do straight from the box. The boot is gently steamed and stretched in the correct places to fine-tune the fit. (This is especially helpful for walkers who suffer from bunions or squashed toes.)
THE FOOTBED
For the perfect underfoot support, the team can offer a wide range of off-the-shelf insole options. Alternatively, for those with more problematic or painful feet an assessment can be booked with on-site partner
to create bespoke hand-built custom insoles to help improve your stance and gait and alleviate pain.
THE ADVENTURE
And you’re good to go. Pendle Hill, the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland are all close by, and (after trying the boots on inside) are all perfect places to take your personalised boots for a spin.