Author Topic: Finding hiking boots in smaller ladies sizes (UK size 2 to 3)?  (Read 1380 times)

weezy

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I've been having trouble finding good quality hiking boots for my size of feet - a UK ladies size 2 to 3 (EU size 35 to 36).

It seems that most manufacturers - or resellers, at least - start their hiking boots at a UK size 3.5 or 4 which are just too big for comfortable or effective walking.

I'm reluctant to shop for children's sizes because I feel they won't be as good quality when worn by an adult who obviously weighs more than a child.

Has anyone faced this problem, and can you recommend any manufacturers or shops which do sell smaller ladies' boots?

Thank you.

kinkyboots

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Unfortunately manufacturers don't usually make anything where there's very little demand or which doesn't sell in large numbers and retailers don't/won't stock them either as it's dead money sitting on their shelves.

You could always try using volume reducers under the insoles or buying some thicker insoles (Sorbothane Double Strikes maybe?) in the size 3.5's and obviously wearing thicker socks if needed?

These might be worth a look in a size 3.5 http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lowa-Stirling-Womens-Walking-Boots-/321987188053 they're not a lightweight boot but an absolute bargain at the price. The only problem is that I don't know anywhere else that sells them so it's impossible for you to try before you buy. Your only risk would be the return postage cost to send them back within 14 days if they're not right.

Alt-Berg's ladies boots start at Size 3 with some models available in 5 width fittings and are known to be close/small fitting. Not cheap but may be worth a look? http://www.altberg.co.uk/category/factory-made-boots/ You can find your nearest local retailer here http://www.altberg.co.uk/stockists/

If you prefer to go the cheap and nasty route these are what's available in size 3 at Sports Direct http://www.sportsdirect.com/ladies/ladies-walking-boots#dcp=1&dppp=100&OrderBy=rank&Filter=ASUB^Walking+Boots+-+Fabric+/+Suede|ACSIZE^2,3

Another couple of options in size 3 http://www.uttings.co.uk/c479-hiking-trekking-boots/size=3.0/gender=women/?sort=PriceAsc
« Last Edit: 20:06:59, 31/12/16 by kinkyboots »

Mel

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Hi weezy
 
Please don't worry about buying children's sizes.  I am a UK size 4 and often have to try on/buy boots and shoes from the children's sections.  There's nothing wrong with them.  The only difference I notice is that the soles are softer/more flexible (so wear out quicker but are actually really quite grippy on wet rock).  I've found that the actual integrity of the boot is as good as an adult boot (doesn't leak/no issues with stitching, etc).  I currently have some boys Gelert (cheap and nasty) boots which have actually exceeded my expectations of them and served me well on some fairly rocky terrain in the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, the Peak District, and a couple of hills in the Scottish Highlands.  My usual, regular walking haunts are more muddy and grassy fields and these boots are certainly great for that.
 
Of course, if the majority of your walking is mountainous, rocky terrain then a child's boot won't cut the mustard for regular use due to the flexibility of the sole, but if it's mainly for "general" fell walking with the occasional gnarly thing as a treat then don't be put off buying them.
 
My only thought is that the sole does wear out quicker than on adult footwear ... but kids boots are cheaper anyway so it kind of offsets that a bit.
 
Hope that helps.
Mel

KimE

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Lundhags single layer boot
lifetime warranty send the boot to their shoemaker after 30years and ther repairs it and change out parts for a fraction of a new boots price.
http://www.lundhags.com/Products/Boots/1-Layer-Boots/Vandra-Ws-Mid/(color)/709

Cairn hopper

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My friend Wendy bought a children's boot thinking she was getting a bargain. When the boots failed she was told it was because it was not an adult boot. Children's boots are built for children's weights seemingly. The PU filling in the sole broke down leaving her feeling like she was walking on small stones.




 

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