Fitting Advice - Q&A
Mike Sheehan - Bootmaker
  1. Do I need to have my feet measured?
    It is not always essential, however correct measurement by a boot fitter or your specialist Retailer who has been trained by both the Anatom Academy of boot fitting and Alt-Berg will always be better especially if you've had fitting problems.

  2. How will the Boot fitter measure my feet?
    First, the fitter will take various length and width/volume measurements and assess the foot generally for any irregularities eg bunions.

    Alt-Berg's walking boots are available in 5 width/volume fittings to allow a better choice.

    Second, your fitter will assess your feet with regard to footbed selection. This is important especially if the foot requires 'stabilisation' to help control:-

    • amount of foot elongation
    • heel movement
    • internal boot volume

    Third, the right sock is essential. This can help the fine tuning of volume fit and overall comfort. Smartwool merino wool socks come in 3 thicknesses, light, medium and expedition.

    Alt-Berg has always favoured high quality merino wool socks, such as Smartwool, because they:

    • allow good moisture control - wicking away from the foot
    • are cooler in warm weather; hotter in cold
    • give excellent 'cushioning' of the foot
    • are a 'natural' renewable resource


  3. Do all makes of walking boots size the same?
    Every make of boot will be a different fitting because there is no standardisation. Sometimes different product models size differently with the same brand - depending on which factory the brand made that particular style. ALL Alt-Berg boots are made on the same last which has never changed.

  4. When is it ok to buy boots by mail order?
    The Alt-Berg last, has remained unchanged for nearly twenty years hence the sizing remains the same - even across different styles. In general if you need to purchase by mail order, order ½ size larger than your normal shoe size if your foot is 'normal' or 'wide'. If you are 'narrow' order the same size as your normal shoe size.

  5. If I was an Alt-Berg size 8 ten years ago, will I be the same size now?
    You may not necessarily be the same size as foot elongation and spread may occur with age. If possible, it's better to be measured by a trained boot fitter. You may require a stabilising footbed to support the foot inside the boot.

   

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