specific foot pain from boots

Is there a reason you can't just use trail runners? I switched from boots years ago and never looked back. I know some people really do need boots, but if you have a light pack, there is normally no need.

I've gotten blisters there before with two pairs of boots. I had to return a pair of boots because they were just too painful. I think this is fairly common, because it is hard to generalize the shape of the heal. I once had a problem with a pair of boots that I thought would be perfect for me. I needed a pair of boots for the Spring, when hiking in the snow (my feet get wet if I'm kicking steps in slush). I found a pair that was supposed to be really soft and fairly light, but still a mid top with all leather (and thus waterproof). This was perfect for me, because I have strong ankles, and don't need the extra support that many boots provide. Unfortunately, they tore up my heals. I visited Dave Page, the cobbler (who works on hiking boots quite a bit) and he told me the problem. The Vibram sole was stiff, but the rest of the boot was not. When I hiked up a steep trail and bent my foot forward, the back of the boot stayed straight, while my foot slipped in and out of the heal, thus causing the blisters. The answer was to either get a stiffer boot (which I use in the Spring) or get a boot with a more flexible sole. The stiffer boot grabs my foot more aggressively, and thus I can't bend my foot as much (and my heal doesn't slip out) while a softer boot (a trail runner) is so flexible that the entire thing moves with the foot.

Hi-Tec changed their style over the last few years (it may be the last ten years now). They used to make very simple, very soft boots (essentially trail runners, but some with a mid-top and many with a more aggressive tread). They used to fit and feel like sneakers. Now, they are much stiffer. It may be that they are a bad combination (I've tried on several in the store and I didn't like them).

I also have to add that unfortunately, if you are like me, finding comfortable boots may not be easy. My story about the soft, full leather boots is a good one, but I also had a big problem with a pair of trail runners. The only thing I can suggest is to try on more shoes, especially trail runners. Step on a slanted surface (if it exists in the store) and make sure your heal doesn't come out of the boot. Also check the heal area to make sure there are no seams or other parts that might cause a blister (you haven't had any, but if your heal is being beaten up, then a blister could easily occur with a similar boot).

I might also add that I agree with Dan: your are much more likely to find a comfortable pair of trail runners than you are a comfortable pair of heavy boots.

I don't have heel issues, but I just checked the book "Fixing Your Feet" (VonHof)…

"Heel pain may be caused by heel pain syndrome, heel spurs, planter faciitis, or Haglund's deformity"

HPS – generally from overuse/repetitive stress. Does this apply?
HS – calcium buildup, a heel bruise or stone bruise is pain felt directly under the calcaneu. This pain usually tenderness at a small site just forward of the heel pad"… so probably not it.
PF – heel bone and attached tissue stress, also not usually at back of heel from what I understand, so may not apply.
HD – bump of the back of the heelbone. When irritated, becomes red, swollen, and painful… associated with shoes with rigid heel. This may be from birth, or aquired over time. Possibility?

OR, perhaps just poor fit of boots with your feet. It might just be your feet don't fit well in boots with rigid heels. If you want to stay with boots, you might try a heelcup, such as Hapad heel pad, Heel Hugger, Tuli's heel cups, Ultimate heel and arch support (– all from "Fixing Your Feet" recommendations).

Just a thought. Are you also trying out Superfeet for the first time in these boots?

I'm asking because when I first tried the green superfeet they gave me a similar pain under my heel. I have since learned that you need to get used to the superfeet gradually.

I have a similar pain in my heel, but a little lower. Doesn't feel like a bruise exactly, but pressure (such as putting my feet up on the coffee table) causes pain. Not a blister.

I don't know what causes it. I wear trail runners that feel sometimes like boots and other times like slippers, which I find rather miraculous, actually. I did find it debilitating after I got home from the PCT last year, but while hiking it didn't seem to be a problem. I would kind of warm up into it.

Anyway, no help to you, but I have learned that no matter how much money has been spent on shoes, if they cause debilitating pain, get rid of them pronto.

Hmm, thanks for the replies so far.

Chris, I think this one sounds right: "HD – bump of the back of the heelbone. When irritated, becomes red, swollen, and painful… associated with shoes with rigid heel. This may be from birth, or aquired over time."

I've spent about $150 on these boots, and since I've worn them on a day trip each they've gotten dirty and used. Am I just SOL when it comes to having to keep them? If so, I think I'll have to look into that heel cup option.

Hey Nathanial,

You couldn't post a photo of YOUR heel could you? Side shot, back shot and looking down from above.

Rod

In all honesty it may be how the boots fit your feet. Neither pair are what I would call top of the line. If you are using the insoles that came with them, toss them and get better ones.
It may well be that they are pulling your foot in the wrong way as you move.

Does this pain continue when you don't wear the boots? If so that would be an injury and you need to see a foot Dr soon before it gets worse. If it only hurts in those boots, quit wearing them!!!!!!! You deserve better :-)