Have you ever finished a hike with a painful or loose toenail? Perhaps your nails started turning black the next day? You're a bit mystified because you thought your boots fit well.
The problem may not be the boot. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your feet may end up sliding and hitting the inside of your boot.
One of the simplest ways to keep your foot from sliding forward is to use a heel lock lacing technique (sometimes called a runner's loop). It only takes a few seconds and can make a big difference on long hikes or steep downhill trails.
Why Your Foot Slides Forward
Even if your hiking boots are the correct size, your foot can gradually slide toward the front of the boot while walking, especially when hiking downhill.
When this happens, your toes repeatedly hit the front of the boot. This can lead to:
-
Ingrown toenails
-
Toenail loss
A heel lock helps hold your heel securely in the back of the boot, reducing forward movement.
Step 1: Locate the Extra Eyelet
Most hiking boots have an extra set of eyelets at the very top of the boot. These eyelets are specifically designed for a heel lock.
If you've never used them before, you're not alone. Many hikers don't realize what they're for.
Step 2: Create a Loop on Each Side
Instead of crossing the laces over as you normally would, thread each lace straight up through the extra eyelet on the same side.
Don't pull the lace all the way through. Leave a small loop on each side of the boot.
You should now have one loop on the left and one on the right.
Step 3: Cross the Laces
Take each lace and pass it through the loop on the opposite side.
This creates a locking system.
Step 4: Tighten the Heel Lock
Pull both laces firmly.
As you tighten them, you'll notice the loops cinch down against the sides of the boot.
This creates extra leverage that pulls your heel backward into the heel cup, helping keep your foot from sliding toward the front of the boot.
Step 5: Tie Your Boot Normally
Once the heel lock is snug, tie your bow just as you normally would.
The heel lock stays in place throughout your hike and helps keep your foot stable.
Why It Works
The heel lock secures your heel in the back of the boot instead of allowing your foot to move with every step.
This reduces:
- Toe jamming on downhill trails
- Pressure on the toenails
- Excess movement inside the boot
Many hikers find this simple lacing technique makes their boots feel more secure without having to tighten the entire boot uncomfortably.
A Simple Trick That Can Save Your Toenails
Before you assume you need new hiking boots, try changing the way you lace them.
A properly fitted boot combined with a heel lock can dramatically reduce toe pain, black toenails, or a loose toenail on your next hike.
If you're still experiencing foot pain after adjusting your laces, it may be time to have your feet evaluated.
Happy hiking!
