TL;DR

This post is long, so here is the very concise version:

Boots are the most important piece of a rider’s gear kit.
Shop in-person . Every rider’s foot is unique and effective boot hunting requires trial-and-error with as many options as possible. If you must buy online, plan on a pain in the ass process with lots of packages and lots of return shipping.
Measure your foot properly because your shoe size is probably wrong.
Boots should fit comfortably snug, much tighter than you’re used to in casual footwear. When in doubt, go more snug.
Feet are complicated, learn to assess and communicate fit.
Consult with a boot fitter if at all possible pre-purchase to dial in fit and post-purchase to troubleshoot ongoing issues. If you can’t find a boot fitter, do it yourself.
You may fuck up boot fit, especially on your first boot or two. You need to take a leap of faith and if you fuck up, learn from it and do better

My personal boot quiver as of January 2023.
L to R: K2 Aspect size 10.5, Adidas Tactical ADV size 10, Adidas Acerra ADV size 10

My personal boot quiver as of January 2023. L to R: K2 Aspect size 10.5, Adidas Tactical ADV size 10, Adidas Acerra ADV size 10

Who Needs this Guide?

New riders who’ve never bought boots before
New-ish riders who messed up their first boot fit and want guidance
Nerds

Introduction

Boots are the single most important component of a rider’s gear kit and fit is the single most important aspect of boot selection. Unfortunately, most new riders don’t give boots due attention and suffer the consequences later. This guide is part of a Boot Basics series to avoid or veer off that painful path.