Best Hiking Boots for Men in 2023

Hiking can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and disconnect from the daily grind. However, choosing hiking boots for men is essential for a successful and enjoyable hike.

A good pair of hiking boots for men is one of the most important pieces of gear for any hiker. We’ll look at the main factors to consider when choosing hiking boots for men, including fit, support, waterproofing, breathability, durability, traction, and weight.

Knowing these factors will help you find the right pair of hiking or walking boots. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the right pair of hiking boots for men can make all the difference on the trail.

There are several key factors to consider when choosing ideal hiking boots for men:

Fit: Choose a boot that fits well and is comfortable to wear for long periods. Look for a boot with a good heel, arch support, and enough room for your toes to move freely.
Support: Consider the type of terrain you will be hiking on to decide how much support you need. Some boots offer more support and stability, while others are lighter and more agile.
Waterproofing: If you will be hiking in wet or muddy conditions, it’s important to choose a boot that is waterproof or water-resistant. Look for a boot with a Gore Tex liner or similar waterproof lining. Fortunately, the choice of waterproof hiking boots for men is wide.
Breathability: If you will be hiking in hot or humid conditions, it’s important to choose a boot that is breathable to help keep your feet cool and dry. Look for a boot with a mesh upper or other ventilation features.
Durability: Consider the overall quality and durability of the boot. Look for a boot with a sturdy construction and high-quality materials to make sure that it will last through multiple hikes. Leather boots are tough, but they need more care than boots made with synthetic materials.
Traction: The level of traction you need will depend on the type of terrain you will be hiking on. Look for a boot with a durable outsole that provides good traction on various surfaces and technical terrain.
Weight: If you plan to hike long distances or carry a heavy pack, lightweight waterproof hiking boots may be more comfortable. However, keep in mind that lighter weight boots may not offer as much support and durability as heavier ones. Fast and light have their benefits, but they have compromises over heavier boots.

It’s important to consider all of these factors when choosing the best hiking boots to make sure that you have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable hiking experience.

Best Hiking Boots for Men: Our Top Ten

Here are ten top hiking boots for men that are available in the UK:

Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boot –

This boot is known for its comfortable fit, waterproof protection, and reliable traction on rugged terrain.

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX hiking boot is a high-quality, durable and comfortable boot designed for backpacking and long distance hikes. It offers several key features and benefits that make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts:

Durability: The Quest 4D 3 GTX design is about durability, with a strong construction that can handle tough terrain and harsh weather. The heavy duty boot features a full-grain leather upper and a rubber outsole that is resistant to wear and tear.
Waterproofing: The boot is equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane, which provides waterproof protection to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
Comfort: The Quest 4D 3 GTX has a comfortable and supportive fit, thanks to its padded collar, tongue and insole. The boot also features Salomon’s Advanced Chassis technology, which helps to stabilise and support the foot during long hikes.
Traction: The rubber outsole of the Quest 4D 3 GTX provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet and slippery terrain.
Lightweight: The Quest 4D 3 GTX is a durable, lightweight hiking and backpacking tool.

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is a durable, waterproof, comfortable and lightweight hiking boot designed for long distance hikes and backpacking trips.

It’s made of full-grain leather and has a Gore-Tex membrane for waterproof protection. IIt has Advanced Chassis technology to help steady and support the foot.

The rubber outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, and the padded collar, tongue and insole provide a comfortable fit.

Overall, the Quest 4D 3 GTX is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a high-quality, reliable boot for their adventures.

Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot – £140

This boot is a popular choice for its breathable design, waterproof protection, and cushioned support. The Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot is a popular choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It has waterproof protection, breathability, durability, support and stability, and comfort.

Its Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry in wet conditions, while also allowing for breathability to help keep feet cool. The boot’s leather and mesh upper and rubber outsole provide good traction and wear resistance. Its mid-cut design offers support and stability around the ankle.

The Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot has a cushioned insole and midsole, a padded collar and tongue, to provide comfort and support.

Here are the top five features and benefits of the Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot:

Waterproof protection: The Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot has a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
Breathability: The boot also has a Gore-Tex lining that allows for breathability, helping to keep your feet cool and comfortable on hot days.
Durability: The Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot is made of leather and mesh. It has a durable rubber sole that grips and resists wear.
Support and stability: The boot has a mid-cut that helps reduce ankle injury on rough terrain.
Comfort: The Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot has a cushioned insole and midsole, and a padded collar and tongue. These aspects make it comfortable and supportive throughout the day.

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot – £195

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is popular among hikers and backpackers. It has waterproofing, durability, comfort, versatility, and support..

The Gore-Tex lining lets you stay dry and comfortable on hikes, while the full-grain leather and sturdy outsole provide durability and traction on various terrains.

The padded collar and tongue, comfortable footbed, and lace-up design make it good for long hikes and backpacking trips. The mid-cut design helps support and protect your ankles.

This boot offers a comfortable fit, excellent ankle support, and durable construction.

Here are the five main features and benefits of the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot:

Waterproofing: The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot has a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable on wet hikes.
Durability: The boot makers use high-quality materials and construction, making it able to withstand the rigours of the trail. The full-grain leather upper is durable and resistant to abrasion. The sturdy outsole gives good traction and support on various surfaces.
Comfort: The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot features a cushy footbed and padded collar and tongue to reduce foot fatigue on long hikes. The boot’s lace-up design allows you to adjust the fit to your liking, providing a personalised and comfortable fit.
Versatility: The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is good for hiking and backpacking on short or long trips, from day hikes to multi-day trips. It can handle a variety of terrain, including trails, hills, and rocky terrain..
Support: The boot’s strong construction and lace-up design prevent injuries. It has a mid-cut design for ankle support and protection.

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is a good boot for hikers and backpackers. The boots can handle the trail well.

Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boot – £139.99

The Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boot is a popular choice among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its combination of comfort, support, and durability.

These boots are designed with a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, and a breathable mesh lining to keep them cool and comfortable. They also have a sturdy, supportive design that helps to keep your feet stable on the trails. The outsole and shank have strong rubber to support the arch.

The cushioned footbed reduces shock and impact on your feet, making them good for long hikes.

The Targhee’s performance and materials make them a good choice for outdoor adventures.

Here are the five main features and benefits of the Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boot:

Waterproof: The Keen Targhees Mid Hiking Boot has a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and comfortable, even in wet conditions.
Breathability: The boot’s breathable mesh lining helps to keep your feet cool and dry by allowing air to circulate.
Support: The Targhees feature a sturdy, supportive design that helps to keep your feet stable and comfortable on the trails. They have a high-traction rubber outsole and a shank that provides extra support under the arch.
Cushioning: The boot’s cushioned footbed helps to absorb shock and reduce impact on your feet, making it a great choice for long hikes.
Durability: Made with high quality materials, the Targhees are strong. They will last on the trails. They also have a durable rubber outsole that provides good traction and wear resistance.

The Keen Targhee III Mid Hiking Boot is a good choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It has waterproof protection, breathability, support, cushioning, and durability.

Whether you’re tackling challenging trails or just enjoying a leisurely hike, these boots are designed to keep your feet comfortable and supported every step of the way.

Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot – £225

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot is a high-quality, waterproof boot designed for hikers and backpackers who need reliable and durable footwear for their adventures.

The Gore-Tex lining provides excellent waterproof protection and the breathable design helps keep your feet cool and prevents overheating.

The boot is made of full grain leather and Vibram sole. It’s durable and can last through hiking on rough terrain. It also has a comfortable, supportive fit that helps to reduce fatigue on long hikes. The ankle support system prevents ankle rollover.

The Vibram sole gives good traction on a variety of surfaces. The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot is a good choice for hikers who need reliable footing on challenging terrain.

This boot is known for its lightweight design, waterproof protection, and reliable traction.

Here are the five main features and benefits of the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot:

Waterproof protection: The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot has a Gore-Tex lining that keeps your feet dry and comfortable even in wet conditions.
Durable construction: The boot is made with full grain leather and a Vibram sole. These features make it durable and able to hike on rough terrain.
Supportive fit: The boot has a comfortable, supportive fit that helps to reduce fatigue on long hikes. It has ankle support that stops ankle rollover, which is common on rough terrain.
Breathability: The Gore-Tex lining of the boot is not only waterproof, but also breathable, which helps to regulate temperature and prevent your feet from overheating.
Traction: The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot’s vibram sole provides good traction on dirt, rock, wet, or muddy tracks. The traction makes it a good choice for hikers who need reliable footing on challenging terrain.

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot is a top-quality boot that offers a range of features and benefits for hikers and backpackers.

These boots are great for hikers because they have a waterproof Gore-Tex lining, durable construction, supportive fit, and excellent traction. It is a reliable and comfortable choice.

These boots are good for hikers who often encounter wet or muddy conditions, or who need extra support and stability on challenging terrain.

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boot is a good choice for experienced and beginner hikers.

Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX Hiking Shoe – £180

The Hanwag Belorado Low GTX is a mid-cut hiking boot designed for comfortable and supportive wear on a variety of terrains.

It has a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane to keep your feet dry and a durable leather upper for protection and support. The boot also has a cushioned footbed and a padded collar and tongue for added comfort.

The Belorado II Low Bunion GTX Hiking Shoe has a stiff sole with a good amount of support, making it suitable for carrying moderate to heavy loads on longer hikes. It is also equipped with a durable rubber outsole that provides good traction on a variety of surfaces.

The Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe is a reliable and comfortable option for hikers and backpackers looking for a supportive and waterproof boot.

Here are our five of the top features and benefits of the Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe:

Waterproof: The Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe is equipped with a Gore-Tex lining that helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions.
Supportive fit: The shoe has a sturdy and supportive fit that helps to keep your foot stable and secure on the trail. It has a medium-volume fit and a regular width, making it suitable for a wide range of foot shapes.
Durable construction: The boot is made of strong materials that will last on the trail. It has a robust leather upper and a sturdy rubber sole that can handle rough terrain and provide excellent traction.
Breathable: The Gore-Tex lining of the Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe keeps your feet cool and comfortable by letting moisture and heat escape.
Lightweight: The Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe is strong and lightweight. It’s good for short hikes and low level routes.

In summary, the Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe is a high-quality option for hikers and walkers. Its waterproof Gore-Tex lining and sturdy construction make it good for use on the trail. It’s also lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods.

The Hanwag Belorado II Low Bunion GTX hiking shoe is a good choice for outdoor adventurers who want a reliable and durable footwear.

Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking Boot – $179

The Vasque Breeze LT NTX is a mid-cut hiking boot designed for backpacking and long distance hikes.

It has a waterproof and breathable membrane to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Plus, the boots have a durable leather and mesh upper for added protection and ventilation.

The boot also has a padded tongue and collar for additional comfort, and a removable insole for customizable support.

The Vasque Breeze LT NTX is good on rough terrain. It is suitable for a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, backpacking, and trail running.

These are our top five features and benefits of the Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking Boot:

Waterproof protection: The Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX Hiking Boot has a Nature Tex lining that keeps your feet dry in wet weather.
Breathability: The Nature Tex lining also allows for breathability, allowing moisture and heat to escape the boot to keep your feet comfortable and cool.
Durability: The Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking Boot uses leather and rubber. It has excellent traction and durability on the trails.
Lightweight design: The Vasque Breeze LT Mid GTX Hiking Boot is strong and lightweight. It’s good for long hikes and backpacking trips.
Supportive fit: The Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking Boot has a padded tongue and collar for added comfort and support. The low weight helps reduce fatigue on the trails.

The Vasque Breeze LT NTX Hiking Boot is a high-quality and reliable choice for hikers and backpackers. Its waterproof lining, breathable design, and durable construction make it well-suited for a variety of outdoor activities.

The light weight and comfortable fit make it a good choice for long hikes and backpacking trips.

Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot – £179

The Mammut Ayako High GTX is a high-cut hiking boot designed to provide support and stability on rough terrain. It is made with a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions, and features a durable rubber outsole for excellent traction.

The boot has a cushioned insole and padded collar and tongue for added comfort, and a lace-up closure for a secure fit. They’re ideal for use on a variety of terrain, including trails, mountains, and rocky paths.

Here are the top five reasons hikers like the Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot:

Comfort: Many hikers appreciate the comfortable fit and feel of the Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot. The boots feature a padded collar and tongue, as well as a padded insole, which helps to reduce fatigue and discomfort during long hikes.
Waterproof protection: The Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot has Gore-Tex technology for waterproof protection. It stays dry in wet conditions.
Durability: The boots are made of good materials and construction, so they can take the strain hiking puts on them. The boots also have a rubber sole with a lug pattern that provides good traction on a variety of terrain.
Breathability: The Gore-Tex lining in the Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot lets sweat out while stopping water from coming in.
Stylish design: The Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot has functional features and a good design. Many hikers find it appealing. The boots come in a variety of colour options, so hikers can choose a pair that matches their personal style.

The Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot is a good choice for hikers due to its comfort, waterproof protection, durability, breathability, and stylish design.

With its padded collar, tongue, and insole, the boots provide a comfortable fit and feel that will help to reduce fatigue during long hikes.

Gore-Tex technology in these boots makes sure feet stay dry when they’re wet, while high-quality materials and construction make them durable enough to hike.

Also, the boots have a sleek and stylish design that will appeal to many hikers. The Mammut Ayako High GTX Hiking Boot is a good choice for hikers who want a comfortable, durable, and waterproof boot that will work well on different terrains.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot – £185

The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX is a mid-cut hiking boot designed for all-weather performance. The boot is lined with Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry and strong. It provides support and protection on the trails.

The boot has a sturdy outsole with aggressive lugs to provide traction on a variety of terrain. The Contagrip rubber compound is designed to be durable and provide long-lasting grip. The X Ultra 3 Mid GTX has a midsole with cushioned foam, to absorb impact. It has a padded collar and tongue for added comfort.

The boot has a lace-up design for a customizable fit, and a gusseted tongue to keep debris out. Overall, the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX is a reliable choice for hikers looking for a boot that can handle a variety of weather and terrain conditions.

This boot is lightweight and features a waterproof design, making it a popular choice for wet weather hikes.

Here are the top five reasons hikers like the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot:

Comfort: Many hikers who have worn the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot report that it is a very comfortable boot to wear for long periods. It has a padded collar and tongue, as well as a cushioned insole that helps to absorb shock and reduce fatigue on the feet.
Waterproof: The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot has a Gore-Tex lining that helps to keep the feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions. This feature makes it a good choice for hikers who will be traversing through wet or muddy terrain.
Durability: The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot design is for trail use and can handle difficult conditions. It has a leather and synthetic upper. It also has a robust outsole that provides good traction on a variety of surfaces.
Support: The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot has a mid-cut design that provides good support to the ankles. The support can be especially helpful on more challenging trails. It also has a contoured footbed that helps to keep the foot in a natural position, which can help reduce the risk of injury.
Versatility: The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot is a good option for hiking and backpacking adventures, from short trips to long ones. It is suitable for use on a variety of terrain, including rocky, muddy, and slippery surfaces.

The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot is a great boot for hikers and backpackers of all levels. It’s waterproof, durable, and supportive. It can handle different terrain.

The mid-cut design, Gore-Tex lining, and cushioned insole make it a comfortable option for long days on the trail. Its tough upper and outsole make it durable enough to handle the challenges of the trail.

Its versatility makes it a great all-around choice for a wide range of hiking and backpacking adventures.

La Sportiva Trango TRK GTX Hiking Boot – €258.50

La Sportiva Trango TRK GTX is a hiking boot designed for backpacking and technical approaches.

This boot offers stability, and protection around the ankle, plus a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry in wet weather.

The Trango TRK GTX also features a Vibram Megagrip outsole for traction on various terrains. It also has a padded collar and tongue for added comfort. Made with a combination of leather and synthetic materials for durability and performance.

It is a popular choice for hikers and mountaineers who need a reliable, high-performance boot for backpacking and technical approaches. This boot is known for its sturdy construction, waterproof protection, and comfortable fit.

Here are the top five reasons hikers like the La Sportiva Trango TRK GTX Hiking Boot:

Durability: Made with durable materials the La Sportiva Trango TRK GTX Hiking Boot can handle trail conditions. The materials include a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, which helps to keep feet dry in wet conditions, and a tough, abrasion-resistant upper that can withstand rough terrain.
Comfort: The Trango TRK GTX features a comfortable, padded footbed and a supportive insole that helps to reduce fatigue on the trail. It also has a cushioned midsole that helps to absorb shock and provides a smooth, comfortable ride.
Traction: The Trango TRK GTX has a strong, sturdy sole that grips well on different surfaces, like muddy trails and rocky ground. The grip helps to keep hikers stable and secure on their feet, even when navigating difficult terrain.
Versatility: The Trango TRK GTX is a versatile hiking boot to wear in a wide range of conditions. It is suitable for day hikes, multi-day backpacking trips, and even light mountaineering, making it a good choice for hikers who need a versatile, all-purpose boot.
Breathability: The Trango TRK GTX has a Gore-Tex membrane that provides excellent waterproof protection, but it also allows for a good amount of breathability. The breathability helps to keep feet dry and comfortable, even on hot, humid days.

These are just a few examples of the many hiking boots that are available in the UK. Choose a boot that fits your needs, preferences, and the type of terrain and weather you will be encountering on your hikes.

You need the right hiking boots to have a good hiking experience.

Consider factors such as fit, support, waterproofing, breathability, durability, traction, and weight when selecting a pair of hiking boots. Lacing systems are important, too. How you tie your boots according to what suits your feet and comfort is important to know too.

To find the best hiking boots for your next adventure, think carefully about the factors above.

It’s a good idea to try on several pairs and walk around to get a feel for the fit and comfort before making a final decision to hit the trail with your choice. Lightweight boots are popular, but if you’re going to cross tough terrain, think about heavier hiking footwear options.

With good hiking boots, you can feel safe and confident on hikes, no matter the terrain or weather.

We’ll cover hiking shoes and trail running shoe options in another post.

Hiking Boot FAQs

What are the three types of hiking boots?

Lightweight hiking boots: These are designed for shorter, less strenuous hikes or for hikers who prefer a more lightweight option. They offer good support and traction, but may not be as durable or have as much protection as other types of hiking boots.
Midweight hiking boots: These are a good all-around option for most types of hiking. They offer a balance of support, traction, and protection, and are suitable for a variety of terrain and conditions.
Heavyweight or backpacking boots: These are designed for longer, more strenuous hikes, or for carrying a heavy pack. They offer maximum support, traction, and protection, and are typically more durable than other types of hiking boots. However, they may also be heavier and less flexible than other types of hiking boots.

What are the best hiking boots you can buy?

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best hiking boots for your needs, including the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on, the weather conditions you’ll be facing, and your own personal preferences. Some popular options include:

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots: These boots are a good all-around option for a variety of hiking conditions. They offer a comfortable fit, good support, and excellent traction.
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX backpacking Boots: These boots are designed for backpacking and long-distance hiking, and offer excellent support, stability, and durability.
Vasque Breeze LT Low Hiking Shoes: These shoes are a good lightweight option for hikers who prefer a more minimalistic feel. They offer good support and traction, and are suitable for a variety of terrain.
KEEN Targhees: These boots are a popular choice for hikers looking for a comfortable, supportive fit. They offer good traction and are suitable for a variety of terrain and conditions.

Ultimately, the best hiking boots for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s important to try on several different models and styles to find the ones that feel most comfortable and supportive for you.

What is the difference between walking and hiking boots?

Walking boots and hiking boots are similar in that they are both designed to provide support and protection for your feet while walking or hiking. However, there are some key differences between the two:

Hiking boots are typically more sturdy and durable than walking boots. They are designed to withstand a variety of terrain and conditions, and may have features such as a stiffer sole or a more protective upper to help support and protect your feet on rugged trails.
Walking boots are generally lighter and more flexible than hiking boots. They are designed for leisurely walks or hikes on well-groomed trails or paths, and may not offer as much support or protection as hiking boots.
Hiking boots are usually higher cut than walking boots, extending up the ankle for additional support and protection. Walking boots may have a lower cut, similar to a regular shoe.
Hiking boots often have a more aggressive tread pattern for improved traction on rugged terrain. Walking boots may have a more smooth or shallow tread pattern, which is better suited for smooth surfaces.

Overall, hiking boots are a better choice for more challenging or rugged terrain, while walking boots are more suitable for leisurely walks or well-groomed trails.

Should you wear hiking boots a size bigger?

It is generally recommended to wear hiking boots that fit properly, rather than a size larger or smaller. Wearing a larger size may cause your feet to slide around inside the boots, which can lead to blisters and discomfort.

On the other hand, wearing a smaller size may cause your toes to feel cramped or restricted, which can also be uncomfortable.

To find the right size for your hiking boots, it’s a good idea to try on several different sizes and styles and walk around in them to get a sense of the fit and feel. When trying on hiking boots, you should be able to wiggle your toes freely inside the boots, but the boots should not feel too loose or sloppy.

It’s also a good idea to wear the same type of socks that you’ll be wearing on your hikes, as this can affect the fit of the boots.

If you are in between sizes, it may be best to choose the larger size, as this will give you more room to wiggle your toes and allow for some swelling of your feet during longer hikes.

However, be sure to try on the larger size to make sure that it fits properly and doesn’t feel too loose or sloppy.