In reply to Andrew Lodge:
> (In reply to Trevers)
>
> Padding out large boots............doesn't work. End of I'm afraid, best to sell them before they are used any more and buy some new ones.
>
I'm afraid that that is the most arrant nonsense. It's worked fine for me for over 30 years with boots of every different size, shape, purpose and manufacturer.
My current mountain boots (la Sportiva) need two thick pairs of socks and a volume reducer. Half a size down is too small. Their predecessors (Scarpa) needed two pairs of thick socks (half a size down was too small). I usually try on about half a dozen different manufacturers' boots before I buy a pair. The best fit I've ever managed for mountain boots (Galibier - remember them?) was a thick pair and medium pair.
My currnet walking boots (Boreal) need a thick pair and a liner.
In terms of performance, I don't have any issues with foot movement. Filling the gaps in the fit of the boot with wool works fine, so long as the overall length of the boot is correct. I also keeps my toes nice and warm.
In an ideal world, someone would make a boot that follows the shape of my foot and ankle - sadly it appears that they do not