I’ve read in a number of places that hiker’s shoe size increases during a thru hike.

Is this increase permanent or does one’s feet return to their former sizes?

I walk 2-3 miles per day with a light 20 pound pack, and 10+ miles every weekend with a pack, sometimes light and sometimes with 35 pounds.

Are my feet likely to increase in size during a thru hike?

I ask because I’ve found footwear I really like but might need a break in period, plus is semi-custom so needs pre-ordering by a few weeks. I’d hate to invest $230 in footwear for it not to fit after a couple of months.

Thank you.