Fitting your Gear: Backpacks and Boots
Backpacks are fit primarily by torso length. There are some manufacturers that offer different sizes of hip belts as well, but torso length is most important to get a proper fit as the hip belts are very adjustable and will fit a huge range of hip sizes.
Your torso length is found by measuring from the C7 vertebra down the spine to the small of the back. The C7 vertebra is the one at the base of the neck that is most easy to feel. However, from my many years of fitting people in packs this measurement does not mean a whole lot. Different manufacturers construct their backpacks differently and it seems that this measurement is little more than a guideline. You really must go through a little trial and error to find the make and model that fits your body type comfortably and properly and satisfies your other requirements of volume and features you are looking for (more on this under the GEAR BUTTON). Most outfitters are very good about assisting their customers with fitting your gear (boots and packs) because they recognize the relationship between a proper fit and your comfort on the trail. So go try some packs on and see how they feel. Ask the outfitter if you can load up the pack with some weight and walk around with it in their store (most outfitters will have sand bags or weights dedicated to this purpose). You will have a much better idea of whether the fit will work for you when you are carrying a weighted load. 
When it comes to your footwear really take your time. Getting the right fit here is very important to your overall comfort on the trail. When your feet hurt from blisters and hotspots you feel miserable all over and it makes travel agony.The Fit: You want your hiking footwear, whether boots or shoes, to fit a little big. Depending on the manufacturer this may mean a half size larger or even a full size larger. There are a few reasons for this: -Feet swell when they hike. -Arches flatten a bit with the added weight of a backpack. -When hiking downhill your feet slide forward a bit in your boots. You want just enough room to allow for these factors without being too loose. It's a fine line, so take your time with this. Breaking in your boots or shoes before you hit the trail is also a very good idea. The stiffer the footwear the longer the break in period. If you have taken your time with the fit in the first place however, the break in time is reduced and you may be able to hit the trail right away. But plan for breaking them in. This should help you in fitting your gear. Read more about boots and footwear under the GEAR button.
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