BUYER'S GUIDE AND BEST BUYS
Women’s
walking boots
A good pair of supportive, waterproof walking boots can help you go the extra mile, avoid injury on uneven ground and keep you comfortable when the weather turns. Here’s our guide to finding a pair that can go the distance and make every walk a joy
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A good pair of supportive, waterproof walking boots can help you go the extra mile, avoid injury on uneven ground and keep you comfortable when the weather turns. Here’s our guide to finding a pair that can go the distance and make every walk a joy
SUPPORTED BY
T the basic function of a pair of walking boots is to provide comfort, support and protection for our feet. And yet in reality, the perfect pair of boots needs to do so much more than this, which makes the quest to find them that much harder.
This guide aims to help you find the right boots to fit not just your feet but also the specific demands of how, where and when you walk, how much you want to spend, material and sustainability considerations and, of course, how they look and feel.
This review includes recommendations for boots at different price points to suit a range of budgets. Here are the key considerations when shopping for your next pair:
How, where and when will you wear your boots?
Firstly, think about how, where and when you’ll use the boots. If you’re a regular walker, a hard-wearing boot with reinforced high-wear areas is a good choice. However, more occasional walkers, or those who are very petite, might be better suited to a more lightweight and flexible boot that’s comfortable straight out of the box.
Does the boot’s ‘sole unit’ suit your needs?
The sole unit of a boot comprises the insole, which is the removable part your foot sits on; the midsole, which provides the majority of the structure, support and cushioning; and the outsole, which is the grippy rubber part on the bottom of the boot. While the insole can be changed for a more structured or cushioned version, or for an orthotic if you wear them, the midsole and outsole are permanent features.
When you’re trying on a boot, think about the amount of cushioning and support it offers. You’ll need more support, especially around the arch of the foot, if you’ll be walking with a heavy pack. Extra cushioning can reduce fatigue and stress on sore joints, but can reduce the stability of the boot and the ability to feel the ground.
Look at the tread pattern, lug depth and rubber compound of the outsole. If you’ll be doing most of your walks on mud and grass, a widely spaced tread, which sheds debris easily, deep lugs that dig into the soft surface and a harder rubber compound may suit you best. If you walk on hard-pack trails and towpaths, a more cushioned boot with a shallower, closer-patterned tread will wear more evenly. For mountainous or rocky terrain, a softer rubber compound will give you the best grip and keep you safe while climbing those hills.
OUR EXPERT
Jen Benson is an outdoor adventure writer and researcher with an MSc in sport and exercise medicine. She is happiest when she is outdoors, and is passionate about exploring Britain’s wild places on foot.
Watch our video for Jen’s tips on what to consider when choosing a new pair of walking boots.
Are the boots the correct fit?
Once you’ve chosen the right kind of boot for the walking you enjoy, make sure they fit perfectly. If you can, visit a good outdoor shop where you’ll be able to try several different pairs on in the company of an expert boot fitter. Take your usual walking socks and any insoles or orthotics that you usually wear with you.
A boot should fit every part of your foot and ankle. Check there’s a good thumb width of space at the front, and sufficient width and depth in the toe box, so your feet aren’t being compressed from the top or sides of the boot. Some brands, such as Altberg, make boots in several different width fittings.
Lace the boots up fully and check for pressure points along the top of the foot and around the ankle. Take them for a walk, including up/down steps and a ramp – most outdoor shops will have these – checking there’s no rubbing, minimal heel movement (up to about 1cm of heel lift is fine; any more can result in blisters), and your toes aren’t hitting the front of the boot, even on a steep downhill.
Check boots are waterproof so you'll stay dry in puddles
Check boots are waterproof so you'll stay dry in puddles
Once you’ve chosen a pair of boots, it’s well worth wearing them around the house for a couple of hours to make sure they’re perfect before committing to taking them outside. While boots may feel a little stiff at first, especially full-leather versions, there shouldn’t be any areas of discomfort.
Are the boots the correct fit?
Once you’ve chosen the right kind of boot for the walking you enjoy, make sure they fit perfectly. If you can, visit a good outdoor shop where you’ll be able to try several different pairs on in the company of an expert boot fitter. Take your usual walking socks and any insoles or orthotics that you usually wear with you.
A boot should fit every part of your foot and ankle. Check there’s a good thumb width of space at the front, and sufficient width and depth in the toe box, so your feet aren’t being compressed from the top or sides of the boot. Some brands, such as Altberg, make boots in several different width fittings.
Check boots are waterproof so you'll stay dry in puddles
Check boots are waterproof so you'll stay dry in puddles
Lace the boots up fully and check for pressure points along the top of the foot and around the ankle. Take them for a walk, including up/down steps and a ramp – most outdoor shops will have these – checking there’s no rubbing, minimal heel movement (up to about 1cm of heel lift is fine; any more can result in blisters), and your toes aren’t hitting the front of the boot, even on a steep downhill.
Once you’ve chosen a pair of boots, it’s well worth wearing them around the house for a couple of hours to make sure they’re perfect before committing to taking them outside. While boots may feel a little stiff at first, especially full-leather versions, there shouldn’t be any areas of discomfort.
Do you prefer leather or synthetic boots?
Walking boots can be made of leather – including suede and nubuck; synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester; or a combination of the two. Full-grain leather boots are often the heaviest and require the most breaking-in time, but when well looked after, they will adapt to your foot and can last for decades of walking. Most boots can be resoled if the outsole wears out before the upper. Fabric boots tend to be lightweight and flexible, comfortable straight from the box and waterproofed with a Gore-Tex or similar membrane liner, but they’re often less durable than a full leather boot. For this reason, many brands offer a fabric/leather mix, with leather providing the structure and durability, and fabric panels reducing the weight.
If you're often out on rocky terrain, go for boots with a soft rubber outsole for extra grip
If you're often out on rocky terrain, go for boots with a soft rubber outsole for extra grip
How do they feel?
The final thing to consider with any pair of boots is that subjective sense of how they feel. Do you enjoy wearing them, including the way they look, how they feel throughout the boot from the toes to the ankle, and the overall experience of walking in them? A pair of boots that’s a joy to wear will ensure every walk is a joy, too.
Watch our video for Jen’s advice on the key considerations when buying new walking boots, from how and where you'll use them to design, comfort and fit.
Which fabric do you prefer?
Walking boots can be made of leather – including suede and nubuck; synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester; or a combination of the two. Full-grain leather boots are often the heaviest and require the most breaking-in time, but when well looked after, they will adapt to your foot and can last for decades of walking. Most boots can be resoled if the outsole wears out before the upper. Fabric boots tend to be lightweight and flexible, comfortable straight from the box and waterproofed with a Gore-Tex or similar membrane liner, but they’re often less durable than a full leather boot. For this reason, many brands offer a fabric/leather mix, with leather providing the structure and durability, and fabric panels reducing the weight.
If you're often out on rocky terrain, go for boots with a soft rubber outsole for extra grip
If you're often out on rocky terrain, go for boots with a soft rubber outsole for extra grip
How do they feel?
The final thing to consider with any pair of boots is that subjective sense of how they feel. Do you enjoy wearing them, including the way they look, how they feel throughout the boot from the toes to the ankle, and the overall experience of walking in them? A pair of boots that’s a joy to wear will ensure every walk is a joy, too.
Watch our video for Jen’s advice on the key considerations when buying new walking boots, from how and where you'll use them to design, comfort and fit.
Women’s walking boots
Budget
Mountain Warehouse Adventurer Waterproof Boots
477g each (UK7)
£69.99
mountainwarehouse.com
Size range: UK3-13
Designed as an entry-level boot, the Adventurer is sturdy and waterproof with a good amount of support and stability. They grip well on surfaced or dry trails, but they offer less traction in muddy or wet conditions. Comfortable throughout, they’re wide through the midfoot and taper at the toes, which wouldn’t suit a wider forefoot. Available with a printed pattern for £79.99 (pictured).
Merry People Bobbi Ankle Wellies
582g each (EU40)
£89.95
uk.merrypeople.com
Size range: UK3-12
Ideal for walking the dog, gardening and everyday wet weather excursions, these handy welly-style boots offer a nice amount of neoprene warmth and cushioned comfort. Easy to put on/take off, with no fiddly laces or fastenings, they’re more supportive and comfortable than a welly, but not structured enough for longer walks or rougher terrain.
Craghoppers Kiwi Trek Boot
545g each (UK7)
£90
craghoppers.com
Size range: UK3-13
A great value, full-grain leather boot with a grippy Vibram sole. The tread offers good traction on a range of different terrains, although it doesn’t have the depth of lug for mud. The fit is roomy, with comfortable ankle padding, a cutaway section around the Achilles tendon and good underfoot protection. Made with an AquaDry waterproof membrane, when well cared for, the leather will remain waterproof for years.
Grisport Harrier Hiking Boot
522g each (EU40)
£115
grisport.co.uk
Size range: EU37-42
A great value all-rounder, the Harrier has a waterproof membrane and water-resistant nubuck leather upper with a comfortable padded ankle cuff. The Vibram EVOlution outsole and deeper tread offer excellent grip on muddier ground, and they feel stable and secure in use. Made in Italy, the look is understated and classic, ideal for travel and pub walks as well as longer days in the hills.
Ayacucho Ordesa Mid Boot
508g each (UK7)
£130
cotswoldoutdoor.com
Size range: UK4-8
These waterproof leather boots have a neoprene ankle cuff for comfort, which allows for plenty of movement around the ankle. The Vibram outsoles have a wide-spaced tread, which grips and clears well in mud. They’re not as stable or supportive as some of the other leather options on test. The cut is roomy through the mid and forefoot, so best suited to a wider/higher volume foot. Available at Cotswold Outdoor.
Keen Leiki Waterproof Hiking Boot
395g each (UK7)
£135
keenfootwear.co.uk
Size range: UK2.5-9.5
Lightweight and responsive with a bouncy, cushioned feel, these mid-height boots are a great choice for all-day comfort on summer walks and lower-level trails. A waterproof membrane and PFAS-free water repellent treatment keep your feet dry. Designed around the female foot, they’re a snug fit through the heel and midfoot with a spacious toe box.
Helly Hansen Stalheim Helly Tech Waterproof Boots
380g each (UK7)
£135
hellyhansen.com
Size range: UK3.5-8
A lightweight boot with smart looks, the Stalheim offers a great blend of flexible comfort and protective stability with PFC-free waterproofing and recycled materials. The contoured footbed and wraparound design hold the foot securely. The Max-Grip outsole grips well on rock and hard pack trail but doesn’t have the lug depth for mud. An excellent all-rounder with a high-quality finish.
Jack Wolfskin Cyrox Texapore Mid
448g each (EU41)
£155
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
Size range: EU35.5-43
These great-looking waterproof leather and textile mix mid-cut boots were designed in collaboration with #SheIsOutdoors specifically for the shape and biomechanics of the female foot and ankle. Cushioned and supportive, with a padded ankle cuff and smooth heel-toe transition, the Vibram outsole offers great grip across a range of surfaces while extended lacing supports through the length of the foot.
Mid-price
Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid Gore-Tex
374g each (UK7)
£160
merrell.com
Size range: UK2.5-8.5
Combining the lightweight, cushioned yet responsive feel of a running shoe with the stability and support of a boot, these Gore-Tex waterproof mid-height boots offer all-day comfort and protection. The chunky Vibram outsole with variable lug depth offers great grip across a variety of different terrains and conditions.
Scarpa Ribelle Cross 2 Mid GTX
440g each (EU40)
£175
scarpa.co.uk
Size range: EU37-42
Designed for fast hiking, scrambling and all-weather mountain adventures on technical terrain, these mid-height boots combine a sleek, highly protective upper with a padded ankle cuff and cushioned midsole for superb comfort and stability. The highly grippy, deeply lugged tread will keep you on your feet in any weather, while the tapered but not overly narrow toe allows precision foot placements.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX
402g each (EU41)
£185
lasportiva.com/gb
Size range: EU36-43 and wide fit
These great-looking nubuck leather boots wrap around the foot for a snug and supportive feel. The padded ankle, shaped Ortholite footbed and cushioned midsole mean they’re comfortable to wear for long days in the hills. Gore-Tex waterproofing and reinforced heel and toe areas protect both the boots and your feet, while the 6mm tread grips on all but deep mud. The fit is fairly narrow, but a wide fit version is available too.
Xero Scrambler Mid II Waterproof
298g each (UK6.5)
£185
xeroshoes.co.uk
Size range: UK3-9
Xero’s footwear is designed to mimic ‘natural’ walking, bringing you closer to the ground with a thinner sole unit and zero drop (the difference between the height of the heel and forefoot). The toe box is roomy, allowing natural forefoot spread, and there’s lots of flexibility throughout the boot. The waterproof Scrambler also features a grippy Michelin outsole.
Danner Inquire Winter
475g each (UK7)
£190
global.danner.com
Size range: UK3-10
Perfect for cold, icy days, whether you’re in town or on the trails, these cosy boots have an upper made from a full-grain leather and nylon mix. They’re lined with PrimaLoft insulation and a Danner Dry waterproof membrane to keep feet warm and dry. The midsole offers excellent cushioning and a rock plate for underfoot protection, while the custom Vibram sole maximises grip on icy surfaces.
Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex
538g each (UK7)
£200
salomon.com/en-gb
Size range: UK3.5-9.5
The latest iteration of the popular Quest offers a structured, supportive boot that’s still lightweight and comfortable for longer walks with a light to medium pack. The upper is full-grain nubuck leather with textile panels and Gore-Tex waterproofing. Salomon’s SensiFit system cradles the midfoot for a secure fit. The outsole is Contagrip, which offers good, durable traction on dry ground but struggles on wet rock.
AKU Adapta SD GTX
430g each (UK7)
£215
aku.co.uk
Size range: UK3-8.5
A versatile boot designed to perform across a range of different terrains and conditions, the Adapta has a soft yet durable suede leather and synthetic upper with Gore-Tex waterproofing. The shaped insole and footbed together provide a secure and cushioned feel, while the Vibram Predator II outsole is grippy, stable and protective.
Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid
534g each (UK7)
£220
merrell.com/
Size range: UK2.5-10
An established classic in lightweight walking boots, the Renegade teams understated looks with superb comfort and support. With materials made entirely in Europe, the soft nubuck leather upper is comfortable straight from the box, and waterproof thanks to a Gore-Tex lining. There’s a nice flex through the forefoot during use, without sacrificing stability, grip or underfoot protection.
High-end
Meindl Baltimore GTX
542g each (UK7)
£224.99
meindl.co.uk
Size range: UK3.5-9
With its soft, flexible yet durable nubuck leather upper, Gore-Tex waterproofing, plush all-round cushioning and stable yet comfortable sole unit featuring Meindl’s grippy Magic Light outsole, the Baltimore is a great year-round boot for lower-level trails. The lacing system is designed to allow customisation through the forefoot, but they do taper markedly towards the toe.
Altberg Keld
601g each (UK7)
£234.99
altberg.co.uk
Size range: UK4-14
Altberg’s Keld boot is part of its GFit range, made specifically for wider or higher volume feet. The upper is a top-quality nubuck full-grain leather, which softens and adapts over time, and can be treated and waterproofed according to use. Ideal for 2-3 season hiking in Britain and similar terrains, the Vibram outsole is stable, supportive and protective.
La Sportiva Aequilibrium Hike GTX
502g each (UK7.5)
£235
lasportiva.com/gb
Size range: EU36-42
With its stunning looks, perfect balance of comfort, support, protection and precision, and outstanding fit throughout the foot and ankle, the Aequilibrium has become a firm favourite for year-round mixed terrain walking. The 3D flex system at the ankle affords unrestricted movement, while the sole unit is cushioned yet stable, with a rugged, super-grippy outsole. A hardwearing textile upper has reinforced high-wear areas and a waterproof Gore-Tex lining.
Hanwag Banks Lady GTX
620g each (UK7)
£235
hanwag.com/uk
Size range: UK3.5-10 in narrow or wider SF fit
Designed for lower-level trails and easy mountain terrain, these midweight boots are made from LWG (Leather Working Group) rated nubuck leather, guaranteeing sustainable leather production. With a Gore-Tex waterproof lining, padded ankle and Vibram outsole, they’re ready for all weathers. The regular fit tapers quite a bit at the toe, so those with a wider forefoot may need to choose the wide fit option.
Hanwag Makra
Trek GTX
650g each (UK7)
£265
hanwag.com/uk
Size range: UK3.5-9 and wider SF fit
A step up from the Banks, the Makra Trek is designed to cope with higher-level and more technical mountain trails. With more structure, protection and support, they’re a slightly heavier boot but score better for comfort. Made in Croatia from high-quality Perwanger leather with Gore-Tex waterproofing, the cushioned sole unit offers a smooth ride and great all-round Vibram grip.
Altberg Tethera
700g each (UK7)
£279.99
altberg.co.uk
Size range: UK3-8.5 in 5 widths
A classic, full leather hiking boot for year-round, lower-level and non-winter mountain use. The upper is a single piece of leather, with no stitching around the flex area of the boot for better water resistance and durability. In use, they feel protective and sturdy but comfortable, and over time adapt to the shape of your foot. The ankle cuff is plush and unrestrictive. The outsole is a super-grippy Defender Hi Traction, ideal for rough, rocky terrain.
Scarpa SL Active
727g each (EU40)
£300
scarpa.co.uk
Size range: EU37-42
Designed for 4-season use in demanding mountainous terrain, Scarpa’s legendary SL is now in its ninth generation. The waterproof upper is full-grain leather, with a luxuriously comfortable leather lining, nubuck ankle cuff and female-specific foot shape. Thoughtful details include extra padding around the ankle and a soft Achilles tendon cut-out. A Vibram outsole offers great grip on most terrain – for ice and snow, they’re compatible with C1 walking crampons.
La Sportiva Aequilibrium LT GTX
694g each (EU41.5)
£345
lasportiva.com/gb
Size range: EU36-42
A more rugged version of the Aequilibrium Hike (above), the LT offers the same superb all-round comfort, support and agility but in a stiffer, more protective boot designed for Alpine and mountaineering use. The upper is a nubuck and highly abrasion-resistant textile mix, with Gore-Tex waterproofing. The Vibram outsole is chunky and sharp, offering fantastic all-round grip – they’re compatible with a semi-automatic crampon for winter conditions.
Girls' boots
Mountain Warehouse Oscar Kids Walking Boots
316g each (UK3)
£45.99
mountainwarehouse.com
Size range: UK junior 10-adult 5
These comfy boots are a great choice for year-round adventures, offering fairly lightweight warmth and protection. They’re nicely padded throughout for comfort, especially at the ankle, with a wraparound design for a good fit throughout the foot. The outsole offers decent grip on most terrain, but it isn’t deep enough for mud.
Jack Wolfskin Woodland 2 Texapore Mid
309g each (EU36)
£58
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
Size range: EU26-40
With a design that’s more like a chunky trainer than a walking boot, these great-looking, waterproof, mid-height boots offer a bit more support, protection and wading depth than a shoe. The contrast colours and choice of laces were popular with our testers, who found the sticky rubber grip great on rocks.
Helly Hansen Shelter Helly Tech Waterproof Boots
329g each (EU35)
£75
hellyhansen.com/en_gb
Size range: EU23-36
These smart-looking waterproof walking boots are super easy to put on and take off, with stretchy laces and a Velcro fastener. They’re lightweight and comfortable, with a good amount of padding around the ankle. The outsole offers good all-round grip, but isn’t designed for mud.
Boreal Aspen Girls' Boots
415g each (EU35)
£80
world.borealoutdoor.com
Popular with our youngest tester for their great looks, natural feel and excellent puddle protection, these well-designed waterproof boots combine a soft, supple suede leather upper with a grippy and hard-wearing Vibram outsole. Padded textile panels around the ankle and the top of the foot provide comfortable support, while a rubber toe cap protects both feet and boots.
Photography and video: Getty Images, Shutterstock
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