Made for walking: the best hiking boots 2025

People (especially those who have struggled with hiking boots) often ask which ones I recommend for hiking and mountain walking. My answer is always the same: the ones that fit! Getting your feet measured and trying boots on before buying is essential. Different brands use different shapes, sizes vary, and some boots are wider or narrower than others. If you wear an orthotic insole, be sure to try them on with the insole first – and its worth bringing the socks you intend to use with them to the shop too. It’s also worth walking around in them for a while before you buy, and when you get them home, wearing them indoors for a bit before you fully commit to using them outside.

Main image: A best in test boot in the wild | Credit: Altberg

Fit goes hand in hand with comfort – and its close relative, weight. Heavy boots with minimal cushioning can become uncomfortable after just a few miles. Many modern lightweight hiking boots also include extra cushioning in the midsole to reduce fatigue and foot pain on long walks. Next, think about the type of hiking you will be likely to do. If you often venture off path onto boggy or rocky terrain, you may need to compromise on weight in favour of durability.

Leather uppers are more often robust and offer better water resistance than fabric, while a waterproof membrane helps to keep feet dry. A rubber rand at the toe, or all the way around the boot can help prevent wear to the uppers from abrasion and scrapes. A rugged outsole designed for maximum traction enhances stability and helps keep you upright. While this may be less critical on maintained trails, it becomes essential when navigating mud, steep grass, or wet rock, where tread design can make a big difference.

Proper care is key to ensuring longevity. Regular cleaning, drying, and reproofing will go a long way to maintaining boot performance. Specialised reproofing products are available for both fabric and leather boots, keeping them in good condition for years to come.

The best hiking boots we’ve reviewed

Our experienced gear testers have assessed a broad range of options for this group test, with aspects such as performance, price, reliability and longevity all taken into consideration. The following shows the hiking boots for men and women that have come out on top.

Quick List
Best in Test (women’s): Altberg Ladies Tethera (available from Altberg)
Best in Test (men’s): Danner Mountain Light (available from Clutch Cafe)
Greener Choice: Scarpa Mojito Hike GTX
Lightest in Test: Inov-8 Roclite Pro G400 GTX V2
Best Value: Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Mid (available from Salomon)

Altberg Ladies Tethera

Quick specs
Price: no US delivery | £279.99 (available from Altberg) Weight: 1571g/pair (size 8.5) Materials: 2.4mm-2.6mm Anfibio leather, Vibram outsole Features: five width fittings, minimal stitching for maximum waterproofness Waterproof: Sympatex membrane Sizes: UK3-8.5 (EU35-43) Men’s version: yes www.altberg.co.uk

They will need lifelong care and love in order to continue to perform. They don’t, and will never look cool! However, I absolutely adore them, and here’s why: Altberg Tethera boots are full grain leather boots hand made in Yorkshire, with a range of five different width fittings to ensure the best fit possible for the user. The uppers are primarily crafted from a single piece of thick leather, to minimise stitching, (a common weakness that can lead to leaks), ensuring that the boots will stay waterproof for longer, with a gusseted tongue, to further minimise water ingress. They have a Sympatex membrane to back up the leather, which is one of the most breathable membranes I’ve used, making it ideal for footwear.

I’ll admit, these boots aren’t as instantly comfortable as some, but with the right width fitting, I had no problem taking them for a long spin straight away. There’s sufficient cushioning for big days out from the word go, and they soften and conform with time, especially if you treat them right – with the brand’s own Leder Gris boot wax. For me, the ritual of waxing my boots is actually quite enjoyable. If I look after them, they will look after me. They are exceptionally durable, so despite the higher price tag, they represent excellent value for money.

If you want something lightweight, if you mainly stick to paths, or will only be out a few times a year in good weather, these boots are probably not your best bet. However, if like me you do high mileage in rough, boggy, mountainous terrain, they will pay you back for the hard miles with dry, happy feet for years to come. I cannot rate them highly enough!

Read more: Lucy’s full Altberg Tethera review

Danner Mountain Light

Quick specs
Price: $470 | £430 (available from Clutch Cafe) Weight: 1828g/pair, UK 10.5 Materials: one-piece full-grain leather upper, fibreglass shank, Vibram 148 Kletterlift outsole Features: handmade, stitchdown construction, metal lacing hardware, resoleable (if boot sent to Danner in Oregon), retro aesthetic Sizes: UK 5.5-12.5 (EU 39–46) Women’s version: yes www.danner.com

The Danner Mountain Light boots look straight out of the 1970s, complete with one-piece full-grain leather uppers, a retro Vibram sole, and hand-stitched construction. Despite (or possibly because of) the Mountain Light’s quirks, I unashamedly love these boots – and if looked after carefully they should offer a lifetime of performance, helping to offset the eye-watering price tag.

The fit and finish are superb, but you do need to break them in, and they are heavy. The Danner Mountain Light was first introduced in 1979 and the basic design has changed little since. They perform brilliantly in the mountains, but Danner say that you need to break them in before tackling major hikes. It’s recommended to start with short, easy walks and use conditioning cream until the uppers mould to your feet. That leather upper has minimal seams and a cleverly folded tongue to minimise water ingress.

The sticker cost is, let’s face it, extremely high and some users might not have the patience for the traditional breaking-in process. If you do – if you’re willing to invest a bit more into your gear for a long-term relationship – then it’s worth considering the beautiful (and functional) retro charm of the Danner Mountain Lights. Sometimes classics are classic for a reason.

Read more: Alex’s full Danner Mountain Light review

Inov-8 Roclite Pro G400 GTX V2

Quick specs

Price: $245 / £200 Weight: 1.87 lb. / 850g Pros: Comfort, flexibility, grip Cons: Price, limited larger sizes, weight quibble Materials: Schoeller ceramic-coated fabric upper,  Gore-Tex membrane, graphene-enhanced rubber soles Features: sole with ‘iconic’-shaped studs and water dispersion grooves, ‘meta plate pro’, external heel cage Men’s version: yes Sizes: U.S. 5.5 to 11 / UK 3.5 to 8.5 (including half sizes)

It’s a light, versatile boot that fits like a slipper, with a narrow to mid-width fit and a smooth but precise lacing system. The upper, which is made from synthetic mesh, is lined by a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane and there’s light protection at the toe and at the heel where there’s a stabilising external rubber structure. Then there’s the impressive outsole. This contains graphene, a substance that’s commonly regarded as one of the toughest materials in the world. Inov-8 use this across most of their collection these days in order to increase the lifespan of their products. You’ll find 6mm trail shoe-like lugs across the outsole too, making the Roclite Pro G400 ideal for muddy conditions. The grip is generally good except on wet rocks and tree roots, and the uppers are durable and resist abrasion. Sole rigidity is lacking, so look elsewhere if you prefer a stiffer sole.

Lightweight, very comfortable, grippy on a wide range of terrain, these are my go-to walking boots for most of the year in Scotland. They are as comfy as a favourite pair of running shoes but with extra ankle support.

Read more: Fiona’s full inov-8 Roclite Pro G 400 Gore-Tex women’s boot review

Scarpa Mojito Hike GTX

Quick specs

Price: £205 Weight: 970g (stated, men’s size 8/EU42)/1,195g (on JM’s scales, men’s size 10.5/EU45) Eco/ethical claims: Bluesign-approved Gore-Tex lining materials; resoleable by Scarpa; Scarpa publishes a Green manifesto. Materials: 1.8mm Ware resistant suede upper; Gore-Tex lining Features: Vibram XS Trek rubber outsole; Gore-Tex BlueSign-approved membrane; round core laces Sizes: men’s 7–13/EU41–48; women’s 3.5–8/EU36–42 Women/men’s version: Yes URL: www.scarpa.co.uk

The Mojito Hike GTX is a hiking boot designed to resemble a climbing shoe, offering a comfortable and supportive walking experience. The boot features a climbing shoe-like lacing system, allowing for a precise, supportive fit throughout the boot. The suede upper’s stiffness ensures minimal shift, allowing for a comfortable hike without constant pauses.

The boot is rated as medium fit, providing room for comfort without shifting or tightness. The Vibram XS Trek rubber outsole provides decent traction and a natural walking action, while the half-centimeter instep aids braking on slopes. The suede upper initially runs off when crossing flooded ground, but later darkens as moisture absorbs moisture.

A rubber bumper at the front protects the toes from rock impacts, but the toe area is roomy enough to avoid toe battering during descents. At £195, the Mojito Hike GTX falls within the acceptable weight range for comfort, making it a great choice for those seeking quality and comfort.

Read John’s full Scarpa Mojito Hike GTX Review

Salewa W’s Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX

Quick specs

Price: $200 | £190 Weight: 1018g (for size 41) Pros: Less expensive than some equivalent boots, light, supportive, attractive Cons: None really Materials: Suede leather uppers, Vibram Alpine Hiking outsole, Gore-Tex lined Features: Multifit Footbed + interchangeable footbed for fine tuning volume, protective toe rand, locking laces Sizes: UK3-UK9 (including half sizes)/EU36-43 Women’s/Men’s Version: Women’s (men’s direct equivalent available) www.salewa.com

The Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX hiking boots from Salewa are a versatile choice for day walks with a light pack or longer treks with a heavy load. They have a continental look with an asymmetric toe rand, reminiscent of climbing shoes. Despite being sent the wrong size due to a technical issue, the boot’s comfort and customisable footbed make it suitable for most terrains and load carrying. The Vibram outsoles are grippy and easy to shed mud, making them ideal for claggy conditions.

The boot is high enough to support the ankle even with a heavier load and keeps debris and mud out. The Gore-Tex content ensures versatility for damp UK hiking conditions. The boots are excellent value for money, with attention to detail, quality build, comfortable fit, and attractive looks.

Read Lara’s full Salewa W’s Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX Review

Altberg Ladies Fremington 

Quick specs
Price: £210 | No U.S Weight: 2.7 lb. / 1226g Pros: Width fittings, comfort, relatively light Cons: Gaiters don’t easily attach to laces Rating: 4.5/5 Materials: leather upper, Sympatex waterproof membrane, Vibram Masai sole Features: padded ankle cuff, one-piece leather upper, full rubber rand Sizes: UK3-8.5/ EU 35-41, width fittings XN-XW Men’s version: yes

Altberg, a British leather footwear manufacturer, produces the Fremington, a lighter model available in five width fittings. The uppers are made from full-grain leather with a Sympatex membrane, making them waterproof. The Vibram outsole is rugged and suitable for various terrains. A protective rubber rand skirts the rim, but does not cover the toe cap. The midsole is supportive and lightweight, with good shock absorbency. Altberg emphasizes the importance of maintaining the leather and offers care products for sale. The retro style of the Fremington outperforms modern styles in weight, comfort, and fit, making it a classic boot for summer use in the British countryside.

Read more: Lucy Wallace’s full Altberg Ladies Fremington review

Lowa Ranger GTX

Quick specs
Price: $350 | £265 (available from Tiso) Weight: 1794g/pair, UK 11 Materials: Nubuck oiled uppers, Vibram Apptrail Divo outsole, tailored rubber rand Features: independently adjustable lacing zones, anatomically shaped tongue, dual layer cushioning, resoleable in UK Waterproof: Gore-Tex Sizes: UK 7–15 (EU 40–48) Women’s version: the Lady GTX www.lowa.co.uk

It’s a three-season leather boot with oiled Nubuck uppers, an aggressive Vibram sole, rubber rand at toe and heel cup, a moderate level of stiffness, and a high ankle cuff. I found it instantly comfortable (partly thanks to the really adjustable lacing system), and the boot feels reassuring on a wide range of mountain terrain. Although these boots are not lightweight, the out-of-box comfort means they feel less heavy in use than you might expect.

Fit is personal, but Lowa’s “X-Lacing” system, featuring lacing hardware on the tongue, really does work to help dial in a precise fit. They perform well on paths as well as off-path rough ground and thanks to a good sole edge, work well on easy scrambles. Performance on wet rock is great. I found them the most comfortable and supportive of all the boots in this test – although the high uppers can feel a bit restrictive. They required no breaking in and I never experienced rubbing or blisters, even on very long hikes with a heavy pack. They also keep water out and are very breathable.

Like all lined leather boots, they can feel warm in hot conditions, though (they’re the warmest boots I tested). They should prove durable, but there’s a lot of stitching on the uppers – a possible weak point long term. Overall, there are few faults with the Lowa Ranger GTX. I think they’re a fine choice for typical British mountain walking outside the winter months.

Read more: Alex’s full Lowa Ranger GTX boots review

Hanwag Blueridge ES

Quick specs

Price: $270 | £185 Weight: 1120g (stated, men’s size 8/EU42); 1342g (on JM’s scales, men’s size 10.5/EU45) Eco/ethical claims: manufactured in Hanwag’s European factories from 100% European-sourced fully traceable components; upper made from Perwanger leather (from certified Alpine region suppliers, produced using minimal water and energy) and 100% recycled polyamide; PFC-free Eco-Shell membrane; Hanwag Hike Pro 15% recycled rubber outsole; Sustainable Apparel Coalition member Materials: hydrophilic PFC-free EcoShell membrane; Perwanger suede and recycled polyamide upper fabric upper; Hanwag Hike Pro outer sole; EcoShell lining; PU foam Breathfit tongue Features: Terragrip outsole with 4mm-deep tread and extra-large lugs; made in Europe using fully traceable European components Sizes: men’s 6–13 (EU39.5–48.5) including half sizes; women’s 3.5-9 (EU36–43) including half sizes Women/men’s version: both URL: www.hanwag.com/uk/en-gb

The Hanwag Blueridge ES hiking boot is a comfortable and luxurious option, thanks to its design and the combination of tongue, collar, and upper Perwanger suede. The tongue is made of soft PU foam with Breathfit padding, resembling neoprene used in diving suits. The collar is a lightly padded foam-padded fabric, while the upper is a soft, luxuriant Perwanger suede that gently embraces the foot.

The sole is not as rigid as some, but the flex point is just right for the user. The sole offers good traction on various surfaces and shows signs of wear after just a few weeks, but the boot can still provide a few hundred miles of use. The Hanwag Blueridge ES is the heaviest tested boot, but its comfortable fit and sensual suede upper fabric make it a great choice for hiking.

Read John’s full Hanwag Blueridge ES Review

Meindl Bhutan Lady MFS

Quick specs
Price: $280 | £279.99 Weight: 1368g (for size UK6) Materials: Nubuck leather, Gore-Tex lining, Meindl Multigrip Vibram rubber outsole Features: Memory Foam System in ankle area, Digafix lacing system for superior hold and fit adjustment Sizes: UK3.5-UK9 (including half sizes)/EU36-43 Women’s/Men’s Version: Women’s (men’s direct equivalent available) www.meindl.co.uk

The Bhutan Lady MFS are lightweight hiking boots that are both durable and lightweight. They have been a bestseller for over 10 years and feature a tough nubuck upper, Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing, and a Memory Foam System at the ankle for extra comfort. The Vibram double-density sole unit is self-cleaning and mud-shedding. The boots come in half sizes, making them easy to fit for average-shaped feet. The ankle support area is superbly comfortable, and there is enough flexibility to encourage a natural gait. The boot is designed to be stiff enough to tackle all but high mountain and winter conditions. Meindl’s approach to boots is repairable for long-term wear, allowing them to be sent to Meindl UK and then to Germany for rejuvenation. This sustainability helps keep the boots going indefinitely, making them a popular choice for those looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot.

Read Lara Dunn’s full Meindl Bhutan Lady MFS Review

Aku Trekker Lite III GTX

Quick specs

Price: $300 | £200 Weight: 1,140g (stated, men’s UK size 8/EU42)/1,283g (on JM’s scales, men’s size UK 10.5/EU45) Eco/ethical claims: Behind the Label traceability of materials; materials sourced within European (German, Italian and Romanian) to reduce transportation; ReAct Responsibly sustainability stance; £8 + VAT from each sale goes to The Ramblers’ access campaigns Materials: air8000 suede with welded PU film upper; Gore-Tex Performance Comfort membrane; Vibram Curcuma outsole; double density EVA midsole; 6–4 mm nylon with microporous EVA lasting board Features: soft, custom fit footbed; wide versions available; materials traceable online Sizes: men’s 6.5–15 (EU39.5–48/49); women’s 3–9 (EU35/36–41/42) Men’s/womens: both AKU.co.uk

The Trekker Lite III GTX is a lightweight, supportive boot that is perfect for mountain hiking. It weighs 1,283g per pair (size 10.5) and is supportive around the ankle, with a rigid base and heel cup. The Vibram Curcuma outsole provides excellent grip on damp limestone and wet vegetation. However, the firm upper and minimal flex in the sole make foot placement on uneven ground more cautious.

The lacing system is excellent, with laces extending down to the toe box for a secure fit. Round core laces thread through metalware up to three pairs of hooks, ensuring no loss of tension when tying the boot off at the ankle. The boots are made in Aku’s Romanian factory using traceable materials from Europe and are made with traceable materials. Sales also support The Ramblers’ campaigns to protect access to green spaces and rights of way.

In summary, the Trekker Lite III GTX is a comfortable and durable boot that is well-suited for mountain hiking. Its lightweight design, support for traceable materials, and support for environmental causes make it a popular choice for those seeking a durable and comfortable hiking boot.

Read John’s full Aku Trekker Lite III GTX Review

Berghaus Deception Trail GTX

Quick specs

Price: £170 Weight: 1023g (stated, men’s size 9/EU43); 1,119g (on JM’s scales, men’s size 10.5/EU45) Eco/ethical claims: 100% synthetic boot; Repairhaus service; sustainability report; member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, B Corp, and the global Ethical Trading Initiative; annual open and transparent Positive Business Report on actions & initiatives Materials: polyester upper; Gore-Tex membrane; Opti-Stud Vibram rubber outsole Features: mid-cut; Ortholite footbed; no animal-based materials Sizes: UK 7–12 (including half sizes)/EU 40.5–47 Women/men’s version: both URL: www.berghaus.com

The Berghaus Deception Trail GTX hiking boot is a mid-cut boot with a slightly deeper ankle than average mid-cuts, providing a sense of security and confidence on the fell. The sole has a slight lateral flex, making it spike-friendly-stiff and allowing for easy foot placement without dictating foot placement. The sole’s semi-rigidity has not softened off after initial wear.

The boot features a protective rubber bumper at the front, which protects toes from trailside rock, and a light rubber rand around the outside edge of each boot. Ankle support is excellent, with a synthetic cup supporting the heel and a substantial collar holding the ankle without being over-restrictive. The lacing system, consisting of four pairs of loops and two pairs of hooks, helps relieve rubbing on the left foot. The laces are 5mm fabric flatties, which fasten more securely and are longer-lived than round cord laces.

The sole provides reliable traction on various terrains, with a reasonable instep aiding braking on crumbly descents. The boot is substantial, supportive, roomy, and rigid, making it the lightest boot among the test group and one of the most comfortable.

Read John’s full Berghaus Deception Trail GTX Review

Zamberlan Salathe Trek GTX RR

Quick specs

Price: $330 | £260 Weight: 908g (for size 39) Pros: Light, versatile, supportive, RECCO reflector Cons: Style won’t appeal to everyone, expensive Materials: Hydrobloc Suede, Gore-Tex lining, molded EVA midsole, Vibram Megagrip outsole Features: RECCO reflector, Gore-Tex lining and waterproof leather upper, laces right down to toe-box Sizes: UK4-UK9 / EU37-43 (including half sizes) Women’s/Men’s Version: Women’s (men’s direct equivalent available) www.zamberlan.co.uk

The Zamberlan Salathe Trek GTX RR hiking boots are a lightweight, modern alpine boot with asymmetric pointed toe and protective toe rand. They come in various colors and have funky graphics. Although built on a unisex platform, the boots are comfortable and suitable for various activities, including day walks, scrambles, and alpine hikes. The outsoles are well-suited for various terrains and conditions, and the protective asymmetric toe makes leaping from rock to rock appealing. The boots also feature a waterproof suede upper, Gore-Tex lining, and Vibram sole. The RECCO reflector is included to aid rescue services in locating the wearer. Despite their price, these boots are an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable, supportive, capable, and well-designed pair of boots.

Read Lara’s full Zamberlan Salathe Trek GTX RR Women’s Review

Scarpa Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX WMN

Quick specs
Price: $199 | £200 (available from Scarpa) Weight: 917g/pair (size 42) Materials: nubuck and synthetic mix with TPU heel and EVA midsole Features: Scarpa’s Presa sole with IKS technology Waterproof: Gore-Tex ePE membrane Sizes: UK size 4-8 (EU36-42) Men’s version: yes www.scarpa.co.uk

Easily the lightest of the boots I tested, the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX WMN boots are nevertheless impressively supportive and protective. The uppers feel solid, despite being synthetic materials. The low centre of gravity provides a stable ride, even with a minimal ankle cuff. There’s good cushioning too, thanks to Scarpa’s proprietary Presa HIK-03 sole with IKS (Interactive Kinetic System) which incorporates no fewer than seven areas of cushioning. My feet might not have noticed each one, but they registered a high level of comfort and springiness. The outsole gives a decent amount of grip on rock, gravel and grass, but it is less brilliant on the kind of steep mud that I’ve been enjoying this season!

For me, this boot excels on all types of paths in relatively dry conditions and especially hot weather. If you want the low weight of a walking shoe, but with more support, for anything from local walks to long distance footpaths, the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro Mid is worth a look.

Read more: Lucy’s full Scarpa Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX review

Salewa Women’s Mountain Trainer 2 Mid GTX

Quick specs
Price: no US shipping | £245 (available from Salewa) Weight: 1346g/ Pair (size 8.5) Materials: fabric and suede upper, 3F steel cables, Vibram outsole Features: customisable footbed, full foot lacing with 3F system Waterproof: Gore-Tex membrane Sizes: UK 3-9 (Eu 35-43) Men’s version: yes www.salewa.com

Constructed from a mix of suede and fabric, the uppers are well-padded and comfortable straight out of the box. The Multi Fit Footbed allows for a customized fit by adding or removing layers to adjust volume, while extended toebox lacing and Salewa’s 3F system – a steel cable integrated into the lacing – help lock the heel securely in place.

There’s a quality Gore-Tex lining, and so far, the water repellent treatment on the surface of the boot is shedding water admirably. They feel a little on the warm side, and I did find my feet are noticeably sweatier in these than the other two models that I tested in this review. Underfoot, the stout outsole grips rock and loose gravel well, and there is a good climbing zone area at the front of the boot for scrambling on small edges. There’s enough protection and grip for dealing with unpleasant scree if necessary. The self-cleaning lugs handle mud well too.

These are a solid choice for all round mountain use, on scrambly terrain and more technical hikes in the UK and the middle mountains of Europe.

Read more: Lucy’s full Salewa Women’s Mountain Trainer 2 Mid GTX review

Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Mid

Quick specs

Price: $170 | £155 (available from Salomon) Weight: 970g/pair, UK 11 Materials: PFC-free synthetic uppers made from recycled products, EnergyCell high-performance EVA foam midsole, All Terrain Contragrip outsole Features: advancedCHASSIS moulded insert for lateral support, sensiFIT to cradle foot from midsole to lace, stitch-free welded uppers, OrthoLite diecut sockliner, quickLACE system Waterproof: Gore-Tex Sizes: UK 6.5–13.5 (EU 40–47) Women’s version: yes www.salomon.com

The sole, a grippy Contragrip unit, is good on mixed rocky, grassy or muddy ground, and feels OK on wet rock. But it’s not the best for scrambling thanks to a vague edge and lateral flexibility. On steep descents, the imprecise fit can lead to your foot moving around inside the boot. Although the boots lace up quickly, there’s little scope for fine-tuning, and I found the only way to avoid a sloppy fit was to lace them up so tightly they pinched my forefoot.

The Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Mid has an impressive list of tech specs, including stitch-free welded uppers made from PFC-free recycled materials. There’s a stiff polymer rand at the toe and a more flexible one at the heel. In my testing, I often found myself forgetting I was wearing boots at all; thanks to the low weight they feel more like higher-ankle trail shoes, but with a bit more stiffness and support.

Overall, I was disappointed at the imprecise fit of these boots and they aren’t the best choice for steep off-path terrain. The value is good, though.

Read more: Alex’s full Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Mid review

How we tested them

Just as we do with all our kit reviews – from waterproof jackets to trail shoes and sleeping bags – these hiking boots were all tested extensively by outdoor industry professionals within our gear review team. In this instance, our testers were Alex Roddie, Lucy Wallace with additional testing from Fiona Russell, Lara Dunn, and John Manning.

Alex Roddie tested his boots on a variety of autumn mountain walks as well as lower-level winter walks, including multi-day hikes over challenging terrain in the Lake District and Scottish Highlands.

Lucy Wallace did the bulk of her testing on the hills of Arran, as well as at work on Mountain Training courses in the Lake District. A lot of bog may have featured in these tests!

How to choose the best hiking boots for you

Here are the key things to look at and to consider when you’re looking to buy a new pair of hiking boots.

Sole unit

The sole perhaps the most important component of a hiking boot – it’s what connects you to the ground. You could be wearing the best-fitting boots in the world, but without a good sole they won’t do you any good.

The make of rubber will affect how grippy and hard-wearing it is, with Vibram and Michelin often being used for walking boots. Deep lugs help with grip on grass and moorland terrain, and some boots might have a smoother area at the toe – the climbing zone – which is useful for scrambling and climbing.

The mid sole is the section between the sole and the footbed. The stiffness and flexibility of a boot depend on how, and with what materials, the midsole is constructed. A ‘shank’ will make the boot stiffer, which is required if you want to use crampons; but with less flex, walking on less challenging terrain may feel more tiring.

The drop between the heel and toes is also dependent on what the midsole is constructed of, with a minimalist or ‘barefoot’ style having little or no drop whilst providing less protection.

Upper

The materials used here make a difference to how breathable your boot is, and how long it will take to break in. Leather takes the longest to mould to your feet, and isn’t as breathable or as light, but has some natural waterproof properties.

Suede is a little softer than full-grain leather and nubuck but is lighter and more breathable. Synthetic materials are the lightest and most breathable, but due to more external stitching they may not be as durable. Some models rely on the waterproof nature of leather, whilst others use a membrane as well, whether that is Gore-Tex or a brand’s own. Regular waxing or other treatment will lengthen a boot’s life and improves the chance of dry feet.

Fit and feel

A leather boot can often feel more structured and sturdy, whilst a fabric or synthetic boot may provide more flex. Look for hooks, or cleats, that can be used to tighten the boot around your ankle. A drop at the back of the ankle collar will allow a bit more flexibility, albeit with compromises on the support given. Lacing is a key way to tune the fit of your boots. Some lacing designs start near the toes, which is often better for wider feet. A locking cleat to keep the heel in place before lacing up the ankle can also be useful.

Different boots are designed with a wide or narrow forefoot, a narrow heel or arch support in mind. The adage ‘try before you buy’ is critical with footwear. Ensure you don’t feel hot spots or rubbing, to prevent blisters and corns later. It’s worth wearing the boots around the house whilst they’re new, and perfecting the fit to your feet, before venturing out for a full day on the hill.

Leather hiking boots or synthetic?

Leather and synthetic hiking boots have their own advantages and disadvantages when compared against each other and it’s difficult to say which type is best as it depends on numerous factors. Here are some of the key differences between leather and synthetic hiking boots:

1. Durability: Leather hiking boots are generally more durable than their synthetic counterparts, as leather is a stronger and more resilient material.
2. Water Resistance: Leather hiking boots are naturally resistant to moisture, while synthetic boots require additional waterproofing treatments to provide adequate protection against water.
3. Breathability: Synthetic hiking boots are generally more breathable than leather boots, as synthetic materials tend to allow air to circulate better than leather.
4. Weight: Synthetic boots are generally lighter in weight than leather boots, making them a better choice for hikers who like to feel light-footed on the trail.
5. Cost: Leather hiking boots tend to be more expensive than synthetic boots. That’s due to the higher cost of the materials and the additional labor required to construct them.
6. Maintenance: Leather needs to be regularly cleaned and conditioned to maintain its durability and water resistance, so it’s fair to say that leather hiking boots require more maintenance.

Should hiking boots be waterproof?

Some hikers will favour non-lined walking boots even when hiking in wet conditions. This will generally be if they own quality, leather boots that have minimal seams and that are well maintained with water resistant wax. It’s a traditional approach but one that many will swear by – check out our guide to re-waterproofing hiking boots and shoes for more info on that. Almost all of the options assessed in this round up have waterproof membranes, but you will find in some instances that brands will sell non-lined versions of them too.

Bear in mind, if your boots are a little old and broken, you could consider whether you can fix them up. This guide on how to repair hiking boots should help there.

How to waterproof your walking boots

Firstly, you must ensure you have the right waterproofing product for your boots, depending on the boot composition and materials. We’ll get to that in just a moment but, in the meantime, you can find what your boots are made of through the manufacturer. This is what determines what product you should purchase. For all waterproofing processes, it’s best to wait for a dry day to clean and treat your boots so they can dry outside. This is preferable as artificial heat can damage or warp the material and thus the shape of your boots. Your boots will also need some preparation before waterproofing. You should always clean your boots before waterproofing them. This removes any dirt or debris that can act as a barrier to the treatment working properly.

There is a wide range of waxes, creams and spray treatments available. Find out which one you’ll need and how to use them in our full guide to waterproofing your boots or learn more about looking after your hiking boots so they last decades.