Going down the rabbit hole of trying to find the best walking boots can be a daunting experience – especially if you’re browsing online. Brands continue to launch new technologies and innovations, but at the end of the day, comfort is the number one priority when you’re planning a long-haul trek. The best bootsare waterproof, breathable, supportive and cushioned enough to keep you feeling comfy mile after mile.
Choosing the right walking boots for you isn’t as simple as just buying the cheapest pair or whatever’s available in your shoe size. You need to consider how durable they are, whether you need boots that cater to wide or narrow feet, what kind of grip you need, plus a dozen other things.
Think durable materials, boots that have a tight fit without feeling constricting or painful, waterproof design and whether or not they’re easy to clean. Yep, it’s certainly an overwhelming task, especially with so many technical buzzwords, styles, and brands to stress you out. But don't panic - we've come up with a handy guide to the best walking boots on the market for every type of walker.
Here are the best walking boots at a glance:
Best overall:Women’s Waterproof Recycled Boots, £49.99 on Mountain Warehouse
Most stylish walking boots: ON Cloudroam Waterproof Boots, £126 on Coggles
Most durable boots: Danner Inquire Mid Boots, £102 on Danner
How to choose the best walking boots for you
If you’ll be using your boots for casual walks on gentle paths, your most important criteria is probably to get the most comfortable walking boots you can find. But if you’re planning a more challenging uphill trek or your boots are for outdoor work, you’ll need something with a good amount of durability. Similarly, if you’re planning a super professional winter walk through harsh weather conditions, you’ll need full waterproofing and stiff, durable soles that accept walking crampons, and perhaps some insulation.
To help you pick out the best hiking boots for you, we’ve brought you the styles loved by walkers all around, from top brands including Timberland and Berghaus.
SHOP: Best walking boots to buy right now
Best overall
www.mountainwarehouse.com
These hiking boots are breathable, durable, and extremely lightweight, despite being quite bulky. These are definitely the boots we’d choose for longer distances because they’re so supportive and comfortable, but the lightweight feel also makes them a good choice for more casual walks. There’s ample traction on the sole for grip and stability, comfy cushioning and durable ripstop mesh packed into a waterproof foot and sole.
Sizes available: 4 – 8
Customer review: "Really recommend these boots! They are really comfortable and supportive without being hard. Takes a couple of walks to wear them in which I didn’t expect as they’re not leather. I’m usually a size 6 but had to get a 7. Would definitely buy again."
Pros
- Incredibly breathable
- Deep lugs for high traction
Cons
- Takes a couple of walks to wear them in
Best all-rounder walking boots
www.alpinetrek.co.uk
The Trekker Lite III boots are one of the most versatile pairs around – simple and lightweight enough for new walkers with a Gore-Tex membrane that more advanced walkers will appreciate: the microporous structure of the Gore-Tex layer prevents any water getting into the shoe’s interior. These comfy boots will make an excellent choice for hill walkers and casual trekkers alike. They’re breathable, while still being tough and durable.
Sizes available: 3 – 9
Pros
- Waterproof
- Good traction
Cons
- May not be the best option for those with wider feet
Most durable walking boots
global.danner.com
The key feature of these supportive boots is the 100% waterproof barrier, which allows moisture to escape without letting water in, keeping your feet dry and comfortable all day long. The shoe also features a removable OrthoLite footbed for maximum cushioning, support and impressive grip on the sole. The low profile feel of the design also makes it a good option for walkers looking for a durable hiking boot that lacks the aggressiveness of other options.
Sizes available: 3.5 - 7.5
Customer review: "I am an avid hiker, and I cannot believe how much I love these boots. They are perfect out of the box and so, so comfortable. Seems like they will be great for all seasons. The grip is great as well and I felt very secure going downhill in these bad boys. They are fab!"
Pros
- An impressive balance of durability with a lightweight feel
- Waterproof
Cons
- Slightly less wiggle room for toes
Most stylish walking boots
The Helion super foam midsole on these cushions against impact keeps you comfortable, and the soles are one of the best around for grip. It’s probably one of the most interesting walking boots available on the market thanks to the flexible speedboard, which has been designed to support the rolling motion of your feet for a smooth ride. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle intense walks through tough weather conditions that are still stylish enough for everyday life, there are few better shoes to grab than the Cloudroam Waterproof Boots.
Sizes available: 3 – 8
Pros
- Stable yet flexible
- Ideal for all conditions
Cons
- While its design is modern, the variety of colourways might be limited for some
Best walking boots for wet weather
www.regatta.com
The Holcombe walking boots impressed us with their underfoot cushioning that increases stability for prolonged comfort during longer jaunts. We also liked the shoe's Hydropel technology which prevents rain and splashes getting through to keep your feet extra dry. Overall, these comfy boots are an excellent choice for long walks and will help you maintain your form with its angled lugs, which are cleverly designed to help with propulsion.
Sizes available: 3 – 8
Customer review: "Great comfy boots – am usually a size 5 so ordered a 6 after reading other reviews – they’re slightly big but better than too small and as there are no half sizes it seemed the best option. Comfortable and sturdy. My only negative comment might be that the laces are very long, stretchy, and slippery and tend to keep coming loose."
Pros
- Waterproof
- Moulded footbed for all-day comfort
Cons
- Not available in half sizes
Best walking boots for muddy terrains
redirect.viglink.com
These all-terrain boots have been designed with high-traction rubber soles to promote grip on a multitude of surfaces. They’re a firm fit but still have plenty of wiggle room for your toes, with enough support to keep you going through the miles. The abrasion-resistant outsole and interlocking system that anchors the heel in to present slippage make these shoes great for speed walkers looking for a comfy shoe that’s built to last.
Sizes available: 2.5 – 9
Customer review: "These are great. Perfect boots! Wide toe box, comfortable fitting. I bought them for hiking but can honestly wear them day in, day out. No running, no blisters. I love them!"
Pros
- Waterproof
- High traction
Cons
- Not very breathable
Best sustainable walking boots
www.timberland.co.uk
We rate these cushioned boots for their comfort levels which is thanks to the responsibly grown rubber they’re made with. It feels fantastic to slip your feet into them. Timberlands Defender Repellent System Treatment is also a huge plus, which is built into the shoes to protect against any spills and stains, meaning you can trust that your boots will stay looking super cool wherever you wander.
Sizes available: 3.5 – 9
Customer review: "I highly recommend these! They look more like trainers but have the comfort of walking shoes. Very light on your feet and comfortable. Highly recommend these."
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Made with sustainable materials
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
Best versatile walking boots
www.sportsdirect.com
The Karrimor Skiddaw Walking Boots are our top pick if you’re going to be walking in wet conditions and need some added protection from the worst of the elements. Then again, if you’re looking for a more everyday boot, we’d recommend these boots for any walker who wants to feel extra comfortable as they complete their miles. As soon as you lace them up, their Ortholite Insole ensures you have a cushioned stroll.
Sizes available: 3 – 8
Customer review: "I bought these a month ago and they are amazing: very comfortable, warm, waterproof, supple. Just excellent value for money!"
Pros
- Versatile
- Secure, snug fit
Cons
- Laces are slightly too short
Best breathable walking boots
www.berghaus.com
The Expeditor Trek 2.0’s are the perfect do-it-all boots. They’re comfortable but supportive, letting you do whatever you want in them, whether it’s an everyday walk or a more challenging hike. As well as featuring a robust leather upper, they’ve also got shock-absorbing midsoles for a little extra cushioning.
Sizes available: 4 – 8
Customer review: "This is my second pair, and I can’t find fault with them. Comfortable, waterproof, and perfect dog walking boots!"
Pros
- Waterproof design
- Good levels of cushioning
Cons
- Takes a few walks to wear them in
How your walking boots should fit
When you’re first trying on your walking boots in-store or at home, look for the following:
A properly fitting walking boot should feel snug around the heel and mid-foot, with wiggle room around the toes.
Try them on with the laces undone, wearing a thick pair of walking socks. If they’re already feeling uncomfortable at that point, they’re probably not the right boots for you.
Stretch your toes to make sure you have enough wiggle room. There should be about a finger’s width between them and the toe of the boot so they don’t bash into it when walking downhill, and they should be able to spread so that you can keep your balance on uneven terrain.
Fun fact: the best time to try on walking boots is in the afternoon, as your feet swell throughout the day, and the afternoon is when your feet are at their largest. Who knew?