Hiking boot reviews

What to look for in a hiking boot

The biggest decision is waterproof vs non-waterproof. Gore-Tex and equivalent membranes keep water out but reduce breathability — your feet will sweat more in warm conditions. For UK day hiking where wet grass and mud are the norm, waterproofing earns its place most of the year. In summer on dry ground, a non-waterproof trail shoe often performs better.

Cut height matters more than most guides admit. A full boot gives more ankle support and keeps debris out on rough terrain. A mid-cut offers a compromise — more support than a trail shoe, less restriction than a full boot. Low-cut trail shoes are lighter and faster but leave ankles unsupported. The right choice depends on the terrain you're covering most often.

Sole stiffness affects how your foot feels over long distances. A stiffer midsole (common in mountain boots) provides support on rocky terrain and when carrying weight, but can feel fatiguing on long flat sections. A more flexible sole (common in trail shoes) is more comfortable on mixed terrain but gives less protection underfoot.

Fit is the most important factor of all. Boots should be tried on in the afternoon (feet swell during the day), with the socks you'll actually hike in. A thumb's width of room at the toe, a snug heel that doesn't slip, and no pressure points are the baseline. If it doesn't feel right in the shop, it won't feel right on mile fifteen.

Hiking boots and British conditions

UK terrain varies enormously but shares some consistent characteristics. Chalk and limestone paths (common on the Jurassic Coast and South Downs) become slippery when wet — a multi-directional lug pattern grips better than a directional one. Coastal paths involve frequent elevation changes that put pressure on the toe box on descents and the heel on climbs. Peat and moorland demand waterproofing regardless of the forecast. And British seasons don't behave — a boot that works in March might be overkill in August and inadequate in November.