Walking boots – what are the best options?
Eat up the countryside miles in warmth and comfort with our selection of the best walking boots from a variety of different price points.
When thinking about what to look for in good, dependable boots, professional deer manager, Chris Dalton says: “I am out in all conditions and weather, often for long periods at a time. So, looking after my feet is important. In my military days this was drummed into me; look after your feet! 20 mile route marches while undergoing officer training with full packs reenforces that, trust me. Your feet need to be dry, so I always go for quality and they must be of a good fit.”
Using the expertise of our writers, we’ve put together a list of the best walking boots on the market, offering warmth, comfort, grip and durability, from different price brackets so you can make an informed decision. (If you find yourself on the other side of the wellies vs boots debate, can also read our list of best shooting wellies.)
These are the ideal options for people who are going to be walking over relatively light terrain, but if you’re in the market for something a bit more heavy-duty, for when the going gets really rough, then read our list of best shooting boots.
Walking boots – what are the best options?
1. Berghaus Men’s Hillwalker Ii Gore-tex Waterproof Hiking Boots, £142.95
Best overall
- Leather outer material
- Waterproof
- Rubber soul
- Lace-up
Made from Gore-Tex, these walking boots not only boast a waterproof guarantee but also promise to be sturdy, comfortable and durable with the leather outer design and rubber soul. They manage to marry the two essentials of great walking boots – ones that are truly worth the money – by being robust and tough but also endlessly comfortable, especially with improved tongue and collar pattern with memory foam, which adapts to your feet and ankles for a perfect bespoke fit. Whether you are out on a stalking trip or just hiking through rough terrain, these walking boots will be up for the job.
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2. Regatta Mens Holcombe IEP Mid Rise Walking Hiking Boots, £60.24
Most affordable
- High performance
- Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole
- Flat heel type
- Lace-up closing
If you’re looking for a set of boots that can help you get almost anywhere but aren’t looking to lay out as much money as our top choice, then these walking boots could be for you. Though they are more affordable, don’t let that, in this case, be a byword for cheapness. These boots feel premium without costing the earth, with hydropel water repellency, lightweight moulded EVA midsoles for cushioning, waterproof, windproof and breathable Isotex to name but a few of the features. They aren’t as wide as some of the entries on this list, but for most people that shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
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3. Berghaus Men’s Expeditor Ridge 2.0 Waterproof Walking Boots, £154.46
Best for hiking
- Waterproof and breathable
- Leather outer material
- Lace-up closure
Walking through muddy puddles and thick, wet undergrowth will not be a problem with these boots. Both comfortable and durable, these boots boast waterproof but breathable technology whilst also having durable scuff-resistant treated leather uppers, to make sure that you can get anywhere and back again in these walking boots whilst making sure your feet stay warm, dry and ache-free.
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4. Meindl Unisex Adult X Chukka Boot, £234.24
Most robust
- Shock absorbing sole
- High cut for ankle support
- Robust leather interior
- Rubber edge
If you’re in the market for boots and you’re okay with spending a little bit extra, then these walking boots are top contenders. With a comfortable and smooth leather interior, a shock absorbing sole, great ankle support, durable soles and many more features, these are essential walking boots if you’re looking to stay warm, dry and comfortable in the harshest of conditions. You can wear these out in the field for hour after hour without any aches or pains or wet socks.
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5. Hi-Tec Men Storm Waterproof High Rise Hiking Boots, £80.00
Best value for money
- Suede and mesh upper
- Waterproof and breathable membrane
- Rubber sole
- Wide shoe width
- Lace-up closure
With a wide base, rubber soles and a suede outer material, as well as being waterproof and breathable, these boots are ideal if you’re looking to keep the price down but still come away with a great item. These boots also boast a versatile lacing system which provides a secure fit, not to mention removable comfort compression moulded, moisture wicking sock-liners, which deliver underfoot cushioning. Add that to a compression moulded EVA midsole which absorbs impact reducing strain on the body, then you have a pair of boots that are unbelievable value for money.
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6. Northwest Territory Inuvik Men’s Hiking/Walking Leather Waterproof High Rise Boots, £59.99
Best for support
- Leather outer material
- Leather sole
- Lace-up closure
Another very affordable pair of boots are this offering from Northwest Territory. If you’re looking for a pair of boots that really enclose your feet in a robust shell, then these almost complete leather boots will really make you feel secure. Couple that with their high-rise design, you will be able to walk mile after mile in comfort with these boots.
