Gear Review - 15 of The Best Walking Boots

Scarpa Rush Trek Lite GTX Review – Test Favourite (RRP: £200)

A top-notch walking boot that ticks all the boxes

Morgan: “From the start, the Scarpa Rush Trek Lite boot caught my attention. Not only are they attractive, on paper they appeared to offer everything I need from a boot: waterproof, lightweight, with a sole that grips to various trail surfaces.

I would say they are true to size - They fit my feet instantly, almost giving my feet a nice hug. From the first step and throughout my hike, they lived up to my expectations - they felt like feathers on my feet while also being able to feel the terrain beneath.

A little slippery to begin with, I noticed the sole becoming much grippier after 30 minutes of walking. I took these boots through rivers, quite literally crossing a stream that came up to the ankle support of the boot - not only did the Rush Trek Lites grip the rocks in the water, but I had dry feet the entire hike. If you want the best in waterproofing, there’s no substitute for a GORE-TEX®.

This was my favourite boot of the test. It’s a boot for the walker that enjoys moderate to long hikes and is looking for a supportive and ultralight boot that keeps your feet dry.”

Scarpa Boreas GTX Mid (RRP: £190)

A comfortable, good-fitting boot that pulls no punches on the trail

Morgan: “As I’ve come to expect from Scarpa’s boots, the Boreas GTX lived up to expectations… they’re a well thought-through boot. In comparison to other boots the Boreas has a lower-reaching lace design that allows you to have tighter lacing further down the top of your foot. It’s a smart design that allows you to fine-tune the level of support and helps the boot to adapt to your foot shape in a more effective way. With the higher boot cuff the support of the boot was impressive, giving me high confidence in my foot placement across a range of different terrain.

The Scarpa Boreas was extremely comfortable from the get-go, with a tyre-like rubber for the sole which filled me with confidence. The GORE-TEX liner kept my feet dry for the entirety of my hike, something I am looking for in a boot.

Overall, I recommend the Scarpa Boreas GTX boot to anyone, from first hikes to an experienced mountain goat, seeking a waterproof supportive boot for moderate to long days in the hills or mountains. It is true to size, but it can feel a touch narrow depending on how tight you have the laces – something to bear in mind when trying them on for the first time.”

Peter Storm Caldbeck (RRP: £130)

A great priced boot for the occasional walker

Morgan: “The Peter Storm Caldbeck boot has a nice leather look with a supportive, high ankle cuff. Trying them on for the first time I was sceptical about whether the high ankle cuff would work for me - it did, and I really appreciated the support throughout my hike. The waterproof leather upper offered my feet a warm dry place despite the wet conditions, even crossing rivers.

The Caldbeck has a slightly wider fit, but if that’s not for you a liner sock or insole could adjust this for you. Grip from the deep tread on the sole was good.

Overall, this Peter Storm boot combines a traditional hiking boot look with a supportive ankle cuff, breathability, and good protection from the elements. I recommend the Caldbeck to anyone who goes out occasionally in the hills and looking for a reasonably priced boot that ticks all the boxes.”

Merrell Siren 4 GTX (RRP: £145)

An airy, weightless modern walking shoe for fast-paced day hikes

Morgan: “The Merrell Siren 4 GTX is a mid-ankle boot which at first made me doubt whether it was for me or not. Out of the box, they’re an eye-catching bright pink and grey design and I was shocked at how lightweight they were. They offer a more trainer-looking type of boot which offered plenty of flexibility and breathability, but little in the way of support.

Yet again, its GORE-TEX® liner kep my feet nice and dry. However, the mid-cut design didn’t offer much extra height in the water. On other terrain the boot’s lightness and breathability, were very noticeable and really changed my experience of wearing a ‘hiking boot’ in a positive way.

The fit was true to size but felt a touch wide – however, this could be easily resolved with a liner sock or insole. I would recommend the Merrell Siren 4 to anyone wanting a very lightweight and waterproof boot for easy-to-moderate hikes.”

Meindl Bhutan Mid GTX (RRP: £275)

A bombproof leather boot for decades of year-round hiking

Jack: “Initially, the Meindl Bhutan gives the impression of a robust boot, with its stiff outsole, metal lace eyelets, a high ankle cuff (without a cut to the back) and a rubber rand to protect the leather uppers. Built tough, you’d expect that before breaking in the fit would be cumbersome, but that was not the case. Actually, out-of-the-box the feel around the cuff and ankle was supremely comfortable. The heft of the boot in your hands isn’t experienced on your feet once you get walking.

To start with the grip wasn’t particularly great on wet rock, as you’d likely expect with such a durable outsole, although it did improve over the course of a couple of hours - most likely due to taking the edge off the fresh rubber. Crossing streams and rivers, the security underfoot was reassuring, the leather upper was very waterproof, and the water beaded nicely off the upper.

Overall, these boots are for someone looking to walk in every condition, year-round. The Bhutan Mid GTX by Meindl is a boot that is robust enough to take repeated abuse and endure long days in the mountains. The Bhutan offers a high level of support, suitable for walkers carrying heavy packs on rough trails. It’s a premium boot that delivers the highest level of comfort and durability.”

North Ridge Fairfield (RRP: £130)

A lightweight, trainer-style walking shoe for lower-level pursuits

Jack: “Having started the day in the Meindl Bhutan, I had two initial impressions of the Fairfield; the first was the comparative lack of weight on the foot; and secondly that these had a lot less support and padding around the heel and cuff.

On the trail, the weightlessness was excellent for a little scrambling, allowing easy foot movement and precise placement due to a lower sole profile and a considerably more flexible midsole/outsole combo. The boot offered plenty of grip on a variety of harder surfaces in the wet but slipped a little in deeper mud because the lugs (grip protrusions on the sole) were a bit too shallow.

I would say on a minor note the laces didn’t seem to tie as securely as the Meindl boots, coming undone while descending, but the Bhutan was exceptional in this regard.

These are clearly not four-season boots, but as an alternative to stiffer leather boots for days of lower-level pursuits on better terrain, they are good contender. A lightweight, sure-footed boot that offers improved performance and support than trainers for spring, summer and autumn hiking missions.”

Merrell MOAB 2 Mid GORE-TEX (RRP: £130)

A legendary walking boot that lives up to its sterling reputation

Jack: “Padding around the carpark with a box-fresh pair of MOABs on my feet, the soles felt stiff and a touch uncomfortable. No more than a kilometre into the trail they began to break in and by the end of the walk I was reluctant to give these boots back.

The stiffer sole, although it lacked a little feeling, is actually a real blessing for reducing trail fatigue – I feel the MOAB’s happy place is a long-distance trek with a weighty backpack.

On inspection, the lug pattern on the boot’s Vibram outsole is shallow and intricate, which meant they gripped well on the Lake District’s stony trails and grassy fells, even after plenty of rainfall, but might lack some traction on sticky clay soils. The rubber compound felt like a good compromise between grip and durability. My small gripe with the outsole is the protrusions along the edge of the boot which made it feel a bit clumsy in some instances.

GORE-TEX® still makes the best boot liners on the market and with the MOAB’s gusseted tongues my feet remained dry despite standing in a stream for a good stretch. Unfortunately, I cannot attest to the boot’s breathability, but the lightweight mesh fabric appears ideal for venting perspiration on warmer days.

The mid-height ankle cuff is well padded and provided good lateral stability for walking on uneven and loose surfaces without chafing my ankles. The mid-height cut combined with the metal lace hooks creates a boot that can be laced up tight and isn’t scared of steeper terrain.

I was a touch sceptical about the Merrell MOAB 2 Mid GTX at the start of the day, but the boot really impressed me. This is a great three-season boot for walkers that want to do long mountain hikes on a mix of terrain and want a supportive boot with a moderately stiff sole that’s up to the job.

A quick note regarding sizing - I had to go up one size for a more comfortable fit in a mid-weight walking sock. Consider sizing up a half or a whole size when buying the MOAB 2.”

Scarpa Terra II GTX (RRP: £185)

A comfortable and reliable classic that’s perfect for UK walking

Jayson: “Out of the box, and straight into the hills - A quick and easy lacing system with a deep gusseted tongue made it easy to pop them on and get to work muddying them in the hills.

Despite being leather, the Terra II felt noticeably light on my feet and provided me with a good sense of ground feel without losing too much cushioning. The sole was flexible and featured an intricate stud pattern, this allowed for a very relaxed walking style – at times I almost forgot I was wearing or testing the boots altogether. The boot was lacking some grip on slippery wet rocks, but that is a challenging terrain for most boots!

A full-grain leather outer paired with a GORE-TEX® membrane is always a winning combination for durability and dry feet and this boot was no exception. The leather upper of this Scarpa was outstanding; somehow soft enough to give immediate comfort but still tough enough to not scratch up on the rocks. My feet were dry, comfortable, and very well protected from the typical elements encountered on a day out in the Lake District.

Overall, this boot is an excellent choice for a relaxed day moving through the hills in the UK.”

Salomon Quest 4 GTX (RRP: £200)

Fresh looks meet top level trail performance

Jayson: “Hopping into a fresh pair of Salomon Quest 4 boots halfway up the hill, I could immediately tell I was going to like them. My preconception was that hillwalking boots were not meant to be stylish but fit for purpose and functional. Why not have both?

It’s a sleek looking boot, all blacked out with exciting textures and angles all over.

The widened toe box gave me loads of room for comfort while I still felt extremely secure with the tall lacing system and active support keeping my heel firmly in place. The thick and chunky sole provided excellent cushioning as well as ample protection for my feet while still being able to cling to the wet rocks, preventing any slips.

With all that security I had to have some fun with them. I felt like a child jumping from puddle to puddle, and watching the water and mud effortlessly bead off.

Coming down steeper sections had me wishing for a bit more ankle flexibility to manoeuvre my feet about, but that felt like the only compromise of this excellent trekking boot.

I was thoroughly impressed by the Salomon Quest 4 and would recommend this boot to anyone wanting absolute protection and comfort for those long days on the hills.”

Berghaus Expanse Mid GTX (RRP: £155)

A lightweight and waterproof boot for fast ascents that puts comfort first

Ben: “The Expanse Mid by Berghaus was an exceptionally comfortable boot to spend the morning in. The first thing that really impressed me was just how light they were. The simple lacing system, with only one pair of lace hooks, made the boot quick to get on and gave an instant trainer-like fit - perfect for those that want to move at speed in comfort. The boot’s cuff was comparatively soft (vs other walking boots), which lacked support, but felt comfortable.

While testing these the rain was unrelenting. I had to cross numerous streams where the boot was almost completely submerged. Thanks to the GORE-TEX® membrane my feet remained entirely dry throughout. Breathability seemed good during the half day test, but they are an extremely light and therefore not particularly warm boot, so I wouldn’t recommend them for cold winter walks.

The sole is relatively thin and not particularly stiff which meant I could feel more of the trail on rougher ground; however, grip was never an issue with the Expanse, and they performed well across the wide range of terrain I used them on – all soaking wet!

I was really impressed with the performance of this lightweight hiker from Berghaus. First and foremost, they are lightweight and comfortable. I was positively surprised by how well this modern looking boot held-up on a very wet British walk in the Lake District. If you want a highly supportive boot there are better options. I wouldn’t recommend them on really cold days either, but the Berghaus Expanse Mid GTX makes an excellent choice for those who like to move quickly in varied terrain. For out-of-the-box and straight on to the trail comfort boots don’t get much better!”

Brasher Country Master (RRP: £195)

Traditional hill walking boot with bang-up-to-date performance

Ben: “As soon as I put on the Country Master I noticed how supportive they felt. Thankfully, this didn’t come at the expense of comfort and, considering their burly design, they weren’t heavy. They felt comfortable at once, thanks to the soft ankle cuff and extensive padding throughout.

The stiff, thick sole took some time to get used to as I usually prefer a much lighter boot that offers more feeling from the trail. The upside of a sole like this was that they felt incredibly stable - I could go over the roughest of terrain without any issue. A Vibram outsole is a sole you can trust: The grip over very wet rocks and thick mud was good, making them a great boot to cover mixed terrain with confidence.

The E-Vent waterproofing did as advertised, and while crossing streams numerous times the boot was submerged in water and remained entirely dry on the inside. Breathability wasn’t put to the test as it was a cool day but the Country Master is a well-insulated boot, so it wouldn’t be my first choice on a warm summer’s day.

The Brasher Country Master is very different to the boots I usually use and initially I was sceptical about how it would perform. After a half day of walking in them I was pleasantly surprised. They remained comfortable and dry despite the continuous deluge and the support that the boot provided to my foot and ankle was impressive.”

Peter Storm Arnside II (RRP: £125)

A no thrills performer for tackling all sorts of walking trails

Ben: “The Arnside II by Peter Storm is a good boot for the money. Initially, I found the cuff of the boot a little uncomfortable on my Achilles tendon, but as the boot broke in this improved dramatically. In all other aspects it was comfortable throughout the walk. My ankle and foot felt well supported, although it’s worth noting that I have relatively wide feet, so the toe box may not be suitable for those with narrow feet.

The rain was relentless throughout the test creating plenty of slippery trail surfaces and the Arnside didn’t fail me on grip. Across wet rock and mud the Storm Grip performed well. Its comparatively thick sole allowed enough flex for scrambling up steeper terrain too.

I had to cross a handful of shallow streams and intentionally dunked the boots, but the waterproof liner did its job and kept my feet bone dry. Breathability was harder to test because the weather was chilly, but the boot’s construction is well matched to the UK’s climate, so I’d happily use it on all but the hottest and coldest British days.

While its appearance might be a little too traditional for my taste, the Arnside’s performance on the trail really did exceed my expectations. It is supportive, comfortable (once broken-in a little) and waterproof, even submerged in a babbling Lake District brook. A real contender for hikers looking for more affordable walking boot options.”

OEX Crusade (RRP: £165)

A heavy-duty hiker that’s big on protection and support

Ethan: “The OEX Crusade Boot felt comfortable underfoot from the first step. Laced tightly, they fit well, with a bear-like embrace. Initially, the high-cut memory foam cuff was very rigid and felt restrictive. It began to loosen-up after a short time and a little adjusting, but the Crusade is clearly a boot that’s designed with support as a top priority.

Something that was immediately noticeable was the feeling of protection! In-the-hand it’s clear that OEX is built the Crusade to last. They’re not lightweight boots by any means, but they are certainly one of the most protective boots I’ve ever worn. On narrower rockier ground, bumps and scrapes were barely noticeable and crossing water the eVent waterproofing held out perfectly. With their high ankle cuff and thick-lugged sole they were completely waterproof and great for strolling across patches of thick mud and fast-flowing streams totally worry-free. The grip was outstanding, especially on wet rocks and mud as the lugs were very deep and made crossing looser ground a doddle.

The comfort held out for the entire time I wore them, with the memory foam in the ankle really coming in handy for tackling steep slopes. Regarding sizing, the Crusade boot is true to size despite the exterior of the boot appearing big. The laces could be pulled hard to give a snug fit, even with a thinner sock.

Overall, I’d say the OEX Crusade is a top boot for long hikes in damp and cold weather. They dealt with mud and water easily and you know these are tough, well-made boots, built to last. I reckon the Crusades will only get more comfortable as you wear them.”

Berghaus Hill Walker II (RRP: £150)

A leather boot that goes toe-to-toe with the new generation of trainer-style boots

Ethan: “The first thing I noticed about Berghaus’ Hill Walker II boot was the comfort – it’s a pleasant place to put your feet for the day! The boots felt supportive and padded even on very rocky ground. The mid-height ankle cuff was the perfect height to provide sufficient support while not being too high to restrict my ankle when laced up tight. Another great aspect of the Hill Walker was its weight, this was one of the lightest boots I’ve worn, which surprised me for such a traditional-looking leather boot. The boot’s breathability was another great quality, feeling as breathable as a synthetic walking boot.

The grip performed great on every terrain I tested the Hill Walker on: From wet rocks to muddy gravel and wet grass, the boot consistently had excellent traction. When going through puddles and streams the boot held up again, not letting in a drop of water, even when submerged. In ankle-high water, the boot’s cut down back did let some water in, which was more a case of my misjudgement than an issue with its integrity.

Traditional walking boots like the Hill Walkers aren’t something I’d normally choose: Ordinarily, I would choose a high-cuffed synthetic boot. But the Hill Walker II was as light and comfortable as a fell running shoe! I felt I could have worn the Hill Walkers all day and then some.

These are all you need for longer walks and hikes. The Berghaus Hill Walker II GTX is an all-year-round leather boot that will also work exceptionally well during the UK’s warmer summer months and in hotter climates.”

North Ridge Lite Hiker Mid (RRP: £165)

A fantastic value for money leather walking boot from the underdogs

Ethan: “Though not instantly comfortable, the Lite Hikers did become more and more comfortable as the day progressed. The sturdy soles offered a lot of protection on more jagged ground but were quite stiff initially and took a little getting used to. The traction from the sole pattern was reliable, with the design offering a predictable feel underfoot. The toe of the boot felt very protective on rockier sections of trail.

The arch of the Lite Hiker wasn’t overly supportive, so I would recommend an insole if you need that support. The boot’s upper laced tightly to create a good fit and worn with a good walking sock these boots were comfortable once broken in. The ankle support was a welcome feature, when I laced them tight, I found the boot to be very supportive.

Ten-out-of-ten for the waterproofing, the Lite Hiker’s eVent liner was totally watertight despite the very wet weather I tested them in, and water beaded and ran off the polished leather upper after trudging through a stream.

I had my doubts if the North Ridge Lite Hiker could cut it with boots from the bigger-named brands that I’ve tested, but these boots really did the job. They were comfortable once I’d settled into them, supportive and not overly heavy. I’d say the Lite Hiker is a solid allrounder for winter and summer walking. I also really like the light beige and dark brown leather tones which look great!”