Along with a waterproof jacket, a good pair of walking shoes is a piece of kit that’s always worth the investment. There’s a huge range of options, from traditional leather boots and trail shoes to sandals for summer wear. We’ve picked out three different shoes for three different uses.
KEEN has long had the market for walking sandals. And for good reason: these are supremely comfortable sandals that offer the protection and support of a regular walking shoe… you’re just not going to get as sweaty! The sole has deep lugs offering loads of grip, while KEEN’s trademark toe protection will avoid any wayward stones. It also has waterproof leather and a secure fit around the heel.
These three-season boots tick all the right boxes. Comfort is key — the midsole has been updated to suit longer hikes — and so too is versatility, with Gore-Tex lining and a Vibram® Endurance Pro outsole designed to make trail-walking a breeze. Much of the boot is covered in Leather Working Group Gold-rated nubuck leather, which is both sustainable and high-quality, and they’re a joy to wear.
Walking boots don’t come cheap, but Regatta is one of the lower price brands out there. The Samaris II are a great pair of budget walking boots. They have a synthetic upper with a breathable waterproof membrane. The outsole is excellent, with deep lugs for grip on those muddy trails. There’s also plenty of cushioning meaning all-day comfort. They’re currently on offer for £75.Â
How to choose a pair of walking boots
Walk into any outdoor shop, and you’ll be confronted by dozens of shoes, boots and sandals, all designed for walking in the hills. You’ll get great advice in store, but knowing where to start when choosing a pair can be bewildering. Here are a few tips to make sure you get off on the right foot (see what we did there?).
1 Where are you going?Â
Be realistic about what you’ll be using them for. If they’re only for the summer months and low-level country walking, then consider a pair of shoes or sandals. If you’re going to be doing some serious mountaineering, especially in winter, then you need to be looking at four-season boots, ideally ones that are crampon compatible. For everythingÂ
in between, consider the versatile ‘three-season boots’. These will see you through mountain walking in, yep, spring, summer and autumn.Â
2 Leather or synthetic?Â
Walking boots fall into two categories of material: leather and synthetic. Generally, leather boots are long-lasting and durable but tend to be heavier and hot in summer. Synthetic materials are often lighter and easier to break in. That said, the difference between the two is much less pronounced these days. They’ll usually have a waterproof membrane that keeps water out but breathable enough so your feet don’t sweat too much.Â
3 How should they fit?Â
This is easily the most important consideration. You’ll need a finger’s width between your longest toe and the end of the boot, once you’re on your feet. For width, you need to ensure there are no ‘hotspots’ that could turn into blisters later, and your heel is stable. Each brand has a slightly different fit, so try plenty. Â
4 Don’t forget the socksÂ
A decent pair of socks is almost as important for fit and avoidance of blisters. Darn Tough socks are one of our favourites. Â
Did you know?Â
All YHA members receive discounts at gear stores including Cotswold Outdoor, GO Outdoors, Snow+Rock and Runners Need.
View our YHA membership benefits and sign up today to receive 10% off your stay (including meals!), priority notification of YHA special offers and updates, and discounts at many outdoor retailers.
Photo credit: Adobe Stock – Tamas
