How long do walking boots last?

Rough lifespans by boot type

Distance is a more useful measure than years. The figures below are widely quoted rules of thumb, not guarantees; your boots may last more or less.

What wears out first

On most boots the outsole lugs wear down first, especially at the heel and under the ball of the foot. Once the tread is shallow, grip on mud and wet grass drops noticeably.

The midsole foam slowly compresses with use, even if the outsole looks fine. Boots that once felt cushioned start to feel flat and hard, and may lean to one side when placed on a table.

Fabric uppers wear at the flex point and where they rub on rock. Leather uppers can crack at the toe crease if they are allowed to dry out. Membranes wear at flex points too, which is why older waterproof boots often start leaking at the toes.

Signs it is time to replace or repair

Some of these can be repaired. Worn outsoles on leather boots can often be replaced; see can you resole walking boots. Lifting rands and open seams can sometimes be fixed by a specialist repairer.

• Lugs worn smooth or the outsole worn through to the midsole.
• Midsole cracked, crumbling or compressed so the boot feels flat.
• Upper split at the toe crease or seams opening.
• Rand lifting away from the sole.
• Feet getting wet through the boot rather than over the cuff.
• Heel counter collapsed, so the heel no longer feels held.
• New aches or discomfort on walks that were fine before.

Note:Worn treads grip poorly on wet grass, mud and rock. Do not keep using boots in the hills once the lugs are worn smooth.

How to make boots last longer

Care makes a big difference. Clean off mud and grit after every walk, because grit wears seams and dried mud holds moisture against leather. Dry boots slowly away from heat: radiators and fires crack leather and weaken glue. Reproof the upper when water stops beading. Store boots somewhere cool and airy.

Use the right boot for the job. Light fabric boots wear quickly on rough, rocky ground; heavier leather boots handle it better. Rotating two pairs also extends the life of both, as each has time to dry fully.

Our care guides cover each step: how to clean walking boots, how to dry wet walking boots and how to reproof walking boots.

Buying for a long life

If you want a boot that lasts many years, look for a thick leather upper, a named rubber outsole and a construction the maker or a specialist can resole. Our guides to leather walking boots and walking boots you can resole compare models built for the long term.

If you prefer lighter boots, accept that they will need replacing more often and look after them to get the most from each pair.

See long-life leather boots →

Does age alone matter?

Boots that sit unused for years can still deteriorate. Some midsole foams and glues break down with age, especially if stored somewhere hot or damp, and soles can crack or separate on the first walk after a long rest. If you dig out an old pair, inspect them carefully and try them on a short walk before relying on them in the hills.

Frequently asked questions

How long should walking boots last? A rough guide is 500 to 1,000 miles, with care, construction and ground making a big difference.

How many years do hiking boots last? It depends on use. Occasional walkers may get many years; frequent walkers may need new boots every few years.

Do leather boots last longer than fabric? Generally yes, and many can be resoled.

Can old boots be revived? Cleaning, reproofing and new insoles help, but worn soles and midsoles need repair or replacement.