How to choose walking boots

Step 1: Decide what the boots are for

Think about the walking you do most often, not the hardest walk you might do one day. Boots built for winter mountains feel clumsy on summer paths, and light summer boots struggle on boggy moorland in November.

Step 2: Choose the cut and stiffness

Low shoes are lightest and freest but let water and grit in. Mid boots cover the ankle bones and keep water out from wet grass, and are the usual choice for UK walking. High boots give more protection on rough ground and with heavy packs.

Stiffness matters as much as height. A flexible sole is comfortable on smooth paths; a stiffer sole protects the foot on rocky ground and is needed for crampons. For winter use, UK shops use B ratings; read walking boot ratings explained if you need them.

Step 3: Choose the upper and membrane

Leather boots last longer, resist abrasion and keep water out well when waxed, but are heavier and need some break-in. Fabric and suede boots are lighter, comfortable from new and dry faster, but wear sooner. See leather vs fabric walking boots.

In Britain, most walkers want a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex for wet grass and bog. In hot summers, a non-waterproof boot or shoe breathes better. See waterproof or non-waterproof walking boots.

Step 4: Get the fit right

Fit decides whether a boot is comfortable, whatever its features. Follow these steps when trying boots on, in a shop or at home with an online order.

1. 1

   Measure your feet in the evening, when they are largest, standing up and wearing your walking socks.

2. 2

   Use the maker's size chart and our boot size converter rather than assuming your shoe size.

3. 3

   With the boot unlaced, push your foot forward until the toes touch: you should fit about a finger's width behind the heel.

4. 4

   Lace up firmly and walk around. The heel should lift very little and the foot should not slide forward.

5. 5

   Walk down a slope or stairs. Your toes should not hit the end of the boot.

6. 6

   Check for pressure points over the instep, at the little toe and around the ankle bones.

7. 7

   If one foot is larger, fit the larger foot.

Use the boot size converter →

Step 5: Consider weight, width and extras

Lighter boots feel easier over a long day, but often trade protection and lifespan. Our guide to how much walking boots should weigh gives typical ranges.

If boots always feel tight across the forefoot, look for genuine wide fits rather than sizing up. Our walking boots for wide feet guide lists models with wide or roomy lasts. Women should try women's models, which are usually narrower at the heel and lower in volume.

Finally, check the sole. Deep, widely spaced lugs grip mud; a named sole such as Vibram tells you the maker invested in grip. If you want boots to last many years, check whether they can be resoled.

Step 6: Narrow it down and buy

With the type and fit in mind, shortlist two or three models from established brands. Our buying guides compare boots using listing facts: start with the best walking boots for UK hills, or walking boots under £250 if you want proven models without paying for mountain features.

When the boots arrive, wear them indoors first so you can still return them. Then break them in with short walks before a long day; see how to break in walking boots.

Frequently asked questions

Should walking boots be a size bigger? Not automatically. You need about a thumb's width of toe room, which some people get in their normal size and others half a size up. See what size walking boots.

Leather or fabric for a first pair? For year-round UK walking, a waterproof leather or sturdy fabric mid boot. For summer walking only, fabric is fine.

Do I need Gore-Tex? For most UK walking, a membrane helps. In hot, dry weather it is less useful.

How long should walking boots last? It varies with use and care. See how long do walking boots last.