Walking boots with zips or no laces: are they any good?

The main types

There are three broad designs. Side-zip boots keep normal front laces to set the fit, and a zip on the inside of the ankle lets you get in and out without unlacing each time. Hook-and-loop (Velcro-style) boots replace laces with straps, which are easy to fasten with one hand. Laceless or slip-on boots use elastic panels or pull-on designs, sometimes with a single strap or toggle.

Some boots also use dial systems instead of laces; see walking boots with BOA lacing for that option.

Zips and waterproofing

A zip is a potential entry point for water. Good waterproof zip boots use a gusset or membrane behind the zip and a storm flap over it, so water is kept out of the boot even if it reaches the zip teeth. Even so, a zip boot stood in a deep puddle or stream is more likely to leak than a gusseted laced boot.

Zips also collect grit and mud, which wears the teeth and slider. Rinse them after muddy walks and check them for damage.

Fit and support

Laces let you set different tension at the forefoot, midfoot and ankle and use a heel lock to stop heel lift. Side-zip boots keep that benefit because the laces stay in place. Hook-and-loop and laceless boots give less precise control, so the heel may move more on climbs and the foot may slide forward on descents.

On gentle paths, many walkers find that perfectly comfortable. On steep, rocky or boggy hill ground, a secure laced fit is safer. Our guide to heel slipping in walking boots explains why heel hold matters.

Note:A boot that moves on the foot increases the chance of rubbing and of rolling an ankle on rough ground. Choose a closure that holds your foot securely for the terrain.

Who zip and laceless boots suit

These boots are a practical choice for anyone who finds laces difficult, for frequent short walks where boots go on and off often, and for winter dog walks when you want to be out of the door quickly. Side-zip boots with laces are a good compromise if you want easier entry but still walk on rough ground.

• Reduced hand strength or difficulty bending.
• Daily dog walks and short country walks.
• Boots that go on and off many times a day.
• Walkers who want easy entry but still use laces for fit (side zip).

What to look for

Check that the zip is backed by a waterproof gusset or membrane, that it has a storm flap or cover, and that the slider is sturdy enough to use with cold fingers. For hook-and-loop boots, look for wide straps that hold firmly when wet and a supportive heel counter. For any boot, the last and fit come first.

If you need a roomier fit, our best walking boots for wide feet covers wide lasts, and our best lightweight walking boots includes easier-to-handle boots.

See walking boots for wide feet →

Care tips

Clean zips and straps after muddy walks with a soft brush and water. A zip lubricant or a little candle wax on the teeth keeps sliders running smoothly. Brush grit and fluff out of hook-and-loop strips so they keep their grip. Our guide on how to clean walking boots covers the rest of the boot.

Frequently asked questions

Are walking boots with zips waterproof? Many are, using a gusset or membrane behind the zip. They are still more likely to leak in deep water than gusseted laced boots.

Are laceless walking boots good for hiking? They are fine on easy paths. On steep or rough ground, laced boots give a more secure fit.

Can a cobbler replace a broken boot zip? Often yes. Many cobblers replace zips on boots.

Do Velcro walking boots stay fastened? Good straps hold well, but they lose grip when clogged with mud or worn. Keep them clean.