# Do you need hiking boots in Iceland? Source: https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/walking-boots-for-iceland Published: 2026-10-12 Publisher: Trail and Lace **In short:** For most Iceland trips that include walking beyond car parks, waterproof hiking boots are a good choice. Paths cross lava fields, scree, mud and streams, and weather changes fast. For short walks to viewpoints on made paths, sturdy waterproof walking shoes are enough. Glacier walks need crampon-compatible boots, usually supplied or specified by the guiding company. Iceland is famous for waterfalls, black beaches, lava fields and glaciers, and many of its best sights involve at least some walking. The ground is often rough and wet, and the weather can turn from calm to wind and rain in an hour, at any time of year. That makes footwear more important than on a typical city break. This guide explains which trips call for boots, when shoes are fine and what to know about glacier tours. ## What the ground is like Many popular sights have short, well-made paths from the car park, but even these can be gravel, wet boardwalk or stone steps. Further out, paths cross sharp lava rock, loose scree, volcanic sand, moss, mud and shallow streams. Lava is abrasive and uneven, and scree on slopes can be loose underfoot. Spray from waterfalls, rain and snowmelt mean feet get wet easily. Waterproof footwear with a grippy, lugged sole helps on all of it. ## Which trips need boots Match your footwear to the walking you plan. The table is a general guide; conditions vary with season and weather. | Trip | Footwear | | --- | --- | | Viewpoints near car parks | Waterproof walking shoes or boots | | Half-day hikes on marked trails | Waterproof walking boots | | Multi-day treks such as the Laugavegur | Supportive waterproof boots, broken in | | Glacier walks | Crampon-compatible boots, as specified by the guide company | | Winter visits with ice | Waterproof boots plus traction aids | General guide by trip type ## Season by season Summer, roughly June to August, brings long daylight and the most open trails, but rain, wind and cold spells still happen, and highland routes can hold snow patches early in the season. Waterproof boots and layers are still the sensible choice. Spring and autumn are quieter, with more changeable weather, shorter days and a higher chance of ice on paths in the mornings. Winter visits are mostly about short walks to sights in the lowlands, often on icy, compacted snow. Boots with a good tread and traction aids that fit over them make paths around waterfalls and viewpoints much safer. Highland roads and many trails close in winter, so check before planning a hike. In every season, check the weather forecast and road conditions on the day. Wind is often the biggest hazard, and it can make walking on exposed ridges and cliff edges dangerous even when it is not raining. ## Why waterproof boots suit Iceland A waterproof mid boot keeps out puddles, spray and wet grass, and its higher cuff stops grit and volcanic sand getting in. A firm sole protects your feet on sharp lava and gives stability on scree and uneven ground. In cold wind, a boot is warmer than a mesh shoe. Leather or leather-and-fabric boots with Gore-Tex suit most visitors. Our guides to the [best waterproof walking boots for men](https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-waterproof-walking-boots-for-men) and [for women](https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-waterproof-walking-boots-for-women) are a good starting point. [See waterproof walking boots for women](https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-waterproof-walking-boots-for-women) ## Glacier walks Glacier walks need crampons, and crampons need suitable boots. Tour companies usually specify what boots are acceptable and often supply boots and crampons. Check with your operator before you travel, and do not assume your walking boots will be accepted. Our articles on [crampon and boot compatibility](https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/crampon-and-boot-compatibility) and [walking boot ratings explained](https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/walking-boot-ratings-explained) explain how boots and crampons are matched. Note: Glaciers have hidden crevasses and changing surfaces. Only walk on glaciers with a qualified guide, and follow local safety advice and closures. ## Other kit for your feet A few extras make Iceland walking more comfortable. In winter and shoulder seasons, icy paths are common, so pack traction aids that fit over your boots. For longer treks with river crossings, many walkers carry light sandals or old trainers to change into for the water. - Merino or synthetic hiking socks, plus a spare pair. - Gaiters for volcanic sand, scree and wet grass. - Traction aids for icy paths outside summer. - Light shoes for river crossings on longer treks. ## Break your boots in before you go New boots should be worn on several walks at home before a trip. Blisters on day one of a trek are hard to recover from. Our guide on [how to break in walking boots](https://trailandlace.co.uk/blog/how-to-break-in-walking-boots) covers a sensible routine. If you are buying, the [best walking boots for UK hills](https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-walking-boots-uk) are well suited to Iceland's similar wet, rough conditions. ## Frequently asked questions **Can I wear trainers in Iceland?** For short walks on made paths in dry weather, yes. For anything longer or in wet weather, waterproof walking shoes or boots are much better. **Do I need waterproof boots in Iceland in summer?** They are recommended. Rain, spray, wet paths and streams are common in summer too. **What boots do I need for the Laugavegur trail?** Supportive, waterproof, broken-in walking boots, plus light shoes for river crossings. **Can I use my walking boots on a glacier tour?** Only if the operator approves them for crampons. Many supply suitable boots. ## Buying guides on this topic - https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-waterproof-walking-boots-for-men - https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-waterproof-walking-boots-for-women - https://trailandlace.co.uk/best/best-walking-boots-uk ## Sources - [Safetravel Iceland](https://safetravel.is/)