There are two distinct groups of people on any UK hiking trail: those who have wisely invested in a sturdy pair of walking boots, and those who have yet to experience the unpleasant sensation of countryside muck seeping through their trainers. As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, I firmly belong to the first camp and believe that the British countryside is best explored with the right footwear.
A robust pair of walking boots does far more than just protect your feet from mud and moisture. They provide essential ankle support to prevent injuries on uneven ground, offer superior grip to avoid slips on wet surfaces, and, crucially, keep your feet dry during the UK's famously inclement weather. Having tested over twenty different pairs across demanding landscapes, I present my comprehensive guide to the best men's walking boots available.
Why You Can Trust This Review
My expertise in outdoor gear is built on a lifetime of experience. From childhood hikes with outdoorsy parents to now being an avid hiker and parent myself, I have covered thousands of miles in hundreds of boots. As a consumer journalist specialising in outdoor equipment, I rigorously test everything from running shoes to waterproof jackets, understanding precisely what makes a high-performance boot.
How the Boots Were Tested
The only authentic way to evaluate hiking boots is to wear them on the trail. I began by creating a shortlist of twenty-three styles, selected through extensive research, product comparisons, and recommendations from industry professionals. Each pair was then subjected to real-world testing.
Living in Northumberland provided access to incredibly varied terrain, from deserted sandy beaches and sprawling pine forests to the rolling Cheviot Hills. I also tested boots during travels to the French Alps, the Lake District, and as far afield as New Zealand. No boot was assessed for less than twenty miles, with many tested over significantly greater distances. A key test involved the notoriously boggy Cheviot Hills to evaluate true waterproof performance.
It is also important to note that all boots sourced for this review are being donated to Shoe Aid, a charity providing footwear to disadvantaged individuals across the UK and Europe.
The Best Men's Hiking Boots: Top Picks
Best Walking Boots Overall: La Sportiva TX5
Price: £210 at Ellis Brigham
The La Sportiva TX5 is a supremely versatile approach boot, expertly bridging the gap between light trail walking and demanding high-terrain. As an Italian brand renowned for alpine footwear, La Sportiva has created a boot that offers outstanding comfort straight from the box, excellent mixed-terrain performance, and remarkable durability.
The nubuck upper is both flexible and hard-wearing, with strategic mesh sections enhancing breathability. Weighing 540g for a size 9, it provides stability without becoming burdensome over long distances. A standout feature is the chunky rubber rand that protects against scuffs and bolsters the Gore-Tex membrane, ensuring feet stay dry even in peat bogs. Note that the fit tends to run narrow.
Suitable for: Day hikes and multi-day treks on varied terrain.
Material: Nubuck.
Waterproof: Yes, Gore-Tex.
Sizing: Consider a half size larger.
Best Budget Walking Boots: Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX
Price: From £94.74 at Amazon
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX represents exceptional value, offering comfort, versatility, and reliable performance without a hefty price tag. An evolution of the classic 'Mother of All Boots', this model features upgraded ventilation, a reduced weight of 480g, and a roomy toe box ideal for wider feet.
Its synthetic mesh and pig-suede leather upper, combined with a Gore-Tex membrane, delivers flexibility, breathability, and complete waterproofing. The Vibram sole provides impressive grip on slippery surfaces. While its aesthetic may be described as functional rather than fashionable, its performance and price point make it a top choice for budget-conscious hikers.
Suitable for: Coastal walks, hillwalking, and general countryside use.
Material: Synthetic mesh and suede.
Waterproof: Yes, Gore-Tex.
Sizing: True to size.
Best Leather Walking Boots: Altberg Malham
Price: £234.99 at Altberg
For traditionalists who appreciate craftsmanship, the Altberg Malham is a faultless example of British bootmaking. Handcrafted in small batches, these boots are designed for day hiking and hillwalking on paths and trails, offering robust build quality and a classic aesthetic.
Comfortable from the first wear—a rarity for leather boots—the Malham features a subtle rocker sole profile that promotes a natural rolling gait. The mostly seam-free leather uppers and Sympatex membrane provide outstanding waterproof protection. The main trade-off for this durability and tradition is weight, which can be tiring on extended walks.
Suitable for: Wet and muddy British hillwalking conditions.
Material: Leather.
Waterproof: Yes, Sympatex.
Sizing: True to size.
Best Lightweight Walking Boots: Inov8 Roclite Mid GTX
Price: From £89.99 at SportsShoes
If speed and agility are your priorities, the Inov8 Roclite Mid GTX is a stellar choice. Hailing from the Lake District, Inov8 has created a boot that is light, flexible, and incredibly grippy, with 6mm lugs that bite into muddy trails.
Weighing in as a lightweight option, it features a Gore-Tex membrane and a cushioned 'Powerflow Pro' midsole for a responsive, almost bouncy feel. The cut offers ankle support without restricting mobility. Be mindful of sizing; the fit is wide but short, so consider going up a half size. This boot is ideal for fast, light hikes but is not designed for technical mountain terrain.
Suitable for: Fast spring and summer hikes on muddy trails.
Material: Mesh with Gore-Tex membrane.
Waterproof: Yes.
Sizing: Consider a half size larger.
Best Mountain-Ready Boots: Mammut Kento Tour High GTX
Price: £220 at Mammut
For those venturing into higher altitudes and moderate mountain conditions, the Mammut Kento Tour High GTX is a superb three-season boot. It is tall, stiff, crampon-compatible, and built for UK mountain adventures.
Surprisingly comfortable from the outset, it features a thick nubuck upper, a protective rubber rand, and an asymmetric lacing system for a precise, customizable fit. The sole is stiff enough for rocky terrain yet manageable on flatter ground. Its beige uppers may show dirt quickly, and it is certainly overkill for casual low-level walks, but for serious mountain use, it excels.
Suitable for: Steep climbs and scrambling in spring, summer, and autumn.
Material: Nubuck leather with rubber rand.
Waterproof: Yes, Gore-Tex.
Sizing: True to size.
Best Hiking Boot for Durability: Meindl Bhutan MFS
Price: From £222.99 at the Green Welly Stop
The Meindl Bhutan MFS is a modern classic, a direct descendant of the famed Burma Pro, built for longevity and all-weather reliability. It is a robust leather boot perfect for tackling mid-mountain conditions and extended UK hillwalking.
Featuring a full nubuck leather upper, reinforced rubber rand, and Gore-Tex lining, it keeps feet utterly dry. The memory foam ankle padding and supportive high collar provide excellent comfort and stability. At 807g per boot, it is substantial, but this weight translates into exceptional durability and the potential for resoling, making it a long-term investment.
Suitable for: Mountain hikes, long days on rough ground, all-weather hillwalking.
Material: Nubuck leather with full rubber rand.
Waterproof: Yes, Gore-Tex.
Sizing: Generally true to size; narrow feet may need a half size down.
Key Considerations When Choosing Boots
Understanding boot technology and fit is crucial for a successful purchase. Here are the essential factors to consider.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
Most boots have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, making them water-resistant. True waterproof boots incorporate a membrane (like Gore-Tex or Sympatex) beneath the outer fabric. This barrier stops liquid water from entering while allowing sweat vapour to escape. Remember, even the best membranes can be overwhelmed in extreme conditions or if water enters at the ankle.
Fit and Sizing
Hiking boots should be worn with thick socks, and feet swell during long walks. Therefore, your normal shoe size is usually correct, as brands account for this. If unsure, use online sizing tools or, ideally, visit a specialist shop for a professional fitting or even a foot scan. Weight is another factor: lighter boots aid agility, while heavier ones often provide more stability.
Material Choices
The debate between leather and synthetic materials continues. Full-grain leather boots are incredibly durable and can be resoled but are heavier and less breathable. Synthetic boots are lighter, more breathable, and comfortable immediately but may not last as long. Nubuck leather offers a popular middle ground, balancing flexibility, breathability, and durability.
Care, Price, and Longevity
Proper maintenance—cleaning, drying, and reproofing with appropriate products—is vital to preserve your boots' lifespan and waterproofing. Prices have risen, with quality mid-range boots typically costing between £150 and £220. While cheaper options exist, they may lack durability. High-end mountaineering boots are often unnecessary for general hiking.
Breaking In and End-of-Life
Modern synthetic boots rarely require a break-in period. Leather boots may need gentle wear on shorter walks initially; specialist shops can use tools like a rubbing bar to ease tight spots. When boots eventually wear out, consider donating them if still usable, repurposing them for gardening, exploring repair options like resoling, or using retailer recycling programmes to give materials a new life.
Choosing the right walking boot transforms your outdoor experience, providing comfort, protection, and confidence on the trail. By matching the boot to your typical adventures and caring for them properly, you'll enjoy countless miles of British countryside exploration.
