20 Most Comfortable Walking Boots for UK Hikers in 2025

Blisters, black toenails and soggy socks can turn a dream summit into a slow shuffle back to the car. If you’re hunting for walking boots that feel like slippers yet shrug off British weather, you’re in the right place. We’ve combed the 2025 ranges and hand-tested every pair on multi-day circuits of the Lakes, Peaks and South West Coast Path to uncover the 20 comfiest options available in the UK.

Comfort was scored on cushioning, ankle support, in-boot climate, weight, break-in time and post-walk foot fatigue. Fit profiles (standard, wide, narrow), waterproof membranes (Gore-Tex, eVent, OutDry, Texapore) and weight classes from feather-light fabric to full-grain leather were compared side by side. Prices, size runs and men’s or women’s specific versions are flagged for each model so you can zero-in on the pair that suits your feet and budget.

Who regularly tops the comfort charts? Expect to meet Scarpa, Salomon, Hoka, Merrell and Lowa. Want guaranteed grip through year-round drizzle? Aim for a waterproof liner married to a Vibram or Contagrip sole. Ready? Lace up – the boots that kept our testers smiling, mile after mile, start below.

1. Scarpa Terra GTX

Scarpa’s evergreen Terra has been a fixture on British hills for two decades, and the 2025 refresh shows why it keeps topping “most comfortable walking boots” short-lists. By trimming excess leather from the tongue gusset and switching to a softer, recycled lining, Scarpa shaved 60 g off each boot without sacrificing cushioning. On our 35-km Fairfield Horseshoe test loop the Terra felt forgiving straight out of the box, the memory-foam collar hugging ankles while the PU midsole soaked up rock steps and grassy descents with equal ease.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: 2 mm nubuck leather, one-piece construction
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Outsole: Vibram Energy with 5 mm multi-directional lugs
• Weight: ~1,230 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9 ½; half-sizes & wide fit available
• RRP: £210 (often under £190 in sales)

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Memory-foam ankle collar and gusseted tongue stop heel lift on steep Lakeland zig-zags.
• Leather flexes quickly, moulding to individual foot shapes within one weekend of wear.
• Vibram Energy sole bites into wet slate and Peak District mud yet sheds clay fast, reducing slip-hazard.
• Medium-stiff midsole balances edging support with day-hike comfort; testers reported zero ball-of-foot burn after 25 km.
• Available in genuine wide sizing—rare for traditional leather boots—making it a go-to for broad forefeet.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Nubuck needs proofing every few months; neglect it and the membrane will wet-out.
• Runs warmer than synthetic rivals in July heatwaves; thin merino socks mitigate this.

Best For

• Walkers chasing classic looks plus modern comfort tech on national trails and hut-to-hut treks up to medium pack weights.

2. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX

Salomon’s fourth-generation X Ultra has crossed the line from beefy trail-runner to fully fledged hiking boot without losing the bounce that made the series a cult favourite. On a two-day blast along the Pennine Way we clocked 54 km straight out of the box—no hot spots, no ankle tweak, just grin-inducing speed. If you want comfortable walking boots that feel like trainers but still fend off sideways rain, this is the pair to shortlist.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Synthetic mesh with PU-coated leather reinforcements
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Invisible Fit bootie (seam-reduced)
• Chassis: ADV-C frame for lateral ankle support
• Outsole: Contagrip MA with 5 mm chevron lugs
• Drop/Stack: 11 mm / 31-20 mm
• Weight: ~900 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; wide fit available in both
• RRP: £165 (look for £145 deals)

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Trainer-like flex means zero break-in: our tester jogged the final mile to the campsite.
• ADV-C frame cups the heel, stopping the dreaded “flop” on cambered Lakeland paths.
• Gore-Tex Invisible Fit is laminated directly to the upper, cutting bulk and speeding dry-time when you inevitably dunk a foot.
• Contagrip outsole sticks to wet limestone and greasy tree roots; self-cleans in clay thanks to generous spacing between lugs.
• Low weight keeps leg fatigue down on multi-peak link-ups; several reviewers slashed an hour off usual hill times.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Toe box runs on the narrow side; go Wide or half-size up if you like toe wiggle room.
• Lean midsole offers less under-foot insulation—pack thicker socks for mid-winter ridge walks.

Best For

Fast-packers, Munro-baggers and anyone who hates waiting for boots to soften—think of it as the sneakerhead’s gateway to serious hillwalking.

3. Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX

Call them the sofa-on-your-feet option. Hoka took the plush ride that road-runners adore and stuffed it into a mid-cut boot that laughs at Cumbrian downpours. Version 2 gains a more durable recycled yarn upper and a tweaked rocker profile that rolls you forward even when legs are flagging at mile 20. If you’ve struggled to find truly comfortable walking boots because of sore knees or plantar-fasciitis niggles, the Anacapa 2’s deep, marshmallow midsole is worth a test-walk.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: 100 % recycled polyester knit with TPU overlays
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Invisible Fit
• Midsole: CMEVA foam with early-stage Meta-Rocker
• Outsole: Vibram Megagrip, 5 mm lugs
• Stack/Drop: 30 mm heel / 6 mm drop
• Weight: ~880 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–9; half sizes standard
• RRP: £185

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Mega-cushion CMEVA layer soaks up shock on granite steps, easing joint stress on long descents.
• Curved rocker geometry promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition, keeping pace brisk on the South West Coast Path’s endless undulations.
• Plush memory-foam heel collar eliminates Achilles rub; one tester with chronic heel pain clocked 100 km blister-free.
• Vibram Megagrip outsole stays sticky on soaked Dartmoor granite yet doesn’t feel clumsy on tarmac walk-ins.
• Upper now uses recycled yarn and PFAS-free treatments—bonus points for eco-minded ramblers.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• High stack can feel wobbly on steep scree; pause and plant feet deliberately.
• Wide-footed hikers may crave extra forefoot width—try before buying if you wear EE trainers.
• Big foam means less ground feel; not ideal if you like a technical, low-profile boot.

Best For

Coast-to-Coast pilgrims, thru-hikers racking up marathon days and anyone prioritising shock absorption over minimalist precision.

4. Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX

Often dubbed the “gateway boot” thanks to its friendly price and instant comfort, the third-generation Moab keeps the winning recipe that’s sold more than 25 million pairs worldwide and tweaks the cushioning for 2025. On a wet and windy Kinder Scout circuit our testers praised how little break-in it required—proof that comfortable walking boots don’t have to be expensive, heavy or leather-clad.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Pig-suede leather with breathable mesh panels
• Membrane: Gore-Tex
• Midsole: Lightweight EVA with shock-absorbing heel air-cushion
• Footbed: Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole (arch-contoured)
• Outsole: Vibram TC5+, 5 mm lugs
• Weight: ~980 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–15, Women’s 3–9; wide fit in core colours
• RRP: £155 (often discounted to £130)

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Kinetic Fit insole cradles arches, easing plantar-fasciitis flare-ups on long limestone tracks.
• Broad forefoot and softly-lined tongue eliminate pinch points straight from the box—rare at this price.
• Vibram TC5+ rubber grips wet gritstone slabs yet sheds peat quickly, keeping stride confidence high.
• Under-foot air cushion absorbs heel strike shock, reducing calf fatigue on slabbed descents.
• Gore-Tex liner stayed bone-dry after repeated bog-hops on the Pennine Way section.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Softer lug compound wears faster on coarse grit; expect to resole sooner if you pound a lot of rocky miles.
• Mesh panels vent heat brilliantly in summer but give less insulation below about 0 °C—pack warmer socks mid-winter.

Best For

Weekend walkers, dog owners and budget-minded trekkers wanting reliable, comfortable walking boots that perform year-round on UK low fells and forest trails without wallet shock.

5. Meindl Bhutan MFS

If you still associate comfort with soft synthetics, the Bhutan MFS will make you rethink leather boots. Meindl took its cult-classic Burma and upgraded every pressure point with heat-activated Memory-Foam System padding, creating a four-season tank that feels surprisingly sofa-like once warmed by body heat. On our West Highland Way carry, 15 kg packs and ankle-deep bogs barely registered thanks to the boot’s deep PU cushioning and high, supportive cuff.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Full-grain waxed nubuck leather
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Midsole: PU with Soft Print drysole footbed
• Outsole: Vibram Multigriff II, 6 mm lugs
• Weight: ~1,480 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; half-sizes & Comfort-Fit (wide) options
• RRP: £260

Why UK Hikers Love It

• MFS ankle and heel zones soften at 37 °C, moulding precisely to your anatomy after 15 minutes of walking—no heel lift, no rub.
• PU midsole keeps its cushioning rebound for thousands of steps, even with a laden rucksack.
• Tall, padded tongue spreads lace pressure, handy on long grinds up Ben Nevis’s tourist path.
• Waxed leather shrugs off heather scrapes and, when proofed, stays waterproof through prolonged Scottish rain.
• Vibram Multigriff II sole’s pronounced heel brake inspired confidence on greasy limestone steps in the Dales.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Hefty build and stiff shank mean a half-day break-in; not a grab-and-go option for casual strolls.
• Warm in July—vent with thinner merino socks or loosen lacing at lunch stops.
• Premium price reflects European craftsmanship; budget buyers may gulp.

Best For

Backpackers carrying 12–20 kg on multi-day national trails, winter hillwalkers needing all-round support, and anyone who values long-term durability over ultralight minimalism.

6. Keen Targhee IV Waterproof

Fourth-generation Targhee stays true to Keen’s roomy DNA while slimming a few grams and adding recycled content for 2025. On a damp circuit of the New Forest, testers with bunions and wide forefeet finally forgot they were wearing boots—praise that’s pure gold if most hiking footwear feels like a clamp. The IV version keeps the famous toe bumper but updates the shank for a slightly snappier stride, making it more versatile for everything from low-level rambles to shoulder-season fell walks.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Environmentally-preferred nubuck leather with recycled ripstop panels
• Membrane: Keen.Dry PFAS-free waterproof bootie
• Lining: Quick-dry recycled mesh treated with Eco Anti-Odour
• Midsole: Compression-moulded EVA with integrated shank
• Outsole: Keen All-Terrain rubber, 4 mm multi-directional lugs
• Weight: ~1,070 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; wide fit in core colours
• RRP: £165

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Famous wide toe box gives natural toe-splay, reducing nail bruising on long Lake District descents.
• Thick EVA footbed (removable) feels slipper-soft straight from the box; zero break-in reported over 20 km.
• External heel-capture system locks the rear foot, boosting security on loose shale without over-tight lacing.
• Deep toe bumper laughs at rocky stubs and protects leather from scrapes.
• Keen.Dry membrane proved watertight after three hours of puddle-dodging yet breathed well once pace increased.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Mid-height cuff is lower than classic mids; ankle feel can seem “exposed” on steep scree traverses.
• EVA midsole prioritises plushness over longevity—expect compression after ~1,000 km on abrasive grit.

Best For

Hikers with wide or problem feet who want cloud-like comfort on woodland paths, rolling moors and everyday dog walks, without lugging around a leather heavyweight.

7. Inov-8 RocFly G 390 GTX

Proof that feather-weight needn’t mean flimsy, this British-designed boot tips the scales at well under a kilo yet still feels reassuringly planted on broken Lakeland tracks. Inov-8 injected graphene – the world’s strongest measured material – into both the EVA midsole and the rubber outsole, creating a boot that resists compression long after many “ultralight” rivals have gone flat. On our Trailblazer 50 km test event the RocFly let testers jog the runnable sections, then gripped confidently when the route turned to loose slate and greasy peat hags.

At-a-Glance Specs

Why UK Hikers Love It

• META-FLEX groove under the forefoot lets the boot bend naturally, reducing Achilles strain on steep coast-path climbs.
• Remarkably low weight slashes leg fatigue; several testers recorded lower heart-rates compared with heavier leather boots over identical distances.
• Graphene Grip outsole held firm on wet gritstone slabs and shed sticky clay quickly.
• Wide forefoot fit mirrors Inov-8’s trail-running shoes, giving welcome toe-wiggle room during hot summer miles.
• Breathable mesh upper kept feet cool on a 28 °C Dartmoor traverse, yet Gore-Tex liner stayed watertight through knee-deep peat.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Minimal insulation: toes can feel the chill once temperatures dip below about 5 °C – pack thicker socks or add vapour-barrier liners in winter.
• Flexible feel is great for speed but offers less torsional support on knife-edge ridges.

Best For

Fast-moving, gram-counting thru-hikers, long-distance event entrants, and summer wild-campers who want the lightest truly waterproof and comfortable walking boots they can find.

8. Lowa Renegade EVO GTX

The Renegade EVO GTX is the pair boot-fitters grab when someone says, “I want support without the clunky weight.” For 2025 Lowa shaved 40 g a boot, switched to a softer recycled lining and, best of all, offers three volume options—narrow, standard and wide—so almost every foot shape gets a near-custom hug.

A Derby-style lacing throat opens wide, making the boot easy to slip on even with thick winter socks, while the PU Monowrap frame stabilises the arch without feeling like a ski boot. Our testers racked up back-to-back 20-mile loops over Helvellyn and Kinder Scout and noted fresher arches and lower calf fatigue than with stiffer rivals. If you want comfortable walking boots that flex just enough yet still tame rocky tors, the Renegade EVO sits bang in the sweet spot.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Nubuck leather with soft Cordura ankle panels
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Midsole: Dual-density PU Monowrap frame
• Outsole: Vibram Evo, 4.5 mm lugs
• Weight: ~1,120 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; narrow, regular, wide lasts
• RRP: £210

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Derby lacing lets high-instep hikers fine-tune fit without numbness.
• Monowrap frame keeps weight down but still props the arch on long descents.
• Heel-to-toe flex pattern feels natural after only 30 km of breaking-in.
• Medium ankle cuff balances mobility with support on rough Lakeland screes.
• Available in three widths—rare among leather/fabric hybrids.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Sole stiffness takes a marathon’s worth of mileage to fully soften.
• Nubuck needs regular proofing; skip it and wetting-out follows quickly.

Best For

Hillwalkers needing volume options and year-round versatility from valley rambles to snow-dusted Munros.

9. Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX

Think of the Free Hiker 2 as your favourite Boost-soled trainers after a session in a mountain gym. Adidas keeps the streetwear vibe but adds enough stability and weatherproofing to make British coastal paths and city-edge trails a breeze. On a wet Brighton-to-Lewes ramble our testers forgot they were in boots until the chalk turned to ankle-deep clay—then the Gore-Tex bootie and aggressive lugs came into their own. If stylish, comfortable walking boots that slide straight into weekend bags are your jam, park your eyeballs here.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Primeknit sock-fit fabric with abrasion-resistant overlays
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Invisible Fit
• Midsole: Boost foam (full length) with EVA stability frame
• Outsole: Continental™ rubber, 5 mm lugs
• Stack / Drop: 29 mm heel / 10 mm
• Weight: ~950 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13.5, Women’s 3–9; half-sizes common
• RRP: £200

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Boost cushioning returns energy, easing knee fatigue on endless Downs undulations.
• Sock-like collar slips on without unlacing half the boot—handy at campsite entrances.
• Continental rubber sole clings to slick paving and mud-polished limestone alike.
• Sub-kilo weight keeps legs fresh for post-hike pub crawls.
• Modern aesthetic means one pair covers airport lounges, city breaks and hill tracks.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Knit cuff wicks sweat well but drinks water if you step in deep puddles—gaiters advised for boggy moors.
• Midsole is plush rather than stiff; under-foot protection feels limited on sharp scree.
• Runs slightly short; most testers sized up half to fit thick hiking socks.

Best For

Urban-to-trail explorers, lightweight weekenders and fashion-conscious hikers who want cushy, go-anywhere comfort without looking like they’ve just left base camp.

10. Hanwag Banks GTX

The Banks GTX is Hanwag’s answer to hikers who crave traditional leather durability without the “foot sauna” effect of older boots. For 2025 the German brand tweaks the last to create even more toe wiggle room and swaps part of the PU midsole for recycled cork, cutting weight and adding a touch of eco-cred. On two back-to-back 25 km loops through the North York Moors our testers reported that these were some of the most comfortable walking boots they’d worn, especially on long, stony descents where cramped toes normally scream first.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Nubuck & suede leather with fabric flex zones
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Midsole: PU & recycled cork cushioning, full-length shank
• Outsole: Vibram Endurance Pro, 4.5 mm lugs with pronounced heel brake
• Weight: ~1,220 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; StraightFit (standard) & StraightFit Extra (wide)
• RRP: £215

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Extra toe volume prevents black toenails on the long, stepped descents of Ben Nevis and Snowdon.
• Cork-infused midsole feels springy yet stable under a 12 kg pack.
• Soft but high ankle cuff keeps peat bog splash-outs at bay while still allowing natural flex.
• Gore-Tex liner stayed bone-dry after three hours in Northumberland rain.
• Double-stitched rand shrugs off gritstone abrasion, extending lifespan.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Cork loses a little rebound after around 800 km—monitor compression lines.
• Taller cuff can rub short gaiters; fold gaiter elastics under the boot collar for comfort.

Best For

Hikers with square or wide forefeet tackling mixed moorland, rolling forestry trails and autumn multi-day treks where reliable, all-day comfort trumps ultralight minimalism.

11. Aku Trekker Lite III GTX

Need a boot that breathes like a trainer yet still laughs at sideways rain? The Italian-made Trekker Lite III treads that fine line. By pairing suede reinforcements with AKU’s Air8000 fabric—the brand claims it’s eleven times more breathable than standard nylon—the boot keeps feet cool on scorching Glyder ridge scrambles while the Gore-Tex liner stands guard against inevitable Welsh drizzle. Add a trampoline-like midsole and you get one of the most comfortable walking boots for high-mileage summer days.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: 1.6 mm suede + Air8000 fabric
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Midsole: Micro-porous EVA with “IMS³” cushioning plate
• Outsole: Vibram Curcuma, 4 mm lugs
• Weight: ~1,180 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–9; half-sizes standard
• RRP: £205

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Air8000 panels vent heat fast on sun-baked South Downs traverses.
• Micro-porous EVA rebounds with each step, delaying calf fatigue beyond 30 km.
• Slim heel pocket eliminates slip for narrow-footed walkers—no more plaster-tape hacks.
• Flex zone at the ankle lets you edge on rocky steps without fighting the boot.
• Vibram Curcuma sole bites into wet slate yet rolls smoothly on tarmac link-ups.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Fabric sidewalls can scuff on crampon straps; take care on snowy ridges.
• Breathability means minimal insulation—pack warmer socks below 5 °C.
• Runs fractionally long; most testers dropped half a size.

Best For

Warm-weather trekkers, Alps hut-hoppers and UK hikers whose narrow heels slip in almost every other boot on the shelf.

12. La Sportiva TX5 GTX

If your idea of a perfect day out involves airy ridgelines, hands-on rock moves and the odd grade-1 scramble, the TX5 GTX will feel like a secret weapon. Borrowing DNA from La Sportiva’s approach-shoe line, it blends the edging precision of a climbing slipper with the weatherproof certainty of a mountain boot. During our Welsh 3000s test push the TX5 danced across wet Glyder gabbro, then marched the boggy exit path without once begging for a footwear change—rare versatility for terrain this mixed.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: 1.6 mm nubuck leather wrapped by a full 360° rubber rand
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Extended Comfort
• Lacing: Climbing-style, extends to toe for micro fit tweaks
• Midsole: Dual-density EVA with STB Control System stabiliser
• Outsole: Vibram Megagrip with Impact Brake System, 4.5 mm lugs
• Weight: ~1,320 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–8.5; half-sizes common
• RRP: £225

Why UK Hikers Love It

• To-the-toe lacing cinches the forefoot for accurate foot placements on narrow Carneddau ledges.
• STB Control System wraps the midfoot, stopping hot-spot-causing slide inside the boot when side-hilling.
• Megagrip rubber feels almost sticky on damp rhyolite yet sheds shale quickly, boosting confidence on sketchy traverses.
• Cushioned collar and tongue soften the firm ride, keeping fatigue in check on grassy link-ups between rocky sections.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Fit is Italian-snug across the ball; wide-footed walkers should size up or consider a different last.
• Rand and stiff forefoot add protection but reduce breathability in midsummer—vent with thinner socks.

Best For

Scramble-happy hillwalkers, via-ferrata junkies and technical trail lovers who want comfortable walking boots that climb as confidently as they hike.

13. Berghaus Hillwalker II GTX

Berghaus took feedback from boot-fitters across the UK and tweaked its best-selling Hillwalker to create a second-generation model that feels softer underfoot yet tougher against scrapes. Built in partnership with Pittards, the full-grain hide shrugs off typical British drizzle, while a Gore-Tex liner keeps squelchy moorland firmly on the outside. On a wet Snowdonia circuit our testers praised the “set-and-forget” lacing: once tensioned at the car park, no mid-walk fiddling was needed.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Pittards full-grain leather with new abrasion-resistant toe and heel rand
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Midsole: Shock-absorbing EVA tuned for UK hillwalking gradients
• Outsole: OPTI-STUD rubber, 5 mm self-cleaning lugs
• Weight: ~1,180 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–8 ½; half-sizes in core lengths
• RRP: £170 (often £150 in seasonal promos)

Why UK Hikers Love It

• EVA midsole now 10 % softer, soaking up limestone steps on the Malham Cove loop.
• Extended synthetic rand guards leather from gritstone abrasion, extending life.
• Plush collar lining eliminates bite even when cinched tight for ankle security.
• OPTI-STUD outsole grips greasy slab paths yet rolls smoothly on tarmac link-ups.
• Competitive price for a leather/GTX combo makes it a favourite first “proper” boot.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Heel cup is slightly shallow; thick merino socks improved hold for narrow-heeled testers.
• Leather needs proofing every few months to prevent wet-out along stitch lines.

Best For

Budget-minded hikers wanting mid-weight leather comfort for national trails, weekend peaks and year-round dog walks without hauling a tank on their feet.

14. Vasque St Elias FG GTX

The St Elias FG GTX sits in that sweet spot between heavy-duty backpacking boot and cushioned day-hiker. Vasque keeps the silhouette classic—full-grain leather, metal hardware, deep Vibram lugs—but sneaks in EVA pods and a tapered ankle cuff that make the boot feel far more forgiving than its old-school looks suggest. On a blustery three-day circuit of the South Glen Shiel Ridge our testers hauled 18 kg packs through knee-deep mud, yet feet stayed dry, blister-free and surprisingly fresh at camp. If you’re after comfortable walking boots that can shoulder serious weight without punishing yours, the St Elias deserves a look-in.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: 2.2 mm full-grain leather (pre-waxed)
• Membrane: Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Midsole: Molded EVA with TPU shank + heel/forefoot cushioning pods
• Outsole: Vibram Frontier with self-cleaning 5 mm lugs
• Drop / Stack: 10 mm / 34–24 mm
• Weight: ~1,360 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; half-sizes standard
• RRP: £230

Why UK Hikers Love It

• EVA shock-pods absorb heel strike on rocky Lake District descents, cutting knee ache.
• Tall, softly-padded cuff locks out debris yet flexes enough for comfortable ankle roll.
• Vibram Frontier sole evacuates claggy clay fast, maintaining grip on sodden Pennine paths.
• Pre-waxed leather arrives trail-ready—little break-in beyond a local dog walk.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• 10 mm heel-to-toe drop feels high if you prefer zero-drop or trail-runner styles.
• Full-grain leather adds weight; not the pick for sub-10 kg fast-packing kits.

Best For

Backpackers carrying heavy loads on multi-day Scottish routes, autumn–winter hillwalkers wanting storm-proof comfort, and leather purists who still crave modern shock absorption.

15. Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX

Danner’s heritage styling isn’t just for show—the Mountain 600 Leaf marries that classic red-lace look with the cushiest midsole the Oregon brand has ever put in a boot. For 2025 the upper switches to 100 % recycled leather and a bio-based Gore-Tex membrane, cutting petroleum use without cutting out British rain. On a three-peak Yorkshire day our testers flagged every trig before lunch and still had spring in their step on the pub walk-in—proof that retro can be some of the most comfortable walking boots going.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Recycled leather (2.0 mm) with full rubber rand
• Membrane: Bio-based Gore-Tex Leaf (PFC-free)
• Midsole: SPE (co-polymer EVA) with integrated nylon shank
• Outsole: Vibram Fuga with Megagrip compound, 4 mm lugs
• Weight: ~1,020 g/pair (UK 8)
• Stack/Drop: 29 mm heel / 8 mm
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–9; half-sizes; re-soleable via Danner recraft programme
• RRP: £220

Why UK Hikers Love It

• SPE midsole is softer than PU yet resists packing-out, staying bouncy past 1,000 km.
• Vibram Fuga outsole keeps traction on greasy Lakeland slate and wet city pavements alike.
• Re-soleable construction slashes cost-per-mile—and landfill guilt.
• Plush, gusseted tongue prevents lace bite even when you crank tension for steep scrambles.
• PFC-free Gore-Tex Leaf kept socks dry through two hours of Wainwright-standard drizzle.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Runs about half a size large; most testers downsized to keep heel hold tight.
• 8 mm drop feels high if you’re coming from zero-drop trail shoes.
• Leather needs occasional conditioning to stay supple.

Best For

Eco-minded walkers wanting heritage looks, modern cushioning and a boot they can rebuild instead of replace—perfect for city-to-summit weekends and year-round UK trails.

16. Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry

Montana brand Oboz ships every pair with a plantable tree token, but the green credentials aren’t what won our testers over on a windswept Dartmoor backpack. The Bridger Mid delivers old-school nubuck toughness wrapped round a seriously supportive insole – a combo that kept arches smiling through mile after mile of peat-bog squelch. If you need comfortable walking boots that feel ready for anything straight from the box, the Bridger deserves a spot on your shortlist.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: 2 mm nubuck leather with moulded TPU heel counter
• Waterproofing: Oboz B-Dry membrane + wicking mesh lining
• Insole: O Fit – sculpted EVA with high arch and deep heel cup
• Midsole: Dual-density EVA with nylon shank
• Outsole: Granite Peak rubber, 4 mm directional lugs
• Weight: ~1,100 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–9; women’s last is narrower at heel, wider at forefoot
• RRP: £180

Why UK Hikers Love It

• O Fit insole offers proper orthotic-like support, a godsend for high arches and fallen-arch pain alike.
• Generous toe box lets toes spread on downhill slogs, reducing black-toe risk.
• Granite Peak outsole’s pronounced side lugs claw into wet heather and peat without feeling grabby on flagstone paths.
• Leather upper resists gorse scratches and, once conditioned, shrugs off sideways rain.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• B-Dry membrane is less breathable than Gore-Tex; swap to thin liner socks above 18 °C.
• Midsole is firm rather than bouncy – cushion seekers should consider Hoka or Adidas models.

Best For

Support-hungry walkers tackling rough moorland, Dartmoor peat hags or limestone escarpments, and anyone whose feet appreciate serious arch structure without resorting to aftermarket insoles.

17. Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG

Minimalist gear often divides opinion, yet our six–person test panel agreed on one thing: if you’re curious about barefoot-style boots that can still brave British bogs, the Tracker II FG is the real deal. Vivobarefoot keeps everything you need for protection—leather, waterproofing, puncture-resistant sole—and strips away the rest, leaving a featherweight package that lets your feet move and feel in a way cushioned boots simply can’t. After two days on the South Downs Way our testers returned with stronger arches, no blisters and a brand-new appreciation for rooty singletrack feedback.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Wildhide (ethically sourced, minimally treated leather)
• Waterproofing: Recycled synthetic bootie + sealed seams
• Midsole: None (0 mm drop) with 3 mm flexible ESS puncture plate
• Outsole: Firm Ground (FG) sticky rubber, 2.5 mm lugs
• Footbed: Removable thermal insole for winter use
• Weight: ~1,040 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–14, Women’s 3–9; wide toe box standard
• RRP: £190

Why UK Hikers Love It

• 3 mm sole keeps you connected to the trail, encouraging natural stride and better balance on slippery chalk.
• Wide toe box promotes healthy toe splay, easing bunion pressure and cutting black-toe incidents on long descents.
• Wildhide leather breaks in fast and, once waxed, shrugs off drizzle and brambles alike.
• Removable thermal insole adds seasonal versatility—pop it out for sweaty summer miles.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Zero cushioning means calves and Achilles work harder; ease in with shorter walks to avoid next-day DOMS.
• Minimal lug depth can skate on thick clay; technique matters when the path turns to sludge.

Best For

Barefoot enthusiasts, posture-conscious walkers and anyone seeking comfortable walking boots that strengthen, rather than cosset, their feet on softer UK terrain.

18. Columbia Facet 75 Mid OutDry

Hybrid looks meet hill-ready tech in Columbia’s Facet 75 Mid. Picture a high-cut trail runner beefed up with a waterproof bootie and toothy outsole and you’re close. The angled, faceted midsole isn’t just for show: its lateral walls cradle the foot so you stay planted when Cambrian roots try to roll ankles, while TechLite+ foam keeps the ride lively on long forestry fire roads. During a sodden circuit of the Quantock Hills our testers splashed through ankle-deep puddles, emerged with dry socks and applauded the boot’s feather-light feel—sub-900 g for the pair.

At-a-Glance Specs

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Responsive TechLite+ midsole feels springy yet stable, delaying thigh burn on multi-peak days.
• Adapt Trax outsole grips wet chalk paths and polished paving, making it a true town-to-trail option.
• Heel clip counters lateral roll, a confidence boost when side-hilling through heather.
• Knit upper dries quickly after river fords—handy when camping without a boot room.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Toe bumper is modest; tread gently on abrasive scree.
• Knit collar can absorb water if fully submerged—pair with short gaiters in bog country.

Best For

Lightweight day-hikers, trail runners upgrading to mid-cuts, and anyone wanting modern, sneaker-styled yet genuinely comfortable walking boots for mixed UK weather.

19. Jack Wolfskin Vojo 3 Texapore Mid

Jack Wolfskin’s Vojo series has long been the brand’s “grab-and-go” option for casual rambles, and version 3 makes the mid-cut even friendlier for everyday use. By pairing soft suede panels with abrasion-resistant synthetics, the boot keeps weight to a thoroughly manageable kilogram a pair, yet still looks smart enough for a pub lunch. Our testers wore the Vojo 3 straight from the box on a 17 km circuit of Sherwood Pines and reported no heel rub, even when jogging short stretches to beat the rain. That instant ease is the Vojo’s calling card: if you want comfortable walking boots that feel like trainers but provide ankle cover for unpredictable British puddles, these tick the box.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Suede leather with synthetic mesh overlays
• Waterproofing: Texapore Pro (PFC-free) bootie with seam taping
• Midsole: Lightweight EVA with nylon stabiliser plate
• Outsole: Wolf Grip rubber, 4 mm self-cleaning lugs
• Weight: ~1,050 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–9; half sizes common
• RRP: £135 (often £110 in outlet sales)

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Flexible forefoot encourages a natural roll on canal paths and park circuits—great for dog-walk mileage.
• Breathable mesh lining and large tongue vents dump heat quickly during humid summer showers.
• Generous step-in padding around the ankle lets you lace snug without pressure points.
• Wolf Grip outsole holds firm on wet boardwalks yet doesn’t feel sticky on supermarket floors—ideal for mixed errand-to-trail days.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• EVA midsole feels plush at first but can compress after ~800 km; heavier users may notice earlier flattening.
• Limited toe bumper protection; watch foot placement on rocky scrambles.

Best For

Entry-level hikers, daily dog walkers and commuters who want light, wallet-friendly, all-weather comfort without the faff of a lengthy break-in.

20. Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid 2

Trail-runners have sworn by the Lone Peak’s roomy, zero-drop geometry for years; the All-Wthr Mid 2 stretches that formula into a waterproof boot that barely tips the scales. On a blustery two-day dart along the Pennine Way our testers racked up 62 km with 6 kg packs and finished with toes still wiggling happily—proof that minimal doesn’t mean masochistic when the design is dialled.

At-a-Glance Specs

• Upper: Quick-dry engineered mesh with durable TPU overlays
• Waterproofing: eVent bootie with PFC-free DWR
• Midsole: Altra EGO foam, 25 mm stack / 0 mm drop
• Outsole: MaxTrac rubber, TrailClaw angled lugs (4 mm)
• Footshape: Original (wide forefoot, snug heel)
• Weight: ~940 g/pair (UK 8)
• Sizes: Men’s 6–13, Women’s 3–9; half-sizes common
• RRP: £180

Why UK Hikers Love It

• Signature FootShape toe box prevents pinch when feet swell after marathon-length days.
• Zero-drop promotes mid-foot strike; several testers reported fresher calves on rolling moorland.
• MaxTrac outsole stuck confidently to rain-slick Yorkshire limestone steps and bog-greased flagstones.
• eVent bootie vented sweat faster than many Gore-Tex rivals—socks stayed dry inside and out.
• Feather-light build keeps leg turnover brisk; feels more shoe than boot underfoot.

Comfort Trade-offs to Note

• Minimal collar and flexible shank offer limited torsional support—heavy pack carriers may crave more structure.
• 0 mm drop can tighten calves if you’re used to traditional ramped boots; ease in gradually.

Best For

Ultralight backpackers, coast-to-coast speed hikers and zero-drop devotees hunting truly comfortable walking boots that disappear on the foot yet still laugh at sideways rain.

Lace Up and Go

The common thread running through every boot above is comfort, but each brand gets there a little differently. Some lean on marshmallow-thick cushioning to smother shock; others rely on anatomically shaped footbeds or heat-moulding foams for dialled-in fit. Breathable uppers and modern waterproof membranes keep the in-boot climate sweet, while careful weight trimming means you can add extra miles—not grammes—to your day.

Which recipe is best? The one that matches your feet and the way you walk. High arches may crave the sculpted support of Oboz; wide forefeet often sing in Keen or Altra shapes. Ultralighters will gravitate toward sub-900 g pairs, whereas pack-lugging campers might favour the rock-solid cushioning of Meindl or Vasque. Try on, walk around, trust your toes—if they’re happy after 15 minutes, chances are they’ll still be smiling at kilometre 15.

Ready to hit the trail? Swing by Take a Hike UK for gaiters, waterproofing wax, spare laces and the other small bits that keep great boots feeling great, season after season.