Whether you're looking for hiking shoes for weekend hikes, easy hikes, or more challenging multi-day hikes, our team of hiking experts have put a selection of the best hiking shoes available through their paces.
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The best walking shoes of 2023 according to BBC Countryfile magazine's expert test team
Haglöf Duality AT1 GT Hiking Shoes
The best boots in the test.
A star rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Our verdict:Super stylish boots with interchangeable midsoles for versatility and performance

The contemporary look of the Duality belies its level of performance. A seemingly slim outsole features sticky lugs. The boots come with a double set of removable midsoles: one that offers extra grip on hard and rocky trails, especially when carrying a backpack, and a lighter pair for more casual outings when you want a relaxed fit. Other features include a high-quality leather upper with an integrated Gore-Tex membrane. Made with responsibly sourced materials, the Duality is pricey but offers the functionality of two pairs of boots, and midsoles can be swapped out without having to buy new shoes.PACKAGE
- Read our detailed review of the Haglöfs Duality AT1 GT Hiking Shoe
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 240
- Superior:Leather Working Group approved leather
- Sole:Contains AHAR Plus (ASICS High Abrasion Resistance Rubber) on the outsole in the heel area for added durability
- Midsole:Two removable options, one with extra padding
- Waterproof:Extended GORE-TEX comfort
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:394g per boot (UK size 8)
Hi-Tec V-Lite Psych Mid WP Hiking Shoes
•best cheap boots
•The best ecological boots
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:Stylish and eco-friendly treadmills magically made from recycled plastic bottles

The innovative element of Hi-Tec's new walking helmets lies in their impressive backstory. The upper of these vegan-friendly boots is made from 100% responsibly-sourced and fully recycled 67% polyester; basically, they are mostly made from discarded 12 ounce single use plastic bottles. The problem with most recycled polyester products is that they emit microplastics into waterways when washed, but nobody washes wax boots by machine, so this is a great use of a fully sustainable material.
Aside from the eco element, these boots are decent trail performers too, with a waterproof/breathable Dri-Tec membrane, a beefy toe cap for protection and durability, a heel counter that improves fit and stability, compression-molded EVA midsoles that Provide good cushioning and a V-Lite rubber sole that offers good grip and control without adding too much weight (each boot weighs 585g). One small problem is that the lacing system does not have quick release hooks, so it takes a bit longer to put them on.
Hi-Tec has never been the flashiest brand on the trails, but these are really cool green boots available at a very reasonable price and highly recommended for DofE expeditions.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£100
- Superior:Contains vegan fabric made from responsibly sourced recycled polyester
- Sole:Goma ligera V-Lite
- Midsole:Compression molded lightweight EVA
- Waterproof:Atmungsaktive membrane Dri-Tec
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:-
Inov-8 Rocfly G390 Hiking Shoes
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:Fastest and lightest mountain hiking boots for hikers and trekkers in a hurry

Cumbrian brand Inov-8 have recently started manufacturing walking shoes using the award-winning mega-strong Graphene Grip rubber soles that make up their running shoes. The Rocfly G390 is their latest shoe and the first to use next-generation G-Fly Graphene foam in the soles, which the brand claims offers 25% more energy return. It's hard to quantify such claims on muddy trails, but these boots are certainly made for hikers who want to go fast. Everything is designed to keep you agile, from the lightweight materials (each boot weighs just 390g), the rocker-shaped sole and the 6mm heel-to-toe drop, to the unique Quickhook lacing system that takes you to the walk without much effort. The soles feature the new "Adaptor-Flex", a 10mm-deep trench between the heel and forefoot that allows for better cross-foot movement and increased trail feel on uneven terrain. The synthetic upper is breathable and quick-drying rather than waterproof, and the toe protection is minimalist.
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The soles will almost certainly outlive the upper, and since agility prioritizes protection, the Rocfly feels more like a running shoe with a mid-high collar than a walking shoe. While they offer good cushioning (an added bonus on longer adventures) and some ankle support, they're best suited for long-day hikes and multi-day hut-to-hut adventures while packing light.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 175
- Superior:breathable synthetic
- Sole:"Graphene-enhanced" rubber, 4mm studs
- Midsole: G-FLY
- Waterproof:NO
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:390g per boot
Hoka TenNine Hiking Shoes
A star rating of 3.5 out of 5.
Our verdict:Huge hooves for a smooth hiking experience on any terrain.
- shop now for womenoutsideZapatillas (£109.99)
- shop now for menoutsideAlpenwanderung (£212.36),Zapatillas (£219.99)

Normally, when it comes to hiking shoes, we'd prioritize functionality and features over style, but with Hoka's TenNine boots, you'rehaveto start with the aesthetic that will excite, disturb or amuse. On the maximal end of the spectrum, the TenNine have more soles than Sam and Dave combined. Hoka describes them as "part hiking boots, part hovercraft", which paints a pretty accurate picture of what they look and feel like. Despite their bulk, the TenNines weigh just 504g each and stand 4mm tall, but walking in them takes some getting used to (and not just because of the confused looks from other walkers).
As you'd expect, the cushioning is second to none, but there's absolutely no trail feel. The rocker-style "Hubble" heel, jutting out to the rear in an inverted split hoof shape, is designed to facilitate optimal energy transfer from heel to toe for a super smooth ride. And once you get used to both the bounce and being considerably taller than normal, walking in these hokas is a comfortable experience. Beneath all the cushioning in the compression-molded EVA midsole is a Vibram Megagrip Hi-Traction outsole with 5mm studs. The ripstop fabric upper wraps around a Gore-Tex liner for breathable, waterproof protection, and the lacing system, with three pairs of security hooks, allows for a secure fit.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 220
- Superior:Ripstop-Textil
- Sole:Vibram Megagrip Hi-Traction con Stollen de 5 mm
- Midsole:Compression molded EVA foam
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex-Boot
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:504g each
Scarpa Rush TRK GTX trekking shoes
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:Technically high performance, yet light and comfortable.

Scarpa is an expert mountain brand that has its head in the clouds in every way. With Rush Trek, they've produced a mid-height helmet that makes long hikes just as comfortable as short hikes without sacrificing the shoe's technical ability for more challenging terrain. To do this, they have used lightweight materials and have used technologies to reduce foot fatigue. The impressive Presa sole has aggressive, grippy, hiker-oriented lugs that are angled for good control on descents. The sole also features "Interactive Kinetic System" technology with five cushioning areas and domes that support the user's weight during mountain missions.
The boot maintains a reliable stiffness throughout its length, making it ideal for rock skirting. The finger protection is also reassuringly robust and, despite its low weight (555g), it is an absolute leader. The upper also feels durable, being made from a combination of abrasion-resistant materials, including 1.6-1.8mm thick leather, and lined with a Gore-Tex membrane to make it waterproof and breathable. Three speed hooks at the top of the lacing system allow for a really secure fit around the ankle, while the collar provides plenty of support.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 185
- Superior:Chamois and bodies de 1.6 mm and 1.8 mm
- Sole:jacob
- Midsole:3D compression molded EVA foam
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex-Membranes
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:555g per boot
Keen NXIS Evo Mid-Wanderschuh
Our verdict:Stability, protection and performance in a new, lighter and more attractive package with a reduced footprint

The Evo Mid from Keen's NXIS range is a lightweight (418g) hiking shoe that combines many of the hiker-friendly design attributes of their high-performance Targhee trekker with lighter, more modern materials and the lightweight tread characteristics of trail running shoes. The boot is free of harmful PFC chemicals, has an eco-friendly anti-odour system, and Keen has used recycled PET plastic for the mesh-style upper, reinforced with TPU overlays and covered by a waterproof-breathable KEEN.DRY membrane.
The big toe protection Keen shoes are famous for is still there, but less bulky, with a lighter split-toe design. The interlocking KonnectFit heel lock system ensures a good, solid connection across the foot, so there's no in-shoe slippage when walking. They're instantly comfortable, with extra padding around the Achilles tendon, arch support in the insoles, and plenty of cushioning in the compression-molded EVA midsole. The sole features a new horseshoe pattern with deep multi-directional lugs and dimples for improved flexibility and trail feel. They are very flexible, which leans more towards the trail running side of design and is better suited for those looking to travel fast than those looking to venture into really technical terrain.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 145
- Superior:Mesh made from recycled PET plastic
- Sole:KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4 mm dowels
- Midsole:molded eva
- Waterproof:KEEN.DRY-Membrana
- Appropriate:regular to slightly wide
- Weight:418g per boot
Hiking shoes Hanwag Alta Bunion II GTX
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:A ball-of-foot crushing boot with exceptional features that make it an all-round boot.

Whether you're going for a 5-mile walk or a multi-day long-distance hike, comfort is paramount when it comes to walking shoes, and like anyone who has suffered from hallus valgus (better known as hallus valgus), the Pressure and hot spots around the big toe, ball of the foot, and metatarsal area can be excruciating.
Step on board with Bavarian boot brand Hanwag, which has heroically developed an entire line of shoes for bunion hikers without simply making wider products. By adding space specifically in bunion-affected areas, adding height in the toe box, and eliminating seams in the bunion-affected area, the new Alta Bunion II eliminates friction and pressure where it's most painful while maintaining a snug fit everywhere else. Walking in these boots is a revelation after slipping into too-tight boots. Weighing in at 645g, the Altas are made from premium nubuck leather and feature a Vibram Endurance outsole with innovative deep multi-molded lugs. The lacing system has a lower hook-lock offset just above the eyelets that pull the heel in nice and tight for great stability and confidence, and they're reliably waterproof and breathable.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:230 euros
- Superior:Chrome-free nubuck leather
- Sole:resistance vibrate
- Midsole:stabilized PU
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex-Membranes
- Appropriate:Wide fit designed specifically for bunions.
- Weight:645 g per boot (size 8)
The original Apex lace-up boot from Muck Boot Company
A 3 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:Strong and reliable waterproof rubber boots for a wide range of outdoor activities

Best known for their fabulous Wellington-style footwear, Muck Boot has branched out recently as evidenced by these "Sport" boots for hikers and backcountry sports enthusiasts. The Apex is 100% waterproof and the collar (described by the brand as 'short' in relation to its range of knee-high wellies) is relatively high for a hiker and offers full protection on wet treks.
Given the low insulating properties of the main fabric, the 4mm neoprene lining that extends over the integrated tongue is a relief. The boots lace up well and are snug with a pair of snap hooks at the top that tighten the neck, but the cuff is thin and very flexible, offering little ankle support. It has a chunky heel and toe box to protect the little toes, but the skin over the ball of the foot is thin. These boots feature an EVA midsole that offers good shock absorption and the durable rubber soles have deep traction lugs.
Overall, these interesting boots are great for short hikes with multiple stream, river and/or estuary crossings and ideal for people who work in wet conditions, but they weigh 860g each and lack the thickness, support and thermal qualities that they are required for longer hikes.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 170
- Superior:Rubber with 4 mm neoprene lining.
- Sole:"designed for light use on mixed terrain"
- Midsole:Eva
- Waterproof:100% waterproof upper
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:860g each
Lowa Taurus Pro GTX Mid Hiking Shoes
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:Lightweight hiking shoe with excellent cushioning, suitable for all kinds of hikes on different terrains and in almost all conditions.

A lightweight (410g) mid-cut hiking shoe suitable for everything from multi-day hikes with a light backpack to three-season day hikes. Lowa's new Lima sole offers a lot of bounce thanks to its DynaPU technology. The upper is a stylish and durable mix of suede and synthetic fabric with a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane. The outsole has deep lugs that provide good grip but collect mud. With good upper stiffness, the Taurus performs better on rocky, technical terrain than many other lightweight boots. A very well-kept, affordable and versatile shoe for hikers who want to vary their excursions throughout the year.PACKAGE
- Read our detailed review of the Lowa Taurus Pro GTX Mid hiking shoe
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 135
- Superior:suede and fabric
- Sole:File with DynaPU technology
- Midsole:DynaPU
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex-Futter
- Appropriate:Standard
- Weight:410 grams per piece
Aku Trekker Lite III GTX Wanderschuh
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:Lightweight boots perfect for hiking in a variety of conditions and terrain

As the name suggests, this boot is the third iteration of Aku's mighty Trekker Lite. The look and design evolve with each generation, but the family resemblance remains strong. The base design is reliable and robust, well suited for UK and European trails and peaks outside of the dead of winter, so there's no need to reinvent it. This new shoe is lighter (570g per shoe) and more agile than its predecessors, as the upper's material mix uses more durable Air8000 fabric and slightly less suede. The latter still covers the edge that runs the entire contour of the boot and is raised to provide additional protection to the toe and heel areas.
In keeping with your desired versatility, the boot has a mid-cut stiffness. The midsole is dual density EVA and the Trekker III has a new Vibram Curcuma outsole with deep multi-directional lugs that offer excellent grip but can also pick up some mud. The heel is luxuriously padded and, along with the tongue, stands relatively high for a mid-height product, which combined with the Gore-Tex membrane helps the boots stay out of the elements. Overall, this is a great boot for day hikes and three-season backpacking.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 170
- Superior:Air8000 suede and fabric
- Sole:Turmeric Vibrate
- Midsole:dual density EVA
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex-Membranes
- Appropriate:Standard;tall tilleraccessible
- Weight:570g per boot
Roclite Pro G400 GTX Stiefel, inov-8
A 5 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT: This wonderfully balanced mix of lightweight and strong materials ensures the perfect running experience: comfortable, grippy and responsive.

This exceptional new boot features soles that are 50% stronger and more durable than any other on the market, according to the manufacturer, Cumbria-based inov-8, best known for its trail running shoes.
The soles contain graphene, making inov-8 the only hiking shoe manufacturer to use this wonderful material. Graphene is one of the hardest substances in the world, which was first isolated by scientists from the University of Manchester, research that earned them victory.Nobel Prize in Physics 2010.
But that is not all. They are comfortable to wear, right out of the box. You'll immediately notice that they're remarkably light at 400g. The simple lacing system (below) makes them quick and easy to put on and take off.
In motion, stiff soles provide stability, yet there's enough spring to keep movement comfortable and fluid. The damping is well-revised: comfortable on hard, rocky terrain, yet responsive enough that they don't feel remotely sluggish. This graphene/rubber outsole has grip, with 6mm lugs inspiring confidence even on wet rock.
Ankle support is also good and the heel sits securely in the heel cage.
The toe box is roomy - the fit is a bit too wide for my normal width feet, but that's not a bad thing as it has room for thick socks in winter and feet can spread a bit after warming up.
The sturdy synthetic upper looks durable, time will tell. A highly effective waterproof Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry. Since the padded upper is quite thin, it will be interesting to see if the boots feel warm enough on a cold, wet day (watch out for my update later this winter).
A rubber bumper protects your toe. If you like steep hill hikes, you may want more protection on the sides, but I would love to use them on high hill hikes.JP
Data at a glance:
- ABOVE: Schoeller ceramic coating
- SOLE: Rubber Graphene Grip with 6 mm dowels
- WATERMARK: Gore-Tex-Futter
- APPROPRIATE: Normal to wide
- WEIGHT: 400gr
Altberg-Fremington
A 5 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT: Strong, waterproof and surprisingly comfortable. It stands up to tough mountain hikes year-round.

Yorkshire company Altberg's classic Fremington leather boot looks tough but feels soft on your feet.
Altberg's best-selling hiking boot has remained largely unchanged since the shoemaker's founding in 1989.
As with most traditional boots, the Fremington is extremely durable.miand its high-quality leather upper and its breathable membrane make it absolutely waterproof.
The durable Vibram sole has a good tread and stiffness making it ideal for walking the UK hills.
Boots with a stiff construction and full leather upper like this have a reputation for taking time to get into, but after a slight stiffness on the first few hikes, I was surprised by the overwhelming feeling of comfort. I've taken them on many hikes, long and short, and the fit feels tighter and more comfortable with each outing.
The padded ankle cuff reduces chafing, and the Altberg five widths give extra range of motion if you need it. The Fremington is marketed as a "2-3 season light leather hiker" but I'd recommend it for UK winters as well.
Another big plus: the boot, which is available in different widths, for narrow or wide feet.director general
Data at a glance:
- Superior:Full grain leather Amphibian
- Sole:Vibram - durable and replaceable (Alberg resoles)
- Waterproof:simpatex lining
- Appropriate:Five options available, from extra wide to extra narrow.
- Weight (pair):1.3 kg
- ecological:resoleable; and Altberg offer repairs.
Vivobarefoot FG tracker
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT: Innovative, flexible, light and comfortable.

British shoe manufacturer Vivobarefoot believes that shoes "should let your feet do their thing". With that in mind, their shoes are designed to reap all the benefits of walking barefoot: flexibility, stability, and ultimately better posture, with all the usual protection a boot offers. The lightweight Tracker FG hiking shoe is a good example of this, combining attractive style with maximum comfort and an overwhelming feeling of freedom.

Unlike most boots, the Tracker has a completely flat, thin puncture-resistant sole. If you've never worn Vivobarefoot shoes before, it will take a few minutes to get used to the lack of heel-to-toe buckling, but that mild discomfort soon turns into a general feeling of release. It is as if your feet feel the ground instead of stepping on it.
Fan-shaped with plenty of room in the toe box, the toes can be spread out, which in turn improves stability and strengthens the foot muscles. They are extremely light (476.2g per shoe) and breathable, allowing you to move quickly over hills, forests and mountains, and thanks to their flexibility you can even run in them. (Note: The sensory feedback provided by the thin sole supports this quick movement, but it can be a problem when carrying a heavy backpack over long distances.)
The outsole is firm and the premium leather upper (with a fully waterproof membrane), mid-high ankle and high laces provide a good level of grip on uneven trails. The multi-directional cleats are designed for firm ground, making them ideal for hiking in dry weather; I found that they lack a bit of grip on particularly wet and muddy trails.
Available in dark brown for women and men.director general
Data at a glance:
- Superior:Manager
- Sole:Sticky rubber for firm ground with 3mm studs
- Waterproof:Hydroguard waterproof and breathable membrane
- Fit:normal to wide
- Weight:952.4g (per)
- ecological:Vivobarefoot says they aim to use 90% sustainable material across the brand this year. The crawlers themselves consist of a recycled PET liner and a recycled membrane.
Keen Targhee III Mid WP
A 3 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT:Very comfortable and affordable but doubts about durability and impermeability.

The Targhee iii offers a smooth ride, but your feet can get damp in the rain.
I used them straight out of the box on a 2 week summer hike in the Swiss Alps. They were extremely comfortable, and despite the challenging terrain, the KEEN all-terrain rubber outsole provided good grip on wet trails, scree slopes, and grassy hills.
Keen shoes have a reputation for comfort and the Targhee iii is no exception. Fortunately for hikers with wide feet, the Targhee iii comes in two widths: standard and wide. The Metaatomical sockliner is designed to provide strong arch support, and dual-density EVA insoles cushion shock from the trail. The Targhee iii is also pleasantly light at 1kg per pair (size 11).
The sharp. A dry, breathable membrane allows vapor to escape from the boot and air to circulate freely through the material - very welcome in hot weather.
The boot's waterproofing and durability were less impressive. When it rains small amounts of water seep through the lacing area on top of the foot and after two weeks of hard walking the boots started to show signs of wear, especially in the toe area.
A great boot for good weather walks in the UK, the Targhee iii boasts excellent comfort. It's relatively cheaply priced and can be taken straight out of the box on long hikes. But for winter hikes and rough or wet terrain, a sturdier boot may be preferable, especially if you want your boots to last.director general
Data at a glance:
- Superior:leather and mesh
- Sole:Keen all-terrain rubber with 4mm studs.
- Waterproof:Keen.Dry breathable membrane; The leather is impregnated without PFC
- Appropriate:Regular or wide options available
- Weight (pair):1kg (Size 11)
- ecological:BetterLeather from a Leather Working Group tannery (removing wastewater pollution).
Berghaus Fellmaster Ridge GTX
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT: Waterproof, lightweight and supportive for hills and other terrain all year round.

Robust, beautiful and versatile: the Fellmaster Ridge ticks all the boxes
A great all rounder; This is a good quality boot that sells for a relatively moderate price.,which will keep your feet dry and comfortable in most UK environments. The boots are a little edgy at first, but after a walk or two it feels like you've had them for years - the super soft insole helps with that.
Nubuck leather is used for the upper for durability and support. Its natural water repellency can be refreshed with a spray treatment available at outdoor supply stores. As moisture seeps into the upper, the boots are lined with Gore-Tex, making them 100% waterproof and breathable. Considering the size and powerful ankle support, the Fellmaster Ridge feels fairly light, a real benefit when moving fast up steep inclines.
The trunk is quite high; If you feel chafing around your ankle, drop the laces through one eyelet or tie them to the back (not crossing at the last eyelet) before tying.DG.
Data at a glance:
- Upper: nubuck
- Sole: Anti-clogging Vibram
- Impregnation: Gore-Tex membrane
- Fit: One size - regular to wide
- Weight (pair): 1.3 kg
Mammut Ducan Mid GTX
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT:Highly versatile, suitable for all types of hiking, including brisk walking and backpacking, if you're happy to forego the full-height ankle support.

If I could drive the Ducan, it would be a lively little SUV: light and easy to grip for quick trips.
These sports boots are comfortable and well protected. The chunky outsole and chunky toe box keep the weight down at a moderate 1.2kg, but feel much lighter on the trails, with a comfortable, understated response.
The upper is made of engineered mesh, or "knitted" synthetic yarn, with a few millimeters of measured padding for added comfort and protection.
They're fairly new in that they don't have a separate tongue, just a single upper piece that overlaps under and on one side of the laces, where the stretchy Gore-Tex membrane keeps moisture out. It seems to make the construction simpler and lighter. It may be asymmetrical, but it doesn't feel lopsided. far from there Overall balance and stability are excellent.
The lugs may be less thick than some, but the grip is excellent. And the impregnation is very effective.JP
Data at a glance:
- Also available:como un zapato o bota con caña alta.
- Superior:Double layer technical mesh (synthetic)
- Sole:Vibram XS-Trek
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex lined
- Appropriate:One width, suitable for normal to wide feet
- Weight (pair):1.2kg (size 8.5)
Inov8 Roclite G 345 GTX
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict: Extremely grippy, breathable and lightweight, ideal for fast summer hikes on steep trails.

Cumbria-based company Inov-8 have made a name for themselves as a manufacturer of trail running shoes and that heritage shows in these lightweight, highly breathable and grippy boots. If you wear in the summer, or want to move fast, these boots really are great. They're so light and responsive, you might even choose to run in them.
They're comfortably low-profile, with light protection, including some rubber to protect your toes, and minimal padding on top, mainly around the ankle. That said, the ankle support is well thought out: low enough to give you freedom of movement, yet effective enough to keep you feeling secure on a fast descent.
The mesh upper is highly breathable - you can feel the air flowing through the fabric that covers the toe box, keeping your feet cool and comfortable as you warm up on a tough climb. The downside is that during winter hikes, cold air enters parts of the upper too freely.
Waterproofing relies heavily on a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, which works quite well. However, don't expect perfectly dry feet when your boots are completely soaked.
The Inov-8 are famous for the excellent grip of their soles. The thick 6mm lugs also drain mud with ease, so they don't clog and are ready for the next step. Press your thumbnail into the soles and they seem to give a bit more give than others, making them more likely to find traction on wet or slippery surfaces. If you're concerned that this will make them less durable, rest assured that composite soles contain graphene, which is harder than steel; I'm excited to see what this adds to its lifespan.JP.
Data at a glance:
- Superior:synthetic mesh
- Sole:G-Grip: moderately flexible, enhanced with graphene
- Waterproof:Gore-Tex-Membranes
- Appropriate:normal to wide
- Weight (pair):790 grams
Skechers Relment Pelmo (Men)
A 3 out of 5 star rating.
OUR VERDICT: Economical boot for occasional hikers over short and medium distances.

Relment-Pelmo memory foam insoles cushion your feet on rough trails.
At under $100, these boots from American shoe maker Skechers are some of the cheapest on the market, and on their own they deserve one star in our review below.
Skechers describes the Relmont-Pelmo as a "comfortable hiking boot" with a "relaxed" fit designed to be roomy. The memory foam insole provides a smooth ride, even a little springy.
The mid-high ankle is ideal for the casual walker: it offers just enough support on uneven terrain, but is cooler with warm boots than with tall boots, and is also lighter. The ankle collar is well padded and the fit is snug, but could be more supportive.
With suede uppers, ample padding and a chunky toe box, they weigh around 1.3kg (my size 12 is 1.4kg), so don't expect them to feel bouncy and responsive - I found them a bit slow in the path. But your feet feel well protected and the rubber sole offers plenty of grip.
The mesh under the laces lets some air in...we'll see if that's enough to keep your feet cool come summer. We will continue to test durability. I would expect the chamois to soften and settle; Let's see if it retains its water resistance.JP
Data at a glance:
- Superior:Suede with synthetic fabric and mesh
- Sole:Gummi
- Waterproof:Water repellent upper; without internal waterproof membrane
- Appropriate:generous, regular width
- Weight (pair):1,35kg
Columbia Peakfreak X2 Mid OutDry
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict: Excellent for spring and summer mountain hikes when you want a less bulky shoe.

Ultralight, super grippy and waterproof - the Peakfreak X2 is a great summer boot
These super lightweight boots have a solid profile that provides excellent grip on uneven terrain. The material offers good cushioning and the ankles feel well supported without the bulk of a heavier, more traditional hiking boot.
However, in wet conditions these boots outperform many other textile boots - I found the boots to be impressively waterproof on marshy grass and in heavy rain, keeping my feet dry. The upper is made from synthetic textile with welded overlays that offer a decent level of waterproofing while remaining breathable.
Our only issues with the boot were the sizing, which seems a bit smaller than usual. Might be worth going up a size. The fit is also wide.CM.
Data at a glance:
- Superior:Textile with welded synthetic overlays
- Sole:Abrasion resistant Omni-GRIP traction rubber
- Waterproof:OutDry impermeable
- Appropriate:Regular, a wide, on the small side
- Weight (pair):636g
- Also available:as a low shoe or high hiking boot
Altberg Dalesway vegan hiking boots
A 4 out of 5 star rating.
Our verdict:A vegan version of a high-performance British mountaineering and hiking boot.
- buy nowoutsideAltberg (204,99 €)

Famous for their chunky boots, constructed from a half-cow in the classic style for traditional British mountaineers, Yorkshire brand Altberg have taken the Dalesway to Greggs and gone vegan, and so have they. Based on the ever-popular Fremington boot, the Dalesway still appears to be made of leather, but the upper is made of Lorica, a tough, microporous synthetic material, with a waterproof Sympatex lining.
Each boot weighs 630g and features a Vibram outsole with the proven Masai lug pattern, and a Tri-Flex 2 midsole offers medium flexibility and torsion resistance for grip on technical terrain. As usual with Altberg, build quality is excellent and the boot is offered in a variety of widths from extra narrow to extra wide so comfort is custom quality. The mid-high collar is extremely comfortable around the Achilles tendon and heel, has three snap hooks at the top of the laces, and a fully integrated tongue to keep rocks and sand out. Overall a great three season boot for climbing hills and peaks across the UK and beyond.PACKAGE
Data at a glance:
- PVP:£ 195
- Superior:Veganfreundliche Lorica
- Sole:Vibram Masai
- Midsole:Tri-Flex 2
- Waterproof:simpatex lining
- Appropriate:Accessories of different widths available
- Weight:630g per boot
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Reseñas de Daniel Graham (DG), Patrick Kinsella (PK), Carys Matthews (CM), Joe Pontin (JP)