Choosing the right pair of walking boots can be trickier than it looks as the last thing you want is to find out half way through a long trail that they aren’t supportive enough, lack in grip or won’t keep your feet dry and with so many different models, designs and brands that use varying technologies you may not know where to start.
Most walking or hiking boots share a lot of similarities like Gore-Tex waterproofing, but some people prefer breathable and fast drying instead for lightness and better cooling so there are alternatives and to get you started with some options on your next journey into the outdoors here is a guide to three choice of walking boot for specific times of the year to help you choose the right boot for your needs.
Warmer weather – Merrell Moab Mid GoreTex Boots
If you prefer walking during the spring and summertime which is generally easier as there’s less chance of having to battle bracing winds and sudden downpours while trying to enjoy the scenery then the Merrell Moab Mid GTX boots are ideal. The brand is renowned for making extremely comfortable shoes with a lot of features that make for a great walking experience and this particular boot is suited to warmer weather due to the mid-height collar and the mesh Dura upper which is breathable thus helping to keep your feet cooler while the Aegis liner stops any microbes from building up so your feet stay fresher even after along hike. In case you do come across waterlogged tracks or are just caught in bad weather these have a GoreTex lining and construction so they are waterproof and the midsole has a moulded nylon arch shank, compression moulded EVA footframe, Merrell heel air cushions and an Ortholite anatomical footbed so should the trail become tough there’s plenty of shock absorption and support to help you along. To top it all off is the Vibram multi-sport outsole which is not only perfect for any outdoor activity but also has relentless grip and heel braking on the most demanding routes. Buy them here
Colder weather – Columbia Bugaboot Plus 2 Omni Heat Boots
A lot of walking routes take you across varying terrain and sometimes it can be high altitude especially around mountain summits and across peak challenges and as a result much colder temperatures and potentially very difficult terrain to navigate so you need a pair of boots designed to meet such conditions like the Columbia Bugaboot Plus II Omni-Heat boots. The Omni Heat tech used in these boots keeps the internal temperature regulated by being and insulation equivalent of 200 grams and is rated down to -32 degrees centigrade so short of planning to hike across the Antarctic they will keep you relatively warm on any walks you’re likely to explore. Made with a full length Techlite shell and midsole and a seam-sealed leather upper ensures waterproofing and durability while remaining nicely lightweight and the Omni Grip outsole has dual-compound lug patterns so you really do get a lot of grip and traction which is essential during wet weather. Buy them here
Alternative hot weather – Adidas GSG 9.3.1 Boots
Hot weather military boots are an alternative to standard summer walking or hiking footwear by instead of being waterproof are much more breathable and very fast drying and are often a preference especially for armed forces deployed in hotter climates where water would dry quickly anyway. The Adidas GSG 9.3.1 boots are a great example of hot weather boots and are designed to last through a lot of tough wear. The leather upper is breathable and with the Cambrelle lined Cordura inserts it gives decent internal climate regulation making extended wear time very comfy, plus the collar is perforated aiding moisture wicking even further. Inside are abrasion resistant inserts on the medial side upper and in the midsole arch making them ideal for prolonged wear and the outsoles feature the brand’s Traxion technology which will keep you gripped to the ground in even the most daunting terrain, they really are built to last. Buy them here
Besides these three walking boots there are a number of others available that suit specific types of walks and hikes as well from Alpine trails to fell walking but each of them will be able to tackle the majority of routes you can expect to come across with ease.