Choosing Walking Boots

OUTDOORS · GLOBAL

Choosing Walking Boots

Boots and shoes, fit, waterproofing and breaking them in

Walking footwear is the item that decides whether a day out is enjoyable, and fit matters more than any specification on the box.

Boots or shoes

Low shoes are lighter and cooler and suit paths and dry trails. Mid or high boots support the ankle over rough ground and under a heavy pack, and keep scree and water out.

Stiffness is rated by how much the sole flexes. A flexible shoe suits easy walking; a stiff boot is for rocky ground and crampon compatibility, and is uncomfortable on a towpath.

Fit

Try boots at the end of the day with the socks you will wear. Toes should not touch the front when kicking the toe against a step, and the heel should lift barely at all when walking uphill.

Width matters as much as length. Half a size to a full size larger than your everyday shoes is common, since feet swell over a long day and descents push toes forward.

Waterproof membranes

A membrane keeps water out and slows evaporation, so feet get damp from sweat in warm weather. In hot dry conditions, non-waterproof boots that dry quickly are frequently better.

Waterproofing fails when the outer fabric wets out, so clean and reproof periodically.

Socks

One pair of proper walking socks, not two, and never cotton. Wrinkles and grit are what cause blisters, so deal with a hot spot the moment you feel it.

Breaking them in

Short walks first, building up over a few weeks. Never take new stiff boots on a long walk.

Walking poles

Poles reduce load on the knees on descents considerably and help with balance on uneven ground. Set them shorter for going up and longer for coming down, and use the straps correctly.

Carbon is lighter and snaps; aluminium bends and keeps working.

Before a walk

Check the forecast, tell someone your route and expected return, and carry a map you can use without a battery. Phone signal is unreliable on hills.

Carry more layers and water than you expect to need.

Blisters

Most come from friction, damp and grit rather than from the boot alone. Stop and deal with a hot spot the moment you feel it, using tape or a dressing, rather than walking on and hoping.

Keep toenails trimmed, which prevents the bruised nails that come from long descents.

Buying

Get fitted in a shop that lets you walk on a ramp, and keep the boots clean indoors so they stay returnable.

Care

Brush off mud, dry slowly away from heat, and treat leather occasionally.

WHERE TO BUY

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