Best Hiking Boots UK (2026)

A full leather boot, like the Lowa Tibet Evo or Meindl Bhutan here, gives the most support and durability for multi-day treks or carrying a heavy pack, at the cost of extra weight and some breaking in. A lightweight fabric boot, like the Mammut or Quechua here, suits day walks and easier terrain where comfort and low weight matter more than maximum support.

For typical UK countryside walking in wet grass and light rain, most Gore-Tex or similar membrane boots cope fine. For boggy, saturated ground or sustained heavy rain, LFTO notes that a full-height leather boot with a tall gusseted tongue, like the Lowa Tibet Evo or Meindl Bhutan here, generally keeps water out best, since lower-cut fabric boots are easier to overtop.

If you're hiking on snow or ice and may need crampons, look for a boot rated for semi-automatic (C2) crampon compatibility, like the La Sportiva Aequilibrium LT here. For three-season UK hillwalking without technical winter routes, a standard hiking boot is sufficient.

A lot, since boots that don't match your foot shape can cause blisters or discomfort no matter how well-reviewed they are. Brands like Keen are known for wider fits, Scarpa's Rush comes in only one width, while the Lowa Renegade Evo comes in narrow, normal and wide versions, so trying boots on, or checking a brand's typical fit, is worth doing before buying.