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The right footwear will keep you supported and comfortable on your outdoor adventures for years to come. But with so many types of walking boots and shoes available, it’s important to know what’s what before making your choice.

 

Where are you going?

Walking boots are designed with specific environments in mind. Characteristics such as sole stiffness and ankle height can greatly vary, depending on the terrain they’re made for, so think about what you need. If you intend to stick to well-trodden and predictable paths, you can go for a lightweight boot or shoe with a reasonable amount of flexibility. In less challenging terrain, fl exibility is good, as it helps your foot move naturally and can aid comfort on longer trails.

However, if you intend to be moving over uneven or steep ground, you’ll need a more rigid boot with good ankle support. Stiffer soles provide a more stable platform and a higher mid-cut will support your ankle. Of course, a single walk can encompass many different landscapes, so it’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to being prepared.

 

Do you need waterproof boots?

Most boots are lined with a waterproof membrane, useful for weatherproofing your shoes and allowing you to cross water without issue. However, to avoid soggy feet, you don’t just want to keep the wet out – you need to allow sweat and condensation to escape, too. In other words, your walking boots need to breathe. Gore-Tex boots are good for allowing vapour to escape, but there are many effective waterproof membranes available.

Another solution is gaiters: waterproof cuffs that go over the top of your boots and fasten around the lower legs. These help prevent water from running into your boots as you walk through rain, snow or wet grass. Gaiters are also useful when walking over scree or loose gravel.

 

Leather or synthetic?

In the past, leather boots were more durable and easier to care for, whereas synthetic boots were lighter and required less ‘breaking in’. Thanks to advances in materials, the differences between them have become less pronounced, so the most important decision is the fit.

 

Do your boots fit?

Getting the right fit is essential, and this isn’t just about the size of your feet – the shape is just as important (see box, below left, for more on this).

 

Free footwear-fitting service

To help you fi nd the perfect boots, Cotswold Outdoor o ers a free expert footwear-fitting service, which involves being accurately measured and analysing your habits and needs. Learn more about this service at cotswoldoutdoor.com