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The 14 best walking boots, tested by the RW Lab experts
You may think those old trail shoes are up to it, but chances are you need boots made for walking
Tested by Yanar Alkayat and Ben Hobson
All runners should ideally be getting some walking in, too. We've said on many occasions that a power walk is a great excuse to get outside, enjoy nature AND get some training done at the same time. A good hike on some rough ground helps strengthen those smaller stabilising muscles that road running won't get to. But, if you want to get some proper walking done without injuring yourself, it's wise to get a pair of boots that are fit for purpose.
Much like running shoes, walking shoes and boots are specific to certain tasks. And while you may think those old trail shoes are absolutely fine, it could be that you're sacrificing the enjoyment and benefits of a good walk because of the wrong footwear.
Fear not, however, as long gone are the days of industrial-looking boots from brands you've never heard of. Many of your favourite running brands now make men's and women's walking boots, while established hiking companies have crafted lighter, cushioned styles to put a spring in your step on longer treks.
Here are the best walking boots for runners to shop in 2023. Scroll on for detailed reviews of each.
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Just bought 4 pairs of shoes | Top Men's & Women's Shoes 2016
The North Face Vectiv™ Exploris II
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How should walking boots fit?
Fit is the most important component of a comfortable walking boot. We can tell you that a good pair should be snug around the heel and mid-foot, while giving your toes plenty of wiggle room to be able to spread for stability. However, finding a model that will suit your foot’s natural shape is another matter entirely.
Here is how to check the fit of any prospective walking boots.
- Try them on with the laces undone, wearing your usual thick pair of walking socks. If they’re already uncomfortable at this point, you’re fighting a losing battle.
- Stretch your toes to make sure they have plenty of room. They should be able to spread, helping you keep your balance on challenging terrain, and there should be about a finger’s width between them and the toe of the boot so they don’t bash into it when walking downhill.
- Push your foot down. You should now be able to fit a finger between your heel and the back of the boot. You want a snug fit; if there's too much space then your heel won’t lock into place and could rub, but if there's no room at all then your chosen footwear is too small.
- Lace up the boot and take a few paces. The heel and mid-foot should feel snug and supportive without bordering into uncomfortably tight territory, and your heel shouldn’t lift out of the heel cup. The ball of your foot should sit above the flex point of the shoe, where the sole naturally bends.
If your footwear passes all these tests, break them in by wearing them around the house, giving them plenty of time to mould to your feet. After several housebound sessions, they’ll be ready to take on the trails.
Runner's World Expert Tested
sneakers ASICS mujer azules Runner's World Expert Tested badge, that means it's been put through a rigorous testing process and earned the seal of approval from our RW Lab experts.
They tested a range of walking boots, with each one put through its paces by up to three keen hikers. The shoes were worn on sun-caked surfaces, boggy moors, muddy tracks and more, allowing us to check their waterproofing and breathability credentials.
In total, twelve pairs made the final list, proving they could provide a great fit and cushioned comfort, as well as boasting an attractive design that was easy to clean and innovative features that added to their performance.
Sandália Damannu Shoes Tiras com Spikes RW editors have also tested and selected their favourite boots (marked with an Editor's Choice badge), which have seen them through testing treks, urban yomps and everything else in between.
Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc
Pros
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- Very precise sense of contact with the ground
- Impressive eco credentials
Cons
- Barefoot shoes take some getting use to
- Very rocky terrain can feel like hard work
The original Vivobarefoot tracker boot is a great walking boot for those who like things minimalist, but is not a boot suited to anything remotely muddy. This new version, with the help of an impressive outsole from the tyre people, Michelin, does a fantastic job of providing an option for those who like to roam, regardless of the mud.
Sitting in stark contrast to the clumpy, built up walking boot, the wild hide leather upper of the Tracker Forest ESC is very pliable and flexes and moves with the foot, giving the boot a very nimble feel, whilst the lacing and robust ankle support really locks the foot into the boot, giving it structure where most needed. The leather upper is not technically waterproof like other manufactured materials, but even after the wettest and muddiest of walks, our feet remained dry.
The sense of ground feel sets this boot apart, which seems even more valuable when stomping through the deep stuff. Despite the close proximity to the ground, when paired with a warm sock there hasn't been an issue with cold feet so far and the trade off for more grip has been more than worth it.
The North Face Vectiv™ Exploris II
Pros
- Waterproof membrane
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- Roomy toe box
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Cons
- Lace support could have been stronger
- Some rubbing reported on longer walks
Comfortable, durable and waterproof, it was hard to find fault with this pair from The North Face. They earned a resounding thumbs up from our walkers, with one tester saying 'they’re the best walking boots I’ve ever tried.' High praise, indeed.
These boots never felt clunky or cumbersome thanks to their ultra lightweight design and they did an excellent job of handling different terrains and weather conditions. The sole delivered steadfast grip on uneven paths, no water seeped through to our socks in heavy rain and, when the sun came out, our feet were free to breathe courtesy of the mesh upper.
Our testers with wide feet appreciated the roomy toe box, which allowed their feet to splay out naturally, and everyone rated the simple yet stylish design. If we had to find fault, we would have liked extra eyelets for enhanced ankle support but that’s hardly a deal breaker. Just make sure to wear a good pair of socks Jordan 1 Taxi Shirts Sneaker Match Black All Hustle quantity.
Pros
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- Made from recycled materials
- Lightweight, comfortable design
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Cons
- Some testers reported hot, sweaty feet when hiking in hot weather
- Snug fit
We’re big fans of Merrell here at Runner’s World, so we had high hopes when these slick hiking shoes arrived on our desks and fortunately, they didn’t disappoint. They required minimal breaking in and once on, they were easy to slip on thanks to the trainer-like design. Despite the lack of ankle support, they proved supportive and sufficiently grippy on all types of terrain, from grass to gravel. They remained comfy during longer hikes – even for testers with wide feet – and they kept our feet dry when the heavens opened. Plus, they’re subtle enough to wear for daily activities as well as hiking.
If all that wasn’t enough, their eco creds are commendable, too. Described as Merrell’s 'most sustainable shoe to date', the outsole, footbed, upper, lining and laces are made from recycled materials.
A few testers found their feet got too hot when walking in warm weather, but they did a stellar job when it was mild or chilly outside. Overall, a top choice for outdoorsy adventures.
Pros
- Gore-Tex waterproof lining
- Extremely lightweight
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Cons
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- Not enough room for thick socks due to snug fit
Another trainer-like style, these Adidas hikers will do the job nicely for all your weekend jaunts, whether you’re ambling along coastal paths, hitting up forest trails or just strolling around town. According to our panel, they felt almost impossibly light and were comfortable from the off, with no blisters or chafing reported even after walking for miles. The best part? They kept everyone's feet dry in stormy weather, so you needn’t worry about ending up drenched and disheartened.
Any downsides? Our panellists found the ankle support lacking for more technical hikes, but they would happily wear them for all their casual endeavours. 'They’re the most comfortable walking boots I’ve ever worn,' said one satisfied tester. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Pros
- Gore-Tex lining
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- Trainer-like feel
- Ted Baker White Bow Sandal
Cons
- Protruding heel gets caught on certain types of terrain
- May not be suitable for bouldering or mountain climbing
Hoka is best known for its maximalist running shoes, but its walking boots are just as impressive. New for 2023, the brand claims the Trail Code is lighter and more cushioned than previous models, with a swallowtail heel for stability and smoother foot strikes.
Our testers raved about the lightweight, flexible design, saying the boots felt wonderfully soft and springy as they clocked up the miles. There was no breaking in period with these bad boys and they offered impressive traction on most terrains. However, some testers noted that the protruding heel got caught when they tackled steps and narrow, rocky paths.
Energen Run 3 Shoes Mens The North Face winners if mountain climbing or bouldering are your jam. Still, the Trail Code hits the sweet spot between trail running shoe and walking boot, offering a trainer-esque level of comfort with superior protection. They also kept our feet pleasantly dry in wet and muddy conditions.
Pros
- Lightweight, stylish design
- Patent Faux Leather Buckle Footbed Sandals
- Made with 85% recycled polyester
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Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Testers’ feet were too warm in hot conditions
- Need breaking in
On shoes have a reputation for their plush, pillowy cushioning and these stylish Cloudtrax don’t disappoint on that front. Our walkers had a blast bouncing along the trails, saying the boots were extremely comfortable yet sufficiently grippy and supportive enough around the ankles.
Some hiking boots can be a nightmare to get on and off, but these were a doddle thanks to the handy no-tie lacing system. They didn’t come undone mid-scramble and they were easy to tighten on the move. We also loved the sneaker-esque design, which would look just as good in the pub as it would up a mountain.
Consider going up a size – particularly if you plan on wearing thick hiking socks – as testers found the fit rather snug. Some also reported hot, sweaty feet after hardcore hikes, so we’d save these for the cooler weather and less intense activities.
Pros
- Breathable waterproof membrane
- Eastland Piper Womens Slip-On Shoe
- Quick-dry after rainy walks
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Cons
- Slippy on smooth indoor surfaces
- Design feels basic
- Boots are on bulkier side
The best hiking boots can cost an arm and a leg, but this fuss-free Decathlon offering proves that doesn’t have to be the case. Though bulkier than the other styles in this round-up, they put in a solid performance on test. The sturdy design and grippy, high-traction sole inspired our walkers to tackle any terrain with confidence – even when plodding through mud and clambering over rocks – and there was no rubbing or chafing. Thanks to the Gore-Tex lining, our testers' feet remained dry when the weather took a dodgy turn and the quick-drying fabric prevented damp, soggy feet.
We did find the boots a tad slippery on smooth indoor surfaces and the heavy-duty design wasn’t a hit with everyone, but that’s down to personal preference. Also, note, they take some breaking in, but we reckon it’s well worth the effort. All in all, excellent bang for your buck.
Pros
- Gore-Tex lining
- Adiroam Hiker Boot
- Supportive ankle
Cons
- Require significant breaking in
These are the boots for you if you’ve got some hardcore hiking planned. The sturdy sole, secure heel and supportive upper will keep you comfortable and stop unwanted blisters from forming. The tread provided great grip on everything from loose gravel to wet grass, and the high ankle was a reassuring presence.
They’re quite firm and will need a fair bit of wearing in, but the extra effort will pay off.
Pros
- Gore-Tex lining
- 286g weight per boot
- Impressive grip
- Easy to clean
Cons
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The Roclite looks like it's been taken straight out of Bruce Wayne’s armoury, and it offers a close fit to rival that of Robin’s tights. This was a hit with testers, particularly those with narrow feet, with some saying they felt more like a second skin than a walking boot.
The boots offer great grip, too, and are refreshingly easy to clean, which we definitely appreciated. The lack of cushioning was noticeable on longer walks, but they were great for shorter jaunts.
Pros
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- Vegan-friendly
- Shoes VAGABOND Blanca 5417-701-20 Black
Cons
- Not for longer hikes
Another Merrell offering, these shoes were very much in our comfort zone. The (100% vegan) upper is soft and light like a running shoe, and the cushioned sole put a spring in testers’ steps during dog walks and more fast-paced outings.
After several wet walks, we can attest to the Moab’s credentials, and our team also liked how wide the ends of the shoes were, allowing us to stretch our toes for stability. They may not be suited to more gruelling hikes, but you’ll be able to complete shorter coastal walks in total comfort.
Barefoot and minimalist shoes are no longer exclusive to trendy Californian CEOs, and the popularity of the thin-soled footwear has surged in recent years thanks to claims the natural fit will engage your feet more.
If you’re used to the customary thick soles of most running shoes and walking boots, these Barefoot Trackers may seem a bit odd at first, as you can feel the stones and twigs beneath your soles. But they provided a secure yet flexible fit that moved with our feet — rather than strapping them into position — making them a good option for those wanting a more minimalist walking experience.
Pros
- Waterproof lining
- Good grip
- Lightweight
Cons
Yes, another offering from our favourite Swiss brand. Due to the fact they have the Alps in Switzerland, we're pretty sure they know what they're talking about when it comes to speed hiking up super-tough terrain.
These boots are light, waterproof and wouldn't look out of place in the pub, either. What more could you want?
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
Pros
- Gore-Tex membrane
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- Robust yet comfortable
Cons
- Stiff design may not be suited to everyone
- Moderate breaking in period
A super capable all-round boot. Out of the box, we found the Renegade GTX takes a few walks to mould to the feet, but after that, it handles pretty much all the terrain we tried it on, thanks to the combo of the Vibram sole and support frame.
That support frame does mean the Renegade is a moderately stiff boot, so if you prefer something that's very supple then these may not be for you. Still, the fit is comfy and the stiffness only really enhances the boot's capabilities, rather than making them feel unyielding.
Pros
- Rocker plate
- Waterproof GTX membrane
- Sporty aesthetic
Cons
A fantastic lightweight waterproof boot that feels and looks more like a trail shoe than a walking boot. The fit is true to size with generous space in the toebox, which our tester was a big fan of. 'This meant there were no issues with toes jamming against the boot on long mountain descents.'
Our tester loved the foot rocker, combined with the Graphene-infused G-Fly foam, which he said 'genuinely feels as if it is propelling you forward'. Inov-8 say this foam leads to 25% greater energy return, which you’ll be thankful for after a full day on the trails, as confirmed by our tester, who has worn these during multiple hikes upwards of five hours in the Canadian Rockies.
In terms of the upper, our tester felt it could benefit from being a little more sturdy/structured: 'The upper and heel counter are pretty stripped back so my foot/ankle didn't always feel fully protected, especially navigating boulders and rocks.'
That said, he commented that the Graphene Grip rubber outsole provided plenty of traction and 'this gave confidence when it came to descending mountains, especially over loose scree'.
Yanar has spent 15 years as a health and wellness editor and writer for national titles such as Women’s Health, Men’s Health and Runner’s World. Yanar is a 580-hour yoga therapist, 200-hour yoga teacher and level 3 personal trainer at Yanar Mind & Movement. After years of running races and marathons, she discovered CrossFit and Olympic lifting in her mid-30s and fell in love with training and competing. She now advocates strength training for women to build a stronger body for life and the benefits of nervous system regulation for better physical and mental health. When not training, teaching or writing, she can be found experimenting in the kitchen.
Ben is Runner's World's Multiplatform Director and has worked at the title for over 11 years. He has always had a deep interest in running shoes and tech and has amassed a wealth of knowledge on running products during this time and through countless hours of testing. Ben also enjoys exploring the science behind running and how it informs advances in training and racing. He is also the co-host of the weekly podcast. Ben is a firm believer that running is just as much about adventure and fun as about chasing PBs, and he likes nothing more than a day spent explore new trails.
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