Choosing the best walking boots in the UK comes down to the ground you walk on, how much ankle support you want and how waterproof you need them to be. This guide compares the walking boots and shoes we stock at 4 Elements Clothing from Treksta, Dolomite, Aigle and Harkila, all with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane. We have left prices out on purpose, so this guide stays accurate. Check each product page for current prices and sizes.
Last updated November 2026.
Quick picks: the best walking boots for every walk
- Best all-round hiking boot (men's): Dolomite Vernale GTX, a waterproof leather boot with a Vibram sole.
- Best women's walking boot: Dolomite Vernale GTX Women's, made from nubuck and suede leather.
- Best for country walking and stalking: Treksta Heathfield 6 inch or the taller Treksta Hereford 9 inch.
- Best mid-height trail boot: Aigle Altavio Mid GTX.
- Best lightweight low-cut option: Treksta Buxton Low GTX or the Dolomite Nibelia GTX.
- Best for rocky ground and scrambling: Dolomite Crodarossa GTX boot, a mountain approach style.
- Best premium hunting-style boot: Harkila Reidmar Mid 2.0 GTX.
Walking boots comparison table
| Boot | For | Waterproofing | Style | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dolomite Vernale GTX | Men's | Gore-Tex | Leather hiking boot, Vibram sole | Hill and trail walking |
| Dolomite Vernale GTX Women's | Ladies' | Gore-Tex | Nubuck and suede, Vibram sole | Hill and trail walking |
| Dolomite Crodarossa GTX | Men's | Gore-Tex | Leather boot or shoe, Vibram sole | Rocky ground, approach routes |
| Dolomite Nibelia GTX | Men's | Gore-Tex | Lightweight shoe | Easy trails, day walks |
| Treksta Heathfield 6 inch | Men's & ladies' | Gore-Tex | Nubuck leather boot | Country walking, hunting, everyday |
| Treksta Hereford 9 inch | Men's | Gore-Tex | Tall lace-up, Nestfit comfort | Stalking, rough ground |
| Treksta Buxton Low GTX | Men's & ladies' | Gore-Tex | Low synthetic shoe, Hypergrip sole | Light trails, everyday |
| Aigle Altavio Mid GTX | Men's | Gore-Tex | Mid-height leather, Vibram sole | Trail and country walks |
| Harkila Reidmar Mid 2.0 GTX | Men's | Gore-Tex | Lightweight leather, wire lacing | Stalking, hill walking |
Brand by brand: what makes each different
Dolomite walking boots
Italian mountain heritage and Vibram soles for grip. The Vernale is the straightforward hiking boot in men's and women's versions, the Crodarossa suits rockier ground, and the Nibelia is a lighter shoe for easier days.
Treksta walking boots
Practical country boots with Gore-Tex waterproofing. The Heathfield is a 6 inch nubuck boot, the Hereford is a tall 9 inch boot with Nestfit comfort, and the Buxton is a low trail shoe with a Hypergrip sole. Our Treksta boots and BOA lacing guide explains the range.
Aigle walking boots
French outdoor brand best known for wellies. The Altavio is a leather mid-height Gore-Tex boot with a Vibram sole for trail walking.
Harkila walking boots
Scandinavian hunting brand. The Reidmar Mid 2.0 GTX is a lightweight Gore-Tex leather boot with wire lacing, built for long days on rough ground. See our Harkila guide.
How to choose the best walking boots for you
- Boot or shoe: Boots support the ankle and keep out mud and wet grass. Low shoes are lighter and better for easy paths. Our how to choose walking boots guide covers the difference.
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex keeps water out while letting sweat vapour escape. Read what Gore-Tex is and how it works.
- Sole and grip: Look for a Vibram or deep-lugged sole for mud, wet rock and grass.
- Fit: Leave room for your toes on descents and wear your usual walking socks when you try boots on. Wide feet? See our wide fit walking boots guide.
- Socks: Pair your boots with merino walking socks for comfort and blister control.
- Breaking in: New leather boots need a little wear first. Follow our how to break in walking boots steps.
Walking boots FAQs
What are the best walking boots for the UK weather?
Waterproof, breathable boots with a grippy sole. All the boots in this guide use a Gore-Tex membrane and are suited to wet British conditions.
Are walking boots better than walking shoes?
Boots give more ankle support and protection on rough or boggy ground. Shoes are lighter and cooler for easy paths and summer days.
Do I need Gore-Tex walking boots?
If you walk in wet weather, a waterproof membrane keeps your feet drier. For dry-weather walking, a non-waterproof boot can be cooler.
How should walking boots fit?
Snug around the heel and midfoot, with space to wiggle your toes. Try them late in the day with your usual socks.
How do I look after leather walking boots?
Brush off dirt, let them dry naturally and condition the leather. See how to clean leather boots and how to waterproof boots.
Related guides
Shop walking boots
Browse our full range of walking boots and walking and hiking boots. More guides are in The Field Guide.
Need help choosing?
Not sure which pair is right? Email help@4elementsclothing.co.uk and we will be happy to help. Orders placed before 3pm Monday to Friday (10am Saturday) are dispatched the same day.
