Best walking shoes for summer 2025: Tried & tested hiking shoes for men and women 

Whether you’re heading out on a countryside ramble, exploring coastal footpaths or walking the dog in all weathers, a reliable pair of walking shoes is essential. Our gear testers at BBC Countryfile Magazine have put the latest men’s and women’s walking shoes through their paces across real UK terrain – from muddy woodland trails to rocky hillsides.

In this guide, you'll find our top recommendations for comfort, grip, waterproofing and value – all thoroughly tested so you can walk with confidence, whatever the weather.

Jump to best walking shoes for men

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At a glance: Best walking shoes for men

→Best overall: Hoka Anacapa Low GTX View deal

An accomplished shoe that balances comfort, support and performance well. If you like the style and plan walks rather than tough scrambling, these shoes might just be the ones for you. See more

→ Best for budget: Cotswold Wychwood Low View deal

A comfortable and breathable shoe, perfect for easy summer walks for those not wanting to break the bank at an affordable – currently on sale for £29.99. See more

→ Best for sustainability: Keen Ridge Flex Low View deal

These shoes use responsibly sourced leather from LWG-certified tanneries with closed-loop tanning and recycled materials to minimise environmental impact. See more

→ Best wildcard: Skinners Comfort 2.0 View deal

Sock shoes with a 3mm Swedish polymer sole which offers pebble and twig protection, and a removeable 2mm perforated footbed for added comfort and moisture control, these would be great for barefoot walkers wanting to upgrade. See more

At a glance: Best walking shoes for women

→ Best overall: Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX View deal

The Merrell Moab ('Mother of All Boots') Speed 2 is a stylish, lightweight, sustainable, and comfortable waterproof shoe ideal for moderate hikes and everyday wear. See more

→ Best value for money: Hi-Tec Low Diamonde View deal

A great budget option for beginners looking for a sturdy, the Hi-Tec Low Diamonde walking is a waterproof shoe that delivers boot like support over rocky and uneven terrain. See more

→ Best for sustainability: Berghaus Revolute Active View deal

A very comfortable shoe made from 100% synthetic materials that would be great for light walks and city breaks. See more

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Why trust us

Our expert team at BBC Countryfile Magazine tested the latest walking shoes across a range of terrains and conditions.

We focused on the key features that matter most to walkers: comfort, waterproofing, durability, grip, and value for money.

This article is regularly updated with new products, price changes and availability to ensure you're getting the best guidance in 2025.

Our testing process

Testing took place over several months and included walks across a range of real-world terrain, from muddy woodland paths and stony bridleways to steep hillside trails in locations such as Dartmoor, Exmoor and the South West Coast Path.

Shoes were worn for both short everyday outings and longer countryside hikes to evaluate how they felt over time. We also considered sustainability credentials, value for money, and design details like fit and ease of breaking in. Our aim was to find shoes that real walkers, from weekend ramblers to regular trail users, can trust on UK terrain.

How to choose walking shoes

Before you buy, consider the type of walking you do most often.

• For short strolls and dog walks: Look for lightweight, breathable shoes with good cushioning.
• For rugged trails or hillwalking: Prioritise support, grip, and waterproofing.
• For summer adventures: Choose shoes with mesh uppers and decent ventilation.
• For winter or wet weather: Opt for Gore-Tex or equivalent waterproof linings.

For more help, see our expert guide to choosing walking shoes.

Best walking shoes for men

Best overall

• Weight: 415g (UK size 11)
• Uppers: Nubuck leather and recycled polyester
• Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
• Midsole: Compression-moulded EVA midsole
• RRP: £160.00

The Anacapa Low has the look and feel of a running shoe: relatively lightweight with good flexibility, and a less solid toe bumper than other designs. Reassuringly, though, there's plenty of support and protection on uneven ground, and a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane for wet weather. The Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs is also a welcome addition for various terrains.

These shoes could be a great choice if you like the look and prefer to plan walks rather than tough scrambling. Reviewed by Rob Slade

Get these if... you like the style and plan walks rather than tough scrambling, these shoes might just be the ones for you.

• Read more: Hoka's Anacapa Low GTX review

• Weight: 364g (Men's size 9), 298g (Women's size 7)
• Uppers: Technical mesh with no-sew overlays
• Midsole: Omni-Max™ system with Techlite™ cushioning
• Outsole: Adapt Trax™ with deep flex grooves
• RRP: £115

A lightweight, waterproof hiking shoe that blends trainer-like comfort with solid trail performance. The Konos is ideal for casual walkers and all-day adventures on moderate terrain, offering excellent OutDry waterproofing, dependable grip, and impressive out-of-the-box comfort. It’s not one for hardcore hikes, but for everyday wear and weekend trails, it’s great value at £115. Reviewed by Matt Baird

Our verdict: The Columbia Konos TRS OutDry Mid combines lightweight comfort with waterproof protection and reliable traction, making it a versatile choice for moderate trail adventures.

Get these if... you're a hiker tackling varied terrain who wants a lightweight, waterproof boot with trail-runner comfort and mid-ankle support.

• Read more: Columbia Konos TRS Outdry Mid review

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Best for rocky trails

• Uppers: Recycled polyester mesh
• Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
• Midsole: EVA midsole with integrated TPU shank
• Waterproofing: Gore-Tex membrane
• Fit: Standard
• Weight: 394g per shoe (UK size 11)

Inspired by trail running shoes, Arc'teryx has created the Aerios FL (fast and light) with a minimal weight of just 394g per shoe (UK11). The huge rand and substantial toe protection gives them bonus points for protection on rocky ground, while the one-piece recycled mesh upper should maximise durability.

Waterproofing is great, with no water ingress during our submersion test, but you may miss the breathability of other shoes in warm conditions.

The outsole lugs perform well on rock and dry ground, but can struggle on muddy tracks. Reviewed by Rob Slade

Our verdict: Comfortable shoes for rocky or coastal paths – but not ideal for sloppy mud

Get these if.. youwant a lightweight, protective and stylish walking shoe that excels on rocky trails, coastal paths and hard-packed terrain but skip them if you need serious grip for muddy countryside walks.

• Read more: Arc’teryx Aerios FL 2 GTX full review

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Best on a budget

• Weight: 426g (UK size 11)
• Uppers: Recycled plastic and synthetic materials made from 85% recycled plastic bottles
• Outsole: Own brand dual-density rubber “python” outsole providing traction and grip
• Midsole: Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam
• RRP: £69.99

Priced at around £50, these walking shoes are a budget-friendly option – but not without flaws. We struggled with the sizing, which runs small, and at the same time experienced some heel slippage when treading through thick mud, which could be down to the slightly insecure lacing system.

The outsoles are fine on well-maintained paths, but didn't perform as well in slippery conditions. Meanwhile, the own-brand waterproof lining seemed to keep the weather at bay, apart from a small amount of water ingress around the tongue.

On the upside, these shoes have plenty of cushioning and flexibility across the midsole, and the mesh upper should be breathable. We'd recommend these shoes for easy summer walks as opposed to hikes on rough or rocky terrain. Reviewed by Rob Slade

Our verdict: Comfortable, good cushioning around the ankle and tongue, but not without faults.

Get these if... You're starting out, or aren't bothered by anything too technical, and want a solid walking shoe on a budget.

• Read more:Cotswold Wychwood Low walking shoe review

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Best for versatility

• Weight: 420g (UK size 11)
• Uppers: Synthetic
• Outsole: All Terrain Contagrip
• Midsole: EnergyCell EVA Foam
• RRP: £150.00

This stylish shoe from Salomon provides good cushioning around the ankle collar and tongue, as well as underfoot. It's flexible, to reduce foot fatigue, and the Gore-Tex lining works well.

Although we've found similar sole units slippery on wet rock, the Contragrip's chevron-style lugs felt solid in a range of conditions.

It's worth noting the questions over durability raised in several online reviews, so this pair might be one to avoid if you plan to cover a lot of ground in a short space of time. Reviewed by Rob Slade

Our verdict: Comfortable, versatile and waterproof, but not without flaws.

Get these if... you're a casual hiker, everyday walker, or tackling low to moderate trails and want lightweight comfort, reliable waterproofing, and a trainer-like feel in a mid-height walking shoe.

• Read more: Salomon's X Ultra 4 GTX review

• Weight: 541g per shoe (men’s size 10.5)
• Uppers: Leather
• Outsole: All-Terrain rubber with 5mm lugs
• Midsole: EVA
• RRP: £145.00

These heavy duty (541g per shoe, men’s size 10.5) shoes are basically boots – similar to the Keen Targhee – with the collars removed. They retain tyre-like soles, armed with 5mm-deep tread, and enormous toecaps – both signature features on Keen footwear.

They’re also reliably weatherproof, thanks to Keen’s own breathable and waterproof membrane, and have an excellent heel-lock system, cleverly integrated to the laces for a really secure fit. Reviewed by Pat Kinsella

Our verdict: A chunky trail-walking shoe that performs much better than it looks.

Get these if... if you're looking for a heavy duty shoe for more challenging walks and hikes.

• Read more: Keen Ridge Flex Low walking shoe review

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Best overall

• Weight: Approximately 290 g per shoe (UK size 5)
• Uppers: Lightweight breathable mesh (100% recycled lining & footbed cover)
• Outsole: Vibram outsole with 4 mm lugs and FlexPlate technology
• Midsole: FloatPro Foam midsole offering cushioned support, plus a FlexPlate for torsional stability
• RRP: £150

The latest hiking release from the U.S brand, I felt like these shoes could take me from brunch in the city, to a moderate hike. I found them a little slippy on smooth wet urban surfaces, however the 4mm Vibram traction lugs gave me good grip on wet surfaces on hikes, and the GORE-TEX waterproofing is a handy addition to these stylish walking shoes, allowing me to walk through puddles and light rain with ease, while allowing me feet to breath.

At just 290g per shoe, it’s lightweight and comfortable straight out of the box though the fit may be a little wide for narrow feet.

These vegan friendly, very comfortable, shoes would be a good choice for someone wanting a versatile walking shoe, that can go from a hike, straight to brunch. Reviewed by Leonie Helm

Best value for money

• Weight: Approximately 416 g per shoe, UK size 5
• Uppers: Soft‑shell synthetic (polyester/PU), vegan‑friendly with Dri‑Tec waterproof membrane
• Outsole: Durable carbon‑rubber outsole with traction‑optimized lug pattern
• Midsole: Compression‑moulded EVA midsole offering underfoot cushioning and support
• RRP: Around £70

I found these vegan friendly and sturdy walking shoes needed a bit of breaking in, however, once I had, I found them incredibly supportive over rocky and uneven terrain. With a similar rigidity to a walking boot and a light weight of 416 grams, these shoes took me from light walk to more challenging hike with ease.

I would strongly recommend the Hi-Tec Diamonde Low if you’re a beginner or casual walker seeking a sturdy, waterproof, and affordable shoe that delivers boot-like support without the bulk or high cost. Reviewed by Leonie Helm

Our verdict: For the price it's hard to think of a more all round great walking shoe, that would suit beginners and experienced walkers on a more casual walk.

Get these if.. you’re a beginner or casual walker who wants a sturdy, waterproof, and affordable shoe that offers boot-like support without the bulk or price tag.

• Read more:Hi-Tec Diamonde Low review

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Best for mountain hikes

• Weight: Approx.  347 g per shoe, UK size 5
• Uppers: Split leather (60%), polyester (38%), PU (2%); includes a waterproof breathable membrane
• Outsole: High-performance synthetic rubber with 4.5 mm Outdoor Contact studs and rubber stone guards front and back
• Midsole: Thick EVA foam for cushioning and ground protection
• RRP: £64.99

I was incredibly impressed with the Quechua MH500 shoe for the price (as low as £59.99). They're designed to be taken on mountain hikes, and despite the necessary rigidity needed to take me up a mountain, they were immediately comfortable.

I thought the leather on the vamp (front of the shoe) was a nice touch for the low price, and the shoes also contain recycled materials. The grip and traction was also impressive over rocky ground, and they feel more like a light hiking boot rather than a walking shoe, with a study EVA midsole that cushioned my feet well over rocky terrain. They also kept my feet dry during muddy and rainy walks, and the grippy outsole felt secure on slippery surfaces such as mossy rocks.

I have size 5 feet, and I appreciated the snug and supportive fit and I found them fairly stylish compared to many other walking shoes. While they're not fully sustainable (the upper includes leather) they do also contain recycled materials, and at under £65, I doubt there's a better deal out there for mountain ready performance. Reviewed by Leonie Helm

Our review: An incredibly reasonably priced yet robust shoe, that will take you from light walk to mountain trek in significant comfort.

Get them if... you want a wallet-friendly, waterproof walking shoe that’s comfortable straight out of the box and capable of tackling rocky or mountainous terrain without needing the heft of a full boot.

• Read more: Quechua MH500 Walking Shoes review

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Best for sustainability

• Weight: Approx. 324 g per shoe, UK size 5
• Uppers: 100%recycled polyester, including a waterproof breathable membrane which is 50% renewable and 50% bio based polyamide
• Outsole: Vibram® ECO-STEP EVO rubber with OPTI-STUD® lug pattern
• Midsole: EVA foam, 40 % bio-based sourced from sugarcane, combined with 50 % Braskem “I’M GREEN™” bio-based compound
• RRP: £130.00

I liked the fact that the Berghaus Revolute Active walking shoes are made from 100% synthetic fabric, and the shoes were comfortable straight out of the box. The shoes are built on a trail shoe foundation with the female foot in mind, so they're lightweight and flexible, and the Ortholite footbed provided me with good cushioning and comfort, however I could feel uneven ground underfoot more than on other shoes.

The Berghaus OPTI-STUD Vibram Eco-Trek outsole ensured grip and security underfoot during my walks, and the bio-based AQ membrane kept my feet dry, while allowing them to breath.

I did have a couple of concerns about the durability of these shoes, as the stitching around the laces started to fray after a few wears. These would be a good shoe for those prioritising comfort and looking for a shoe for light irregular walks. Reviewed by Leonie Helm

Our review: An incredibly lightweight and comfortable walking shoe with good support and grip, however they're not as durable as other options available for a lower price.

Get them if...you want a good looking and lightweight shoe from a veteran brand, with high levels of comfort and you don't mind spending a little extra.

• Read more: Berghaus Revolute Active Walking Shoes Review

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Best walking shoes for women: side by side

Walking shoe	Comfort, Fit and Stability (/5)	Materials, Quality and Durability (/5)	Flexibility and Weight (/5)	Grip and Traction (/5)	Waterproofing and Weather Resistance (/5)	Overall (/5)
Berghaus Revolute Active	4	3	4	4	3.5	3.5
Hi-Tec Diamonde Low	4.5	4	4	4	4	4
Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX	3.5	3	4.5	4	4	4
Quechua MH500	4	4	4	4	4	4

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Walking shoes buyer’s guide: how to choose the right pair for your walks

Walking shoes vs walking boots: which is better for you?

Choosing between walking shoes and walking boots depends on where and how you walk. Walking shoes tend to be lighter, cooler, and more flexible, making them ideal for casual strolls and summer walks. Boots, by contrast, offer stronger ankle support and protection, which helps on rough or uneven terrain, especially if you're carrying a heavy backpack.

If you want to avoid bulky footwear and prefer more freedom of movement, walking shoes are a great option. But if you regularly hike on rocky trails or in challenging weather, boots might give you the extra stability and protection you need.

Walking shoes can also be a good option for city breaks when you know you're going to be exploring on foot, or for a anyone who wants a bit of extra support when walking anywhere.

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Are walking shoes good enough for rough or uneven terrain?

Many walkers assume boots are necessary for anything beyond easy paths, but good-quality walking shoes can handle surprisingly tough conditions. Look for shoes with:

• A rugged, grippy outsole (like Vibram soles)
• Reinforced toe caps to protect from rocks
• Supportive midsoles that cushion your foot on uneven ground

Models such as the Salomon X Ultra 4 or Merrell Moab Speed offer enough grip and underfoot protection to confidently tackle hilly or rocky trails without the weight of a full boot.

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How waterproof are walking shoes and do I need waterproof boots?

Waterproof boots often keep your feet drier on wet walks thanks to their higher collars and ankle cuffs, which block out puddles and wet grass. Waterproof walking shoes typically use membranes like Gore-Tex to repel water, but because they sit below the ankle, water can still enter over the top on deep puddles or wet vegetation.

If you prefer walking shoes in wet weather, consider pairing them with waterproof socks to keep your feet dry during rainy walks.

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What features should you look for in walking shoes?

When choosing walking shoes, consider the following:

• Material: Traditional leather shoes are durable and weather-resistant but heavier. Modern synthetic materials are lighter and more breathable.
• Waterproofing: Do you need waterproof shoes for all-year wear, or breathable shoes for dry summer walks?
• Terrain: Will you be mostly on smooth paths, or do you need grip and protection, such as Vibram soles, for rough, rocky trails?
• Fit and comfort: Shoes should fit snugly but allow enough room for toes to move. Look for cushioned midsoles and good arch support if you walk long distances.

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Quick checklist: What to look for in walking shoes

• Rugged outsole with good grip for varied terrain
• Reinforced toe protection for rocky ground
• Waterproof membrane (e.g., Gore-Tex) if needed
• Breathable upper for warmer months
• Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
• Easy on/off heel loops or pull tabs

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Walking Shoe Care and Maintenance

Taking care of your walking shoes not only extends their lifespan but also keeps them comfortable and effective on every walk. After each outing, brush off dirt and mud with a soft brush or cloth, and let your shoes air dry away from direct heat sources.

To maintain waterproofing, regularly apply a high-quality waterproofing spray or wax designed for walking shoes.

Avoid soaking your shoes in water, as this can weaken the materials and adhesives. Also, check your soles and uppers regularly for signs of wear. When grip or support starts to decline, it’s time to consider replacing your shoes.

Investing in proper care products and timely replacements will help you get the most out of your walking shoes and keep your feet happy on every trail.

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Have we missed any walking shoes you'd like to see reviewed? Want to share your experience with any of the above models? Contact leonie.helm@ourmedia.co.uk

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