For any hiker, a reliable pair of walking boots is the cornerstone of adventure. While trainers might suffice for a park stroll, tackling the UK's fells, coast paths, and muddy trails demands proper footwear that offers grip, ankle support, and waterproof protection. Investing in a quality, well-fitting pair is an investment in years of exploration. Our expert, a seasoned adventure travel writer with over a decade of gear-testing experience, has put numerous boots through their paces on trails from Mount Kenya to the Cotswolds to bring you the definitive guide to the best women's walking boots for 2026.
How We Tested: Putting Boots Through Their Paces
The only true test for a hiking boot is mileage. Our tester wore each recommended pair on at least ten miles of varied terrain, from Lake District bogs to the South West Coast Path and wild camping on Dartmoor. Some boots, like the Lowa Innovos, were tested over 40 miles to assess long-term durability. Key testing criteria included waterproofing (verified by intentional puddle-stomping), fit, ankle support, sole comfort, and overall performance. After testing, all boots were donated to the Julian Trust night shelter in Bristol to support homeless people.
Top Picks: The Best Women's Walking Boots Reviewed
Best Walking Boot Overall: Lowa Innovo GTX Mid
Price: From £113.99 at SportsShoes. The Lowa Innovo GTX Mid emerged as the outstanding all-rounder. These waterproof boots combine a grippy Lowa Terra Trac sole with a supportive, high ankle cuff, yet remain surprisingly lightweight at 418g per shoe. Built on a female-specific last, they offer a wide, comfortable fit ideal for those with bunions, though they may not suit narrow feet. Testers found them warm enough for British winters yet breathable for summer, making them perfect for day hikes and multi-day holidays.
Best Budget Walking Boots: Regatta Holcombe III
Price: £40 at Debenhams. For those seeking value without sacrificing core performance, the Regatta Holcombe IIIs are a standout. These lightweight, waterproof boots offer immediate comfort with supportive insoles and a cushioned ankle collar. While their grip is best suited to groomed trails rather than rocky scrambles, and they lack deep winter insulation, they excel on casual country walks and warmer-weather treks, providing excellent comfort and dry feet at an accessible price point.
Best Waterproof Boots: Scarpa Ranger 2
Price: £230 at Go Outdoors. Scarpa's updated Ranger 2 merges classic leather durability with modern technology. The full-grain leather upper and Gore-Tex lining provide formidable waterproofing, while the Vibram outsole delivers exceptional grip on slippery paths, loose scree, and mud. They require minimal breaking in and offer superb ankle support with a padded collar. The trade-off is warmth; these are ideal for autumn and winter walking but can be too insulated for summer hikes.
Best for Fit & Support: Aku Trekker Pro II
Price: £255 at Aku. If ankle support and arch comfort are your priorities, the Italian-designed Aku Trekker Pro II is a top contender. A secure lacing system and structured ankle design provide confidence on uneven ground, while the deep-lugged Vibram sole offers reliable traction. The boot provides a structured, supportive feel without excessive weight, making it a great choice for those prone to ankle rolls or who need extra arch support on long distances. Like the Scarpa, it's best for cooler weather.
Best Lightweight Boots: Keen Leiki
Price: From £87 at Keen. For summer hiking holidays and warm-weather comfort, the Keen Leiki boots are a favourite. Weighing just 351g per shoe, they feel as light and breathable as trainers but with the added benefit of Keen.Dry waterproofing and a grippy outsole. They feature a contoured arch, foam cushioning, and a characteristically wide fit, making them excellent for wide feet or bunions. Their anti-odour insoles are a bonus, but they lack the insulation needed for winter walking.
Best Boots for Trekking: Hanwag Nazcat II GTX
Price: £270 at Hanwag. For challenging multi-day hikes, heavy packs, and UK mountain terrain, you need a boot built to endure. The Hanwag Nazcat II GTX is that boot. With robust full-grain leather, Gore-Tex waterproofing, a protective toe box, and a supremely grippy Vibram sole, it handles stormy weather and rough ground with ease. The plush leather and cushioned insole provide comfort, but this robustness comes with weight—650g per boot—making them a specialist investment for serious trekking.
Key Considerations When Buying Walking Boots
Choosing the right boot involves several key decisions. The choice between leather and fabric is primary: leather offers durability and natural water resistance but can be warmer and require more care; fabric boots are typically lighter and more breathable but may be less hard-wearing. Waterproofing is non-negotiable for UK conditions; look for boots with a membrane like Gore-Tex (GTX) rather than just water-resistant treatments.
Fit is paramount. Always try boots on with the socks you intend to hike in. Ensure there's room to wiggle toes, the heel is secure, and the ankle is snugly supported when laced. Mid or high-cut boots offer the best ankle support for uneven trails. While budget is a factor, it's worth investing as much as you can in new boots—they will mould to your feet and, with proper care (cleaning, re-proofing), can last for many years and countless adventures.
