Hiking Shoes – Best UK Picks for Men Women and Waterproof 2026
Choosing the right hiking shoe in the UK for 2026 means balancing waterproof protection, fit, and terrain demands. This guide consolidates expert test data to help you decide.
The UK’s hiking footwear market has grown steadily as more people take up day hiking and fastpacking. With wet trails, varied terrain, and frequent weather changes, finding a shoe that keeps feet dry and comfortable is a priority for most walkers. The market now offers everything from lightweight low-cut shoes to supportive mid-height boots, each suited to different conditions.
Independent testers consistently rank the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX as the best overall hiking shoe for both men and women in 2026. Its combination of stability, low weight, and reliable Gore-Tex waterproofing makes it a top choice. However, traditional boots from brands like KEEN and On still have advantages for those carrying heavy packs or tackling especially rough ground.
What are the best hiking shoes for men?
Multi-source testing from Outdoor Gear Lab, CleverHiker, and Switchback Travel identifies the following top performers for men across different categories. The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX leads for its balance of agility and waterproofing, while the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX is preferred for comfort on longer days, and the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX remains the go-to budget pick.
| Category | Men’s Model | Key Features | Price (Approx UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX | Gore-Tex, 1lb 10oz, Contagrip outsole | £155–£175 |
| Best Comfort | HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX | Best for backpacking and stability | £160–£180 |
| Best Budget | Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX | Classic durability, Vibram outsole, Gore-Tex | £130–£145 |
| Best Cold/Damp Boot | On Cloudrock Low WP | Outstanding weather resistance, non-Gore-Tex membrane | £180–£200 |
The Salomon X Ultra 5 has a distinct narrow-to-medium fit that some find restrictive. If you have wider feet, the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX or the Altra Olympus 6 Hike Low GTX offer more room in the toebox.
Key insights from testing
- Waterproofing alone does not guarantee dry feet in heavy rain – breathability trade-off is critical.
- Men’s hiking shoes are typically wider and higher volume than women’s models, not just larger versions.
- Salomon dominates men’s categories with consistent high scores for grip and durability across multiple testers.
- Black hiking shoes are popular for easy cleaning and smart-casual versatility, but can heat up faster in direct sun.
- Most UK hikers still prefer a mid-cut boot for wet moorland, but low-cut shoes are gaining traction for summer.
- The average lifespan of a hiking shoe is 500–1,000 miles depending on material and frequency of use.
- Gore-Tex is used in around 60% of premium waterproof models, making it the dominant membrane in this segment.
Snapshot facts: hiking shoe essentials
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Average lifespan | 500–1,000 miles depending on use and material |
| Most common upper material | Leather, synthetic mesh, or combination |
| Waterproof membrane leader | Gore-Tex (around 60% of premium models) |
| Average price range (UK) | £80–£200 |
| UK leading retailer for variety | Blacks / Millets (under same group) |
| Most common outsole rubber | Vibram or Contagrip |
| Best for technical scrambling | La Sportiva TX4 Evo (water-resistant, not fully waterproof) |
What are the best hiking shoes for ladies?
Women’s hiking shoes are not simply scaled-down men’s shoes. They are typically narrower, have a lower volume, and are tuned for different weight distribution. Testing from Treeline Review and RunRepeat highlights the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX and HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX as the standout performers for women.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX wins Best Overall (1lb 6oz, Gore-Tex, Contagrip outsole, £155–£175). Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX is rated as having “unbeatable waterproofing” with an athletic feel at £160. HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX is described as “most comfortable” for all-day wear at £160–£180. Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX remains the best budget-friendly choice at £130–£145.
How women’s hiking shoes differ
Women’s models are built on lasts that account for a narrower heel and a wider forefoot relative to overall length. They also tend to be slightly lighter – for example, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX women’s version weighs 1lb 6oz compared to 1lb 10oz for the men’s. Cushioning is often tuned for lower average body weight, though many brands use the same midsole compound across genders.
The Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX is a particularly strong option for women who prioritise waterproofing, with testers calling its protection “unbeatable.” For those seeking maximum comfort on long days, the HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX is frequently recommended for its plush yet supportive ride.
What are the best waterproof hiking shoes?
Waterproofing is the top priority for many UK hikers given the country’s frequent rain. Gore-Tex remains the gold standard, outperforming most proprietary membranes in both waterproofing and breathability, according to CleverHiker. However, no membrane keeps feet dry in every scenario – depth of water, duration of exposure, and gait all play a role.
A waterproof membrane significantly reduces water ingress but is not guaranteed to keep feet dry in all conditions. Submersion above the collar, prolonged walking in heavy rain, and perspiration can all lead to wet feet. Breathability is a trade-off – the more waterproof the membrane, the less moisture vapour can escape, which may result in dampness from sweat.
Top waterproof models for UK conditions
For men, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX leads as the best overall waterproof shoe. For women, the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX is rated highest specifically for waterproofing. The Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX is a reliable budget option with Gore-Tex at around £130–£145. If you need a boot rather than a shoe, the KEEN Hightrail Mid WP offers versatile mid-height support with dependable weather protection starting at £170.
Non-waterproof alternatives
If you hike mostly in dry summer heat, a non-waterproof shoe like the Hoka Anacapa 2 Breeze costs about £25 less than its waterproof counterpart and offers similar comfort, but lacks submersion protection. For very technical terrain where scrambling is involved, the La Sportiva TX4 Evo is water-resistant rather than fully waterproof but offers unmatched traction on loose rock.
Are Salomon hiking shoes good?
Salomon hiking shoes are consistently rated among the best by multiple independent testers. The X Ultra 5 GTX has earned “Best Overall” marks from CleverHiker, Switchback Travel, and Treeline Review for both men’s and women’s categories. Its Advanced Chassis provides midfoot stability without the weight of a full boot, and the Contagrip outsole delivers reliable traction on wet and uneven surfaces.
Salomon vs. traditional boots: which should you choose?
| Feature | Salomon X Ultra 5 (Hiking Shoe) | Traditional Hiking Boots (e.g., KEEN, On) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Fast-paced hiking, technical trails, day trips | Rugged terrain, backpacking, long miles, cooler temps |
| Weight | Lightweight (approx. 1.6 lb men’s) | Heavier (approx. 2.2 lb+ women’s) |
| Support | Midfoot stability via Advanced Chassis | Full ankle support, toe protection, rigid sole |
| Waterproofing | Gore-Tex membrane (highly breathable) | Varies (Gore-Tex or proprietary membranes like On) |
| Fit | “Love-it-or-hate-it” narrow-to-medium fit | Generally accommodates wider feet (e.g., KEEN) |
| Durability | High (500+ miles tested) | High (designed for bushwhacking and rough abuse) |
If you hike in cool, wet UK conditions with a light pack, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is the superior choice for its agility and reliable Gore-Tex protection. For heavy backpacking or very rugged, rocky terrain where ankle stability is critical, a mid-height boot like the KEEN Hightrail or On Cloudrock is recommended.
For those who want lab-tested alternatives, the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 scores best for shock absorption and the La Sportiva Spire GTX for stability, according to RunRepeat. These are strong options if the Salomon fit does not suit you.
How do hikers choose the right shoe? A decision journey
The path from awareness to purchase typically follows five stages, based on observed search behaviour and user research:
- Awareness – The user searches for “best hiking shoes” or encounters outdoor content, sparking interest in a new purchase.
- Comparison – The user reads reviews and compares models across men’s, women’s, and waterproof categories, looking at expert test data.
- Consideration – The user narrows the choice to two or three models, reads fit guides, checks UK stock availability, and compares prices.
- Purchase – The user buys from a retailer such as Blacks, Columbia UK, or adidas UK, or from specialist outlets like Ellis Brigham or Snow+Rock.
- Post-purchase – The user searches for break-in tips and care maintenance advice to extend the life of the shoes.
What is certain and what remains unclear about hiking shoes?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Waterproof membranes (Gore-Tex, Omni-Tech) significantly reduce water ingress. | Whether a specific shoe is waterproof under all conditions – depends on depth, duration, and gait. |
| Salomon shoes are widely rated top-tier by multiple independent testers. | Which brand is “best” overall – varies by foot shape, terrain, and budget. |
| Hiking shoes are lighter and more flexible than boots. | Longevity of shoes – depends on usage frequency, terrain, and maintenance. |
| Gore-Tex outperforms most proprietary membranes in combined waterproofing and breathability. | Whether a low-cut shoe provides enough support for a given hiker’s ankle strength and pack weight. |
Why has the hiking shoe market grown so quickly?
The hiking shoe market in the UK has grown steadily with more people taking up day hiking and fastpacking. 2025 and 2026 trends include a shift toward sustainable materials and zero-drop soles, as well as better integration of ankle support in low-cut shoes via dynamic stability panels. Hybrid shoes that handle both trail walking and approach climbing are also on the rise. The SERP landscape remains split between review and affiliate sites on one side and brand and retail pages on the other, leaving a gap for a unified, question-driven guide that addresses men’s, women’s, waterproof, and UK-specific needs together.
What do the experts say about hiking shoes?
“The La Sportiva TX4 Evo remains unmatched in traction on loose rock.”
– Outdoor Gear Lab tester, 2026
“A good hiking shoe should feel like a glove from day one – no break-in period needed.”
– Expert from The Great Outdoors Mag, 2026
“Omni-Tech technology provides seam-sealed waterproof protection.”
– Columbia product page, 2025
Which hiking shoe should you buy in 2026?
For most UK hikers, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX offers the best all-round balance of weight, waterproofing, and stability for day hikes and fast-paced outings. If you need maximum ankle support for a heavy pack or rough terrain, a boot like the KEEN Hightrail Mid WP or On Cloudrock Low WP is a better choice. Budget-conscious buyers will find reliable performance in the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX. For those with wide feet, the Altra Olympus 6 Hike Low GTX is the top pick. If the Salomon fit does not suit you, the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 and La Sportiva Spire GTX are strong alternatives backed by lab data. For more on the differences between shoe types, read our Waterproof vs breathable hiking shoes explained guide.
Frequently asked questions about hiking shoes
How should hiking shoes fit?
You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. The heel should not lift when walking uphill. Try them on with your hiking socks.
Which is better for hiking: shoes or boots?
Shoes are lighter and more breathable, best for day hikes on dry terrain. Boots provide more ankle support and protection, suited for heavy packs and wet, rocky paths.
What is the most durable hiking shoe brand?
Based on 2026 tests, La Sportiva and Salomon consistently rank highest for durability. Both use reinforced toe caps and high-quality outsoles.
Are all hiking shoes waterproof?
No, many hiking shoes are non-waterproof or water-resistant. Waterproof models usually contain a membrane like Gore-Tex. Check product specifications before buying.
Where can I buy hiking shoes in the UK?
Major UK retailers include Blacks, Millets, Cotswold Outdoor, and online at Columbia UK and adidas UK. For specialist ranges, try Ellis Brigham or Snow+Rock.
What is the difference between men’s and women’s hiking shoes?
Women’s shoes are typically narrower, lower volume, and tuned for different weight distribution. They are not simply scaled-down men’s versions.
Are black hiking shoes a good choice?
Black hiking shoes are popular for easy cleaning and smart-casual versatility. However, they can heat up faster in direct sunlight compared to lighter colours.
How long do hiking shoes last?
The average lifespan is 500–1,000 miles depending on material quality, terrain type, and how often they are used. Proper care extends their life.
Do I need to break in hiking shoes?
Many modern hiking shoes require minimal break-in, but it is wise to wear them on short walks first to check for pressure points. Some models, especially leather ones, benefit from a gradual break-in period.
Can I use hiking shoes for running?
Hiking shoes are designed for walking on uneven terrain, not for running. They are heavier and stiffer than trail running shoes. For running, choose a dedicated trail runner instead.
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