If like us you love the outdoors then it is no surprise that having not only great quality gear but ones specifically designed to meet the demands of a whole range of external factors like the climate, type of terrain underfoot and the distance that may be travelled can make for a much better experience. When it comes to Shoes for walking and hiking primarily off road there is plenty to choose from thanks to a number of innovations from brands who have created a varied range of technical features and materials so you can meet as many conditions as the Earth has to offer with comfort and support with lasting performance.
Of course if you are not too familiar with technical walking shoes and the plethora of technical material names that can be tricky to pronounce, finding the perfect pair for your individual requirements can be tricky. Having this in mind we have brought together our favourite Walking and Hiking Shoes from the past year to create a Top 5 list to help everyone get the right pair by explaining how each one performs and what conditions they are best suited for.
Our Top 5 Walking & Hiking Shoes
Merrell Chameleon Wrap Slam Shoes
If you like to be active and hit any trail with more vigour and speed then the Merrell Chameleon Wrap Slam Shoes are ideal. They are easy to slip on as they have a Lycra/Neoprene combination stretch collar and securely stay in place with the lacing system, plus have an extremely comfortable fit due to an anatomical footbed. Both the majority of the upper and the internal lining are made of breathable mesh, so it allows internal moisture and heat to escape and helps maintain a comfortable climate inside the shoe. There are some protective features like a moulded rubber rand and toe bumper, along with a TPU stability arm, Nylon 6.6 moulded arch shank, In-Board EVA footframe and a Merrell Air Cushion, all of which ensure plenty of support, cushioning and comfort that lasts with plenty of response. The outsole construction comprises of a Vibram Chameleon Hiker TC5+ rubber with 4mm lug depth so gives a lot of traction and grip while allowing for push-off power as well. MORE INFO
The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Walking Shoes
The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Shoes are great if you want to keep on the move while having protection against the elements. A GORE-TEX membrane firmly keeps moisture from getting into the fabric but also lets perspiration escape from inside as well so they work hard at keeping you dry. The upper is fairly durable as the breathable mesh is abrasion resistant with synthetic overlays and all the hardware like the eyelets are rustproof, while TPU components including the shank, heel Cradle and weld ensure a solid structure and stability. The EVA midsole is quite hard wearing as well and has a Cradle Guide for a lot of support and similar to the previous of our Top 5 Walking Shoes, the TNF Hedgehog Fastpack has Vibram designed soles which are tough and ensure quite a bit of grip on the majority of terrain types.MORE INFO
Haglofs Vertigo II GT Walking Shoes
Designed as a multi-sport shoe, the Haglofs Vertigo II GT works well for hiking and scrambling throughout most of the year. They are waterproof due to GORE-TEX technologies and a leather upper, but have quite a modern style and colourway options which sets them apart from the classic leather shoe and boot designs. You do get a nice, comfortable fit with the Haglofs Vertigo Two’s that is well secured with the longer than average laces and due to the innovative ‘star shape’design of the upper sections which allows for a lot of flexibility without losing the fit. As is common with most technical footwear they have EVA midsoles for great support and stability, plus greater responsive feel without adding much in the way of weight. If worn for scrambles these Haglofs feature ‘sticky’rubber soles so give high traction which is reinforced in the toe cap and heel areas for more durability and to help prevent impacts and tough ground from causing injury.MORE INFO
Meindl Caracas GTX Walking Shoes
If you only have time for short hikes or prefer walking closer to urban areas the Meindl Caracas GTX Walking Shoes are great for lasting comfort and are even suited to everyday use. They are quite stylish with a modern, technical walking shoe profile and a waxed Nubuck leather upper exterior, plus fairly hard wearing as well. A GORE TEX membrane is included in each Meindl Caracas shoe making them both waterproof and breathable so ready are to tackle wetter weather. Located in the heel is a Poron shock absorber which along with the Air-Active footbed makes every step feel cushioned no matter how far you walk so there is plenty of lasting comfort. Vibram Urban Walker outsoles have been used for specifically with these shoes so are tuned to be non-slip, allowing you to walk more confidently.MORE INFO
Keen Koven WP Walking Shoes
The Keen Koven WP Walking Shoes like the majority of their footwear collection have been made for multi-use, predominantly in wet conditions, so work well on the majority of treks and hikes you are likely to find yourself on. An upper fabric of waterproof leather and breathable mesh with the combination of a KEEN.DRY membrane (also breathable & waterproof) works well at keeping the shoe dry while walking on wet ground and during brief, unexpected rain showers. Support comes from a compression moulded midsole and a comfortable footbed, which is also removable so gives the option of choosing a different type or replacing it if required, plus the Keen Koven Waterproof Walking Shoes have underfoot shanks for better stability than your average footwear. The outsole has been designed to give secure footing where feasible by being non-marking so dirt and mud struggles to adhere whilst multi-directional, rugged lugs grip brilliantly.MORE INFO