Choosing the right walking boots starts with choosing a brand you can trust. While no single manufacturer makes the perfect boot for everyone, a handful of brands have earned an excellent reputation for comfort, durability and performance across a wide range of walking conditions.
Whether you’re heading out on gentle countryside walks, exploring the Peak District or tackling the mountains of the Lake District, these five walking boot brands consistently produce reliable footwear for every type of walker.
In this guide, we’ll look at five of the best walking boot brands for 2026 and explain what makes each one stand out.
1. Scarpa
Scarpa has been producing premium outdoor footwear for decades and is one of the most respected names in walking and mountaineering.
Known for exceptional build quality and outstanding comfort, Scarpa boots are popular with everyone from weekend walkers to experienced mountain hikers.
Many Scarpa models feature Gore-Tex waterproof membranes, supportive midsoles and durable Vibram soles, making them ideal for demanding terrain.
Scarpa boots are particularly well suited to:
- Hill walking
- Mountain hiking
- Long-distance trails
- All-weather walking
If you’re looking for a boot that combines comfort with long-term durability, Scarpa is an excellent place to start.
2. Salomon
Salomon has built a reputation for lightweight, innovative outdoor footwear that performs exceptionally well across a wide variety of terrain.
Their boots often feel comfortable straight out of the box and combine modern materials with excellent grip and waterproof protection.
One of the most popular models is the Salomon Quest, which has become a favourite with walkers looking for outstanding support, comfort and stability on longer hikes.
Salomon boots are ideal for:
- Day walks
- Multi-day hikes
- Mixed terrain
- Walkers who prefer lighter footwear
3. Lowa
German manufacturer Lowa is renowned for producing high-quality walking boots that offer superb comfort and support.
Perhaps the best-known model is the Lowa Renegade, a boot that has become one of the UK’s most popular choices for hill walking and countryside adventures.
The Renegade is well known for its comfortable fit, reliable waterproofing and excellent all-round performance, making it suitable for everything from woodland walks to challenging National Park routes.
Lowa boots are particularly suited to:
- Everyday walking
- Hill walking
- Long-distance routes
- Walkers looking for lasting comfort
4. Merrell
Merrell has become one of the world’s most recognisable outdoor footwear brands thanks to its comfortable, practical and affordable walking boots.
Many Merrell boots are lightweight and require very little breaking in, making them especially appealing to beginners and casual walkers.
Whether you’re exploring local footpaths or spending a weekend in the countryside, Merrell offers dependable footwear at a range of price points.
Merrell boots are ideal for:
- Beginners
- Leisure walking
- Countryside footpaths
- Weekend adventures
5. Meindl
Meindl has been making handcrafted walking boots for more than 300 years and is widely respected for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
Many of its boots feature premium leather uppers, Gore-Tex waterproof protection and excellent long-distance comfort.
Meindl footwear is particularly popular with walkers who spend long days on the trail and want a supportive boot that will last for many years with proper care.
Meindl boots are especially suited to:
- Long-distance walking
- Fell walking
- Mountain routes
- Walkers wanting premium leather boots
Which Brand Is Right for You?
The best walking boot brand depends on the type of walking you enjoy.
If you’re planning challenging mountain walks, Scarpa and Meindl are excellent choices.
If you prefer lightweight comfort for mixed terrain, Salomon offers some outstanding options.
For dependable all-round performance, the Lowa Renegade remains one of the most highly regarded walking boots available.
If you’re new to walking or want great value without compromising on comfort, Merrell is well worth considering.
Where to Buy Walking Boots
Buy Walking Boots from Blacks
Blacks stocks a wide selection of walking boots from trusted brands including Scarpa, Salomon, Lowa, Merrell and Meindl. Whether you’re buying your first pair of boots or upgrading for your next adventure, you’ll find models suitable for everything from gentle countryside walks to demanding mountain hikes.
Buy Walking Boots from GO Outdoors
GO Outdoors also offers an extensive range of walking boots from many of the UK’s favourite outdoor brands. You’ll find boots for beginners, experienced walkers and serious hikers, together with expert advice and the latest seasonal collections.
Buy Walking Boots from Go Outdoors
Frequently Asked Questions
Which walking boot brand is best?
There isn’t a single best brand for every walker. Scarpa, Salomon, Lowa, Merrell and Meindl all produce excellent walking boots, with the right choice depending on your walking style, preferred terrain and budget.
Are expensive walking boots worth it?
Premium walking boots often offer better materials, improved durability and greater comfort, making them a worthwhile investment if you walk regularly or tackle challenging terrain.
Which walking boots are best for the Lake District?
Supportive waterproof boots with good grip are recommended for the rocky and often wet conditions found in the Lake District. Models such as the Salomon Quest and Lowa Renegade are popular choices for many walkers.
How long should walking boots last?
With regular care, a quality pair of walking boots can last for many years. Cleaning, drying and maintaining your boots properly will help maximise their lifespan.
Related Articles
You may also find these guides useful:
- Choosing Walking Boots
- Walking Boots vs Walking Shoes
- Waterproof Walking Boots (Coming Soon)
- Walking in the Lake District
- Walking in the Peak District
- Ordnance Survey Apps and Maps
- GPS Handheld Units for Walkers
Final Thoughts
Investing in a quality pair of walking boots is one of the best decisions any walker can make. The right footwear improves comfort, provides better grip and support, and helps you enjoy every walk with greater confidence.
Whether you choose the rugged durability of Scarpa, the lightweight innovation of Salomon, the all-round comfort of Lowa, the versatility of Merrell or the premium craftsmanship of Meindl, selecting a trusted brand is an excellent first step towards many enjoyable adventures on the trail.