The ultimate guide to women’s hiking shoes for UK adventurers
As someone who loves the outdoors, I've spent a lot of time wandering through the stunning landscapes of the UK. From the spending weekends knee deep in the Great British bogs to the gentle hills of the Lake District, I’ve encountered a wide variety of terrain that’s tested my gear to the max, especially my footwear.
I’ll admit it: I prefer the freedom and comfort of hiking shoes over boots. Over the years, I’ve developed a strong preference for hiking shoes, even in winter, despite the fact that most hiking experts recommend boots for colder conditions. They’re lighter, offer more flexibility, and give me a closer connection to the terrain.
Don’t get me wrong — I’ve tried out many a boot. But for me, they just feel heavy and restrictive, especially on the diverse trails in the UK. So, whether you’re planning a challenging multi-day hike, or a simple countryside walk, here’s my personal guide to choosing the right hiking footwear, from high to low cost.
Why I prefer hiking shoes, even in winter
Now, I know what you're thinking—shoes in winter? That's risky, right? Aren’t boots essential when the weather gets cold, snowy, or muddy? Most experts would agree, and they’d recommend a sturdy, waterproof hiking boot for those challenging winter conditions. They’re great for ankle support and keeping your feet dry in deeper snow or on rugged, slippery terrain. I’m also in any way no expert, so please feel free to disregard my following ramblings.
But here's the thing: I’ve found that well-designed hiking shoes can be surprisingly effective, even in winter, when paired with the right gear like thermal socks and gaiters. I love the lightweight, agile feeling they provide, and they’re perfect for UK conditions that tend to be more wet than snowy.
Why hiking shoes over boots?
Lightweight & flexible: Shoes feel less cumbersome than boots, which means better agility. I find this particularly useful in the more varied, rocky terrains I often encounter.
Breathability: Shoes tend to be more breathable than boots, which keeps my feet cooler in milder weather, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort.
Comfort: Hiking shoes offer a great balance of comfort and performance without sacrificing ankle support. Plus, I don’t feel as restricted as I do in a boot.
That being said, everyone’s different, and boots are definitely the better choice for some conditions, like deep snow or if you’re carrying a heavy pack over rugged terrain. But for me, hiking shoes do the job well and often feel like the perfect middle ground.
Best budget hiking shoes for UK adventures
Whether you’re heading out for a short weekend hike or just want a good pair of shoes to tackle the hills, there are plenty of great options for those on a budget.
1. Columbia Redmond 3 Wp Low Rise Trekking and Hiking Shoes - Best for Versatility
Price: £40 - £65
If you're looking for a well-rounded shoe for easy to moderate trails, the Columbia Redmond 3 Wp is a great choice. With a comfortable midsole and excellent grip, these shoes perform well in a variety of conditions, from forest paths to wet hillsides. The waterproof feature is a big bonus for UK weather, ensuring your feet stay dry during unexpected showers. For the price, you get a lot of value, and they hold up well to wear and tear.
2. Merrell Moab 2 Low Hiking Shoe - Best for Comfort
Price: £70 - £85
The Merrell Moab 2 is one of the most popular hiking shoes for a reason—it’s incredibly comfortable straight out of the box. It’s well-cushioned, with a supportive insole that makes it perfect for day-long hikes. While it's a bit pricier than other budget shoes, the Moab 2’s quality makes it a great investment for longer adventures across diverse terrains. Plus, its Vibram sole offers exceptional traction on rocky paths.
Mid-range hiking shoes for UK trails
If you’re looking for a step up in quality and performance, but still want something that won’t break the bank, here are a couple of solid options.
3. Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX - Best for Technical Terrain
Price: £110 - £125
For those more technical hikes in the UK—think steeper climbs, wet rocks, and tricky descents—the Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX is a fantastic option. These shoes feature advanced grip technology, and the waterproof Gore-Tex lining ensures that your feet stay dry even in the wettest of conditions. While a little pricier, the durability and performance make them a great choice for serious adventurers who still prefer shoes over boots.
4. North Face Hedgehog Fastpack III GTX - Best for All-Round Durability
Price: £100 - £130
These shoes strike a perfect balance between comfort, durability, and performance. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps water out while maintaining breathability, and the Vibram sole offers excellent traction. The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack III GTX is ideal for a variety of UK landscapes, from coastal walks to mountain trails, and its sleek design means you’ll look great while adventuring too!
High-end hiking boots for UK adventures
If you’re looking for a boot that can handle tougher conditions, a high-end option might be the way to go. These boots are designed to offer the best protection and performance for serious hikes, especially if you’re tackling long-distance treks or challenging terrains.
6. Danner Women’s Hiking Boot
Price: £250 - £300
Link: Danner Boots on Amazon
When it comes to aesthetics, the Danner Mountain 600 4.5” GTX is hands down my favorite. These boots are absolutely stunning—sleek, stylish, and built with a retro-inspired design that combines rugged durability with a modern twist. The full-grain leather upper and contrasting laces give them an old-school charm, while the Vibram sole ensures excellent traction across various terrains.
But it’s not just about looks—these boots are performance-driven as well. With Gore-Tex waterproofing, they’ll keep your feet dry during unpredictable UK weather, and the lightweight build makes them comfortable even for longer treks. Whether you're hiking through the lakes or on a city-to-trail adventure, the Danner Mountain 600s stand out not only for their durability but for being the best-looking hiking boot in my collection. For style-conscious hikers, these boots deliver both form and function.
Final thoughts
In the end, the choice between hiking shoes and boots is a personal one, and it all comes down to your own preferences, the type of terrain you’ll be hiking, and how much weight you're willing to carry. Personally, I’ll stick with hiking shoes—because for me, the freedom and comfort they provide make them the perfect companion for most UK adventures. But if you’re venturing into more challenging conditions or need extra ankle support, hiking boots are definitely worth considering.
Whatever you choose, I hope you find the perfect pair of shoes or boots for your next adventure in the beautiful UK countryside.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. As always, I’d only ever recommend products I’ve personally tried, tested, and fully back.
