1. Scarpa Nepal - £140
These beasts from the Italian mountain specialists survived a 25-mile hike over Snowdon without even chafing a little toe. A robust toe covering and aggressive soles make them peerless hill scrabblers.
www.scarpa.co.uk;
0191 296 0212
|
2. Inov-8 Roclite 315 - £65
Trail-running shoes combine the sturdiness of a walking boot with the agility of a running shoe and few do it as well as this top-rated pair, which combines flex and breathability with a hard-wearing sole.
www.inov-8.com;
01388 744 900
|
|
| |
|
3. Merrell Chameleon Wrap - £70
Merrell has cornered the hiking shoe market and this lightweight number is one of their best. Sporting a sturdy sole with a generous rubber seal, and water-resistant nubuck uppers, they make ideal summer trekkers.
www.merrell.co.uk;
01179 636 363
|
|
| |
|
4. Salomon Kids Extend Mid GTX - £45
You can’t bung a child into wellies and expect them not to straggle and/or burst into tears on long walks. Decent boots will boost everyone’s enjoyment. These affordable shoes are light, comfy and waterproof.
www.salomonoutdoor.com
|
|
| |
|
5. Scarpa ZG10 GTX - £150
Our woman tester swapped high heels for high alpine (well, North Wales) and found all-day comfort in these rugged offerings from Scarpa. Gore-Tex linings and solid soles make these hikers hard to beat.
www.scarpa.co.uk;
0191 296 0212
|
|
| |
|
6. Berghaus Explorer Leather GTX - £90
Lightweight and generously padded, these classic brown leather ramblers provide instant comfort. A soft midsole make them ideal for easier-going trails – more South Downs than Swiss Alps.
www.berghaus.com;
0191 516 5700
|
|
| |
|
7. Brasher Hillmaster GTX - £115
Scuffing the luscious uppers on these quintessentially English boots feels criminal. Conceived by London Marathon founder Chris Brasher, who preferred a snug trainer, they are sturdy, waterproof and comfortable.
www.brasher.co.uk;
0191 516 5780
|
|
| |
|
8. Teva Karnali Wraptor - £70
A weather-proof lining and leather uppers aren’t always what you want on a hot summer hike. These open-toes from the sandal specialists are quick-drying and boast sturdy soles and a supportive fit.
www.teva.com
|
|
| |
|
9. Hi-Tec Kruger - £30
Don’t expect the highest performance from budget hiking shoes but if you just need something half-decent for a one-off sortie why shell out a ton? These lightweight Hi-Tecs are on sale at half price.
www.millets.co.uk;
0800 389 5861
|
|
| |
|
10. Zamberlan Vioz GT - £130
A fine looking and eminently comfortable pair from the Italian masters. Crafted from one piece of leather and lined with Gore-Tex, they are universally well-reviewed and are perfect for long treks below the snowline.
www.zamberlan.com;
0161 432 0319
|
|
| |
23 April 2008, Chosen by Simon Usborne
