The Ultimate Walking Boots Style Guide

How to lace walking boots

Lacing up your walking boots correctly is essential to ensure a comfortable fit. Most walking boots finish above the ankle and have two-zone lacing, allowing you to create a more custom fit. Zone one is across the foot and this sets the tension over the instep. Zone two is at the ankle and normally features lace hooks to secure the ankle in place and create secure support.

Many boots also have deep pull lacing hooks between the two zones called ‘heel locks’ that help prevent heel slip, one of the main causes of blisters. Creating the right tension with your lacing will make your boots feel more comfortable for longer. Tight lacing can restrict your feet too much; lacing that’s too loose won’t be supportive and may cause rubbing. The key is to get the tension comfortable in both zones before setting out.

How should walking boots fit?

Your new boots should fit snugly and securely with adequate ankle support. Your heels should not slip and there should be some wiggle room at the toes. If you can feel pinching or rubbing then the boots are too tight. When trying on walking boots, wear the socks you will wear when walking to get the best fit.

We recommend testing the movement of your feet in the boots by standing or walking on an incline ramp, to mimic walking up and downhill. If you find your feet slipping forwards or backwards you may need to try a different size.

Is it best to go up a size in walking boots?

When trying on new walking boots, your usual shoe size is a good starting point. However, there are a number of points to consider which may mean you go a half or full size up:

• Try the boots on with whatever socks you will wear with them. Walking socks can be thicker than everyday socks, so it’s always best to make sure there is enough room to accommodate them.
• Feet naturally swell towards the end of the day, so it’s advisable to try boots on in the afternoon to ensure they’ll be comfortable all day long.
• Some brands of walking boots run narrower or wider than others so try a few different makes.
• Stand up and walk around to make sure your heel doesn’t slip out of the heel cup. There should be room for your toes to move around.
• Lace your boots up properly, all the way up to the top to make sure the feel and fit are comfortable

Choosing the right socks for your walking and stalking boots

Whatever level of walking you’re doing, you will need socks that are made from a breathable material that wicks away moisture to prevent any friction. Good walking socks can keep your feet comfy, no matter how far the distance you walk.

Walking socks should come up just over the top of your boots and have arch support to keep them in place. Socks made from wool or a wool blend offer excellent insulation and breathability, whilst synthetic materials, such as Coolmax, offer structure and durability and are quick drying.

Walking socks come in various thicknesses, ranging from lightweight socks that are designed to keep your feet cooler in the summer to heavyweight socks with cushioning for walking in very cold temperatures.

The HJ Hall Protrek Dual Skin Socks are the perfect all-around socks for any serious walker. These anti-blister walking socks have an inner lining that acts as a second skin. With high-density cushioning for extra comfort, you’ll be able to walk for miles and miles.

If you’re walking during the colder months, socks that have higher wool content will be more insulating and keep your feet comfortable. The Harkila Pro Hunter 2.0 Socks are thick and warm with a high merino wool content that offers excellent insulation and natural temperature regulation. 

How to Style Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are practical shoes that should match your planned activity and the weather. If you’re planning a hiking day, there are practical ways that walking boots can be styled to increase protection and comfort.

Hiking boots can be paired with waterproof gaiters to shield you from wet and muddy conditions. Gaiters are easy to put on and sit over the top of your boots and trousers to protect your ankles and legs from the very worst conditions.

They are lightweight and can be easily packed in your bag, therefore they are ideal to bring along in case of bad weather or wet ground. Try the Bisley Leather Gaiters for a durable pair that will last for many seasons to come.

Hiking boots are perfect to wear with a pair of quick-drying trousers that are designed for walking. The combination of walking boots and trousers will keep your legs and feet protected from the elements and the environment and ensure you’re comfortable all day long. In the summer months, hiking boots work just as well with shorts so you can stay cooler when walking.

In recent years, hiking boots have become an increasingly popular fashion trend. Embodying functional style, chunky walking boots have become a much-worn and well-loved wardrobe staple. When worn with a midi dress, slip skirt or chunky knit, they offer an edgy contrast to classic feminine chic. Paired with jeans, they’re an easy-to-wear choice that are perfect to keep you comfortable on a day walking through the city or countryside alike.

We love the men's Aigle Tenere LTR GTX Boots, as they pair perfectly with cuffed jeans and create a stylish look. The boots are super practical and lightweight, fitted with a chunky sole so you can tackle any distance.