:: Berghaus Women’s Expeditor Trek 2.0 Boots (£99, tiso.com)
Key features: No wearing in needed, thanks to super cushioning from the EVA midsoles and OrthoLite footbed. Good value for money and the easiest boots to get on and off, with a wide entry point.
Verdict: These snug-fitting but comfy boots pack a punch for the price and I did a five-miler straight from the box and didn’t suffer any ill effects. Reasonably lightweight and fairly generous width-wise. The grip is sufficient for tricky hills and they are also waterproof, but bear the suede upper in mind.
:: Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Mid Waterproof Walking Shoe (£90, columbiasportswear.co.uk)
Key features: Their weight – just 290g. Their versatility and good looks mean they wouldn’t look out of place under jeans, if you’re doing a short amble with a stop-off at the pub.
Verdict: Super-lightweight boots, a cross between a sturdy trainer and a light walking boot. They are waterproof but I wouldn’t be taking them into boggy winter conditions. Ideal for summer. Get a size up from your regular shoe fitting and you’ll do miles in total comfort.
:: Helly Hansen W Switchback Trail Helly Tech (£120, hellyhansen.com)
Key features: Toe and heel caps keep your feet secure and protected, they’re fully waterproof and feel sturdy, despite being relatively light.
Verdict: Impressively sturdy. During a 10-miler across mixed terrain, they had a sure grip, while the cushioning on super hard surfaces made you feel like you were walking on cotton wool.
:: Merrell Moab Speed Mid GORE-TEX (£135, merrell.com)
Key features: The mid-sole has extra cushioning, which protects the balls of your foot, along with a ‘rockplate’ which helps reduce the impact of unforgiving sharp rocks or stones underfoot.
Verdict: With a Gore-Tex lining, I yomped through muddy fields and shallow puddles and stayed dry. They also have breathability in spades.
:: AKU Alterra Mid GTX (£229.90, aku.it/en)
Key features: The outer sole and impressive grip helps prevent you stumbling on rocky, uneven ground, while there’s excellent protection around the ankle, yet it still feels spongy and comfortable.
Verdict: The Italian specialist brand Aku says these sturdy boots are designed for medium terrain and longer rambles over mixed ground, but these were by far the toughest boots – I think they’re just as suitable for winter walks.
