Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (2024)

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (1)

Whether you're walking the dog in the snow or running errands in the rain, a good pair of walking boots can help you get your daily steps in—even when the weather won't cooperate. The best pair of walking boots should be lightweight and offer good support, with high-traction outsoles to prevent slips and falls. When shopping for walking boots, you'll also want to consider your gait and foot type. If you have high arches, for example, you may need more arch support. And if you suffer from a condition like plantar fasciitis, you may want a walking boot with a removable footbed so you can add your own custom orthotics.

To find the best walking boots for every type of walker, we tested 22 pairs for over a month, walking and hiking on varied terrain. We also spoke to three experts—including a foot surgeon and an outdoor adventure guide—for insights on which key features to look for in a quality pair of walking boots. Finally, we had a physical therapist from our review board review all claims and buying guidance in this article for accuracy.

Our Top Picks

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In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • We Also Tested

  • Where We Stand

  • What To Look For

  • How We Tested

  • Our Experts

  • FAQs

  • Why Trust Verywell Fit

Best Women’s Overall

Keen Revel IV Polar Boot

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (2)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Supportive

  • Waterproof

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Stiff on first wear

  • Bulkier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Waterproof leather and performance mesh upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 4 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–12 | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

If you’re looking for versatile boots that can be worn walking or hiking in a variety of climates, including rain and snow, these boots are for you.

Why We Love Them

These boots landed at the top of our list because of their quality, durability, versatility, and overall support. They earned a perfect score in all key categories we used to evaluate the walking boots we tested for this list. They kept our feet completely dry and warm in wet weather (even after walking through a large puddle), were comfortable, and offered great traction. We even wore them while walking down slick rock and felt completely stable.

We love that these boots are comfortable, fit true to size, and actually feel much lighter on our feet than we expected. They’re supportive and keep us stable and grounded when walking. Although they’re designed for the outdoors, they’re also nice enough for casual wear, making them very versatile.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Keen.com, and REI.

Potential Flaws

  • All the support and traction come with a bit of stiffness, especially during the first few wears.
  • They are a bit bulky, but once you’re used to walking in them, they do feel relatively light compared to some other boots we tested.
  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (3)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (4)

Best Men’s Overall

Danner Arctic 600 Side-zip

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (5)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Waterproof

  • Supportive

  • Comfortable

Cons

  • May be too warm for mild weather

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Suede upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 13 ounces | Sizes: Men’s 7-14, medium and wide widths | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

Great for people in colder climates looking for a walking or hiking boot to keep their feet warm and dry.

Why We Love Them

These boots are sturdy, comfortable, and well-made. They’re also incredibly functional. Upon first wear, we noticed how supportive they felt on our feet and ankles, and the tread on the bottom kept us feeling confident on a variety of surfaces, including slick rock, wet grass, and mud. We also love that they keep our feet warm and dry in wet conditions.

We’re very pleased (and surprised!) at how easy these boots are to put on. While some winter boots can be difficult to slide on and lace up, these go on with ease, and the side zipper means you don’t have to untie or tie complicated laces with every wear.

These boots are high-quality, durable, and make for comfortable hiking shoes, but they’re also great for everyday activities in winter like taking your dog for a walk or going to the grocery store.

Also available in women’s sizes at REI, Backcountry, and Danner.com.

Potential Flaws

  • As the name implies, these are meant for cold weather. We found them to be too hot for a fall day, but they would be great on a cold winter day, especially in snow.
  • Because they’re super sturdy and made for the cold, these boots are heavier compared to other options on our list.
  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (6)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (7)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (8)

Best Women’s Budget

Ryka Brae Winter Boot

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (9)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    4.9/5

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Lightweight

  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Limited ankle support

  • May run large

Key Specs

Materials: Water-repellent puffed nylon upper with microsuede overlay, EVA foam cushioned midsole, thermoplastic rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 4 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–12, medium and wide widths | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

Good for walking and everyday wear in a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow.

Why We Love Them

We love how comfortable, soft, and lightweight these boots are and that they require no break-in period. But we were most impressed with how waterproof they are. After running them under water for several minutes, there wasn’t even a bit of dampness left on the boot, and absolutely no water got inside.

Although this pair is more affordable than others on our list, the boots still feel well-made and look high-quality. They held up to lots of walking and water exposure during our testing period. We also love that they come in a variety of colors and are more stylish than many traditional walking boots. They’re available in both medium and wide widths.

Potential Flaws

  • Because these boots are a little more flexible than traditional walking boots, they don’t provide as much ankle support as other options.
  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (10)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (11)

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (12)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    4.5/5

  • Performance

    4/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Good ankle support

  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Not as breathable as other options

  • Limited arch support

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Waterproof rubber shell, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 15 ounces | Sizes: Men’s 6.5–15, regular and wide widths | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

These are perfect for snowy activities like shoveling snow, sledding, or walking on a snowy trail.

Why We Love Them

For the price, you really can’t get any better than these Nortive 8 Men's Insulated Snow Boots. They’re easy to put on and take off, comfortable, warm, and sturdy. From the minute we tried them on, they cushioned both our ankles and feet while offering good ankle support and stability.

They provide good traction, and we never feel unstable on wet surfaces when wearing them, making them good all-weather boots. They also stay dry in wet weather, even when we tested their waterproof abilities under running water. We appreciate that the laces remain tied throughout the day, which isn’t always the case with boots or shoes.

Potential Flaws

  • These are really meant for cold weather and snow and aren’t breathable enough to wear in warmer climates.
  • They lack arch support, which may be a problem for someone with significant overpronation (when the ankle rolls too far downward and inward with each step).
  • Because they’re super sturdy and warm, these boots are heavier than some other options on our list.
  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (13)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (14)

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (15)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Supportive

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Hard to secure laces tightly

Key Specs

Materials: Waterproof mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 13 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–11 | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

If you’re looking for a comfortable, lightweight walking boot that you can take from road to trails and beyond, this is a great boot for you.

Why We Love Them

While we chose these as our best pair for traction, they’re really a great all-around walking boot. In addition to providing great support and stability on a variety of terrains, they’re also lightweight, comfortable, and versatile. Plus, they’re completely waterproof. After wearing them in heavy rain, our feet remained fully dry. The extra traction keeps us stable on uneven surfaces, when climbing trees, and on slippery rocks without getting caught or stuck on anything.

We also love the design and color because these boots are stylish enough to wear while running errands or to the coffee shop while still being super functional and not too clunky for driving. The mesh upper, while waterproof and warm, is still breathable enough that you don’t overheat on longer walks.

Also available in men's sizes at Merrell.com.

Potential Flaws

  • The placement of the lace loops makes it a little hard to tighten the laces.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (17)

Best for Hiking

Oboz Ousel Mid Boot

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (18)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Cons

  • Not as breathable as other options

Key Specs

Materials: Leather and recycled polyester upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 12.2 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–12, medium and wide widths | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

If you’re a cold-weather hiker, these boots are for you.

Why We Love Them

These boots are warm, well-cushioned, and supportive, making them ideal for cold-weather hiking and snowy conditions. They’re fully waterproof and keep our feet dry when walking through deep puddles and in other wet conditions. We find them comfortable, even after miles of walking and wear, and they perform well on a variety of terrain, from grass and mud to slick rocks.

We also love Oboz’s commitment to the environment. Not only are these boots made from partially recycled materials, but the company also plants a tree for every pair of Oboz sold.

Potential Flaws

  • They’re very warm, which is great for cold weather hikes, but they’re not as breathable as other options, so we wouldn’t recommend them for warmer conditions.
  • These are ideal for hiking and trail walking, but they’re on the larger side and not as stylish, so they don’t transition as well to everyday wear.
  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (19)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (20)

Best for Casual Walks

OrthoFeet Florence Boots

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (21)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    4.5/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Well-cushioned

  • Good arch support

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Short shaft may not protect as well from the elements

Key Specs

Materials: Leather upper, orthotic insole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 6 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–12, narrow, medium, wide, extra wide, and extra extra wide widths | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

Anyone looking for extra support, warmth, and comfort on casual walks in cold weather.

Why We Love Them

From the moment we put these boots on, they felt like a warm hug for our feet. The faux fur lining is super cozy, while the waterproof leather keeps our feet dry and warm. For a boot, they’re very lightweight yet still offer good support thanks to the orthotic insole, designed specifically to provide arch support and reduce heel pain while walking.

The tread on these boots is strong enough to keep us sturdy on slightly wet terrain, but they’re designed mostly for road walking and light trails, not steep, unstable hikes. We also love how easy they are to put on, as the two Velcro straps are easy to secure and stay tight during walks.

Potential Flaws

  • These hit just above the ankle, which is great for casual walks in mild cold weather, but may not be protective enough for deep snow.

Best Waterproof

Sorel Caribou Boot

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (22)

Our Ratings

  • Comfort

    4.5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Durable

  • Room for a custom insole

  • Good traction

Cons

  • Limited arch support

  • Bulkier than other options

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): Roughly 4 pounds | Sizes: Women’s 5.5–10 | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

These are great boots for anyone who lives in a snowy, cold climate and wants warm, waterproof boots for walking their dog, walking to work, or running errands.

Why We Love Them

Sorel’s Women’s Caribou Waterproof Boot offers comfort, warmth, and style. We particularly love the cozy fuzzy top for both its warmth and appearance. They’re also incredibly durable. We compared a decades-old pair of the same boot with a new pair, and they look practically identical.

These boots are completely waterproof—the water rolls right off of them, and they keep our feet and ankles dry in inclement weather. They run a little big, but that gives you enough room for a thicker sock. While the website suggests sizing a half-size down, we recommend considering how you’ll wear them and if you want the extra room.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Sorel.

Potential Flaws

  • We found these boots to lack arch support, but they are roomy enough to add a custom insole if you need additional support.
  • The boots felt a little bulky and heavy, especially when worn inside, but that also makes them ideal for the harshest weather conditions.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (24)

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (25)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Warm

  • Durable

Cons

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 6 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–12 | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

These are great walking boots for cold climates. They’re good for walking your dog, commuting, or exploring a city on foot.

Why We Love Them

These boots are worth every penny. They’re made with high-quality, durable leather, and the construction of the boot is clearly top-notch. We love how cozy and warm our feet feel as soon as we put them on. We also appreciate how flexible they are, making them easy to walk in all day while still offering support so our feet don’t feel achy or tired.

They’re very versatile—you can wear them with the top rolled down and the fuzzy lining as an accent, or if you need a taller boot, you can lace them up higher. Because they’re so warm, they’re ideal for cold, snowy weather.

Potential Flaws

  • At nearly two and a half pounds, the pair of boots are on the heavy side, but we didn’t feel like they were too heavy to walk in or too bulky to wear all day.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (27)

Pros

  • Supportive

  • Good traction

  • Unisex sizing

Cons

  • Harder to put on compared to other options

Key Specs

Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 8 ounces | Sizes: Unisex; women’s 5–15, men’s 5–14 | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

These are ideal fall walking boots for commuting by foot or exploring a city. They’d also be good for everyday wear on cooler days.

Why We Love Them

These Dr. Martens boots are not only stylish, they’re also incredibly comfortable. In fact, we’re surprised at how comfortable they are straight out of the box—which isn’t always the case for leather boots. They fit true to size and have a roomy toe box with enough space for a thick sock on colder days.

We also appreciate how functional these boots are. They keep us sturdy on wet, slippery terrain and offer good support for walking around all day. They also live up to their waterproof claims, keeping our feet dry in torrential downpours. For leather boots, they’re fairly breathable, and our feet never overheat. We like the unisex sizing, which makes the boot more inclusive for all wearers.

Potential Flaws

  • With no zipper, they are a little challenging to get on, especially for the first few wears.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (30)

Pros

  • Lightweight

  • Good traction

  • Supportive

Cons

  • Limited color options

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole, recycled materials | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 11.5 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 5–12, medium and wide widths; men’s 7–16, medium and wide widths | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

These are great walking or hiking boots for warmer climates, especially if you’re on rugged terrain.

Why We Love Them

We love how these boots feel on our feet and how much support they offer us on even the most difficult, uneven terrain. We feel completely stable and safe climbing up rocks and walking through mud, water, and over roots. They also keep our feet dry even after wading through puddles.

While they’re technically hiking boots, they’re also incredibly lightweight and can double as supportive walking boots on flat ground if that’s what you’re in the market for. They offer good arch and ankle support without being too heavy or bulky, and the laces stay well secured, which makes walking for miles in them a joy.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Merrell.

Potential Flaws

  • There’s not much we would change about this boot other than making it available in more colors.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (33)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (34)

Best for Cold Weather

Baffin Chloe Boot

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (35)

Our Ratings

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

Pros

  • Warm

  • Well-cushioned

  • Roomy shaft

Cons

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Leather upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 4 pounds, 9.6 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 6–11 | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

These are ideal as a snow boot for winter walking and commuting to and from a ski mountain or other winter activities.

Why We Love Them

These boots are warm, comfortable, and supportive. Yet, we never overheat when wearing them, even in more fall-like weather. They offer not only good arch support but also great ankle support. They provide excellent traction, so you don’t have to worry about slipping in water, ice, or snow. They feel sturdy under our feet, even in slippery conditions.

They’re fully waterproof, and water repels right off of them, even when we ran them under water as a test. The faux fur collar adds a stylish element, so you can feel confident wearing them for running errands or even to a restaurant on a snowy day. The wider calf makes these great for anyone who struggles to fit into tall boots, but you can also tighten them easily with the laces for a snugger fit.

Potential Flaws

  • As with many tall snow boots, these are quite heavy and can be cumbersome to walk in over long periods.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (37)

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (38)

Our Ratings

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

Pros

  • Breathable

  • Comfortable

  • Sporty style

Cons

  • Not as supportive as some other options

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 8 ounces | Sizes: Women’s 36–42 EU (equivalent to women’s 5–10) | Waterproof: Yes

Who They’re For

If you want a lightweight hiking or walking boot that feels and looks more like a sneaker, but functions as a boot, these are for you.

Why We Love Them

We love how light, comfortable, and easy these boots are to wear. They feel more like a high-top running shoe (with a little more support and tread) than a typical pair of hiking boots—in a good way! You can wear them on the trails or around town and feel comfortable either way.

Because they’re light, they’re also extremely breathable, and our feet never feel overheated when wearing them. They’re waterproof, with a two-layer breathable laminate fabric which will keep your feet dry on wet days and when you're trekking through wet grass or mud.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Backcountry, and Scarpa.

Potential Flaws

  • These aren’t as supportive as some of the heavier boots on our list, and our feet did feel tired and a little achy after a very long hike wearing them. These are best for shorter hikes or trail walks.
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  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (40)

  • Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (41)

Walking Boots We Also Tested

Where We Stand

After testing 22 pairs of walking boots, Keen’s Women’s Revel IV Polar Boots top our list for their versatility and great support and comfort. We also recommend Danner’s Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots because they can take you from streets to trails without missing a beat. We continue to test each pair of walking boots at home and will update our recommendations if we notice anything substantial that we haven’t already documented here or that makes us rethink our top picks.

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (42)

What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Boots

  • Waterproofing: If you’re going to be walking in wet weather—or if the forecast looks questionable—prioritize boots with solid waterproofing. While most boots on our list are waterproof, some are only water-resistant, so it’s worth taking a closer look before deciding on a pair. Jason Ingamells, outdoor instructional guide, also suggests looking for Gore-tex lining since it’s both water- and wind-resistant and will keep your feet dry and warm in inclement weather. Sorel’s Women’s Caribou Boot is our pick for a boot that can hold up to almost any kind of weather while keeping rain and snow out.
  • Materials: Walking boots are usually made from a combination of materials, including leather, foam, rubber, polyester, nylon, suede, mesh, and more. One material isn’t necessarily better than another—it depends on your preference and how you’ll be wearing your boots. Ingamells recommends leather for hiking because it’s durable, water resistant, and provides good support. However, leather is heavy.For a lightweight option, try walking boots made from polyester or mesh. Midsoles are usually made from foam, but more expensive boots may have more layers to provide better cushioning. And rubber gives most outsoles the grip and traction they need to keep you sturdy while walking on wet or muddy ground.
  • Breathability: Breathability refers to how well the inside of your boot wicks sweat and moisture away from your feet while you walk. This is especially important in warmer weather to reduce the chance of blisters and keep your feet from swelling too much if they overheat. However, in colder weather, our experts recommend focusing on insulation over breathability to keep your feet warm. Walking boots with mesh uppers, like Merrell’s Moab 3 Hiking Boots, are often more breathable and allow sweat to escape easily, compared to leather or suede boots.
  • Weight: Materials can also affect how much a pair of walking boots weighs. Heavy leather boots may feel more sturdy and durable, but they can tire out your legs when you're walking long distances. Lighter mesh and fabric boots are easier to walk in, especially in warm weather, but may not last as long. Shank height (or the height of your boot) is another important factor—ankle boots will weigh less than mid-calf boots. Consider how often you’ll wear your boots and what type of routes you’ll be walking to decide how heavy your perfect pair should be.
  • Fit: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for sizing to find the right fit. It’s important that the boots aren’t too loose or too tight because both can cause discomfort. Hiking boots should fit snugly but not tightly, and you should be able to wiggle your toes easily.Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon, recommends there be three-eighths of an inch between the end of the longest toe and the end of the boot.
  • Comfort and Support: If your boots aren’t comfortable, you won’t be doing much walking in them. The right pair of boots for you will have a breathable upper, plush midsole cushioning, and a thick rubber outsole. It’s essential to try on your boots and walk around inside before committing to them to ensure they’re comfortable. When it comes to support, they should have enough arch support to stabilize your foot to help combat over- and under-pronation. A padded collar and tongue will also support your ankle.
  • Traction: Better traction is what sets walking boots apart from sneakers and sandals. Walking boots have deep lugs, providing good grip on a range of surfaces in both dry and wet climates. Most boot manufacturers have lug height listed for each pair—the thicker the lugs, the better the traction. If you’re looking for boots with solid traction, we recommend Merrell’s Thermo Rogue 3 Mid Boots.

Tired Feet? We Tested 22 Walking Boots to Find Pairs That Are Actually Comfortable (43)

How We Tested the Walking Boots


To find the best walking boots, we tested 22 men’s and women’s walking, hiking, and snow boots at home in a variety of environments, terrains, and locations ranging from city walking to light trails and steeper, off-road conditions. When testing walking boots, we evaluate each option for the following key criteria:

  • Fit: When we first try on the boots and during our first few walks, we note if they run true to size or if we should size up or down. We also consider if the boots offer room for thick winter socks or hiking socks.
  • Support: While walking in each boot, we note how supported our feet feel, from our arches and heels to our ankles and lower legs. We also note if our feet feel tired or achy after a longer walk or hike.
  • Durability: During our testing period, we evaluate the quality of materials of each boot and note how well each pair holds up over time. We continue to test each boot at home, and we’ll continue to take note of how each boot fares over a longer period.
  • Performance: To evaluate the performance of each boot, we consider its traction and how stable we feel, especially when walking in wet, slippery, or uneven conditions.
  • Waterproofing: To determine if a walking boot is truly waterproof, we not only walk in wet weather with each pair, but we also run them under water and let them sit for five minutes to see if any water gets through to the inside of the boot, or if the material effectively repels it.
  • Value: When determining the value of each walking boot, we first consider how well these boots perform in all the aforementioned key categories. We then use that information to determine the value of a boot, taking into consideration both how well it performs and its cost. The value score of walking boots showcases whether or not we think the pair’s features are worth its cost.

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Our Experts

We spoke to three experts, including podiatrists, survival experts, and hiking guides, to understand what to look for in hiking boots and important features to consider when shopping for this type of footwear.

  • Bruce Pinker, DPM, AACFAS, FAPWCA, DABPM, FACPM,a foot and ankle surgeon certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine
  • Jason Ingamells, an outdoor instructional guide and expedition medic
  • Mike Millerson, a former U.S. Army Sergeant and survivalist and expert in backpacking and hiking

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between hiking and walking boots?

Yes, there are key differences between walking and hiking boots. Walking boots are typically lighter, more flexible, and slightly less supportive than hiking boots. Our experts say that hiking boots are designed to tackle rugged terrain, provide ankle support, and protect our feet from the elements. Walking boots are best for flat terrain or light trails, whereas hiking boots are best for more uneven surfaces and greater accents.

What are the best boots for a lot of walking?

All of the boots on our list are designed for walking, so they’ll feel comfortable all day long. If you’re logging many miles on rough, rocky terrain, we’d recommend a pair of hiking boots like Merrell’s Moab 3 Boots. On the other hand, because walking boots have a more flexible midsole than hiking boots, they’re the ideal choice for walking long distances on even or gently sloping ground. After that, it comes down to picking the right pair for your budget and needs. Keen’s Women’s Revel IV Polar Boots and Danner’s Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots are currently our favorite walking boots on the market.

Is it better to walk in sneakers or walking boots?

Walking in sneakers is fine for shorter distances, especially if you’re going to be walking on pavement because you don’t need all of the additional features you get in a pair of walking boots. However, for long distances over steep or muddy ground, we’d recommend wearing boots instead. Walking boots are more durable, are often waterproof, have high-traction outsoles, and usually have protection for your toes and ankles.

How should walking boots fit?

Getting the right fit for your walking boots is important. If they’re too tight, your toes may feel numb as you walk. Loose boots will be difficult to walk in and may put you at risk of injuring your ankles. If you’re between sizes, purchasing a half or full size up from your usual is generally a safe bet—you can always add your own insoles or wear thick socks to improve the fit.

How much do walking boots cost?

You can expect to pay between $40 and $240 for a pair of walking boots. Less expensive options will likely be made from less durable materials and may not have as much cushioning. More expensive options can offer added insulation and support for your feet.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD, lives in the suburbs of Boston and has spent most of her life in wet, snowy, and cold climates, so she knows the importance of a quality boot that will keep your feet dry, offer support, and keep you stable.

Additional reporting by Ravi Davda

As a certified personal trainer and health and fitness writer, Ravi Davda understands how important quality product recommendations can be. A frequent traveler, he looks for walking boots that can stand up to long days of sightseeing. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

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