With winter in full swing, here, there’s no better time to turn your love of a crisp walk into a full-time hobby. Here, we reveal the best walking boots and hiking boots for women with genuine style credentials, from brands like The North Face, Danner, Berghaus and Timberland. We’re sorry, but your wellies just won’t cut it anymore.
Since ‘The Daily Walk’ entered the chat back in 2020, we’ve become converts to the genuinely joyful and life-changing properties of walking. Three years on, walking has given us an essential break in our WFH days as well as a hobby that’s here to stay. Sure, meals at romantic restaurants or indulging in bottomless brunches will always hold a special place in our hearts, but balance is key, right?
Good old-fashioned walking remains constant as the one activity we can always build into our days – and one that never fails to boost our mood. Besides the obvious benefits for your physical health, the positive impact of a walk, when your mental health might be struggling, can’t be overemphasised.
“Research has found that there are significant psychological benefits in being around nature,” says Dr. Becky Spelman, counselling psychologist at The Private Therapy Clinic. “It’s calming for people and helps them to be mindful and be present in the moment. The benefits should not be underestimated – it really does wonders for mental health.”
We need to find pleasures in the little things as the colder months drag on, so instead of focusing on dark evenings and bitter cold, delight in the fact that crunching on frozen leaves and seeing your breath form little clouds will be a sensory treat. Although, for maximum enjoyment, we need a good, sturdy pair of walking boots. Y’know: hiking boots for women that your mum would be proud of you for buying. Whether you’re actually mountaineering, backpacking and trekking, or simply striding through your local park, it’s time to add some bestseller walking shoes to your collection of activewear essentials. Add a waterproof jacket, rucksack, t-shirt, walking socks, water bottle for hydration, gilet vest and gym leggings to your outfit and you’ll look stylish as you set out, too.
Why do people wear walking boots? Are walking boots worth it?
Walking boots are infinitely better for long-distance walking than your normal running trainers, largely because they support your ankles, reducing the risk of twists and sprains. Walking boots also protect your ankles from scrapes and cuts when you’re walking on harsher terrain, so you shouldn’t even need gaiters. Just like you need to choose the best swimwear for watersports, it’s worth investing in some good outdoor footwear that’s fit for purpose.
Is it better to walk in trainers or walking boots?
Walking boots are better suited to rockier and uneven terrains as they come up over your ankle and tend to offer more support than trainers or a walking shoe, which are cut to sit below the ankle. If you’re only going to be walking on roads and through parks, a walking shoe or trail-style running shoe should be adequate.