9 Best Budget Hiking Boots In The UK (2026)

Decent hiking boots don't need to wreck your bank balance, but a lot of cheap pairs on the market fall apart after a few wet weekends on the trail. If you're searching for the best budget hiking boots UK shoppers can rely on for 2026, you want boots that handle mud, rain, and uneven ground without falling apart by autumn, and without costing £150 or more.

This guide answers that directly. We've pulled together nine pairs that give you genuine waterproof protection and solid ankle support at prices that actually respect a budget, drawing on stock and reviews from brands like Craghoppers, Berghaus, and Amblers that we sell every day. No filler picks, just boots worth your money.

Below, you'll find a clear breakdown of each boot's grip, comfort, and durability, plus who each pair suits best, whether you're doing weekend walks or longer hikes over rough terrain. We'll also flag where you can grab free UK delivery or spread the cost with Klarna, so getting properly kitted out doesn't dent your wallet twice.

1. Berghaus Hillwalker II GTX Boot

The Hillwalker II GTX has been a staple in Berghaus's range for years, and it's still one of the smartest entry points into proper walking boots without spending a fortune. Built with a genuine Gore-Tex lining, this boot gives you the kind of waterproofing usually reserved for pricier models, which is exactly why it tops our list of the best budget hiking boots UK walkers keep coming back to. It's a full leather and textile upper boot, so it holds its shape well after repeated soakings, unlike some cheaper synthetic alternatives that go baggy within a season.

Key features

Berghaus hasn't cut corners on the technical side of this boot, even at this price point. Here's what you're getting:

• Gore-Tex waterproof membrane for breathable, all-day protection in wet conditions
• Nubuck leather and textile upper for durability and reduced break-in time
• Berghaus Opti-STUD outsole for grip on mud, loose stone, and wet grass
• Padded collar and tongue for ankle comfort on longer walks
• Available in men's and women's specific fits

Comfort and performance

Once broken in, and it does need a week or two of wear before longer hikes, this boot performs impressively on mixed terrain. The midsole cushioning absorbs shock well on rocky descents, and the ankle support is firm without feeling restrictive, which matters if you're carrying a daypack over several miles. Reviewers and our own customers consistently mention how well the Opti-STUD outsole handles wet Scottish and Irish trails, where grip can make or break a hike.

If you only buy one budget boot this year, the Berghaus Hillwalker II GTX is the safest bet for genuine all-weather reliability.

Where it slightly falls short is on very long-distance treks over 15 miles, where lighter, more flexible boots pull ahead. But for the vast majority of weekend walkers and hill walkers doing routes under that distance, the support-to-weight ratio here is close to ideal.

Best for

This boot suits hikers doing regular weekend walks across the UK's varied terrain, particularly anyone who wants one boot for hills, forest trails, and boggy lowland paths alike. It's also a solid pick for beginners who want a boot that won't punish them for skipping proper break-in time, since the upper flexes reasonably early compared with stiffer leather alternatives. Workers who need a rugged, waterproof boot for outdoor site visits also find this a practical crossover option.

Price

You'll typically find the Hillwalker II GTX priced between £90 and £120 depending on colourway and size availability, which puts it firmly in budget territory for a Gore-Tex boot. At MoreSports, orders over £25 qualify for free UK delivery, and Klarna is available if you'd rather spread the cost over a few payments. Given that many boots with Gore-Tex linings from other brands sit closer to £160, this represents genuine value rather than a compromise on quality.

Feature	Detail
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex membrane
Upper material	Nubuck leather and textile
Outsole	Berghaus Opti-STUD
Typical price	£90 to £120

2. Craghoppers Kiwi Trek

Craghoppers built its name on practical, no-nonsense outdoor gear, and the Kiwi Trek boot reflects that reputation well. It's a lighter, more affordable alternative to leather-heavy boots, using a suede and mesh upper that keeps weight down while still handling damp trails. If you want something that feels more like a sturdy walking shoe than a heavy boot, this is worth a look among the best budget hiking boots UK shoppers pick for everyday countryside walks.

Key features

Craghoppers keeps things simple but effective on this model:

• Waterproof and breathable membrane for wet weather protection
• Suede leather and mesh upper for a lighter overall build
• Moulded rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs
• Cushioned footbed for extra comfort on long walks
• Reinforced toe bumper for durability

Comfort and performance

Out of the box, this boot needs almost no break-in time, which makes it a favourite for people who don't hike often enough to justify a stiffer leather boot. The lightweight construction genuinely reduces fatigue on flatter routes, though it does mean less rigid ankle support compared with the Berghaus Hillwalker above.

The Kiwi Trek trades some heavy-duty support for comfort and immediacy, which suits casual walkers far more than serious hillwalkers.

Grip on the outsole performs well on packed dirt and gravel paths, but it can feel a touch less confident on loose scree or steep, muddy descents.

Best for

This boot suits casual walkers and dog walkers who cover a few miles at a time on established paths rather than technical terrain. It's also a good shout for anyone wanting a spare pair for travel, since the lighter weight makes it easier to pack. Less ideal for anyone tackling proper hill terrain regularly.

Price

Expect to pay between £55 and £75 for the Kiwi Trek, making it one of the more accessible options on this list. Free UK delivery applies on qualifying orders, and Klarna remains available if you'd rather split the cost.

3. Regatta Holcombe III

Regatta has built a reputation for affordable outdoor kit that doesn't try to reinvent the wheel, and the Holcombe III is a good example of that approach done well. It's a synthetic and mesh boot with a waterproof Isotex membrane, aimed squarely at walkers who want reliable protection without paying leather boot prices. Among the best budget hiking boots UK buyers search for, this one stands out for sheer value per pound spent.

Key features

Regatta keeps the spec sheet focused on what actually matters for everyday walking:

• Isotex waterproof and breathable membrane
• Durable synthetic and mesh upper for reduced weight
• EVA cushioning midsole for shock absorption
• Rubber outsole with multidirectional tread pattern
• Padded ankle collar for added comfort

Comfort and performance

Straight out of the box, the Holcombe III feels closer to a trainer than a traditional boot, which many casual walkers prefer. The cushioned midsole softens impact nicely on tarmac approaches and forest tracks, though the ankle support sits on the softer side compared with leather alternatives further up this list.

For low-mileage countryside walks, the Regatta Holcombe III delivers more comfort per pound than almost anything else on this list.

Grip holds up reasonably well on wet grass and packed trails, but steeper, looser terrain will test it more than it should for anyone hiking regularly on hills.

Best for

This boot suits occasional walkers who need dependable waterproofing for dog walks, school runs in wet weather, or gentle countryside rambles rather than serious hillwalking. It's also a sensible choice for anyone buying their first pair of boots and wanting to test the waters before investing in something stiffer and heavier.

Price

The Holcombe III typically retails between £45 and £60, making it one of the cheapest genuinely waterproof boots you'll find from a recognised outdoor brand. Free UK delivery applies on qualifying orders over £25, and Klarna gives you the option to spread the cost if needed, keeping this an easy, low-risk pick for casual walkers.

4. Craghoppers Dura Pro

Craghoppers built the Dura Pro for people who need a boot that can survive rougher use than a typical weekend rambler puts it through, and that toughness carries over nicely into hiking. Where the Kiwi Trek prioritises lightness, this model leans into rugged durability, using a full leather upper reinforced at the toe and heel for anyone who wants their boots to outlast a couple of hiking seasons rather than one. It's a natural fit for the best budget hiking boots UK category if your walks regularly cross muddy farmland, building sites, or rocky ground.

Key features

This boot's spec sheet reflects its workwear roots as much as its outdoor use:

• Full-grain leather upper for abrasion resistance
• Waterproof membrane with breathable lining
• Reinforced toe and heel bumpers
• Padded collar and cushioned insole
• Slip-resistant rubber outsole with deep lugs

Comfort and performance

First, expect a longer break-in period than most boots on this list, since the leather is thicker and stiffer from the box. Once worn in, though, the ankle support is among the firmest here, giving you real confidence on uneven ground or when carrying a loaded pack. Underfoot, the cushioned insole holds up well over long days, and the deep-lugged outsole grips confidently on wet mud and loose stone alike.

The Dura Pro rewards patience during break-in with some of the toughest, most supportive footing on this list.

Secondly, breathability is decent but not class-leading, so on warmer days your feet will run a touch hotter than in the mesh-heavy options further up this guide.

Best for

Gardeners, groundworkers, and hikers who double up their boots for site visits or heavy countryside work will get the most from the Dura Pro. It also suits anyone hiking regularly on rough terrain who wants a boot built to shrug off scuffs rather than show wear after a few outings.

Price

You'll usually find the Dura Pro priced between £60 and £80, which is reasonable given the leather construction and reinforced build. Free UK delivery on qualifying orders and Klarna both apply, so spreading the cost is straightforward if you'd rather not pay upfront.

5. Berghaus Expeditor Trek 2.0

Berghaus designed the Expeditor Trek 2.0 as a rugged, no-nonsense boot for people who spend more time outdoors than in the office, and that shows in every part of its build. Combining a suede leather upper with a fabric lining, it's aimed at hikers who want serious durability without paying premium prices. It's a regular feature on lists of the best budget hiking boots UK shoppers trust for tougher terrain, largely because it doesn't skimp on ankle support or grip to hit its price point.

Key features

This boot leans on tried-and-tested materials rather than flashy extras:

• Suede leather and textile upper for durability
• Waterproof, breathable lining for wet-weather protection
• Cushioned footbed for all-day comfort
• Rubber outsole with deep multidirectional lugs
• Padded collar for reduced ankle rubbing

Comfort and performance

Underfoot, the cushioned footbed softens impact well on long, flat stretches, while the padded collar keeps rubbing to a minimum even on hot days. Ankle support sits somewhere between the stiffer Craghoppers Dura Pro and the more flexible Kiwi Trek, giving you a reasonable middle ground for mixed terrain.

The Expeditor Trek 2.0 hits a sensible balance of grip, comfort, and price that suits most weekend hikers without any real compromise.

Grip on wet rock and loose gravel is dependable, though very technical scrambles will still favour a stiffer, more specialised boot.

Best for

Weekend hikers who want a dependable all-rounder for varied countryside, from muddy fields to gravel tracks, will get the most from this boot. It also suits anyone upgrading from a budget trainer-style boot who wants a noticeable step up in durability and support.

Price

Expect to pay between £65 and £85 for the Expeditor Trek 2.0, putting it comfortably alongside the other mid-range picks on this list. Free UK delivery applies on qualifying orders, and Klarna is available if you'd rather split the payment across instalments.

6. Hi-Tec Ravine WP

Hi-Tec built its reputation on affordable, reliable outdoor footwear, and the Ravine WP carries that value-first approach into hiking boots. It uses a waterproof suede leather upper paired with a breathable membrane, giving you solid wet-weather protection without the price tag of premium brands. Anyone comparing the best budget hiking boots UK retailers stock will notice this one consistently undercuts rivals while still holding its own on grip and support.

Key features

Hi-Tec keeps the build straightforward and functional:

• Waterproof suede leather and textile upper
• Breathable waterproof membrane lining
• Compression-moulded EVA midsole for cushioning
• Rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs
• Padded tongue and collar for comfort

Comfort and performance

Straight from the box, the EVA midsole gives noticeably soft underfoot cushioning, which suits walkers who prioritise comfort over stiffness. Ankle support is moderate rather than firm, so it won't match the Dura Pro or Expeditor Trek on rougher ground, but for gentler trails it does the job without complaint.

The Hi-Tec Ravine WP proves you don't need a big-name price tag to get dependable waterproofing on everyday walks.

Underfoot grip performs well on wet grass and packed gravel, though it can feel less planted on steep, loose scree compared with the deeper-lugged options higher up this list.

Best for

Occasional hikers and family walkers who want a genuinely waterproof boot without overspending will get the most value here. It also suits anyone building their first proper outdoor kit, since the price leaves room in the budget for waterproof trousers or a decent daypack alongside it.

Price

The Ravine WP typically sells for between £40 and £55, making it one of the cheapest waterproof boots on this list from a recognised brand. Free UK delivery applies on qualifying orders, and Klarna remains available if you'd rather spread the cost, keeping this a low-risk option for anyone testing out hiking as a new hobby.

7. Keen Circadia Waterproof Boot

Keen built the Circadia as a step up for hikers who want genuine trail performance without paying for a premium alpine boot, and it shows in the details. It uses a leather and mesh upper paired with Keen's own waterproof membrane, giving you a boot that feels closer to a technical hiking shoe than a heavy leather boot. It's a slightly pricier entry among the best budget hiking boots UK walkers consider, but the extra spend buys noticeably better torsional support underfoot.

Key features

Keen has focused on trail-specific technology rather than generic waterproofing here:

• Keen.Dry waterproof breathable membrane
• Leather and mesh upper for durability with reduced weight
• Dual-density EVA midsole with a supportive shank
• Non-marking rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs
• Removable metatomical footbed for arch support

Comfort and performance

Straight away, the supportive shank in the midsole makes a real difference on rocky, uneven trails, giving you more stability than most boots at this price point. Grip from the multidirectional lugs stays confident on wet rock and loose gravel, and the removable footbed means you can swap in your own orthotics if you need extra arch support on longer days.

The Keen Circadia offers trail-shoe agility with boot-level support, which is a rare combination this far down the price scale.

Breathability is genuinely good too, so your feet stay cooler than in heavier leather boots during summer hikes.

Best for

This boot suits hikers tackling rockier terrain who want more underfoot protection than a lightweight trail shoe offers, without jumping to a heavyweight leather boot. It also works well for anyone with wider feet, since Keen's fit tends to run roomier through the toe box than several other brands here.

Price

Expect to pay between £85 and £110 for the Circadia, sitting at the upper end of budget territory but still well below premium alpine boots. Free UK delivery applies on qualifying orders, and Klarna is available if you'd rather spread the cost.

8. Columbia Peakfreak Rush

Columbia designed the Peakfreak Rush as a hybrid between a trail shoe and a full boot, and that in-between build is exactly why it's earned a spot among the best budget hiking boots UK walkers pick when they want something less bulky than a traditional pair. It uses a leather and mesh upper with Columbia's own Omni-Tech waterproofing, giving you wet-weather protection without the weight of a leather-heavy build. If you find full boots restrictive but still want ankle coverage, this is worth trying on.

Key features

Columbia has clearly built this around agility as much as protection:

• Omni-Tech waterproof, breathable membrane
• Leather and mesh upper for a lighter overall feel
• Techlite lightweight midsole cushioning
• Omni-Grip rubber outsole with multidirectional traction
• Low-cut ankle collar for greater freedom of movement

Comfort and performance

Underfoot, the Techlite midsole feels noticeably springier than most boots on this list, which suits walkers covering ground quickly rather than carrying heavy loads. Ankle support is lighter than the leather-focused options above, closer to a supportive trail shoe than a proper boot, so it won't suit anyone needing firm lateral support on rough hillsides.

The Peakfreak Rush suits walkers who want boot-level waterproofing without sacrificing the agility of a trail shoe.

Grip from the Omni-Grip outsole handles wet rock and packed trails confidently, though the lower ankle profile means you'll want to watch your footing more carefully on loose scree or steep descents.

Best for

This boot suits fast-paced walkers and light hikers who prioritise speed and comfort over maximum ankle protection, plus anyone transitioning from trail running into hiking who wants a familiar underfoot feel. It's less suited to anyone carrying a heavy pack or tackling technical terrain regularly.

Price

The Peakfreak Rush typically retails between £70 and £95, positioning it as a mid-range pick for a hybrid boot with genuine waterproofing. Free UK delivery applies on qualifying orders over £25, and Klarna remains available if you'd rather spread the cost across instalments.

9. Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX

Merrell built the Moab line into one of the best-selling hiking boots on the planet, and the Moab 3 Mid GTX keeps that reputation intact while staying firmly within budget territory. It pairs a suede leather and mesh upper with a genuine Gore-Tex membrane, giving you trusted waterproofing from a brand hikers have relied on for decades. Rounding out our list of the best budget hiking boots UK walkers keep recommending to friends, this one earns its place through sheer consistency rather than any single standout feature.

Key features

Merrell has refined this boot over several generations, and it shows in the spec sheet:

• Gore-Tex waterproof, breathable membrane
• Suede leather and mesh upper for durability with reduced weight
• Merrell Air Cushion in the heel for shock absorption
• Vibram TC5+ outsole for reliable grip
• Protective toe cap and kinetic fit base for stability

Comfort and performance

From the first wear, the Air Cushion heel takes the edge off repeated impact on downhill stretches, and most people need barely any break-in time before longer walks. Grip from the Vibram outsole stands out here, handling wet rock, mud, and loose gravel with more confidence than several pricier boots we've tested.

The Moab 3 Mid GTX proves that decades of refinement can beat flashy new features when it comes to everyday trail reliability.

Once broken in, the fit runs true to size for most people, though narrow-footed walkers may want to size down half a size for a snugger hold.

Best for

Regular hikers who want a dependable, do-it-all boot for mixed British terrain will get the most from the Moab 3, whether that's coastal paths, forest trails, or hill routes. It also suits anyone replacing a worn-out pair who wants a proven design rather than something unfamiliar.

Price

Expect to pay between £95 and £125 for the Moab 3 Mid GTX, sitting near the top of our budget range but justified by the Gore-Tex lining and Vibram sole. Free UK delivery and Klarna both apply on qualifying orders.

10. How to choose the right budget hiking boots for you

Choosing between nine solid options gets easier once you know what actually matters for your own walks. Rather than chasing the cheapest price tag, match the boot to how you actually hike, since a boot built for gentle dog walks will let you down on a boggy hillside, and an over-built leather boot will feel like overkill on flat forest tracks.

Think about terrain first

Start by being honest about where you actually walk most weekends. If it's mostly packed paths, canal towpaths, or light countryside, a lighter mesh boot like the Craghoppers Kiwi Trek or Regatta Holcombe III will serve you better than a stiff leather option. If your routes cross hills, loose stone, or wet moorland regularly, you want firmer ankle support and a deeper-lugged outsole, like the Berghaus Hillwalker II GTX or Craghoppers Dura Pro.

The single biggest mistake budget buyers make is picking a boot built for terrain they don't actually walk on.

Get the fit and sizing right

Sizing varies more between brands than most people expect, and a boot that fits perfectly on paper can still cause blisters on a real trail. Before buying, check a few practical points:

• Try boots on in the afternoon, when feet have naturally swollen slightly
• Wear the hiking socks you'll actually use on the trail
• Leave a thumb's width of space at the toe for downhill descents
• Walk on an incline if possible to test heel slip

Don't skip waterproofing and weight

A genuinely waterproof membrane, whether Gore-Tex, Omni-Tech, or a brand's own version, matters more than any other spec if you walk in the UK regularly. Weight matters too, since heavier boots tire your legs faster over distance but usually offer more protection, so weigh that trade-off against your typical mileage before deciding.

11. Walking boots vs walking shoes: which do you need

Before you settle on a pair from our list of the best budget hiking boots UK shoppers rely on, it's worth asking whether you need a boot at all. Walking shoes and hiking boots serve different purposes, and picking the wrong category wastes money regardless of how good the individual product is. The short answer comes down to ankle support, terrain, and how much weight you're carrying.

Why walking shoes suit some walks

Walking shoes work well if your routes stick to flat, well-maintained paths such as canal towpaths, parkland, or gentle countryside trails. They're lighter, need almost no break-in time, and let your ankles move naturally, which reduces fatigue on longer, easier walks. If you're mostly out for an hour or two on firm ground and rarely carry more than a light daypack, a shoe gives you enough grip and waterproofing without the extra bulk a boot adds.

Why boots are the safer choice for most terrain

Once your walks involve hills, loose stone, wet moorland, or a loaded rucksack, boots earn their keep. The raised collar supports your ankle on uneven ground, which matters most when you're tired near the end of a long walk and more likely to roll a foot. Boots also tend to offer deeper lugs and sturdier midsoles, both of which matter on the mixed terrain common across UK trails.

If your walk crosses hills, mud, or loose ground at any point, boots aren't optional, they're the difference between a good day out and a twisted ankle.

Factor	Walking shoes	Hiking boots
Ankle support	Minimal	Firm
Weight	Lighter	Heavier
Best terrain	Flat, packed paths	Hills, mud, loose stone
Break-in time	Almost none	Days to a couple of weeks

Generally, when in doubt, choose the boot. You'll rarely regret the extra ankle support, but you'll definitely notice its absence on the one steep, muddy descent that catches you off guard.

12. How to care for your hiking boots so they last longer

Even the best budget hiking boots UK shoppers can buy will fall apart early if you neglect basic care. A little maintenance after each walk extends the life of your boots by years, not months, and protects the waterproofing you paid for in the first place. Skipping these steps is the main reason cheap boots get a bad reputation, when often it's poor care rather than poor build quality that's to blame.

Clean off mud and grit straight away

Dried mud cracks leather and clogs the outsole's grip, so knock off loose dirt with a stiff brush before it sets. Rinse the uppers with cool water and a soft brush rather than sticking boots under a hot tap, since heat damages glued seams and waterproof membranes over time. Never throw hiking boots in a washing machine, no matter how tempting that feels after a boggy weekend.

Dry them slowly, away from direct heat

Stuff wet boots with newspaper to draw out moisture and hold their shape, then leave them somewhere well-ventilated at room temperature. Avoid radiators and open fires, which dry leather too fast and cause cracking or shrinkage that no amount of conditioning can properly fix afterwards.

Never dry hiking boots next to direct heat, it's the fastest way to ruin an otherwise good pair.

Reproof and store them properly

Waterproofing wears off with use, even on Gore-Tex boots, so reapply a proper waterproofing spray or wax every few months during regular use. Follow a simple routine to keep boots trail-ready:

• Clean and dry boots fully before applying any treatment
• Use a spray for fabric and mesh uppers, wax for full leather
• Reproof roughly every 10 to 15 wears, or sooner in heavy rain
• Store boots somewhere dry, away from direct sunlight, with laces loosened

Storing boots properly between walks matters just as much as cleaning them, since damp cupboards encourage mould and weaken stitching over time.

Picking the right pair for your next hike

Nine boots, nine different strengths, but the choice really comes down to your own terrain and budget. Go for the Berghaus Hillwalker II GTX if you want one reliable pair for most UK conditions, the Craghoppers Kiwi Trek or Regatta Holcombe III for lighter, low-mileage walks, or the tougher leather builds from Craghoppers and Berghaus if your routes cross rougher ground regularly. Whichever pair you land on, get the fit right, check the waterproofing matches your typical weather, and look after them properly once you've bought them.

Don't let a tight budget push you towards boots that won't survive a British winter. Browse the full range of waterproof hiking boots and outdoor footwear at MoreSports, where free UK delivery over £25 and Klarna make kitting yourself out properly a lot easier on your wallet.