When you're feeling the pinch with rising living costs, the best cheap hiking boots give great bang for your buck, allowing you to get outdoors and seek solace in the hills. Like the best hiking boots, they offer support and protection to keep you walking for longer in comfort.

Whether you want lightweight hiking boots, hiking boots for wide feet or comfortable hiking boots, our picks are versatile – great if you're looking for an entry-level boot or one that will suit all adventures.

While they are generally more pricey than a pair of trail runners, the cost doesn't match the premium end of the market, which can reach $300/£250 a pair. And you still get essential features, including ankle support, reinforced toes, grippy soles and breathable, waterproof fabrics.

There's little trade-off with durability here – some of our picks will keep you hiking for years. For casual hikes, routes on established paths and fair weather walks, these boots excel.

Our expert testers racked up the miles putting them to test in boggy UK conditions and further afield on rocky Alpine trails to find out how they fared in the field.

If you're looking for female-specific models, check out the best cheap hiking boots for women.

The quick list

This is our quick list, a snapshot of the best cheap hiking boots around. To find out more about the features and qualities of each piece of footwear, see our detailed reviews further down this guide.

The best cheap hiking boots comparison table

The best cheap hiking boots

The best cheap hiking boots overall

We rated the trainer-style versions of the Konos TRS Outdrys so were looking forward to putting these mid-height versions to the test. They are a little higher cut offering even greater protection and stability than the shoe-style hikers.

The sizing is a little small, so ordering a little larger than usual gave our tester Julia Clarke a good fit with room for feet to swell. The toe boxes of Columbia shoes aren't the widest, but sizing up will help with this too. And a secure lacing system along with ‘Navic Fit’ technology makes sure your feet don’t move around. The branded tech is called so because it hugs the ‘navicular’ bone across the midfoot giving you a snug fit without cramping.

The real key to comfort though is the incredibly plush midsole, which can keep you moving for miles without foot fatigue. You won't need to break them in – Julia wore them for two days straight from the box hiking rocky Val d'Anniviers in the Swiss Alps. There's enough flexibility in the uppers, even with the reinforcements that offer trail protection.

The weather was good so she took to springs and streams to test the waterproofing, which excelled even in deeper pools. The waterproof membrane that's bonded to the upper didn't breach, even under high-pressure water.

While you might not want to choose these hikers for hot-weather stomps, they do offer enough breathability to feel comfy on warm days.

As well as giving brilliant grip, the sole is incredibly flexible, so don't be put off if you want a responsive ride. There's plenty of stability to keep you surefooted on steep alpine descents, muddy slopes and wet rocks.

It's hard to find fault with this mid-cut hiking shoe, especially considering the fair price point. As with the trainer versions, it would be good to see recycled content in the materials list. Perhaps in a future version?

Read our full Columbia Konos TRS OutDry Mid Hiking Shoe review

The best cheap hiking boots for day hikes

The first version of this popular mid-cut hiking boot was released back in 2007 and combined the stability and protection of a boot with the light and comfortable feel of a shoe. We were keen to see what updates the third generation featured.

The accommodating fit, wide toebox and plush padded ankle collar are still very much present, but there are a few upgrades: the uppers now have smaller mesh panels and more robust pigskin suede leather for better durability, backed with a waterproof Gore-Tex liner. The Moab more sustainable too – the mesh paneling, webbing and laces are now made from recycled materials.

There's a bit more arch support in the midsole than most mid boots, which gives enhanced stability and comfort. The outsole also has chunky 5mm lugs for great traction. It’s a well-built package.

On the trails our tester Matthew Jones found the Moabs coped well in almost all weathers. The Gore-Tex liner kept feet dry and mostly comfortable. The bellows tongue was a boon when negotiating puddles and boggy ground.

Breathability was good and only the warmest weather made them feel a little too hot. But it's not something to complain about as it's a common drawback of almost all Gore-Tex boots, especially those that are mostly made of leather, like the Moabs.

The boots are slightly heavier than many mid-cuts on the market, but still a solid all-rounder – ideal for day hiking.

Read our full Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX hiking boots review

The best cheap hiking boots for thru hiking

The Berghaus Expeditor Trek 2 truly is a boot for all seasons. And when you compare its features to a more expensive model, it really does have a great price point

As Berghaus states, it is a 'sturdy but light' boot that is designed to 'keep feet happy all day long'. A combination of suede, mesh and a waterproof membrane means this boot is both weatherproof and reasonably lightweight at 415g per boot.

Cushioned soles mean the hikers are comfortable from the off, and will allow you to keep walking all day long. It's down to the EVA midsoles, which are great shock absorbers, and the OrthoLite footbed, which is made of open-cell foam to enhance comfort and breathability. The Opti-Stud soles (Opti-Stud being Berhaus' patented lug technology) feature a mix of large and small studs, designed for enhanced grip on all terrain – and it certainly delivers, even on wet rock.

Our tester Sian Lewis didn't find fault with this boot, apart from the light grey colorway, which can stain easily and isn't the best choice if you like to start your mountain missions looking pristine.

For the fair price, you really can't go wrong with this versatile hiker.

Read the full Berghaus Expeditor Trek 2 boot review

The best cheap hiking boots for winter

You can tell instantly from the timeless look that Peter Storm has great heritage. The Snowdon model – named after the highest mountain in England and Wales (also known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) – is now in its second generation.

We're including it in this budget round-up because you'll be hard-pressed to find a timeless, leather hiker that has such a great price tag. And you can often find this boot retailing for much less than the official list price online.

But can the Snowdon IIs cut it on the trails? These durable boots are warm and waterproof. There's a sturdy toecap for protection on rocky ground and they are grippy enough to make you feel secure on wet mountain trails.

You do pay a price when it comes to weight and breathability. Our expert tester Sian Lewis found they looked and felt a little heavy, especially after a long day out. Plus, they feel clunkier than other models on test here.

However, if you're after a winter boot with a tough outsole and won't give out after miles in the mud, the Snowdon IIs are a great choice.

Read the full Peter Storm Snowdon II Walking Boots review

The most comfortable cheap hiking boots

When it comes to first impressions we're big fans of the classic design of these handsome leather hikers. They are buttery soft and look great work with jeans as well as hiking trousers – a great boot to pack for a walking holiday where you’ll need something for daytime adventures as well as post walk tavern trips.

On the trail the Pilgrim IIs are waterproof enough to handle wet weather hikes, but you will need something with greater waterproofing for deluge days. The flipside is that they are nice and breathable.

When it comes to weight, our tester Sian Lewis found they were not the lightest on test, but for the money they are perfectly adequate for a full day hiking.

Without reinforced toes or top-quality traction, you'll want to keep these for valley path walks and countryside ambles rather than bushwhacking up mountain sides.

Read the full Mountain Warehouse Pilgrim Leather Boots review

The most durable cheap hiking boots

For those outside the UK, the Duke of Edinburgh Award is a program that helps young people become fitter and healthier, develop new skills, help the community or environment and plan, training for and complete an expedition. On the affordable expedition kit list are these lightweight hikers, designed to offer all the comfort and protection you could need.

They are a classic leather hiker that is comfy straight out of the box and doesn’t need any breaking in. There's great cushioning in the midsole and feature a breathable membrane.

When it comes to foot and leg fatigue, our tester Sian Lewis found the breathability and cushioning helped to counteract the weight, which is heavier than others on test.

The rubber outsole gives great grip and if you hunt around you can find them at an even better price than their already reasonable list price.

We reckon they are a solid buy, whether you're planning your first expedition or are a seasoned hiker.

The best cheap hiking boots for summer

When it comes to price, you can't get much lower than Decathlon's MH100 mountain walking boots. Although, if you're looking for waterproof hikers you're going to feel cheated as, despite what the name suggests, these boots don't offer much protection against wet weather. A light sprinkle, perhaps, but little more than that.

Look over that for the minute and, as with much of Decathlon's offerings, you're still getting a great outdoor product for a very cheap price.

The tactile, fabric boots are impressively light – great for fair-weather adventurers and those who want a pair for overseas missions that won't weigh down luggage. The high top offers cushioned ankle protection, although our expert tester Sian Lewis would have preferred a narrower cut to match the support other mid-cut boots on the market offer.

If you're intending to carry a heavy pack, opt for something sturdier, but if you love to travel fast and light, or need something for more casual dog walks, the MH100s will serve you well.

Read the full Decathlon MH100 mountain walking boots review

The best lightweight cheap hiking boots

Despite the higher list price, this boot can often be found online for a lot less. And when it can, it's a real steal.

First impressions reveal that it's a solid and supportive piece of gear with a comprehensive lacing system. And it's not heavy. The fabric upper and carbon sole make this one of the lighter boots on test here – great if you prefer to feel light on the trails or enjoy easy day ambles.

In the field, our expert tester Sian Lewis found the Ravens to be waterproof enough to put up with rainy and wet conditions – the water beaded right off the outer fabric. The boot still has reasonable breathability, making it a good choice for the changeable shoulder seasons.

On the downside, the sole doesn't feature deep lugs, so you'll want to wear them on well established trails. And the lightweight uppers won't keep your feet insulated in bitter winter conditions. There is a solid toe box though, for extra protection.

Overall, a great pick for less-challenging paths.

Read the full Hi-Tec Raven Mid Boot review

Meet the testers

How to choose the best cheap hiking boots

Bagging a pair of cheap hiking boots in store or online can make you feel a million dollars, but if you get them on the trail and find out they're not fit for purpose, you'll feel duped.

Where possible, it's good to try on walking boots before you buy. Or buy from brands with fair returns or exchange policies. Wear them around the house as much as possible to check the fit before you take them on the hills.

When you're browsing, consider some of the following factors and features, to help narrow your hunt.

Price point

You probably have a budget in mind and will be browsing in the stores and websites of brands at the lower end of the market. However, remember that at the end of a season, or as a new iteration of a boot is released, brands can slash prices of previous models. You can also find links to third-party retailers on our site that carry stock at reduced prices. And we always let you know when the biggest retails are holding special seasonal sales, such as Black Friday, with impressive reductions – keep an eye on our newsletter. Be savvy and you might pick up a bargain.

Budget hiking boots often won't feature branded technology – Gore-Tex waterproofing, for example – which is one of the reasons why outdoor gear is so expensive. However, the best cheap hiking boots in our guide still have great functionality, and if they fall down in an area of performance, we've flagged it so you're aware before you buy.

Material

The uppers of the best cheap hiking boots are made of either natural leather or a manmade fabric upper. There are advantages and disadvantages to each material and the one you choose will depend on what type of adventures you'll be using your boots for. More recently manufacturers are understanding consumers' desire for vegan products and are responding by labelling when boots are free from animal products.

Leather tends to be warmer and is naturally water-resistant, but can be heavier and less breathable than fabric. Leather boots often require more maintenance and more breaking-in than fabric boots – while the latter offer more trainer-like comfort. As a general rule, we recommend warm leather boots for winter use, and more breathable fabric boots for summer use – it’s a good idea to own a pair of each.

Grip

Hiking boot outsoles are usually made from rubber or thermoplastic rubber and are designed to be durable and give great grip and traction. Lugs, which are the raised textures on the sole surrounded by grooves, give you braking and control when hiking in wet and boggy conditions. Generally, the deeper the lugs, the more grip. The make up of the tread pattern contributes to the effectiveness of the sole, and some designs are better than others at shedding mud and grit.

When it comes to compounds, softer ones tend to provide more grip, but harder ones typically wear better.

Waterproofing

Are you looking for a workhorse of a boot that will keep you hiking through all seasons and in all conditions? Then, unless you live in a warm clime, good waterproofing will be at the top of your must-have list.

A boot that features a waterproof membrane should keep your feet dry while also allowing them to breath. You might be lucky and find a low-priced Gore-Tex boot, but most budget models use cheaper own-brand membranes, some of which are excellent. Refer to our reviews rather than relying on brand marketing material though.

A boot that fits well and laces up snugly around your ankle will also help keep out splashes from puddles. And the higher the cuff, the deeper the streams you can wade through (just check that the waterproofing runs up to the top of the cuff).

Cut and fit

Whether you're shopping at the higher end of the market or looking for a steal, the cut and fit of a hiking boot is important to get right. Some brands, such as Saloman, tend to have a narrower fit, while others, such as Keen, cater for wider feet.

Do you prefer a narrow toe box that helps keep your feet in position and are more adept for scrambling and climbing? Or do you like space for your toes to relax and splay as you walk and give room for warm feet to swell without pain?

When you lace up the boots does the cuff come up high enough to give you stability and protection, without rubbing on your ankle bone? Is there enough cushioning to keep things comfy?

Is the midsole cushioned and supported enough to suit your arches? Getting this right will help relieve foot fatigue on the trails.

FAQs

What's the difference between cheap and expensive hiking boots?

There are myriad factors that come into play when brands price up a hiking boot, including materials, construction and extra features. The brands' overheads also play a part. These can include place of manufacture, sustainability, staffing and how much research and development the brand conducts.

Very generally, more expensive boots feature higher-quality, more durable materials such as better-grade leather or breathable synthetic materials. Laces may be non-slip and soles may be tougher and last longer. More time may have gone into the design and there may be more releases in market-led shapes and colour ways.

More expensive boots may feature branded technology, such as Vibram, which owns patented types of rubber outsoles. They are also often designed with a particular type of trekking in mind, for example, in winter weather or at high altitude.

However, as manufacturing technology advances and the outdoor market grows, many high-performance materials are available at a lower price. And with consumers demanding more cutting-edge kit, you can find early models of boots, which can still be great performers, at reduced prices.

When should I replace my old hiking boots?

It's usually easy to tell when you need a new pair of boots. Out on the hills you may find water breaching more easily than it used to, you may notice the grip isn't enough any more and you may feel the boots sagging and less supportive around your ankles.

Are you getting more pain in your legs, or in your feet? This can happen when the insoles give way. Visually, you can see if the lugs are wearing down in places, or if there are tears or splits in the uppers – this all means they aren't protecting you and preventing you from injury as they should.

Even if your old boots haven't worn out, you may still need to invest in another pair if you are planning on a specific type of expedition. This could be a summer hiking holiday where the weather will be scorching and you need boots that are as lightweight and as breathable as possible. Or, are you endeavoring on a multi-day high-altitude mission where you could encounter anything from snow to torrential rain? If so, you'll need a sturdy boot with great traction and reliable waterproofing.

Are hiking boots overkill?

Hiking boots do a brilliant job of providing support and stability on the trails, helping ease leg fatigue. They are ideal for rugged terrain, longer hikes and bad weather. They'll also give support when you're carrying a heavy pack and protect your ankles from trail hazards.

Hiking boots have come a long way in the past couple of decades, and many are light and breathable while still offering great protection. The height of the cuff can vary dramatically from boot to boot, so if you'd prefer less ankle support for shorter, warmer hikes, choose a lower-cut boot .

Of course, many people enjoy hiking in the best hiking shoes and in the best trail running shoes, especially in the summer months.

Is there any happier moment than when you slip your feet into a new pair of hikers and find they fit like a dream? This guide to the most comfortable hiking boots and shoes is for the believers who won't give up the hunt for a pair of cushy hooves that don't compromise on performance and won't give up the ghost after long-mileage walks.

The difference between these hikers, and our best hiking boots and best hiking shoes is that the cushioning is unparalleled and the fit is forgiving.

Much like the best lightweight hiking boots and shoes, they use technical features to give that locked-in feel – clever lace systems, engineered heel cups and intelligent shaping. Hot spots and points of contact that can cause pain are padded, and materials used for the uppers are soft and lightweight.

These boots and shoes still provide great stability and protection, but they'll also help stave off leg and foot fatigue. Most won’t need breaking in before you wear them on the trails for the first time.

If you're looking for the comfort a wide fit gives, check out the best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet.

Our picky testers know how to expose weak spots, and have stomped through streams, hiked over rough and rugged terrain and clomped through squelchy bogland to test the brands' claims. Is your next pair of comfortable hiking boots or shoes lurking in our recommendations below?

The quick list

Here's our Quick List, an at-a-glance round-up the most comfortable hiking boots and shoes available. For a more detailed look at each one, navigate further down this guide.

Best all-round comfortable hiking shoe

If you want the light weight, comfort and speed of a trail running shoe but the protection and stability of a hiking boot, you'll be happy to know the Helly Hansen Traverse manages to offer both.

The soles and uppers are robust enough to take on rugged trails, and they are waterproof yet still retain an impressive amount of breathability. (Although, definitely too much for arid conditions.)

On a bushwhacking trek in the Scottish highlands and other wet and cold days on the munros of Scotland they held up brilliantly, offering a tough sole, but not so stiff as to restrict movement. Our tester reckoned the uppers were more like a reinforced running shoe fabric than a stiff boot upper.

She had no problem getting stuck into rocky trails, thanks to the decent heel and toe reinforcement, and the 4mm lugs on the soles performed great on all but cold slick rock.

Ultimately, they're a versatile hiking hoof – great for day hikes and longer treks – and you get a lot for your money.

Read our full Helly Hansen Traverse HellyTech Hiking Shoes review

Best comfortable hiking boots for weather protection

Helly Hansen has labelled the Switchback Trail HTs a 'day hiker boot', and while they're not the most rugged boot in the brand's armory, we reckon they do more than that and will hold up for many successive days on the trail.

They are incredibly comfy from the off – no breaking in required – and the cushioned midsoles mean you can cover long distances without feet getting sore. They really do give the comfort of a shoe but the protection of a more-conventional hiking boot.

Of course, if you're on the hunt for a seriously sturdy trekking boot, these will feel too flimsy, but our expert tester found the grippy soles gave great traction and the heel and toe cap was good enough to guard against rocky Scottish trails and their sharp hazards.

The true-to-size fit was a boon and there's a good amount of room in the toe box. With a competitive price and a build that is set to last, these boots really do warrant the five-star rating for performance and comfort.

Read our full Helly Hansen Switchback Trail HT review

Best comfortable hiking boots for speed

Keen has a great reputation for creating lightweight, comfy footwear that doesn’t have the heft of a regular hiking boot therefore helping you zip along the trails. The Zionics are available to buy in a mid and low cut; our expert hiker has been testing the mids and is impressed with the agility they provide on fast walking escapades.

The uppers are made mostly of recycled PET plastic with some TPU overlays to strengthen things up. A waterproof membrane and PFA-free water repellent, along with an integrated tongue, keep out the wet on rainy days.

The real gains come from an air-injected midsole and a heel 'crash pad’, which is essentially where the outsole extends around the heel to help absorb the impact of repeated footfall. To cut down weight, signature Keen toe bumpers have been almost entirely removed.

On fairly well-maintained trails in warm and wet conditions the Zionics excel, keeping damp at bay while remaining lightweight and comfy enough for big days out. The arch support and extra achilles protection help extend wear time.

On more techy terrain our tester was yearning for grippier soles to give him more control and braking, as well as extra traction on wet rock. However, if you want to travel fast and light on mellow trails and you’re not carrying too much weight, the Zionics are a dynamic boot with first-class cushioning levels.

Read our full KEEN Zionic Waterproof Hiking Boots review

Best lightweight comfortable hiking shoe

Here’s a shoe that doesn’t want to be saved for gentle forest strolls or slow ambles to the ale house. With superior levels of protection, grip and waterproofing, it’ll see you over some seriously technical terrain.

If you prefer the practicality and fit of a shoe but don’t want to temper your adventures, these ultra-light makes from Columbia are worth investing in and will let you walk for miles on gentle trails and scramble steep, rocky terrain in comfort.

A nicely cushioned midsole works hard to absorb impact and push back energy to keep you moving fast along the trail, while the uppers give out-of-the-box comfort. The reinforcements promise excellent protection while not adding to the shoe’s overall weight. Our tester was keen to see more recycled materials in future iterations, however.

The lugs aren’t hugely deep, but the soles still give impressive grip, while the grooves across the forefoot area help the shoe to flex with your foot. Overall they give a stable ride.

In the field, these shoes held up to the elements, giving complete water protection in streams and bogs. With a competitive price and great technical details, they’re ideal if you want all-day comfort from a trainer-style hiking shoe.

Read our full Columbia Konos TRS OutDry Low hiking shoe review

Best comfortable hiking shoes for stability

We loved the trainer-style versions of the Konos TRS Outdrys so were excited to put the mid-height models to the test. They didn’t disappoint, offering incredible comfort and traction on all kinds of trails.

The sizing runs a little small, so you may want to go up when you order, but once on the ‘Navic Fit’ technology makes sure your feet don’t move around. The branded tech is called so because it hugs the ‘navicular’ bone across the midfoot, and our tester found she gets a nice, neat fit from it. The toe box isn’t the widest, but sizing up meant there was no cramping.

Despite the incredibly plush midsole, which keeps things comfy under foot all day, the shoes proved stable, even on rocky Swiss trails. And while next time she’d save them for slightly cooler climes, she was impressed with their breathability, especially considering they are watertight.

They hold up in springs and streams, mainly, Columbia says, because the waterproof membrane is bonded directly to the upper, rather than a separate bootie.

As well as giving great traction, the sole is extremely flexible, so despite it being chunky, you get a stable, responsive ride. With a fair price point, these boots are great for all but hot-weather hiking and a sound investment. As with the trainer versions, we'd like to see recycled content in the materials list. Perhaps it will appear in future iterations?

Read the full Columbia Konos TRS OutDry Mid Hiking Shoe review

Best comfortable hiking boots for technical trails

On first look these Barvarian boots are handsome to behold. The soft upper, formed from nubuck leather, says quality, and they have a lovely fine finish.

Hanwag Banks designers have spent years taking on board hikers' feedback to create the last (foot-shaped form used to mold a boot's shape) for this boot. They've created it in versions with a normal last, and a straight-fit extra last, and those to suit people who suffer with bunions.

The PFC-free upper is made from certified-sustainable leather, and there’s an option to go with or without the Gore-Tex liner (the alternative option being you stick with the comfy leather lining).

The toe-box and heel cup are nicely accommodating without leaving room for slippage; the ankle support is superb, with a pair of lace hooks nicely positioned in close proximity to your ankle, giving unsurpassed support.

The heel cushioning is excellent and Vibram sole gives confidence on wet and gloopy surfaces. If you do most of your walking on mixed terrain below mountain peaks, these boots are great performers.

Read our full Hanwag Banks GTX hiking boots review

FAQs

How do I get the right fit?

Getting the right fit is essential for a pain-free time on the trails, and although a lot of it is subjective and will depend on the shape of your feet, some brands go out of their way to tailor to specific foot shapes, rather than follow a model that will satisfy the masses.

Hiking boots can be uncomfortable for a number of reasons:

Poor fit: If boots are too narrow, too tight or the profile is too low or the cuff too high, they’ll rub or squeeze your feet and ankles causing skin blistering and bruising. In this guide, we’ve selected boots that have plenty of cushioning and are roomy but use special design features to stop your foot slipping inside them.

Laces: It’s good to lace up boots and shoes tightly for stability, but if they fasten too tightly they can cause tingling and numbness in your feet.

Damp: If your boots aren’t breathable they’ll hold moisture from your sweating feet, if they’re not waterproof, or don’t dry quickly, they’ll carry water that has seeped in during your trek. Either way, your skin will start to wrinkle, get sore and blister.

Stiffness: Rigid boots, which are great for durability and stability on high mountain trails and technical terrain, often need a fair amount of breaking in and may cause a bit of discomfort when you first wear them. Boots and shoes with more give and flex work to complement the bend of your feet and your natural walking gait.

Heaviness: Heavy boots cause more stress on your feet and legs leading to fatigue fatigue; if you’re hoicking less weight on your hooves, you can hike faster and for longer.

Common features of comfortable hiking boots and shoes are wider toe boxes to lessen the chance of toe pain, roomy fits to allow your feet to swell, and cuffs that aren’t too stiff or tight. They all have features, such as clever lacing systems, cradling heel cups and intelligent padding and cushioning, to offer support and stop your feet from moving around inside them.

Consider the following before you buy:

How to choose comfortable hiking boots and shoes

When shopping for a new pair of hiking boots or shoes you’ll find tons of advice on how to choose in our best hiking boots and best hiking shoes buying guides. After considering what kind of trails you’ll be attacking and in what conditions, there’s all the info you need on grip, support, cushioning, weight and support.

Below, we've pulled together more information on how to finetune your browsing to make sure you seek out a pair that prioritize comfort without sacrificing performance.

Cushioning

The most comfortable hiking boots and shoes are likely to have more cushioning in the midsole and more padding in the uppers than a regular walking boot or shoe, to lessen the impact when your foot strikes the ground and give you more rebound to help push you into your next step. This cushioning may detract from the trail feel, but it will protect your joints, and a nice amount of padding means you won’t notice pressure points, such as where a boot cuff tightens around your ankle.

Protection

Reinforced uppers with bumpers on the toes and heels offer invaluable protection from trail hazards – sharp rocks, sticks and scree – but this comes at a weight cost. As do tougher uppers made from robust materials and thick soles with large lugs. Comfortable hiking boots and shoes use innovative materials that are light but strong to give a flexible boot that doesn’t weigh you down. In this guide most have less protection than you’ll find in, say, our best winter hiking boots, but plenty enough to see you across three seasons on most types of trails.

The higher the lacing system on a boot or shoe, the better the weather proofing and the more it will prevent annoying trail debris, such as grit and muck, getting into your boot.

Support

Hiking boots and shoes with high levels of support tend to be more rigid, to give you increased stability on exposed rock, scree and ice. Rigid boots with higher cuffs will help keep you balanced when you’re carrying weight too, such as a large backpack for multi-day trips.

More comfortable boots give great support, but come into their own on day hikes or those at lower level, when you want to hike freely and easily. They can still be brilliant for scrambling adventures when you want to scale moderate heights without the weight. You can increase the control you have when hiking by taking a pair of the best trekking poles along for the ride.

Weight

Our most comfortable hiking boots and shoes tend to weigh lighter than heavy duty types of hiking boots and shoes, which have extra heft to protect from extreme weathers and trail hazards. Much like our lightweight hiking boots [link to come], they are great for faster hiking and for long days out when you don’t want to be weighed down. A lot of models that are designed for comfort work best across three seasons, and might not stand up to extreme cold and wet.

Meet the testers

With the best changing robes you can jettison your wet stuff in privacy and get dry and warm at the same time. Along with the best dry bags and the best water shoes, they will elevate your amphibious adventures, helping keep you and your stuff safe and warm.

The brands making these technical garments are moving them on from their first iterations and we're seeing better fits, warmer fabrics, handier features and improved eco credentials.

With the physical and mental benefits of cold water swimming well-documented, more of us are picking up the pastime, or opting to include an icy plunge as part of a hike or bike. A changing robe is a reasonable investment, but it's likely to become a trusted staple in your day kit. And, as most are hugely durable, you'll get great return on your initial outlay.

At the top end of the price scale, changing robes have a waterproof outer layer, deep-pile fleece lining and a host of pockets to keep kit organised. They dry quickly and repel dirt.

For dippers who want a more minimalist approach, there are lightweight, packable robes that act like wearable towels and are plenty absorbent enough for one or two people.

To create this guide, our experts took the best changing robes into the chilly wilds of the United Kingdom. They plunged into icy lochs, frigid rivers and blustery seas, evaluating the robes' insulating and drying capabilities. They assessed weight, packability and features, and compared it all to the price tag. Read to on discover which fared best.

The quick list

Here's our quick list, an at-a-glance guide to the best changing robes available to buy. For a more detailed look at these top performers, navigate further down the guide.

The best changing robes for 2026

The best 4 season changing robe

If you're after an extra-snuggly robe with a host of great features, there is no beating the Red Equipment EVO Pro.

It's a technical bit of kit that's built to keep you toasty on cold days. The two-layer outer shell that's been treated with a PFC-free DWR (durable water repellent) coating makes a great barrier against driving rain while still offering breathability.

The brushed fleece lining is made from 100% polyester. The deep pile gives extra warmth, and it's able to wick away moisture and and dry fast from your own body heat.

To keep things extra toasty, the fleecy lining extends up into the hood, which gives good protection from the elements thanks to the toggle draw cord. The robe has a high zipped collar with poppered wind baffle, too.

The bulk and weight that the technical features create mean this robe is not the one to pick if you need to walk far to your swim spot. However, a compression sack, which can be bought separately, makes it packable.

There are plenty of pockets, all well thought out. Fleecy side pockets warm your hands, a zipped mesh pocket is handy for valuables, and a patch pocket is designed to tuck your underwear into when you swim. It's also ideal storage for a flask or hot water bottle.

There's a great selection of colors to choose from, including bright and muted shades. The only minor grumble our expert tester Rosee Woodland had was that, with long limbs and wide shoulders, she found the sleeves only just came to her wrists.

Read our full Red Equipment EVO Pro changing robe review

The best budget changing robe

If wild water dips make up just small segments of longer outdoor adventures for you, the Lifeventure lightweight changing robe is the ideal thing to squeeze into your day sack.

It weighs just 1.2lb, and comes with a compression mesh bag to make it extra packable. Like many of the best camping towels, it's made of lightweight, highly absorbent material, meaning you can use it to dry off too. It will dry quickly back at base camp at the end of the day, as long as you remember to hang it out.

It comes in just one size, but will happily cover 6ft tall people. It's a minimalist garment, but still features a hood and large hand pocket for extra weather protection.

The SoftFibre material is, as the name suggests, comfy against your skin, and our tester Julia Clarke reckoned it offered more absorbency than a microfiber towel. All in all, a very worthwhile buy.

Read our full Lifeventure lightweight changing robe review

The best lightweight changing robe

The Finisterre Tego weighs in at under 2lb - lighter than traditional waterproof changing robes. This makes it a viable choice for swim hikes – it packs down reasonably well and is also breathable, meaning you can walk in it if you need to keep it on for a while following a dip.

It's made up of a recycled nylon softshell treated with a fluro carbon-free DWR (durable water repellent) coating. The fleece inner is designed to wick water away from your damp body. However, its fine surface isn't able to do this as thoroughly as others on test here - the trade off is it does dry out quickly.

Insulation is a little lacking too – our tester would have liked to see windproofing improved with a baffle over the front zip. However, the cuffs and hood are adjustable, which will keep some heat in, especially useful around your head and face. The sleeves are also nice and long to keep hands protected.

It's nice and wide to change in, and the light weight of the material gives you extra freedom.

When it comes to features, the original Tego only had two hand pockets on the front, with no storage at all for keys, valuables or a phone. However, a new version recently released, now has a zipped internal pocket, which is great news.

For spring, summer and fall adventures, especially if you will be walking with your kit, the Finisterre Tego is a smart choice. Opt for something more weighty and warm on cold days, or if you're socialising for a long period post-swim.

Read our full Finisterre Tego changing robe review

The best shorter changing robe

With a durable hardshell outer, fleecy lining and well-respected brand label, this short-cut changing robe gives a great first impression. Especially as the price point is lower than competitors.

The more modest price is probably due to the short length of the robe, which makes it less clumsy to walk in while still offering plenty of material to change under. Our tester Rosee Woodland is 5ft 10in tall and the Large size came down to her knee.

She loved that you can order by chest and hip size, rather than by height, which means you can choose whether you want a slightly narrower fit than with other robes.

The fleece lining is chunky, making it exceptionally warm.

The hydrostatic head rating of the hardshell outer is 5,000mm, which isn't the highest, although, in the field it performed well and the thick lining added another layer of water protection.

The weight isn't extremely heavy – it sits in the mid-range of others on test – just don't expect to be able to pack it away easily in your dry bag.

The wide sleeves and double-ended zip made it easy to use. Draw cords or Velcro tabs on the hood and cuffs would have been helpful to keep out the weather better. As would a zip baffle and more space in the zipped chest pocket to comfortably house larger smartphones.

Read our full Alpkit Haven changing robe review

The best custom changing robe

You can spot a Flanci garment a mile off! This brand of activewear is well-loved for its brightly coloured and patterned shorts, leggings and skorts.

The Huggle changing robe has been given the same treatment in the design studio – it's available in more than 50 different patterns and colours. It also comes in six sizes, which you can order in 10cm, 15cm or even 20cm longer lengths. You don't get more customizable in changing robes than that.

The overall shape is standard for a warm changing robe – it is reasonably big and bulky, but the fabrics are slightly stiffer than others on test.

The outer is showerproof, and our tester Fiona Russell, who lives in rainy Scotland, would have liked to see greater waterproofing.

The Huggle does boast some nice features though – the main zip is two-way and smooth running with a storm flap to cover it. The hood is large and fitted.

The pockets are good – one internal waterproof zipped for valuables and an open-top fleece pocket for other items. Our tester would have preferred the outer hand pockets not to have been zipped – the plastic rubbed on her skin causing friction and soreness.

When it comes to care, you can put this robe in the washing machine on a cool setting, perfect for after a muddy camping trip away.

Read our full Flanci Huggle swim robe review

The best changing robe for summer

Wearable towels are brilliant for car camping trips, days at the beach and post watersports chillouts. And they don't come better than this Dryrobe version, our tester and veteran paddleboarder Pat Kinsella reckons.

The brand is based in North Devon on the coast of South West England. The garments are designed by surfers for everyone who enjoys getting wet in the outdoors, whether that's wild swimmers, kayakers or board riders.

This changing robe is made from soft-feel organic cotton and comes in a simple range of block colors. It's wide enough to offer plenty of room to slip off swimsuits and wetsuits while the hood keeps your head warm.

Our reviewer found it was also a great robe for wearing around the campsite – especially back and forth to the showers. Or for changing in when you don't have enough room to do so easily in your tent.

It's comfy enough to hang out in for extended periods with a post-dip coffee or beer. The sleeves are short, giving you plenty of freedom. The only thing our tester yearned for, considering that many people wear these robes for long periods of time, was a pocket or two.

Read our full Dryrobe Organic Cotton Towel Robe review

The best changing robes comparison table

Meet the testers

How to choose a changing robe

As you can see, changing robes can very a lot in price, materials and weight, so which one is best for you? Take a look below at factors you could consider before investing.

How much weather protection do you need?

Are you a fair-weather swimmer or will you be battling the elements year round? For the best protection and warmth in cold-weather conditions, look for a waterproof outer shell, storm flaps that protect zips and pockets, adjustable cuffs and hood and a deep-pile, moisture-wicking lining.

If you like quick dips in summer and shoulder seasons, or want to keep on trekking post-swim, you'll need a lighter, more packable robe, perhaps one without an outer shell.

Consider sizing too. A full-length changing robe with long sleeves will keep you warmer and protected from rain.

A robe with a shorter cut and shorter sleeves allows you to change easier, which is a boon when trying to remove a wetsuit. It also allows you to walk and go about chores (re-packing the car, campsite duties) more easily.

What shape do you like best?

The newer, lighter weight iterations of the waterproof changing robe are closer resemble jackets. This style of robe can double up as an outer layer for general wear – walking the dog, outdoor film and music events. These robes tend to have multiple pockets for storing valuables and larger items, and a two-way front zip.

For warmer days at the beach, you may prefer the simplicity of a poncho-style changing robe.

What size should you choose?

Changing robes are made oversized, allowing you to discreetly remove and put on clothes underneath them, so there's usually no need to consciously size up when ordering. Follow manufacturers' guidance. In our reviews we've commented on the robe length and cut of the sleeves to help inform your buying decision further.

FAQs

What is a changing robe?

A changing robe is an outer garment designed to help you easily change your clothes underneath it. It's fast becoming an essential piece of kit for anyone who loves water-based sports and adventures.

It typically has a layer of soft, warm, absorbent material, and often an outer layer that provides extra weatherproofing.

Are changing robes eco friendly?

Some changing robes have better eco credentials than others. In our reviews we've highlighted where brands have used recycled and organic materials and whether they've created waterproofing using PFC-free coatings.

Durability and the ability to maintain performance without being washed are factors to consider when buying a more planet-friendly changing robe.

Will I need a towel too?

Some of the changing robes we've included in this guide are designed to replace the need for a towel. These are the lightweight versions that are perfect for spring and summer seasons. Other changing robes provide a certain level of absorbency, but in cold weather you will be more comfortable if you towel off first before putting it on.

With the latest wave of the most comfortable trail running shoes you can get traction and support in a covetable lightweight, cushioned package. Plus, brands making the best trail running shoes have really started to ramp up the style stakes.

The anatomy of a trail running shoe is changing: stacks and drops are increasing as the trend for maximalist running shoes continues – we're now getting extra midsole cushioning and rocker shapes for propulsion and guidance in trail models.

Sticky rubber outsoles or substantial lugs for grip, stiffer midsoles for support and durable uppers to keep out debris are all features to look for. And in the best winter running shoes you'll find more reinforced foot plates and waterproofing. In this guide our experts have tested the comfiest pairs of trail running shoes to see which can boast the best of these technical properties while still providing a cushioned, glove-like fit.

How we tested them

Our testers have raced in rocky Gran Canaria, bounded over storm-swept Devon coast trails and pounded across Scottish beaches to see which shoes gave the best stability, traction and protection, along with unbridled comfort.

The quick list

This is our quick list, a snapshot of the most comfortable trail running shoes available to buy. To delve deeper into the features and qualities of each piece of footwear, see our detailed reviews further down the page.

The most comfortable trail running shoes

The most comfortable trail running shoes for road-to-trail

Designed as road-to-trail running shoes, the Merrell Morphlites will keep you comfy on stretches of tarmac but are also built to handle light trails with directional flow and little debris.

An internal bootie design gives you a locked-down fit, and they're soft enough to wear on a run straight from the box. The foam midsoles are extremely light, and while they might not give you the bounce of a road running shoe on hard surfaces, there's enough cushion to make it a very comfortable ride. Once you transition to the trail, the wide geometry keeps you pretty stable.

Our tester Julia Clarke loves the fact they are easy to pull on, and once laced up, you can tuck the laces away in a nifty lace keeper to stop them from coming undone. A roomy toe box gives feet space to swell and flex.

On beach and forest runs the shoes were breathable and the perfect choice for long runs. For newbies wanting to stick to light trails, or for runners who often need to tackle tarmac paths before reaching the trails, the Morphlites are a great buy.

Read our full Merrell Morphlite trail running shoes review

The most comfortable trail running shoes for easy trails

With their chunky rocker soles giving 39mm of foam in the heel, at first look you might think the Zegama 2s are road running shoes. But, peer a little closer and you'll find technical features that mean they're able to handle rougher stuff.

Vibram Megagrip outsoles with chevron lugs helps you stick to slippy mud and grass tracks, while the reinforced uppers will give you a little extra protection on the trails. However, it's not enough to see you over particularly rocky or technical terrain. A great feature is the built-in stretchy gaiter cuff, which helps keep out trail muck.

The mesh upper promises breathability, but our trail runner Julia Clarke found an extra liner kept her feet warmer than she wanted. She also craved a little more room in the fit.

The cushioning is comfortable and the shoes give oodles of responsiveness. However, they're not the most stable of running shoes and the stack means you won't get much trail feel. As road-to-trail running shoes though, they totally hit the mark.

Read our full Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes review

The most comfortable trail running shoes for long runs

Trust Nike to produce a super-stylish trail running shoe that performs brilliantly too.

The foam midsole and roomy toe box on this good-looking shoe give an incredibly plush feeling straight out the box. They really are like "running in clouds", says our seasoned trail runner Julia Clarke, who loves to bolt around her local Scottish trails in all weathers.

The secure tongue and lacing system means they won't budge when you're in motion. The light mesh uppers dry out quickly, making them ideal for running in wet weather or on puddle-filled surfaces, as long as it's not too cold. Our tester thought they'd be highly breathable too, but was disappointed when she escaped wet and windy Scotland for a hiking trip in Spain. She ended up with sweatier feet than she would have liked.

The deep lugs give great grip on lots of surfaces, even steep slick rock in the wet, and the shoes have a rock plate for added protection underfoot. They are nicely responsive too, and will absorb the shock of harder surfaces – perfect for long trail runs over mixed terrain.

Read our full Nike Wildhorse 8 trail running shoes review

The most comfortable trail running shoes for technical trails

Calling all mountain runners – here's a shoe that you can attack challenging trails in while keeping comfy and protected. Merrell has evolved the Long Sky 2, increasing traction and escalating the shoe into the world of pro trail running.

They're lighter than their predecessors, with the 'Matryx' upper crafted from thin synthetic threads that form to create one lightweight, breathable and abrasion-resistant layer.

The Vibram Megagrip rubber gives great traction, while the FloatPro Foam midsole is flexible enough for an easy roll through. A 4mm drop and a 23.5mm stack gives a stable ride and nice amount of trail feel.

On steep, rocky trails in Gran Canaria, our seasoned trail runner Julia Clarke found them roomy enough, while the traditional lace system gave her a locked-in feel, keeping her heel and midfoot in place on steep descents.

The breathability was excellent and the toe and heel protection was enough so she didn't feel her multiple collides with rocks. She's already got them earmarked for a hut-to-hut run in the Alps, and many more mountain adventures beyond that.

Read our full Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx trail running shoes review

The most comfortable trail running shoes for mountain running

First came Salomon’s elite S/Lab Genesis, promising to help athletes rack up PBs and build unforgettable memories. Now Salomon has launched a pared-back version with a more forgiving price tag to make them more accessible.

Firstly, the fit is more relaxed than the pro version, with a wider chassis and roomier toe box that will have greater appeal. There's an integrated, gusseted tongue to keep out trail muck.

The uppers, made from woven Matryx material, are strong and tough; and we like that they're made from 34% recycled materials. Oddly, there's no rockplate, which considering the trail running shoes are designed for techy, mountain terrain, feels like an omission. However, the Contragrip sole with toothy lugs does a good job of keeping your underfoot protected as well as giving traction and braking control.

The Quicklace system keeps your foot in place and your shoe secure, even on boggy ground, and the midsole foam gives the right amount of bounce while absorbing impact.

Our tester Pat Kinsella found these proved to give impressive level of performance with excellent comfort and good protection – great for faster, longer days on rugged trails.

Read our full Salomon Genesis trail running shoes review

The most comfortable trail running shoes for distance running

With a graphene-enhanced compound used in the midsole and a graphene-enhanced rubber outsole, the launch of this trail running shoe was hotly anticipated. And the hype stacked up, our tester reckoned – the TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max is a fine combination of grip, durability and performance.

The chunky rocker midsole won't be to everyone's liking, as it gets in the way of decent trail feel, but it does help transference of energy keeping you running more freely over challenging distances. Our testers Pat Kinsella and Fiona Russell found they were great for short runs too, but the full tech in the midsole and the level of support in the chassis will benefit you more the further you run in them

For durability and grip, the TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max deliver supremely. The synthetic uppers seem tough and while not waterproof, are fine for wet conditions as they don't take on too much water and dry quickly.

For mid- to long-distance runs on challenging terrain, these comfy trail running shoes will keep you lighter on your feet while offering dependable traction.

Read our full inov-8 TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max trail running shoes review

The most comfortable trail running shoes comparison table

Meet the testers

How to choose comfortable trail running shoes

Whether you’re a newbie taking your first steps in trail running, or an aficionado who goes into battle with big mountains most weekends, there’s no greater pleasure than finding a comfortable pair of trail running shoes.

For road-turn-trail runners, a trail shoe with a little extra support and a grippier sole than your regular running shoe will allow you to step off the tarmac and head into nature, confidently covering stretches of canal tow path or forest singletrack. Finding a comfy pair will make the transition all the more enjoyable.

Regular trail runners will find that with enhanced comfort you can run greater distances, faster, and niggles from old injuries should be kept at bay for longer.

The spectrum of trail running shoes is large, so it’s a good idea to firm up in your mind what kind of trails you’re going to be running on, and what type of fit you like from a running shoe, before you start browsing. Read on for how to identify which pair of trail running shoes will be comfiest for you. Or dive deeper with our guide to how to choose trail running shoes.

What type of trails will you be hitting?

The type of trail you’re going to be pounding will determine how technical your shoe needs to be. Some of our most comfiest trail running shoes are so because they come with a high stack and plenty of plush cushioning. These are great for road-to-trail running and light trails with relatively flat surfaces, where you’re not going to be hopping over obstacles or often making sharp changes of direction. If gentle undulating trails are your thing, and probably will be if you’re new to the discipline, pick a bouncy shoe with a lightweight upper.

At the other end of the scale, mountain runners who love techy terrain will want more protection from trippy roots and branches, sharp rocks and other natural obstacles. Exposed, rough trails call for a substantial outsole and potentially a rockplate in the midsole that will prevent punctures from the sharpest of objects.

What distances will you be running?

Consider your trail running targets – are you going to keep things short, or are you aiming to cover long distances? The plushier ride a shoe with lots of mid-sole cushioning gives you makes endurance distances much more palatable. However, you will lose trail feel, making it harder to get feedback from uneven ground that ultimately helps to improve your running and responsiveness.

Shorter-distance runners may want to choose a lower profile shoe that allows them to feel the surface and run faster. If you're looking to cover mammoth distances then check out our guide to the best trail running shoes for ultra runners.

What conditions will you be running in?

Are you training for an abroad race where the climes are warmer than at home? Or do you live somewhere rain’s likely to fall no matter what the season? Breathability and waterproofing come into play when choosing which shoe is right for the conditions. Waterproof membranes can often be overkill in a trail running shoe, and will hinder breathability and therefore comfort. It’s often better to pick a shoe that uses lightweight mesh or materials that will drain and dry quicker, plus, they’re often comfier and sometimes even have a bit of stretch. These are good for all seasons too, apart from cold winter days, when you might need a pair of the best winter running shoes.

In some shoes the inner may have more to it than just this mesh layer, so look closely if you’re wanting something super-breathable to keep your feet cool in summer.

What kind of fit do you like?

All the most comfortable trail running shoes we’ve tested employ technical features – quick lacing systems, a supportive upper or molded heel area, an integrated tongue – to give you a locked-in feel to keep you secure on the trails. The rest of the shoe can be down to personal taste. More elite trail running shoes will be narrower, designed for speed. Whereas other runners prefer a wider chassis with roomy toe box that gives feet opportunity to swell without restricting blood flow. Try on the shoes with running socks, ideally when your feet are warm, to make sure they’re comfortable.

Don't forget eco credentials...

While most well known brands are taking strides to manufacture more consciously, some are achieving greater results than others. Where shoes incorporate recycled content, we’ve flagged it. Ultimately, more durable, robust shoes that will stand the test of time are more planet-friendly as they won't need replacing so often. Check out these 9 eco-friendly running brands.

What’s your budget?

We've all got different budgets to stick to, and ultimately it's one of biggest deciding factors in which pair you end up buying. Trail running shoes aren't cheap, but there's a reason why outdoor gear is so expensive. Most trail running shoes are built with durability in mind using robust materials, and we'll flag in our reviews if we don't think a model will last.

Of course, there are many great offers to be had online. Keep referring back to this buying guide to find the best deals.

If you're looking to move beyond marathons then it's worth investing in a pair of the best shoes for ultra running. Ultras encompass running challenges longer than a marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.2km) and will test your mental and physical mettle to their limits. Often they’ll take you over mixed terrain, anything from water-logged fells to rocky mountain paths.

Running for miles off the beaten track calls for a shoe that gives good traction, with sticky outsoles or good lugs to grip on soft, loose or slippery ground. Much like the best trail running shoes, you'll want great support to lessen your chance of injury, and protection from sharp rocks, roots and other trail hazards. You don’t want them to be too heavy or rigid, especially if you’re going to encounter stretches of road, but they need to deliver on comfort. You want cushioning and padding for impact protection, but without responsiveness being compromised. And ultimately, you need a shoe that’s built to last.

Trail shoes for ultra runners aren’t the most budget friendly, but they are in the midst of a seismic shift, helping pros smash records and the beginner get through their first more comfortably.

Our running experts have tested the best shoes for ultra runners on rough and rocky paths and smooth rolling trails in a range of conditions to find out how they fared on long-mileage runs for comfort, grip and protection.

The quick list

Scan our quick list, a brief overview of the best shoes for ultra runners, then jump to our more detailed reviews further down the page to delve deeper into the specifics of each pair.

The best trail shoes for ultra runners

The most versatile shoes for ultra runners

From the off these lightweight shoes feel good to wear: the internal bootie, which pulls on like a sock, gives you an instant locked-in feel and the cuff fits snugly without being too tight.

The breathable mesh uppers keep things light and airy, allowing your feet to breathe in warm weather, and drying out quickly after getting a soaking. The low 4mm drop gives stability while the 5mm lugs hold up even in slick conditions.

Our tester Julia Clarke loved the balance between cushioning and trail feel that the shoes manage to strike, making them perfect for taking on technical terrain and changeable conditions with confidence. Gaiter attachments are a handy feature if you're expecting a deluge.

The roomy toe box allows feet to swell on long runs – although it may offer a little too much room for narrow feet – and the TPU lining on the uppers point towards a durable construction that will perform and last.

Read our full Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 review

The best responsive shoes for ultra runners

Although one of the heavier models on test, our ultra runner wasn't put off by the weight of the Terrex Agravic Ultras, feeling confident that the durable finish would help her go the distance. And once on, she didn't notice the extra weight, citing that the robust build helped to propel her along the trails, rather than hinder her.

The cushioned midsole gives a nice amount of bounce underfoot, while the protection plate is firm with good rebound. The 4mm chevron grip will help keep you sturdy on your feet in all but the boggiest conditions.

With a comfortable fit and reinforced lacing area, our tester Julia Clarke rated these shoes as workhorses that can take a proper pounding while maintaining that vital cushioning, grip and support.

The only gripe for our expert tester Claire Maxted was that the insoles rose up as she ran and she had to replace them to get the ultimate dialed-in fit.

Read our full Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultra review

The best shoes for ultra runners for relaxed trails

Here's a shoe that's a bit different from the rest. With a wide fit, zero drop and BOA lacing system, the Mont Blanc BOA from Ultra are unique, and while might not be for everyone, will perform brilliantly for some.

Altra has worked with BOA to come up with the two-dial lacing system that locks the foot firmly in place with one securing the forefoot and the other just under the ankle - great for adjusting on the go to relieve pressure. Our tester Claire Maxted is a veteran of many ultras and loved that she could do this easily on cold days and while wearing running gloves.

The Vibram sole has 3mm lugs that are widely spaced, and combined with the moderate midsole padding you'll still be able to feel the trail underfoot.

The drop of the shoe might take some getting used to, and the high price will put off others. But the roomy fit that observes the real shape of the human foot will be much-loved by others.

Read our full Altra Mont Blanc BOA review

The most durable shoes for ultra runners

With the launch of the Inov8 TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max came the world's first graphene-enhanced midsole compound. The strong-but-thin foam is said to give 25% more energy return and much better durability compared to other midsoles.

The robust shoes offer long-mileage comfort, great durability and traction, and energy propulsion to put spring in your stride.

Carbon fiber propulsion plates in the midsoles are resilient, but still soft and flexible. Designed specifically for ultras, our expert tester Pat Kinsella thinks you'll really reap the benefit of the support the farther you run.

The chunky, maximalist outsole with rocker shape stifles trail feel, but pays dividends on rough and rocky terrain. And the durability means once you've laid out initially for the shoes – they're one of the pricier shoes for ultra runners – you won't have to think about budgeting for shoes again for a long while.

Read our full Inov8 TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max review

Best shoes for ultra runners comparison table

Meet the testers

How to choose shoes for ultra runners

Whether you’re training for a 50k ultra marathon or a multi-day epic, choosing the right shoe is vital, not just for race day, but for helping you put in the hours in your training.

The best shoes for ultra runners tend to have all the qualities of a great trail running shoe, with a greater focus on durability. As always, the ultimate fit will be decided by the shape of your foot, but good cushioning, support and protection is vital.

The type of race you’re training for and the terrain and conditions you’re running in will also play a part – there’s more below on things to consider before choosing the best ultra running shoe for you.

Getting the best fit

For long days in your shoes you’ll need to try before you buy. Make sure the collar and tongue aren’t going to rub, and that your feet aren’t squeezed so they have room to swell. The lacing system needs to be able to cinch in your foot tightly, but not uncomfortably, to work with the heel cup to keep it in place.

Cushioning and drop

Shoes for ultra runners won’t have as much cushioning as road running shoes, but it’s one of the most important factors for impact protection. A foam midsole that soaks up shock but still is responsive and allows you to feel the trail is the balance you’re looking for.

Some shoes take a minimalist approach, with no or very little drop, this style of shoe will take some getting used to if you’re used to a bigger drop.

Other maximalist shoes have a ‘rocker’ shape with a sole that curves, supposedly helping to propel you forward from footstrike to lift off. Your feelings about shape is subjective, so try as many as you can before you buy and if your race is coming up soon, go with what you’re most used to.

Whether you love or hate these options is very subjective, and often comes down to your running style (whether you’re a heel, midfoot of forefoot striker). Try them on the trails and see what suits you best.

Working out grip

Are you going to be pounding along smooth paths over rolling terrain, or are you setting out to conquer a craggy mountain ultra? A great shoe for ultra running will give you a strong foothold on the terrain to keep you traveling forwards without slipping or sliding.

Take a look at the lugs on the bottom of your shoe. The bigger they are the more aggressive and the better the ‘bite’ on the ground, great for rough conditions, but they’ll slow you down on smoother ground.

The materials the outsole is made up of too are important: softer rubbers give better natural grip but they’re not as hardwearing and will need replacing more frequently.

A lot of long-distance trail shoe designers take into account that you will encounter stretches of hard surfaces and will be able to handle them well, but they probably won’t be as lightweight or responsive as road running shoes.

Protection and breathability

Smooth, rolling paths may be clearer from debris and obstacles, therefore a lighter, more flexible upper will be a great choice. However, if you’re likely to encounter wooded areas, water courses with hidden obstacles or mountainous terrain, think about the type of protection a running shoe can offer.

For rocky, techy terrain a substantial outsole and rockplate in the midsole will prevent punctures from sharp surfaces. Some shoes might offer reinforced toes and heels.

Whether you’re running a wet and wild multi-stager in the UK’s Lake District or attempting the sand-fest that is the Marathon des Sables, you’ll want a shoe that’s breathable.

Waterproofing layers can weigh down a shoe and make it run hot, plus it doesn’t take much for water to get in over the cuff, so runners prefer something that uses a lightweight mesh or materials that will dry quicker while still allowing your foot to breathe.

Durability and value

You don’t need lots of expensive gear for ultra running (in fact, here are more ways to save money on ultra running) but a good pair of running shoes are a crucial investment. They won’t last you as long as hiking shoes as they’re lighter and put through more intense stress, but they should have a good degree of robustness. When buying, look out for hardwearing materials, such as Vibram and graphene-enhanced soles.

Consider closely stitching and seam sealing, and look carefully at lacing systems for areas that could be prone to failure.

Having the best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet can make an amazing difference to keep you comfy on long days exploring. Rubbing, numbness or excruciating joint ache from cramped toes are common upshots of squeezing feet into shoes or boots that are too narrow. Thankfully though, with the best hiking boots, an increasing number of brands are catering for people who need this extra room.

Whether you crave a wide toe box to allow your toes can flex and spread naturally, or a roomier chassis generally, brands such as Keen and Vivobarefoot are designing hiking boots and shoes that work brilliantly for wider foot shapes.

It's great to see women-specific boots and shoes available in wider fits too – previously we've been forced to buy men's versions, only to be scuppered by too-high a cuff or not enough arch support.

And if you want to hike long distances, when you'll be on your feet for longer periods of time or back-to-back days, a wider fit will give your feet chance to swell, especially on warm days.

You can always pad out a wide-fit boot or shoe with a pair of the best hiking socks. Start with a thick pair at the start of a hike, then swap to a thinner pair if you need to as your feet warm up.

Our expert hikers have tested everything in this guide on varied terrain, including rough, waterlogged trails in the Lake District National Park and spongy routes in the south of the UK, against claims made by the brands. Read on to see how they fared on factors such as comfort, waterproofing, breathability and value for money.

The quick list

This is our quick list, a brief overview of the best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet. To find out more about each product, see our more detailed write ups further down the page.

The best hiking boots and shoes we recommend in 2026

Best all-round hiking boots for wide feet

The brand Keen is loved by many for its wide-fit boots and shoes, and the Targhee IV doesn't disappoint with its roomy toe box that allows your feet to spread and flex.

Despite the extra space, your foot won't slide about thanks to the heel-lock system that keeps it in place, even on techy terrain. And the inner and midsoles use Keen’s Luftcell air-injected padding to create plenty of comfort and bounce.

There's good toe protection, however, our tester Rosee Woodland would have appreciated more protection for the ball of her foot than the Targhee IVs’ shank gives. As far as waterproofing goes, these stand up to the job as a solid three-season boot, with a waterproof inner membrane and a leather and mesh water-repellent outer, as well as a bellows tongue to keep things impenetrable around the front.

The Targhee IVs won't hold up in the most extreme conditions, but as long as you're happy to stick to more modest trails and avoid the worst weather, they should see you right.

Read our full Keen Targhee IV hiking boot review

Best wide hiking boots for easy trails

Keen has made a name for itself with lightweight hiking footwear that propels you along the trails without the heft of a regular hiking boot. These Zionics come in a mid and low cut; both help keep you agile on the trails and let you walk for longer without leg fatigue.

Our hiking expert Pat Kinsella put the mids to test in hot but wet conditions on trails at the lower end of the technical scale in the south of the UK. He loved the top-class cushioning and comfort levels and appreciated the fair amount of flex the boots had, despite a stability shank.

The PU insole with arch support and extra padding around the Achilles upped comfort levels further, while the heel “crash pad”, created by the outsole extending around the heel, helps absorb impact of repeated footfall.

Grippier soles that provide more control and braking would benefit these boots, and our tester did miss the toe protection found on other Keen models, which had presumably been sacrificed to save weight.

Read our full Keen Zionic waterproof hiking boots review

Best wide hiking boots for trail feel

When it comes to comfort, barefoot boots offer something different to other hiking boots and shoes on test here. The wide toe box for a start allows feet to spread with little restriction.

Then there are the minimalist uppers. The upper of the Magna Lite SGs is one unit, almost like a more substantial sock, says our expert hiker Julia Clarke, so there is no separate tongue. The stretch collar is tightened with two wing-like elements that you pull around your ankle giving a tight and secure fit.

The boots are super-flexible too, easily rolling up so you can pack them into small spaces to take on your travels. These good-looking boots don't have a midsole, but do use an insole and a 2.5mm sole base to give some protection from the ground.

Lacking rigidity and all-weather protection, you are limited when it comes to technical terrain or extreme weather conditions. And, they aren't substantial enough to support you while wearing a heavy backpack. However, when used in the type of terrain and conditions they’re designed for (the SG in the name stands for 'soft ground'), these are great, comfy rides.

Read our full Vivobarefoot Magna Lite SG hiking boots review

Best wide hiking boots for bunion relief

When it comes to comfort, not many brands go as far as Hanwag, creating special versions of its hiking boots and shoes for people who suffer with bunions. These Banks hiking boots (also available in a low-cut walking shoe) are available wider at the toe joint with a soft cover that doesn't press on the sensitive area, allowing more people to hike pain-free.

The uppers are made from super-soft nubuck leather with sensational out-of-the-box comfort levels. The plentiful padding offers extra warmth in all but the coldest of conditions.

Our tester was excited to find that all this heightened comfort doesn't come at the cost of performance. The innovative design of the chassis and the positioning of the lace hooks means unparalleled level of ankle support.

A Gore-Tex lining gives a great level of breathable protection and the Vibram sole is excellent on wet, gloopy surfaces.

If you don't mind a toecap that's a little minimalist and lugs that aren't suited for high mountain terrain, these boots will serve you well on lower-land trails for years to come.

Read our full Hanwag Banks hiking boots review

Best wide hiking boots for eco credentials

The Vivobarefoot Tracker Textile AT has been given a few upgrades since its last incarnation. It's now made from fully vegan and fully recycled materials, meaning it has a lighter impact on the planet than other boots in this guide.

It's still a heavyweight when it comes to performance though. The uppers give your feet and ankles plenty of protection on stony trails and the waterproof membrane keeps them dry through puddles and river crossings.

The removable thermal insole is a nice addition, meaning you can still wear these barefoot hikers on days when the mercury hits zero.

The 4mm lugs on the grippy outsoles give a nice bit of relief from uneven surfaces and served our expert tester Julia Clarke well on wet leaves, country paths and even steep slopes and wet bogs. However, she would have liked more traction on wet rocks and steep, muddy slopes.

As with the Magna Lites, these barefoot boots are comfy from the off, with a roomy fit and wide toe box. The soles are super-flexible, allowing you to walk effortlessly on all but the most slippery terrains.

They have a hefty price tag, but if you love barefoot hikers and want a bit more protection than the average style, you'll be glad you invested.

Read our full Vivobarefoot Tracker Textile AT review

Best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet comparison table

Meet the testers

FAQs on the best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet

Everyone loves the thought of heading out on a hike in the most comfortable pair of hiking boots or shoes, but when it comes to finding a great fit for wide feet that will let you walk for hours pain-free, it's a mission in itself.

There's loads advice in our feature on how to choose a pair of hiking boots, but sometimes you need to hone in on the qualities that make a pair of boots or shoes better for wide feet.

It goes without saying that, where possible, you should always try on boots before you buy. Thankfully, a great many online retailers offer generous returns policies, allowing you to order multiple pairs to try for size, then returning for free (check the small print before you order).

Use the info below to help focus your online browsing to help spot easily the best pairs of hiking boots and shoes for wide feet.

How should wide hiking boots fit?

Hiking boots and shoes are designed on specific lasts (an artificial model of a foot), and each brand will use a different foot shape to build their footwear around. It may take a fair bit of trying-on to work out which brand suits your foot shape best. Whenever you are trying on, remember to use a good pair of hiking socks to help get the perfect fit.

A lot of people with wide feet struggle with small toe boxes. A good-fitting boot will have a toe box that doesn't cramp your toes, but allows them to flex and splay as you walk. Your toes shouldn't move forward and hit the end of your shoe as you stride as this can cause bruising and blisters.

You should get good cradling and support from the mid-part of the shoe. It shouldn't feel overly roomy – foot can roll around and cause you instability. The heel area should cup the foot nicely, without pinching, and help hold your foot in the back of the boot or shoe, rather than letting it slip forward.

Don't forget, there are hiking insoles that can dramatically change the fit of a boot or shoe.

Do I need wide hiking boots or shoes?

Loose-fitting shoes can put you at risk when you're hiking as your foot can roll around and slip inside the shoe, decreasing your stability and putting you more at risk of slipping or tripping. Your toes will start working harder to grip inside the shoe, making them tired and causing you greater discomfort. Your legs will start overworking too, to counteract an unstable ankle. Hiking boots and shoes should fit just right – snug, without pinching – and keeping your foot nicely in place, even on ascents and descents.

Should I size up if my feet are wide?

Ideally, if the boots or shoes you've ordered aren't wide enough for your feet, you should return them and order the wide-fit versions, or keep looking for a different pair that do allow your feet to sit comfortably without being piched. However, generally going up a size or a half a size in a shoe or boot will give you some extra width, so if they are only very slightly too narrow, give it a go.

Are wide hiking boots and shoes more expensive?

Hiking boots that cater for the masses use lasts based on very average foot widths and lengths, so you might find that more-specialist wide-fit footwear isn't as cheap. However, whenever you pay more for your outdoor gear you can usually expect it to last longer. Investing in a pair of hiking boots and shoes that fit like a glove is a great choice and means you'll use them for longer and lessen your environmental impact.

In our guide we've chosen boots from brands that promise quality. You may find Gore-Tex waterproofing or Vibram soles, and other innovative materials that are flexible but durable. They may carry a higher price tag, but we always consider overall value for money when writing hiking boot and shoe reviews.

What materials are used in wide hiking boots and shoes?

A lot of hiking boots and shoes for wide feet have uppers that are made of innovative, synthetic materials that are known for being light and flexible to mold around the foot and not restrict feet. The materials can still offer great weather protection and durability, but they don't require a breaking-in period. Soft, nubuck leathers are sometimes used but expect to pay a higher price for this luxury.

The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes will keep you agile on the trails help you zip along quicker and more freely than you could in traditional walking footwear. They are flexible while still giving grip and offer support and protection without adding too much weight, letting you hike for longer without developing leg or foot fatigue.

While more traditional hiking boots use hardy materials for durable, tough finishes and a bulkier design for greater protection against rocky terrain, the appetite for fastpacking and micro adventures has been satiated by a wave of modern makes that use synthetic materials with plenty of cushioning and opportunity for your feet to flex.

The rise in gorpcore and the post-lockdown boost of hiker numbers have increased demand for accessible footwear that prioritizes comfort over durability. But while these lightweight hikers have greater appeal for newbies, it doesn’t mean they lack technical prowess.

How hiking boots are made is complex and intriguing. The most innovative lightweight boots and shoes use responsive foam for unparalleled cushioning and propulsion, light rubber compounds that offer great grip and breathable mesh fabrics, all combining to create less weight in a boot or shoe that still delivers on techy terrain. They will keep your feet cooler in summer and shoulder seasons and won’t weigh you down on low-level hiking missions and fastpacking escapades and day treks.

In this guide, our outdoors experts have found the best-value lightweight boots and shoes and put them to test on Italian via ferratas, snow-capped Scottish mountains and boggy Welsh trails to see if they live up to their marketing spiel. Read on to see how they fared.

The quick list

This is our quick list, a snapshot of the best lightweight hiking boots and shoes available. To delve deeper into the features and qualities of each piece of footwear, see our detailed reviews further down the page.

The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes

The best lightweight hiking boots for backpacking

This lightweight take on the well-loved Merrell Moab hiking boot have a trainer aesthetic which, while it may look at home on city streets, is technical enough to tackle the trails. Gore-Tex membrane, grippy Vibram sole, upper lace hooks... the Moab Speed 2 Mids have it all.

The fit is comfy from the outset, with a nice amount of cushioning and just enough toe room. The upper is made from nylon ripstop and TPU, while a Gore-Tex bootie gives good waterproofing, all promising a hoof with a long life. Elsewhere, recycled materials make up the mesh lining and mesh footbed, laces and webbing, while the foam footbed is also 50% recycled.

There's plenty of padding around the ankle and a nicely squishy tongue, gusseted to prevent trail debris from working its way in.

The boots are rated by Merrell for 'moderate' trail use, and the light protective rand and flexible outsole keeps them light. For more rugged trails you'll want a sturdier boot. On the trails the 4mm lugs give a good degree of traction, and our expert tester reckoned his feet were kept dry and toasty in wet and muddy conditions.

For drier landscapes we'd probably opt for a pair of grippy trail running shoes. However, for backpacking and hut-to-hut trekking on reasonable trails, the Moab Speed 2 Mids don't disappoint.

Read our full Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid Gore-Tex hiking boot review.

The best lightweight hiking boots for easy hikes

Aimed at adventurers who want to keep nimble on the trails and move fast across less-challenging landscapes, the Keen NXIS EVOs are a lightweight, mesh-covered mid boot designed for fair conditions.

They feature the KonnectFit heel-capture system, which loops around the back of your foot and works with the laces to provide grip across your heel and forefoot area keeping your foot stable in the boot. Cushioning from from a compression-molded midsole is decent and Keen’s signature oversize toe bumper has been reduced on this model to cut down weight.

Our outdoors expert put them to test on a four-day fastpacking trip along the West Highland Way in the north of Scotland. It was slightly ambitious for these boots, which although waterproof, are more at home in fairer conditions. The boots proved warm and comfy, but did become waterlogged after a while, with the outer mesh getting clogged with dirt. This affected performance and was a pain to clean.

However, in more benign conditions, the NXIS EVOs help you move along the trail at good pace, benefiting from their secure hold and ample feedback. For fair-weather hikes on fairly well-established trails and sub-alpine tracks, these are a solid choice.

The best lightweight hiking boots for trail feel

With zero drop between the heel and toes, the Vivobarefoot Magna Lite SGs give you a novel, tactile approach to hiking that might take some getting used to if you've not tried it before.

The SG in the name of these boots stands for 'soft ground', but they do have an insole and a 2.5mm sole base, which provide some protection from sharp debris on the trail.

With no tongue, the upper resembles a thick sock, and the toe box is wide allowing your feet to relax out. Two wing-like supports can be pulled tight to support your ankle, although the support isn't as firm as other Vivobarefoot lightweight hikers. Pull loops help you get the boots on and off with ease.

On hot days our outdoors expert trekked comfortably, his feet breathing easily. The chevron lugs propelled him over spongy ground and gave good traction and expelled mud. However, on compacted ground he could feel the lugs pushing up through the sole base, so best to steer clear of street walking if you can.

For travel, they're great, packing down small and shaving off luggage weight. But you'll need to be heading to a destination with mild climes as they don't offer the all-weather protection that other boots on test here do.

If you're a barefoot fan, you'll like these boots for day hikes and treks during travels.

Read our full Vivobarefoot Magna Lite SG review

The best winter lightweight hiking shoes

Merging the worlds of hiking and trail running, inov8 claims the ROCLITE G 315 GTX V2 is a lightweight waterproof shoe that you can pick up the pace in. What's more, it's designed to tackle winter conditions with Gore-Tex waterproofing, graphene-enhanced outsole and 6mm lugs.

A good amount of foam cushioning ups the shoe's comfort game and gives extra propulsion without sacrificing too much trail feel. A rock plate and a bumper up front give extra protection from abrasion

On test, the snug fit gave a secure, locked-in feel. The rubber soles gave good traction while scrambling on rock as well as during fast descents on compacted snow. Our expert experienced minor slipping on forest trails after substantial rainfall, but even the best brands in the business didn't fare much better on the same terrain.

When it comes to warm weather hikes and runs, you might want to switch to a lighter trail shoe. However, for day hikes in showers and drizzle, these ROCLITES will keep you comfy for mile after mile.

"It's the versatility that really makes these great shoes stand out," our expert says.

Read our full inov-8 ROCLITE G 315 GTX V2 review

The best lightweight hiking boots for rocky scrambles

The North Face Verto Gore-Tex Alpine Mid Boots really are full of surprises. They are lightweight for a start, which considering they are built for hiking and via ferratas with reinforced leather uppers and grippy Vibram soles, is pretty astonishing. There's a climbing zone at the toe for edging, too.

Despite their burly, rigid appearance, they are actually comfortable and breathable. On a hiking and via ferrata trip to Corsica, our outdoors expert got to put them to the test fresh from the box and had no complaints, despite the high cuff and narrow shoe box, which could have rubbed.

They are boots that perform on dry, rocky surfaces where you might encounter slippery areas, but a full Gore-Tex waterproof lining makes them an ideal choice for a boggy hike too. The top of the tongue and very top of the ankle cuff aren't waterproof, so you might get ingress on very wet schleps, but no different to most hiking boots.

They are nice and breathable, so even on warm days they are a good choice to protect your feet from getting a bashing from rock. The lacing system brings things in tight on technical ground. You'll be impressed with how much scrambling and climbing you can tackle in these mid boots, which are a solid choice for trekking through mud too.

Read our full The North Face Verto Gore-Tex Alpine Mid Boots review

The best fast lightweight hiking boots

"So light they must have helium in the heels." That’s what our mountain expert thought about the Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-Tex hiking boots when he tested them on a trek in the Black Mountains in Wales.

High comfort levels were no surprise in a boot coming from a brand that specializes in trail-running gear. They have a low profile and minimalist upper, giving you a light feeling that will help you zoom along the trails.

The grippy outsole with aggressive lugs gives good traction uphill and enhanced braking ability on quick, technical descents, and there are lugs on the toe cap too, to keep you in control on steep terrain.

The quick-lace fastening system means you can have the boots on in a jiffy, and the laces are extra-strong. However, an extra lace loop on a slightly taller cuff would lock in your foot more securely.

If you’re not carrying a heavy pack and enjoy a free feel on the trails, the Cross Hike 2s are a great choice for summer treks, day hikes and fastpacking missions.

Read our full Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-Tex review

Meet the testers

Best lightweight hiking boots and shoes comparison table

How to choose lightweight hiking boots and shoes

There’s an ever-growing selection of lightweight hiking boots and shoes on the market, and trying to identify a lightweight model from a regular hiking boot or an active trainer with a boot aesthetic can be a mission in itself. Of course, the type of boot or shoe that's best for you all depends on where and when you intend to hike and your personal preference when it comes to fit.

If you want to move fast over low-level ground without a heavy pack then you won’t need as much support and protection as the best hiking boots and the best women’s hiking boots can offer. Similarly, hiking in fair conditions calls for more breathable footwear. If you’re an active traveler, having a light pair of boots you can throw in a smaller-sized bag can be a real boon, and these lightweight hooves tend to dry quicker, meaning they won't honk out your case.

Maybe the best boon of these lightweight designs is that they mean a lot less breaking in, and are often good to hike in fresh from the box. Read on to find out more about what to look for in your next pair of lightweight hiking boots or shoes.

FAQs

What kind of protection and support do lightweight hiking boots and shoes give?

While made of more flexible materials, a lightweight boot or shoe can still give great support and protection. A lot of our boots on test are mid-height, with a padded cuff around the ankle to provide a barrier from sharp rocks or thorny branches and to keep you more stable on uneven terrain.

The higher the lacing system on a boot or shoe, the better the weather proofing and the more it will prevent annoying trail debris, such as grit and muck, getting into your boot.

Shoes can still feature bumpers and protective rands, which while not as substantial as in heavier designs, offer added shielding.

Outsoles tend to be thinner and softer. which means greater flex and a better trail feel, but you can expect to have to replace them more frequently. Some models also incorporate a lightweight TPU (or similar) rock plate – a protective layer between outer sole and the inner, designed to stop sharp trail objects jabbing the underside of your foot.

Are lightweight hiking boots and shoes waterproof?

One of the key features of the best winter hiking boots is the ability to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, mostly done with the addition of a Gore-Tex or equivalent membrane. However, this can be too much when hiking in warm climes as more often than not when waterproofing increases, breathability is compromised.

While lots of our best lightweight boots and shoes offer elements of waterproofing, they are not as unbreachable as our best winter hiking boots and hiking shoes. When you’re moving across mountains at a fast pace your feet will heat and it’s often better to go with something that incorporates fabrics that can air quicker, dry fast overnight and allow your foot to breathe as you hike.

How much grip do lightweight hiking boots and shoes offer?

Powerful grip for attacking technical terrain and slick rock is achieved through hardwearing soles made from tough rubber, such as Vibram.

Better grip on wet and muddy surafces is achieved with deeper ‘lugs’, the indentations on the bottom of the soles. However, with these thick soles comes extra weight, which is why lightweight models are designed to be more flexible to give you better trail feel and to aid the bounce produced by mid-sole cushioning.

Softer rubber sole can be more tacky for smooth rock, but it’s not as durable and can wear down quickly.

Are lightweight hiking shoes and boots durable?

Harder-wearing, heavier materials typically used in the design of outdoor boots and shoes, from the rubber in the soles to the leather or synthetic alternative in the upper, add weight.

Lighter materials have a shorter lifespan and will show signs of wear and tear quicker, but quality manufacturers take strides in creating robustness. Sturdy stitching and seam sealing prevent footwear failing at weak points, and strong laces that won't fray or break offer enhanced stability.

Integrated tongues create stability and protection for less movement in the shoe and greater longevity.

Are lightweight hiking shoes and boots good value?

Innovation and manufacture of lightweight but strong materials doesn't come cheap and we've spent a lot of time researching why outdoor gear is so expensive. Some lightweight boots and shoes have the same list price, or higher, of other footwear that will last you for decades.

However, there's a great deal to be said for the versatility of these boots and shoes. Some models are agile enough to run in and may double up as your tail runners; most are good for down days, post-trek meets or kicking back in the après bar. They look good with your civvies and you'll be as comfy in them strolling down the high street as you will clambering down a steep gully.

When you realize how convenient and comfortable they are, you'll find yourself reaching for them time and time again.

Choosing the best climbing shoes isn't a decision you want to rush. There's never been such an array of choice, with styles to suit every kind of climber. Whether you're looking for something comfortable for long sessions in the gym, eyeing up your first outdoor sport climb, aiming to progress into multi-pitch trad, or you're hoping to finally send a particularly challenging boulder problem, there's a shoe that's ideally suited to your ambitions – the challenge is finding it.

Climbing shoes are unique in the world of outdoor footwear, as unlike a hiking boot or even an approach shoe, they're not designed to walk in. Instead, climbing shoes are specifically designed to fit snugly, closely matching the shape of the foot. Rather than mud gripping lugs, the outsole is flat and features sticky rubber designed to grip the smallest rock features.

We're here to provide the beta on some of the world's best climbing shoes in 2026. From comfortable classics like La Sportiva's Mythos, to aggressive, high performing shoes like Scarpa's Instinct Lace, whatever your ambitions, we've got you covered here.

The quick list

This is the quick list, a brief overview of the best climbing shoes available today. To delve deeper into each shoe, see our more detailed write ups further down the guide.

The best climbing shoes 2026

The best climbing shoe overall

When wearing the Scarpa Instinct Lace, "there's no excuse for anything other than precise foot placement", according to our climbing expert Jessie Leong. She rates the Instinct extremely highly, recommending it for technical sport climbing adventures, as well as projects featuring extremely steep ground or overhangs.

The lacing system provides a very precise fit, providing oodles of confidence on what would otherwise be intimidating terrain. Jessie said that she was able to "get purchase on holds I wouldn't normally trust", thanks to the aggressive last. The only drawback is that they tend to get tight in hot weather as your feet start to expand – though this is to be expected for an aggressive shoe like this.

Read our full Scarpa Instinct Lace review

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The best climbing shoe for small holds

Another climbing shoe that got the 5-star seal of approval from expert tester Jessie Leong, the Tenaya Masai is a shoe with a neutral footbed that can nevertheless hold its own on everything from easier multi-pitch trad to boulder problems. Jessie asserts that it's "a go-to lace up climbing shoe for vertical or slightly overhanging routes".

The Masai has a strong reputation among trad climbers, who value its stiffness. It provides purchase on tiny holds, is sensitive when edging and the Vibram XS Grip rubber provides sticky traction. Despite all this, they're comfortable enough to wear during longer adventures, though, like the Scarpa Instinct, they can get a little tight towards the end of a long summer day on the crag.

Read our full Tenaya Masai review

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The best climbing shoe for women

This low volume (hence the LV in the name) iteration of the popular Ra shoe blends high-performance precision with flexibility and comfort. It provides sensitivity, perfect for climbers who want to feel every nuance of the rock beneath their feet.

Our expert tester Jessie Leong was initially unsure about the use of Velcro instead of laces. However, she says that her "expectations were completely exceeded by the technical performance". Not only this, she found that they were a highly practical and versatile pair that were quick to put on and take off. This all adds up to a shoe that's great for newbies and crag veterans alike, providing solid performance and comfort on everything from boulder problems to multi-pitch climbs.

Read our full Tenaya Women's Ra LV review

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The best climbing shoe for precision

Our expert tester Jessie Leong was very impressed with these very capable climbing shoes, saying that they're a good option for "anyone looking for versatility and precision". They're particularly well suited to routes on steep limestone, though it'll comfortably take on any form of climbing. There's also solid foot protection thanks to the generous rubber rand.

There's no Vibram in the outsole here – instead they make use of Unparallel's proprietary rubber, a firm favorite among the vertically inclined. Performance when edging or smearing is excellent, perfect for bouldering or for technical sport climbing routes. Jessie recommends going a size down for comfort and another half down for a more performance-orientated, technical fit.

Read our full Unparallel Up Lace Climbing Shoe review

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The best climbing shoe for comfort

"I've been wearing the Mythos for years and it's never let me down," says our expert tester Alex Foxfield. The big draw to these shoes, which have been around the block more than most, is their almost unrivalled comfort, making them a great fit for multi-pitch routes. Their secret is the soft suede upper, which expands along with your feet on longer days.

Despite being a neutral shoe, they're noticeably narrow at the front, which is great for jamming into cracks. They're not perfect for bouldering or technical sport routes, as their edging isn't great. However, if you want to take on longer routes in relative comfort, these are a great shout.

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The best neutral climbing shoe

An update of the classic Five Ten Pinks, the attractive Five Ten NIADs feel familiar to those that are already advocates of the much-loved model. Five Ten have managed to shave some of the weight off the Pinks, while still retaining the technical features that made them such a trusted friend on the crags. Our expert tester Jessie Leong found that she "had the confidence to trust them on a variety of rock surfaces thanks to the Stealth C4 rubber outsole, which works really well on hot rock".

They're a little stiff to begin with, but once broken in, they provide great all-round performance. Strong levels of all-day comfort and the lacing are the standout features, making them a good shout for multi-pitch routes. Fit wise, they're slightly narrow, so large-heeled climbers may want to look elsewhere.

Read our full Five Ten NIAD Lace review

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The best climbing shoe for indoor competitions

Championed as a shoe for indoor competition climbers, the La Sportiva Solution Comp is designed to provide maximum performance. Features like a rubber toe cap for toe hooks on overhangs and a tapered heel for heel hooks hint at the kind of technical difficulty these shoes have been created for.

Our tester Jessie Leong admits that she's neither an indoor wad, nor a passionate boulderer, though she noticed that "the way I climbed was dictated by the form and fit of these shoes". They allowed her to take on tricky footwork manoeuvres, such as scumming and toe hooking, with confidence. She's also keen to point out that these aren't an all-day comfort shoe due to their aggressive, performance-orientated design. This means they're not a good option for beginners or those looking for a multi-purpose climbing shoe. However, for indoor competitions or technical boulder projects, these are a solid option.

Read our full La Sportiva Solution Comp review

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The best climbing shoe for multi-pitch routes

Comfort is key on multi-pitch routes and with cushioned ankle support, a stiff midsole and a high cut collar, the retro-feeling Ballet from Boreal is ideal. The lace closure provides a precise fit, while there's protection at both the toe and ankle. So, if you're into trad or big wall climbing, these are an option worth exploring. Crack climbers will also value the level of reinforcement here.

All this protection and their higher cut means that the Ballets weigh more than most, so they're not ideally suited to shorter, technical routes. Our expert tester Jessie Leong points out that they can "feel a bit baggy at the front for those who prefer a narrower, more precise fit". One for long days on the crag then, rather than for snatched hours attempting difficult moves at the boulder.

Read our full Boreal Ballet review

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The best climbing shoe for beginners

Affordable and comfortable, the flat-lasted Black Diamond Momentum is perfect for beginners. Comfort is the number one priority here, rather than performance on tiny holds and technical boulder problems. A soft midsole and a breathable upper join forces with the neutral profile to create a very accommodating shoe. Velcro-strap closure adds to their fuss-free nature.

Our tester Jessie Leong found that, while the soft-flex midsole provided comfort, it didn't inspire confidence or aid footwork on the crag as well as other shoes in this guide. However, she had plenty of positives to say too, asserting that it's "a product I'll be recommending to friends who are starting out, thanks to their combination of comfort and decent entry-level performance".

Read our full Black Diamond Momentum review

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How we test the best climbing shoes

Our expert reviewers test climbing shoes on the kind of crags and climbing disciplines they were intended for, judging grip, precision, comfort, performance, durability and value for money to arrive at the final judgements.

Meet the testers

The best climbing shoes comparison table

How to choose the best climbing shoe

Choosing the best climbing shoes involves a number of considerations. A major one, of course, will be what you’re going to be using them for – climbing indoors, or sport climbing, trad climbing and bouldering or a combination – but personal preference in terms of material, designs and your climbing style will determine whether a shoe feels right for you.

Climbing shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment in your crag pack. More so than most other kinds of sport shoe, they need to fit perfectly – finding the best climbing shoe for your feet can mean looking at both gender-specific shoes (women's tend to be narrower and lower in volume) and unisex versions in order to fine tune the fit.

Oh, and if you just starting your climbing journey and you come across some references here that make you go, “Huh?” feel free to browse our articles on rock climbing terms and rock climbing for beginners.

Do climbing shoes need to be uncomfortable?

Ultimately, climbing shoes don't need to be uncomfortable – this is a bit of a myth. Wearing the best climbing shoes shouldn’t make your feet painful or distract your focus from the climbing – instead you should be able to trust your footwork to commit on steeper, smaller holds.

The tight fitting nature of rock climbing shoes means that they're never going to be the most comfortable pair of shoes you own but they shouldn't be painfully uncomfortable either. If you're an experienced climber, you may want to consider the option of approach shoes for easier routes, which provide some of the performance of climbing shoes along with the comfort of hiking shoes.

Versatility

Ask yourself how much you would like your climbing shoes to do. Will they need to be versatile enough to use across a range of activities, from day-to-day wear, practising climbing at your local wall, to long multi-pitch routes, or technical, precise sport climbing?

For multi-purpose climbing shoes, look for neutral or moderate shoes, which feature less downturned profiles and generally offer greater comfort. For the more technical routes, a performance-orientated, aggressive climbing shoe with a downturned profile for precision will fit the bill.

Support & rigidity

Different climbing shoes will provide a range of rigidity across the foot, from bespoke technical arch support that literally hold the foot in place, to a rigid midsole to support your calves and prevent them from becoming tired on longer, steeper routes.

Conversely, softer soles can allow for greater sensitivity on slabs. Choosing a climbing shoe that has a good rubber sole, such as Vibram XS Grip, will determine the amount of grip and power transference you get on smaller holds, thus inspiring greater confidence from the shoe. If you’re looking to climb on steeper headwalls, a stiffer sole might suit you best, while people who are aiming for shoes that allow them to pad up delicate rockfaces may prefer a softer sole.

Looks

Does the shoe have a neutral profile, or a slight downturn? A downturn will suit boulderers or those wanting steeper sport climbing routes, while a neutral shoe that’s less aggressive and not too tight will be better suited for those who want more of an all-rounder trad/sport and bouldering shoe.

Velcro or laces?

Some climbers may prefer the convenience of velcro, which enables you to take shoes on and off super quickly; this is especially handy for making those tiny micro-adjustments for a better fit when the routes become more technical. Others prefer lacing, which supplies a more secure and evenly-distributed fit.

Sizing

The best climbing shoes can vary widely, and those who want more sensitivity may find that they need to drop down to a size, or half a size than their trainer size. Be careful, though, because brands differ. For instance, Tenaya and La Sportiva sizing came up much smaller, while Black Diamond and Boreal came up larger during the test. Try before you buy if possible.

Protection vs weight

If you’re intending on doing a lot of climbing that involves cracks and toe torques, or balancing on tiny edges, then good toe protection and a supportive midsole both contribute to the shoe’s rigidity; it’s worth paying a weight penalty to have these features. Climbing shoes can vary in weight, and if you’re looking at all-day comfort, a heavier climbing shoe may be more robust and protect your feet more, while a lighter shoe will be less noticeable.

Breathability 

The ability to keep your feet dry is good, so a breathable material is a massive bonus in helping towards all-day comfort. Velcro (as opposed to laces) can also help with encouraging feet to vent in-between climbs.

What to do with your old climbing shoes

Climbing shoes are tricky to recycle due to the combination of different materials glued together, and aren't as widely accepted as running shoes in recycling programs. La Sportiva is the exception. In 2022 the company launched a shoe recycling scheme in the UK, with recycling points in 25 locations including stores and climbing walls to collect old footwear.

If you're in the US and have a lot of footwear of different types to dispose of, you can order a Zero Waste box from Terracycle, which includes a postage label to return it. It's not cheap, but the price would be reasonable if several people chip in, so you could arrange a drive with a climbing club.

Water that's safe to drink is the single most important thing you need when you’re out and about adventuring, and that means finding the best water purifier or filter. While we are typically surrounded by H2O from one source or another, it can be contaminated, and it's not always possible to carry your hydration requirements on long adventures and multi-day trips – water is heavy and even carting a liter in the best hiking water bottles or hydration packs can impact your enjoyment.

Using a good camping stove you can boil water for several minutes in order to kill most waterborne bacterial and viral pathogens, plus pesky protozoa (tiny, single-cell creatures that can be parasitic and cause diseases). But, in reality, it’s not always possible or practical to pull out your camp cooking kit, and even if you do have a stove to hand, you're going to have to wait for the water to cool. Similarly, while there are purification tablets and chemical treatments on the market, such as iodine drops and chlorine and silver tablets, these can affect the taste of the water and often take time to work.

Fortunately, numerous clever solutions to this problem have been created over the years, with the development of water filters and purifiers designed specifically for hikers, climbers, campers, kayakers, international travelers and outdoor explorers. Before we take a look at some the best water purifiers and filters on the market, it’s important to point out that there is a crucial difference between a water filter (which will remove most waterborne bacteria and protozoa) and a water purifier – typically a more comprehensive piece of kit that will also remove waterborne viruses (as well as bacteria and harmful protozoa).

The quick list

This is the quick list, a snapshot of the best water purifiers and filters available in 2026. To delve deeper into the features and qualities of each one, see our more detailed reviews further down the page.

The best water purifiers and water filters 2026

The best press-action water purifier

This press-based purification system comprehensively catches a massive range of waterborne nasties, including virus threats that the more lightweight filters can’t deal with.

Extremely simple to use, but requiring a little bit of muscle power (or at least weight), you just fill the outer section of bottle with water from your source, and then – after opening the top valve half a turn to allow air to escape – push the inside section down, forcing the water through the filter. In this way it’s possible to prepare 500ml of drinking water in 10 seconds flat.

Drink straight from the spout, or decant the clean water into another container and press again.

The whole system fits in the bottle pocket of any backpack, and the cup holder of most vehicles.

Grayl have recently added a silicone one-way valve to the UltraPress, which prevents liquids from flowing back into the cartridge, so you can safely add electrolytes and other drink mixes to your purified water in the bottle, without compromising the filter.

It’s a little heavier than other systems, but you can carry the UltraPress empty and fill it as you go, instead of carting water around with you. This super safe system catches viruses, bacteria and protozoa, as well as particulates such as microplastics and sediment, chemicals such as chlorine, and heavy metals including lead. You can perform 300 presses before it’s necessary to replace the purifier cartridge (pressing becomes harder as the filter gets older – when it takes 25 seconds to press, it’s time for a new cartridge).

The best long-lasting purifier

This stable, standup, pump-powered purifier features two hoses: a scavenger hose for dipping into the water source (which comes with an adjustable float collar, so you can prevent the input dragging on the silty floor) and an output hose for decanting the clean water into a bottle.

Once you have the hoses in place, flip the blue handle up and start pumping. The water goes through a double filtration process, first passing through an ultrafiltration cartridge that catches bacteria, viruses, cysts, microplastics and other particulate and protozoa larger than 0.015 microns. It then goes through an activated carbon disc, which reduces heavy metals and chemicals, and improves the taste and smell of the water.

The ultrafiltration cartridge on this model is capable of filtering 5,000 liters (the most of any system on test) before requiring replacement (and once the filter has gone beyond its useful life, no water will pass through, providing a failsafe system). The activated carbon disc needs to be renewed after every 100 liters (but the purifier works perfectly well without it).

You do need a stable surface to operate this system, and the pump requires a little bit of elbow grease. Plus, it’s heavier and more bulky than a filter, so you might think twice if you’re planning on carrying it while backpacking (although it is much lighter than carting lots of water, and you can purify from sources as you go). But it’s been thoroughly tested (exceeding NSF/ANSI P231 requirements) and so you can rest assured that it will provide properly purified water when you’re camping for long periods, going on a road trip or travelling in places where potable water is hard to source.

Be careful not to lose the dust cap for the clean outflow, and make sure you purge the water completely after use. On test, we did notice air pockets forming, which made it difficult to put the pump handle back into the storage position and resulted in water occasionally being ejected explosively from the out valve.

The best pump-action purifier

The Liberty from LifeSaver is a compact and comprehensive purifying system for campers that’s capable of dealing with viruses as well as waterborne bacteria, particles and protozoa.

There are two ways of using it: you can either unscrew and remove the bottom section and scoop up a load of water, before reassembling the unit, or you can attach and dangle the supplied scavenger hose into the source (the hose comes complete with a little float, so you can prevent it touching the bottom and getting silt-clogged).

Once the unit is full of water, or the hose is in position, you use the pump on the base to pressurize the inside and force the water through the filter. When you’re ready to drink or decant the purified water into another container, open the top section and flip the white lever into the upright position. Be prepared, because the pressurized water will spurt fountain-like from the top of the unit at first.

The filter is good for around 528 gallons / 2,000 liters (after which time you can replace it), and the failsafe system means it stops working altogether once it’s maxed out, so you can’t accidentally drink non-filtered water.

Besides the microfilter, an activated carbon disc deals with heavy metals and improves the taste and odor of the water (and we can testify that it really does make it taste sweeter, no matter how mucky the source); this disc needs to be replaced after about 26 gallons / 100 liters, but the unit can be used without it.

The system fits into a backpack pocket, and can be carried full, but it only takes 13.5floz / 400ml – it’s best suited for use in camp when you’re set up for a few days, or during canoe trips (a loop on the lid enables you to secure it).

The best compact water filter

An ultralight and super-small water filtering system that’s perfect for weight-conscious backpackers, bikepackers and fastpackers, the LifeStraw Peak Series Solo unit is even more compact than LifeStraw’s Personal Water Filter Straw – it literally fits into the pocket of any daypack, backpack, bike bag, coat or hiking pants.

It’s ridiculously easy and quick to use – you simply pop the top cap off, unscrew the bottom cover, dip the end in the water source and suck. Alternatively, you can fill a standard disposable bottle full of water, screw the unit onto the top, invert it and either drink the filtered water straight from the Solo unit, or decant it into another container. It’s possible to fill a 0.25 gallon / 1L bottle with filtered water in 20 seconds.

The big drawback to this system – as with all water filters – is that while it does an excellent job of removing bacteria and particulates, it doesn’t catch waterborne viruses. You also need to be careful not to lose the bottom cover, which unlike the top cap, isn’t attached to the unit.

The filter should last for about 528 gallons / 2,000L (the unit stops allowing water through once it’s no longer effective), but while the Solo is available for a very accessible price compared to some systems – especially purifiers – when the filter is maxed out you need to replace the whole unit.

As the name suggests, the Solo doesn’t come with a bottle, but these are all too easy to source because the thread connects to most screwtop bottlenecks. Alternatively, for a slightly larger outlay you can purchase the LifeStraw Peak Series Squeeze Bottle with Filter, which is exactly the same system built into the top of a soft bottle. Both versions come with a backwashing syringe for cleaning the filter out.

It’s worth noting that, with each purchase, LifeStraw provides clean water for a child in need in the developing world.

The best water filter for small groups

Easy to assemble and use, the LifeStraw Flex with gravity bag system can provide plentiful filtered drinking water for small groups of campers, such as families. Simply fill the 1gal (3.7L) bag from the water source and then hang it from a tree or other structure in camp, using the strap and clip (included).

Gravity feeds the water through a hose to the LifeStraw Flex filter unit, from which you can fill cups, glasses, water bottles or hydration bladders – or just put your mouth underneath it and drink.

As well as a hollow-fiber membrane microfilter, which removes bacteria, parasites and microplastics, this system also has an activated carbon fiber capsule that reduces chlorine and heavy metals (including lead) and improves the taste of the water.

The hollow-fiber membrane is effective for 2,000L (500 gallons), and stops letting water through once it’s ceased working, at which point you can replace it. The carbon fiber capsule needs to be replaced after you’ve filtered around 100L (25 gallons) of water. Aside from working with the hang-bag, the Flex Filter unit can be used with a plastic water bottle (a threaded valve attaches it to a standard soft bottle in place of the lid); a hydration pack (this requires cutting the hydration pack’s hose and attaching the filter unit the right way around); or even as a stand-alone straw.

The kit comes with a backwashing syringe that should be used regularly to flush water through the filter, which will extend the product’s life.

The best squeeze filter

This simple water filtering system is light and highly packable, as well as being extremely easy to use – making it ideal for trekking, backpacking and other trips where weight is a big factor.

Simply fill the supplied 1L Platy bottle (clearly marked ‘dirty’ to avoid confusion) from the water source, attach the QuickDraw unit (also marked, with a ‘dirty’ and a ’clean’ end) and then squeeze the water through.

With the cap of the unit flipped open, you can drink straight from the ‘clean’ end of the straw (which has a spout), or decant the filtered water into another bottle.

While it isn’t effective against viruses, the QuickDraw will catch pretty much all waterborne bacteria and protozoa. The collection reservoir is double layered, to make it durable and taste-free, but you can use other water bottles if you so desire.

To clean the system, just backwash it by shaking it. While you can keep using the bottle forever, the filter unit has to be replaced after processing about 264 liters / 1,000 liters.

The best portable pump-action filter

Lightweight, compact and easy to carry in a backpack, hydration pack or even the pocket of a jacket or hiking pants, the Trailshot is from excellent outdoor brand MSR (Mountain Safety Research). It can be operated with one hand, to fill a water bottle or bladder, or even filter water directly into your mouth.

It’s a pump system, so you place the hose into the water source and squeeze a bulb section several times to draw the liquid through the filter, before decanting it into your vessel of choice, or sipping it directly from the spout. Capable of filtering a liter of water in 60 seconds, this system removes the vast majority of bacteria (such as E.coli and Salmonella) and protozoa (such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium), but like all filters, it isn’t effective against viral pathogens such as norovirus.

The Trailshot will process about 528 gallons / 2,000 liters of water before the filter needs to be changed (it becomes clear when you’re approaching this point when the rate drops below 8.5 oz / 250ml per minute). On test, the hand-squeeze pump – while nice and light – wasn’t as efficient at drawing water through the system as some other pumps featured here.

The best filter for travelling

The latest water filtering offering from LifeStraw is a skinny straw primarily designed for use by travelers concerned about picking up bugs from water and ice supplied in drinks, and is styled to be discreet when used in cafes, bars and restaurants in holiday destinations.

However, it essentially contains the same tech as featured in the Peak Series Straw, and can be used as a lightweight and easy-to-carry device to filter stream water while you’re on the trails, at home or abroad. Longer than the Solo, it can be used to reach stream water from the bank without getting your feet wet, but there’s no option to attach a bottle, so the only way to use it is by sucking water as you go (you can’t decant filtered water into another container).

As with all filters, it will catch the vast majority of bacteria and particulates, but not waterborne viruses, chemicals or heavy metals – to remove these you need a purifier. The membrane-based microfilter can process about 264 gallons / 1,000 liters over its life span, and it stops letting water through when it’s no longer effective, so you can’t accidentally drink unfiltered water. Once it’s spent, the entire unit needs to be replaced.

The Sip comes in a variety of colors, and with a matching carry case that keeps the straw nice and clean.

The best water purifiers and filters comparison table

Meet the expert

How we test the best water purifiers and filters

Our reviewer took all these water purifiers and filters out in the field on various types of adventures – from short hikes to multi-day treks, alone and in groups – to test their strengths and weaknesses. And yes, he really did use that straw in a stream.

How to choose the best water filters and purifiers

There are lots of water filters and purifiers on the market for backcountry hikers, bikers, backpackers, campers, climbers, paddlers and travellers, and it’s important to get the right system for your requirements. Preventing illness and keeping yourself hydrated are extremely important considerations, so you need to know what the system you are considering getting can (and can’t) protect you from.

Filter or purifier?

There is a crucial difference between water filters and water purifiers: filters will catch and remove the vast majority of waterborne bacteria (such as E.coli, salmonella and other dysentery-causing nasties) plus particulates (microplastics, sediment, silt) and protozoa (such as giardia, cryptosporidium, cysts, amoebae). However, they will not catch waterborne viruses, including rotavirus, norovirus and hepatitis A.

To get the bacteria, particulates, protozoa and the viruses, you need a water purifier, which is more comprehensive system with a smaller microbiological pore size (0.015 microns). Many of these purifiers (such as the Grayl UltraPress and the LifeSaver Wayfarer) will also remove chemicals and heavy metals (eg. lead) and the ones with an activated carbon disc even make the water smell and taste sweeter.

The downside is that purifying systems are heavier, bulkier and more expensive than filter systems. Do you really need a system that removes waterborne viruses? If you’re drinking from mountain streams, fairly close to the source, then possibly not, but it’s worth noting that people have been suffering symptoms of norovirus after swimming in UK waterways recently.

What about weight?

While some of these systems, especially the more comprehensive purifiers, can seem a bit heavy to take on backpacking escapades, they’re all significantly lighter than carting liters of water around on the trails, whether you use a bottle or backpack hydration system.

For reference, 17 fl oz / 500ml of water weighs 17.6oz / 500g, which is considerably more than even the heaviest purifying system included here. If you know you’re going to be crossing and camping near reliable water sources, it’s more weight-effective to carry a purifier.

Be careful – just because a stream is marked on a map, that doesn’t mean it will be flowing when you reach it. A purifier that allows you to transport some water along the trail is the best belt-and-braces approach.

Longevity

The filters and purifiers featured here are capable of cleaning between 264 and 1,320 gallons / 1,000 and 5,000 liters of water before parts need replacing, which means even the ones at the lower end of that scale could be used daily for a whole year (assuming you drink about three liters per day) before the filter becomes maxed out – not bad compared to the price of buying bottled water in equivalent quantities, and with a fraction of the environmental cost.

Top tips for using your filter or purifier

Like any piece of kit, a water filter or purifier will work better and for longer if you take care of it.

Prime your purifier and purge your filter

Some products (typically the purifiers) stress the importance of this more than others, but it’s always worth priming your water filter or purifier before you start using it for real. It’s a simple process that just involves operating the device with clean water, putting a few liters through the system. This gets the filter working better, and it’s a good idea to figure out how to use the kit and iron out any doubts or problems before you hit the trail.

Once you have used the filter or purifier properly with ‘dirty water’, it’s a good idea to purge the system afterwards with clean water.

Use the best, clearest water possible

When you’re collecting water from the source, try and get the clearest water you can. Running water is always better than still (potentially stagnant) water, and avoiding silt and dirt where possible will mean the filter works for longer. Devices with a scavenger hose should come equipped with a floating collar that you can put around the hose to avoid the collection bulb at the end dragging in the muck and silt at the bottom of a stream or river.

It's difficult to keep pace with the developments of the best navigation apps. The various platforms are engaged in a technological arms race to provide the best tools and features to hold on to their respective customer bases. 

Sometimes the main players move strategically when they like the look of another platform's tech and features. Smaller platforms with loyal followers have been swallowed up by bigger fish. This was was the case with the ever-popular ViewRanger when it was bought out by Outdooractive in 2021, to the dismay of many. In October 2024, the much beloved FATMAP will be fully integrated into the all-conquering Strava. It's unclear how much of FATMAP's former functionality will be carried forward, but it could spell bad news for the rest of the competition if the full potential of this merger is realized.

One thing is for sure, these excellent apps are making the backcountry more accessible than ever and are a real boon to any adventurer, becoming as essential as carrying a waterproof jacket on your escapades. To help you choose the best navigation app for your projects and planned trips, we asked our hiking experts to break down your options.

The quick list

This is the quick list, showing a brief overview of the apps in our selection. For a more detailed look at these excellent platforms, navigate further down this guide.

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The best navigation apps 2026

The best navigation app for worldwide adventures

The standard free version of Gaia gives you the ability to navigate, create routes and record activities using the platform's basic Open Street Map layer. Visually, it's better than some of its competitors when it comes to mountain adventures, with clear contour lines and shading that bring the landscape to life. The route planner is easy to use and powerful, though quickly finding and selecting popular routes isn't as easy as on platforms like AllTrails or komoot.

Gaia's main strength is the range of over 300 topographical maps that are accessible with a Premium subscription. These include USGS and USFS topos, as well as many great European maps too. They can also be layered on top of each other for a customized view.

The basic tools are free to use, though for offline use, weather & terrain features and the more advanced topographical maps, you'll want a Premium subscription. However, if you're a member of Outside+, you get Gaia's Premium features as part of the package.

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The best navigation app for multi-sport planning

Komoot has been rapidly growing in popularity over the last few years and, having conquered Europe, is now expanding its US focus. In 2024, it announced it had reached the milestone of 40 million users worldwide.

It’s arguably better for pedallers than plodders, but the redeeming feature is that it can be the best friend of a lazy planner, as you can simply pop in the start/finish location for your chosen adventure and it will work out a suitable route for you based on your selected sport type – with options on paths, roads or trails. It's also great for quickly finding popular routes in your chosen region.

The maps are based on OSM and are relatively straightforward, nowhere near as detailed as a topo map for serious hikers and mountaineers. Unlike some platforms, komoot doesn't support additional regional map layers. The free version gives you basic functionality, while you can buy regions for offline navigation or you can buy the whole world in a single one-off payment. A Premium subscription opens up advanced features like live tracking, sport-specific maps and the ability to use the komoot map on a Garmin device.

Navigationally it provides turn-by-turn directions. Of particular use is that they highlight routes suitable for road/mountain biking as well as cycle touring, and allow you to see what sections of the road are paved and which are dirt tracks. Part of its popularity is down to the the social media/community aspect, as users are encouraged to log in and highlight favoured spots and make recommendations, which definitely adds value to the user experience and makes it one of the best navigation apps you can download today.

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The best navigation app for quickly finding popular routes

If blazing your own trail is not what you’re about, and you’d sooner follow ready-made routes that are tried and tested, then AllTrails is a great option.

The free version allows you to search the database (there’s over 400,000 featured trails) to find a whole host of hikes close to wherever you find yourself – including dog-, wheelchair- and stroller-friendly options, which all come with distance, elevation and timings as well as (handily) images and reviews, not to mention a function to be directed (via Google Maps) to the start of the walk, and a quick weather forecast too.

You can also write and submit your own route if you want to share your favorite strolls. AllTrails+ provides offline maps, alerts you when you make a wrong turn, allows you to live share your activities, preview your route with 3D flyovers and gives access to over 200 guides.

It’s one of the best navigation apps for when you find yourself in an area you are not familiar with, though the level of mapping detail means it isn't ideal for the mountains. At the moment, you can also buy AllTrail+ and a National Park Annual Pass Bundle for $99.

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The best navigation app for the UK

You can’t think about maps of Britain without picturing the ubiquitous orange and pink folded gems of the Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 (Explorer) and 1:50,000 (Landranger) charts, respectively. Still the tool of choice for any orienteering training, it’s good to see that OS has moved with the times and made an app available on your phone. Revamped in early 2024 and with 5 million users worldwide, is it as good as its paper counterparts or its arguably more digitally savvy, international app rivals?

The free version of OS Maps – which includes basic mapping and sharing, creating and printing routes – is OK, but not really detailed enough on the ground. The free route planning tool is a little bit cumbersome and doesn't automatically snap to the trail like on other platforms. 

However, once you pay the annual subscription, the entire range is at your disposal – in all scales – meaning you can plot, share and follow a route, for walking, running and cycling anywhere in Britain and download it to your phone, then track your position once there.

It also unlocks a 3D Tabletop rendering to give you a good idea of the terrain you’ll encounter as well as a nifty augmented reality option so when you stand on a summit you know exactly what you are looking at. The brand new home tab is a big improvement, giving users for personalized information and route suggestions when they open up the app. 

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The best navigation app for local map layers

Like komoot, Outdooractive is a German product that offers route planning and navigation capability for a range of outdoor pursuits, from hiking and mountaineering to road cycling and mountain biking. The company bought the popular Viewranger in 2019 and the teams have been working together to optimize the platform going forward.

Outdooractive is chock full of route suggestions from Sunday strolls to epic alpine adventures, making it one of the best navigation apps for exploring new locations. Like komoot, the community plays a big part and you can share your routes and suggestions. One big plus is the inclusion of regional topographical map types, such as Harvey Maps in Britain or Alpine Club maps in the Alps, which are much more detailed than what you tend to find when using maps that used Open Street Maps as their base. However, to access these you do require the Pro or Pro+ subscription. There are also Travel Guide pages where you can read exciting stories and travelogues from expert writers.

There are three membership levels. Basic is free and gives you the option of planning and navigating routes, as well as the ability to download GPX files. You can also rate and review routes and accommodation. Pro is $34.19 (£26.69) per year and gives you access to the regional topo maps, enables you to use maps offline, plus a range of other feature and even discounts with the likes of Aku, Garmin and Helly Hansen, among others. Pro+ is $68.39 (£53.39) per year and gives you access to an even wider range of detailed topo maps, such as the excellent Harvey maps in the UK; allows you to embed your routes onto your website or blog; and features 3D maps.

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The best navigation app for US National Parks

For those heading out to explore America's national parks, the National Park Service (NPS) app is the best navigation app by far. It features a wealth of features that go way beyond navigation. There's information about local amenities, access to webcams, lodge reservations, suggested itineraries, restaurant bookings and even virtual postcards so that you can share your experiences with family and friends. Best of all, the app is totally free!

Of course, any hiking app worth its salt will be judged by its maps. The NPS app's are detailed, interactive and user friendly. Most importantly, they work offline too, which is great if you're concerned about signal in remote areas or data usage. Having all the national parks in one handy app is a real game changer. The National Park Service are adding features all the time so, while the app is already great, it will only get better.

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The best navigation app for trail runners

Strava, the all-conquering app that boasts over 120 million users, is better known for tracking workouts and giving fellow athletes kudos than it is for route planning and navigation. The free offering is very basic where backcountry adventures are concerned. However, subscribers can use its route planner to plan runs, hikes and bike rides etc and, in fall 2024, FATMAP will be integrated into the platform.

This is a big deal. Before FATMAP was swallowed up by Strava, it had a loyal following of 1.6 million users and was highly rated as one of the finest adventure apps around, particularly with regard to its high-res 3D mapping, seasonal map layers and curated content. Mountaineers and backcountry skiers adored its functionality and its was this fast-growing reputation that obviously attracted Strava to move on in.

So, while much of Strava's functionality as a navigation app for hikers is hidden behind the need for users to subscribe, if it gets its FATMAP integration right – and it's a big if – it may become the ultimate platform. Watch this space.

The best navigation app for rock climbers

Championed as being "built for adventurers, by adventurers", onX Backcountry brings mapping and curated content together in a package that's very appealing, particularly to US users. With 24k topo for the entire US, satellite, hybrid and 3D views, the map interface is smart, while the mapping is linked to expert-curated content from companies like Beacon Guidebooks and groups like Colorado Mountain Club. 

There are modes for hikers, backcountry skiers, mountain bikers and rock climbers. Particularly impressive is the range of curated content, with over 4,000 backcountry ski lines with guidebook descriptions and over 300,000 rock climbing routes and approach trails.

If this all sounds too good to be true, a major drawback is that it's only available for free as a 7-day trial, after which you'll be paying for Premium, albeit at a heavily discounted rate for the first year. The very expensive Elite mode gives full access to the guidebook quality content, as well as info on private land and recent satellite imagery that reveals local snow conditions. Elite members also get discounts from selected brands, such as Mammut and Backpacker's Pantry.

The best navigation app for multiple map types

Less of a platform in itself and more of a store from which to purchase and store the maps you need, Avenza is an intriguing proposition. Useful for more than just outdoor adventures, you can purchase city maps, regional topographic maps, offroading maps, hunting maps, fishing maps... the list goes on. You can search for maps based on location, adding them to your library and the range is extensive, including USFS, USGS, National Geographic, HarperCollins, National Park Service and Harvey, just to name a few and there are thousands more.

The app uses your phone's GPS to accurately track your location offline on whichever map you've downloaded, allowing you to navigate accurately. You can add place marks to your chosen map, add notes and photos to any location, measure distances and estimate timings. 

There are various pricing options beyond the Free version, which gives you basic functionality and the ability to import up to 3 maps at a time. The Plus subscription enables you to create and manage geofences, access the satellite basemap layer and import up to 20 maps at a time. Pro and Enterprise are more sophisticated and are aimed at businesses and government.

Comparison Table

How we test the best navigation apps

We test each navigation app in the backcountry, testing its route finding, planning, navigation, third-party integration and post-activity features to the full, while considering usability, the range of features and value for money.

For more details see how Advnture tests products.

Meet the testers

How to choose the best navigation app

Route planning

Some of the best navigational apps have powerful route planning tools, meaning you can dream up your ideal hike, plot it using the platform and get an idea of things like how long it will take you and even how many calories you can expect to burn. Many work in tandem with a desktop version and you can usually download your planned routes as a GPX file, which will be compatible with other platforms and GPS devices.

Live tracking

You can alleviate the worry of your friends and family by allowing them to live track your movements. Of course, this means you will all have to be on the same app platform, but this is an excellent safety net that means you'll never go missing without a trace (as long as you have battery). This is also great if you're taking on a big peak-bagging challenge or a ultra run, as your friends can track your progress.

Social media sharing

'If it's not on Strava it didn't happen' has become something of a saying in the online running community. With apps like komoot providing a fun and easy to share your adventurous exploits on social media, the same could be said of hiking these days. After a walk, the best hiking apps allow you to share your photos, your thoughts, your personal highlights and create your own content for the platform, giving you a great sense of ownership. You can label other people's contributions as useful or not useful and get inspired by each others' antics.

Multi sports

These days, many apps offer sport specific maps and features. After all, what's useful for a speedy road cyclist is different to what's useful for someone who's loaded up like a mule on a thru-hiking expedition. Some platforms now offer voice navigation, which is tremendously useful for fast pursuits like cycling, mountain biking and trail running, where you don't want to be looking at a map every time you reach a junction.

FAQs

Bikepacking is a brilliant way to explore tracks, trails and lost lanes, but how you stash and carry your gear makes all the difference between an incredible outdoor adventure and a calamitous ordeal – here we suss out the best bags for bikepacking, from frame, saddle and bar bags through to packs and panniers.

Keeping your kit tidy and your steed perfectly balanced is crucial to any successful overnight or multi-day cycling escapade, and you need to be careful about how and where you pack heavier essential items such as your sleeping bag, camping mat, lightweight tent or bivy bag, little cooking stove and camping food. To get it right you really need the best bikepacking bags you can get your hands on. Fortunately, the soaring popularity of the pursuit means there is now a much larger choice of bespoke, purpose-built bikepacking bags on the market, and the days of improvising with whatever you can find are long over.

Rationalizing your gear, packing smart and being as minimalist as you can comfortably get away with remains pretty important. And, of course, the kind of bike you are using will often determine the style of pack you can use, especially in regards to frame bags, with full-suspension mountain bikes often proving a lot more problematic to pack than less-cluttered gravel bikes. But whatever you’re riding and wherever you’re planning on pedalling to, using the best bikepacking bags will immeasurably improve the experience. 

The quick list

Here's our Quick List, starting with our top performers when it comes to quality bikepacking bags. For a more detailed look at these excellent holdalls, navigate further down this guide.

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The best bikepacking bags we recommend in 2026

Best long frame bag for bikepacking

Available in three sizes, so you can select the right option for your bikepacking steed of choice, this excellent bag is mounted beneath the top tube and fastens to the frame very securely in three separate directions, for a rock solid, zero-wobble fit. 

All three sizes have a narrow profile, so your legs don’t brush against the bag while you’re pedalling, but this pack still offers excellent capacity (the large model boasts an impressive 5L volume). Centrally and securely located on the frame, it is the ideal place to stash non-bulky but heavy items ranging from tent pegs and poles to tools, pumps, stoves, fuel and food supplies. 

The material (which includes some recycled fabrics) is tough and weatherproof, and you can wipe it down – useful, since the positioning means it gets oil and filth thrown at it from the drivechain.  Access is easy (even while you’re riding) with a double-action zipper with pull-tabs to help when you have gloves on; although it does favor right-handed people, as the zip is only on the right side.   

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Best bikepacking frame bag for mountain bikes

Designed to fit snugly and securely in the triangle of your bike frame, and boasting an access zip on both sides (with oversize pull loops so you can operate them with gloves on), the Bilbie is ideal for carrying smaller items that you might want to access mid-ride without stopping, such as sunglasses, snacks and your smartphone. A protected front-facing cable port enables you to run wires out from a device that’s being kept safely inside. 

It’s half-sized, so it can be used on most full-suspension mountain bikes, but being extremely secure and centrally positioned, you can also use it to stash heavier items like tools and a pump, or perhaps tent pegs. You can even fit water bottles or other heavy fluids in it (it accommodates at least a couple of beers, according to our tester). 

Made primarily from lightweight but tough and tear-proof VX21 fabric (or wax cotton, for an extra tenner) with YKK Aquaguard zips, this is a reliably weatherproof bag that can take plenty of punishment. There are multiple loops on the front and top of the Bilbie, so you can choose where to employ the three Velcro straps (included), but since these are removable, care needs to be taken not to misplace them.   

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Best frame bag for bike-based daypacking and commuting

A stylish pack with two separate compartments, the Chrome Industries 4L Doubletrack can be fastened to your bike frame during cycling trips and then unattached and used as a crossover bag when you’re booting about town. 

Three straps fix the Doubletrack within the triangle of the frame, two looping over the top tube and one going around the upright, all of which can be tightened and fastened with a buckle. Access to the two compartments is via zips with chord pull-tabs, which can be operated with gloves on. 

Separating the inner into two compartments makes sense from an organization point of view, but it does severely limit the storage capacity of the pack and, despite its name, this bag is far better suited to commuting and day riding than serious bikepacking. 

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Best top tube-mounted bikepacking bag

Designed to sit on top of your top tube, with a single full-length zip that’s easy to open with its oversize pull loop, this handy little bag can accommodate all kinds of tempting treats, from bananas and trail mix to energy bars and gels. 

The two Velcro straps are secured to the bag, so they can’t get lost, and the front one fits around your handlebar stem while the rear one hugs the top tube. It’s robustly made, with waterproof material and a YKK AquaGuard zip, so you can keep a phone in the bag pretty safely, but there is a little bit more wobble in the Fuel Pod than in the Bilbie, so we don’t recommend stashing anything too heavy inside (a cradle is available, sold separately). 

This nifty bag – perfect on its own for day trips, or as part of a more extensive setup for multi-day escapades – fits on any kind of bike. 

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Best small-volume and versatile top tube pack for bikepacking

A really versatile little top tube bag with an aerodynamic design and multiple attachments points that can be securely positioned at the front of your frame, Velcro hooked around the handlebar stem, or at the back connected to the seat post. 

Waterproof in all but the most torrential rain, with excellent two-way double-zip access, this is the ideal storage place for everything from snacks and tools to smartphones, and a weatherproof portal allows you to run a cable out of the bag from a digital device. 

The zips have cord pull loops that can be operated with gloves on. There are mesh pockets on the inside of the bag, which help with organization if you want to keep certain small items somewhere you can quickly put your hand on them. 

Ideal for stand-alone day rides or as part of a more comprehensive bikepacking setup.

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Best big-volume saddlebag for bikepacking

This capacious saddlebag from creative British brand Alpkit can hold a huge amount of your most crucial and cumbersome kit (bivy bag, tarp, small sleeping bag, camping mat) without it getting in the way while you’re pedalling. 

Essentially it’s a 17L dry bag with a custom-made cradle to keep it securely in place while you ride over any sort of terrain. Stick your gear in, roll the top over at least three times, clip and secure it into the rack holster and you’re off. 

It’s possible to buy the bag on its own, but you can’t mount it on your bike without the rack, which is nice and easy to affix to your saddle and seat post, and keeps the whole ensemble from wobbling too much even on technical trails. At camp you can leave the cradle on your bike and take the bag off, which makes loading the bike up the next morning very quick and easy. 

The bag material is very robust and weatherproof, which it needs to be as it cops a lot of muck coming off the back wheel (and the fabric finish does get grubby over time, because it’s not overly easy to clean). 

The Big Papa is fiddly to use with some full-suspension mountain bikes because, unless you have a very rigid lock-out system at the back, and you’re happy to dispense with the travel, the bag can rub on the rear wheel.

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Best handlebar bikepacking bag for tracks and lanes

One of the hero products from the recent collaboration between American behemoth bicycle brand Specialized and Swedish outdoor apparel and pack specialists Fjällräven, this rather retro-looking handlebar bag is capable of holding a huge amount of kit. 

Rack mounted, with a very secure fit once everything is assembled correctly (which does require some degree of faff to begin with) you can stash all sorts of stuff inside this 9L space, from cooking stoves to clothing, but we would advise against packing anything particularly heavy in here if you’re riding technical tracks (the rack-supported bag can cope with weight no problem, but being bar-mounted it will affect the way your bike handles on tricky trails). 

Once the rack is installed on your bike, the bag can be removed and reattached easily, which makes packing hassle free. Easily accessible from the saddle while you’re riding, and simple to open with one hand, it’s ideal for holding maps, waterproof layers, cameras and food, and the mesh pockets on the top and side increase the carry capacity even more. 

The semi-rigid construction is protective and will keep all but the worst weather out, but the closure method (a popper) is a weak point (you can buy a fully waterproof cover if you want to spend yet another 25 notes).

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Best handlebar bikepacking bag for technical routes

A large bar bag, the Kuoka can accommodate bulky items that aren’t too heavy, such as puffer jackets and other layers of clothing, and/or a lightweight sleeping bag. A double-ended dry sack, you can close one end and then stuff it full before closing the second end and attaching it to your handlebars. 

One of the main advantages of this system is being able to get access to adjust weight distribution or locate a specific item from either end, without having to remove the bag from the bike or unpacking all the contents. 

The Kuoka straps to your handlebars ridiculously easily, and doesn’t require the use of a mount (which keeps weight and cost down), but although the rear has been reinforced to reduced movement, it can bounce around a little bit on rougher terrain and technical trails. (If you’d prefer rock-solid stability, you can use the frame from Alpkit’s Kanga or Joey bags with the Kuoka.) 

The X-Pac X11 fabric (made with 100% organic cotton and recycled polyester) is tough and hardwearing, and waterproof in all but the must biblical deluges. 

Although capacious in use, the Kuoka packs flat when empty, so it’s easy to transport. Other features include a Hypalon loop for attaching a front light, and webbing ladders to use if you’d like to add more straps, or change where the main straps sit. The Kuoka can be fitted on any bike, but it works best on a mountain bike with wide bars.

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Best handlebar bag for bike-based daypacking and commuting

This handsome bag from Chrome Industries might not be especially large or well-suited for long bikepacking escapades on rough, tough trails, but it can be useful for day trips and overnighters. 

It attaches to handlebars with two Velcro straps and a third strap with a buckle, which goes around the bar stem. The lid closes shut with a magnetized buckle, which is easy to open when you’re on the move. Internal mesh storage pockets make organization nice and easy, and you can carry various things in this pack, from snacks to smartphones and sunglasses, or perhaps gloves when the seasons are on the turn, or a lightweight waterproof jacket. There are two mesh pouches on the outside too, for additional carry capacity. 

Despite the three-point attachment system, this bag can wobble around if you overload it, and it’s not designed for anything too wild. When you’re in town, however, it can be removed from the bike and used as a crossover bag.

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Best pannier-style bag for bikepacking

Without wanting to be too reductive, the Cool Cave is basically a big plastic bucket that clips onto a pannier rack to sit beside your wheel. 

Nothing wrong with that; they’re very handy for carrying large and bulky items such as bigger tents, food and cooking equipment when you’re bikepacking with a group of friends or your family. But you need to combine the Cool Cave with additional products – either a general-use dry bag, or the bespoke Cool Cave Lid Pack, which is a truly cool piece of kit that doubles as a cross bag – to get any degree of weather protection for the contents. 

Whatever you carry in the Cave will also move around quite a lot if you’re riding rough trails (it won’t bounce right out, though, so long as you use the included cargo nets to prevent this happening). 

Although quite simplistic, these pannier buckets are great in certain circumstances – such as bikepacking adventures primarily on tracks and lanes – but they wouldn’t be our first choice for long trips on technical singletrack.

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Best snack pack for bikepacking

This little snack pack attaches to your bike’s bars via Velcro straps that fasten around the stem and handlebars. Once positioned it can be very easily accessed with one hand, via a cinch-and-release snowlock closure, which might keep snow out, but isn’t rainproof (it’s fine in drizzle, but water will get in during proper downpours, so although it’s tempting, we wouldn’t put a smartphone in this pack). 

The best thing to do is fill it with treats, gels, energy bars, trail mix and all sorts of other small edible items – which is, of course, exactly what it was designed for. You can also stick sunglasses, cash/credit card, keys and other items you might need to access quickly and easily in there. 

With a semi-rigid construction, it’s a nice looking piece of kit, but does seem a tad pricey for its limited functionality. 

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Best tool bag for bikepacking

Designed specifically as a tool-holding pack, this little saddlebag does its primary job brilliantly. The neat and compact bag unfurls to reveal three inner pouches for housing items such as a multitool, pair of tire levers, a cartridge of CO2 gas (if that’s how you roll) and a spare inner – plus, perhaps, a cheeky energy bar or gel. 

When it’s loaded, simply roll the bag back up and use the Velcro band to attach it to the saddle. Once it’s in position you can pretty much forget about it until you suffer a puncture or something else goes wrong. 

There’s no room for any extra kit, but it’s so compact that it won’t obscure rear lights and can be used for everyday cycling, commuting and daytrips, or in conjunction with other, larger saddlebags and frame packs during proper bikepacking expeditions. 

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The best bikepacking bags comparison table

What to look for when buying the best bikepacking bags

There’s a bewildering range and choice of brilliant bikepacking bags on the market, and the designs and degree of functionality of these packs varies enormously. Of course, the golden rules when you’re carrying kit while cycling all revolve around packing smartly: taking only what you really need and making sure the weight is evenly distributed on either side of the bike, with the heavier items on the frame, keeping your center of gravity as low as possible (try to avoid using a backpack, other than a hydration pack, at all costs). 

The best bikepacking bags enable you to do all this, while still offering enough carry capacity for a comfortable and enjoyable adventure. When purchasing a bikepacking bag, we recommend considering the following factors:

Pack volume

For most bikepacking expeditions you are going to need at least one big bag that can swallow the sizeable items required for a night spent out in the wilds, such as a sleeping bag, a lightweight tent or bivy bag, a little cooking stove and some camping food. Large saddlebags like Alpkit’s 17L Big Pappa bag (held in place with a harness) provide the perfect place to pack some of this stuff, but the larger Fjällräven Specialized frame bags are also excellent, as is the Fjällräven Specialized Cool Cave (with the caveats noted above). 

If you’re looking at a large-capacity handlebar bag, beware how much weight you load into it (puffer jackets and lightweight sleeping bags can work, but you don’t want too much hefty heavy stuff on your bars), especially when cycling off-road.

Compatibility and versatility

Some of the best bikepacking bags will work on virtually any steed, but plenty are only useable on specific bikes. Mountain bikes with dual suspension can typically only take a small top tube bag (if it’s designed to sit within the triangle of the frame), and the rear travel mechanism can also create a problem with larger saddlebags rubbing on the back wheel. Almost all bags fit on gravel bikes, but some are designed to work with a certain size frame. Check carefully before making a purchase.

Ease of use

The more time you spend setting your bike up, the less time you have out on the trails, so the best bikepacking bags are those that can be securely attached to your steed quickly, and which can be loaded and unloaded easily. Bags that work with frames, such as Alpkit’s Big Pappa and the Fjällräven Specialized Handlebar Bag, are time-consuming to set up initially, while you fit the rack to your bike, but once that’s done it’s really easy to take the bag off, pack it, and then reattach it ready to go.

Toughness & ease of cleaning

Riding rough tracks and trails can be hard on your gear, and this kit is not cheap to buy or replace, so the best backpacking bags need to be made from really hardwearing materials that can cope with getting knocked around. Bikepacking can also be a filthy, muddy and dusty pursuit, so it’s helpful if the bags can be cleaned relatively easily.

Features

You will see dozens of features included on the best bikepacking bags, but some that we especially recommend you look out for include the following: internal compartments for keeping kit organized, external mesh pockets for extra storage, handily placed weatherproof zips so you can access packs even when riding, pull cords on the zips so you use them easily with gloves on, and hooks or loops for attaching lights to.

How we tested the best bikepacking bags

How we test the best bikepacking bags

Our reviewers test all packs and bags by filling them up with kit and taking them out on the trails for genuine adventures, and bikepacking bags are no different. We have loaded each of the packs featured here with gear, secured them to the frames and bars of our gravel bikes and mountain bikes, and gone on overnight and multi-day escapades. Specific features (including capacity, build quality, ease of use and the security of the systems used to fasten the packs to the bikes) are tested against claims made by the brand, and we assess factors such as durability, environmental impact and value for money.

Some of the best outdoor adventures take place in the worst weather and most confronting and challenging conditions. Sure, hikes and backcountry escapades on bluebird days are nice, but often the missions that pit you against the elements are the most memorable. Having the right gear for these conditions is absolutely imperative – and that includes carrying the best windbreaker you can get your hands on.

Windchill can make conditions considerably colder than the forecast temperature – especially if you’re in the mountains or on an exposed hillside. If you’re not prepared, windchill can make an outdoor experience utterly miserable, and in some cases it can even lead to hypothermia, frostbite and other potentially life-threatening eventualities.

We've put heaps of windbreakers through their paces in a range of conditions, from mild woodland walks to real storms, to test their breathability, windproofing, warmth and practical features like secure hoods and adjustable cuffs. This extensive testing has allowed us to put together this definitive list of the best jackets you can buy today.

The Arc’teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody is our top pick for the best windbreaker thanks to its exceptionally light construction and excellent protection around your head and face. We particularly like the fact that you can adjust the hood one-handed when the weather takes a turn for the worse. If you're looking for a windproof jacket for running, the Salomon Sense Flow is well worth a look thanks to its excellent ventilation, which stops you overheating while still providing good protection from windchill.

The quick list

This is our quick list, a brief overview of the best windbreakers available. To delve deeper into the specifics of each jacket, see our more detailed reviews further down the page in this guide.

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The best windbreakers we recommend in 2026

The best windbreaker overall

Exceptionally light (although not on the wallet), the original Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody is made with Fortius 1.0, a windproof softshell material comprised of hardwearing nylon and dynamic elastane, with the latter providing a high degree of stretch. The jacket isn’t waterproof, but it has been treated with a durable water repellent, FC0-DWR, and does repel light rain and moisture. 

The Gamma has an adjustable hem and features a full-length zipper that extends to protect your neck and lower face, and ends with a chin-protecting zip garage. The ‘stormhood’ has a good peak, completing the decent all-round head cover. This jacket has two hand pockets, both of which zip shut.

It’s a good wind-defying outer layer during the warmer months, but once temperatures start to drop, this wafer-thin top doesn’t supply much thermal protection. The bottom hem can be drawn in to keep breezes out, and a couple of tiny toggles maintain the tightness. The hood has a single adjustment point, which is very easy to use with one hand, and we found the peak on the front effective at keeping the elements out.

Read our full Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody review

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The best eco-friendly windbreaker

This windbreaker manages to be ultralight without feeling fragile, while still capable of keeping out a howling gale on a high ridge. In addition to the Texashield Ecoshere Pro fabric, which is water repellent and breathable as well as windproof, an adjustable hem and elasticated cuffs help seal out the breeze and a stay-put hood challenges the wind when you want to keep your head and ears cosy.

There’s a chest pocket big enough to hold most phones and the whole thing packs down to about the size of a small apple. It’s a little on the pricey side, but it’s a good-looking jacket that you’ll be as happy wearing around town as up a hill. The whole thing is constructed using recycled materials, too.

Our tester reported that she could barely feel this jacket whilst wearing it, because it was so comfortable, and she experienced no skin chafing or rubbing. Impressively, even while being trialled on windswept hilltops in Scotland, the hood never blew down, even though it’s not adjustable, and the elasticated cuffs kept our reviewer’s wrists warm too.

Read our full Jack Wolfskin Prelight Windbreaker review

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The best lightweight windbreaker

Made entirely from eco-friendly organic Katla cotton, the stylish and extremely lightweight Ansur is designed to be both functional and minimalist. Typically we strongly advise against wearing cotton apparel in the outdoors; however Klättermusen claim the cotton used in the Ansur has been ‘subjected to pressure and heat to resemble geological compaction’, producing a fabric that’s ‘windproof, water repellent and highly breathable’.

We found it kept wind out brilliantly, and also felt nice and breathable, with no significant amount of moisture build up on the inside. During light showers, rain beaded up and rolled straight off the outer fabric. However, the sizing is tight; you’ll struggle to wear this jacket over anything beyond a base layer and a midweight fleece, which is fine in spring and fall but a potential issue in winter, because the thermal protection is low.

You can choose between a hooded and a non-hooded version of the Ansur; on both the neck is very high and the back extends below the top of your bum.

Read our full Klättermusen Ansur hooded windproof jacket review

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The best windbreaker for climbing

A good-looking, lightweight softshell jacket, the Borealis works well as an easy-to-carry, long-sleeved, wind-blocking layer for hikers, bikers, ramblers, amblers and scramblers, but it has primarily been designed for rock climbers, with pockets positioned to be accessible when you have a harness on, and the hood kept deliberately low profile so it fits comfortably under a helmet.

Made from Rab’s ‘Matrix’ material (a polyamide and elastane mix), the Borealis boasts a very trim fit – perfect for a breeze-blocking jacket, because you don’t want loads of loose material flapping around in the wind (just be aware that you won’t be able to fit much more than a base layer underneath it).

There are two mesh-lined Napoleon chest pockets on the men’s Borealis (they’re positioned to the side for the women’s version), which zip shut and can be accessed even when you’re wearing a harness. All the zips have pull cords to make them easy to operate with cold hands or with gloves on.

Read our full Rab Borealis Softshell Jacket review

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The best windbreaker for running

Featherlight and super easy to stuff into a hydration pack, this is a jacket designed to be carried as much as worn. When on, it has a trim fit (if in doubt, go for the larger size), with very little in the way of excess fabric left to flap around. The Flow features a thin layer of synthetic insulation on the inside, which does a reasonable job of keeping you warm, but reducing windchill is definitely the main focus.

Undoubtedly one of the best running jackets on the market, the Sense Flow doesn’t offer any waterproofing, and although there is some insulation across the top of the body and arms, its main role is to protect you from the wind. There’s a series of vents on the rear of the jacket that allow your back to breathe without letting cold air in.

Additional features include an adjustable waist cord and a zipped pocket on the chest for carrying some cash, keys or a gel sachet. There are reflective elements on the sleeves for safety when you’re sharing lanes and roads with traffic but, weirdly, no reflectors on the back of the jacket.

Read our full Salomon Sense Flow Jacket review

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The best minimalist windbreaker

Montane calls the Lite-Speed Trail Pull-On a wind shirt rather than a jacket, and that’s a great term for it. Though it’s definitely an outer layer, it doesn’t have any of the features you’d typically expect from a coat, such as pockets or a hood, but the simplicity of the design is the key to it being so lightweight and packable.  

Our tester reports that the slim-fit cut and elasticated cuffs and hem mean you experience no annoying flapping in the breeze, but it can still be worn over your best running top or even a long-sleeved base layer.

Because it’s not totally waterproof, it does provide more breathability. This isn’t an insulated jacket, it’s a wind shirt, but in keeping the wind off you, it does a great job of providing warmth on chill days. The Lite-Speed Trail Pull-On is well constructed, but the fabric is, by nature, fragile and won’t win out in a battle with a hawthorn bush.

If you’re seeking simple protection from windchill or blustery days, you’ll love the look and feel of this wind shirt. Basically, it does exactly what it says on the label, and does it well.

Read our full Montane Lite-Speed Trail Pull-On review

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The best silent windbreaker

The well-named Stealth Jacket allows you to hit the trails and enjoy nature’s symphony rather than listening to the rhythmic swish of your running jacket. It’s also wonderfully lightweight, packs down small and is moderately priced. Made from moisture wicking and fast drying nylon, it’s a great, minimal soft shell windbreaker, perfect for chilly winter and shoulder season runs.

The Stealth perfectly tiptoes the middle ground between being light and breathable enough to run in comfortably, while giving you enough warmth and protection from the elements to be worth wearing in the first place. Our reviewer reports that it is gloriously comfortable on the trails thanks to its low weight, breathable fabric, ventilation features and fit, but it forms a decent barrier against the wind and cold. Being an ultralight soft shell, it’s not designed for taking on harsh and wet conditions, but there’s a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to give a degree of water resistance for the occasional drizzly spell or sudden shower. Our tester found that the Stealth was pleasingly quick drying.

Read our full Nathan Stealth Jacket review

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The best windbreakers comparison table

How we test the best windbreakers

Our reviewers test windbreakers during windy weather in a range of environments, from hills and peaks to coastal paths and woodlands. Features (including waterproofing, breathability, ventilation, materials, style, pockets, freedom of movement and overall comfort) are tested against claims made by the brand, and we assess factors such as value for money, durability, functionality and environmental impact.

Meet the testers

How to choose the best windbreaker for you

As with any piece of technical outdoor apparel, the best windbreaker for you will depend on various factors, including where and when you intend to use it, and what kind of adventure activities you most commonly enjoy. Runners, for example, are typically just as interested in how heavy a windproof jacket is, as to how well it does its job. Here are some factors we think you should consider, but if you can’t find something you like, do take a look at our guides to the best waterproof jackets, softshell jackets and running jackets.

Design & Fit

Comfort is always important, but with a windbreaker, most people like a fairly tight fitting jacket, because any excess material will flap around annoyingly in the wind. This needs to be balanced out against the fact that you may well need to have a warm midlayer on underneath, such as a good fleece or even a lightweight puffer jacket. The more points of adjustment there are (on the hem, sleeves, hood etc), the better fit you can achieve, and the more flexibility you will have.

Features

This is a subjective topic, with everyone having their own preferences, but besides good adjustment points, the things we look for in the best windproof jackets are decent zippers, some degree of water repellence, a good hood, excellent coverage (a high neck and low back, to cover your bum and stop breezes getting in) and some zipped pockets. As noted, the best windbreakers breathe better than waterproof jackets, but – especially for fastpackers and runners – some venting can make for a much more comfortable outing. 

Weight and pack size

In an ideal world, unless you’re specifically going out to fly kites or watch a sailing race, your windproof jacket will remain in your pack, surplus to requirements, and therefore you want it to be as light to carry and easy to pack as possible. However, when it is called into action, you need it to be robust enough to perform well, and to have the features you require.

Fabrics

The vast majority of windbreakers are made from synthetic materials (although the Klättermusen Ansur is constructed from cotton). Increasingly, the better brands are exploring ways of using recycled materials, which we wholeheartedly support and encourage.

Whether you're an absolute beginner or facing down your umpteenth ultra, the best running watches will help keep you on track and monitor your progress.

Of course, running without any tech is perfectly fine, but if you've got a specific goal in mind then monitoring your pace and distance will make life much easier. The best running watches will also give you workout suggestions to help you achieve your aim, and keep tabs on your recovery to ensure you're getting the right balance of work and rest.

All of these watches have been tested for several weeks first, so that they could build up a good profile of our expert tester's habits and fitness, and put them all to the test on pre-measured courses to determine the accuracy of their GPS tracking. We've also pitted them against a chest strap heart rate monitor to see how they compare for accuracy and responsiveness.

If you're more interested in climbing or hiking than running, our roundups of the best GPS watches and the best Garmin watches offer suggestions for a wider range of sports. Otherwise, read on!

The quick list

This is our quick list, a brief overview of the best running watches available today. To delve deeper into each device, see the more detailed reviews further down the page in this guide.