Discover the Best Hiking Boots in Ireland
We get it - It’s that time to pick the most vital hiking partner: your hiking boots boots. Because we both know - a comfortable and well-fitted boot swaps out blisters,pain and aches for a perfect, dry day full of adventure.
The boots we have on this list are tried and tested by our expert staff and customers alike, some for far longer than just this year (looking at you Meindl). The boots for you will not only be functional for your adventures, but they will fit you perfectly while doing so. There is a pair of boots for everyone on this list and we will explain why - so why wait?
Our Results
| Product | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Meindl Bhutan | The Best Beast | View |
| Scarpa Terra GTX | Value For Money | View |
| Meindl Journey Mid GTX | Comfort & Durable | View |
| Merrell MOAB 3 Mid | Fast & Light | View |
| Salewa ALP Trainer 2 Mid | The Up-And-Comer | View |
| Columbia Peakfreak II Outdry Mid | Mister Consistent | View |
Meindl Bhutan MFS - The Best (Or is it The Beast?)
Why?
- Features: The Meindl Bhutan MFS boots are known for their robust build and Gore-Tex lining, offering excellent waterproofing and breathability.
- Popularity: Meindl is a well-respected brand in the hiking community with long-standing handmade practice for all leather models, and the Bhutan MFS model has been a popular choice due to its durability and comfort.
- Longevity: These boots are designed for long-term use, with a focus on sustaining through tough terrains and weather conditions, plus it has a 1-year manufacturing warranty!
Fit?
- Comfort: The Memory Foam System (MFS) in the boot molds to the shape of the foot, ensuring a personalized and comfortable fit.
- Sizing: It's important to note how these boots fit in terms of size – Meindl as a brand run on the wider side in the forefoot and this is present in the bhutan.
Value?
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Cost-Effectiveness: While the price point might be higher than some other options for sure, the long-term durability, warranty, and the quality of materials used in the Meindl Bhutan MFS offer good value for money. Consider the supple leather upper, memory-foam ankle and heel cushioning. Hand-crafted leather uppers combined with a more than capable heavy-duty rand all combine to make this the extensive feature-list creator for hiking boots. Best-seller in our store with good reason.
Scarpa Terra Gore-Tex - Value For Money!
Why?
The Scarpa Terra GTX Hillwalking Boot is acclaimed for its robust build and comfort, making it perfect for rugged terrains. It integrates GORE-TEX for exceptional waterproofing and breathability. The Leather construction will ensure it can stay in great condition as long as you care for them.
Fit?
Designed to offer a supportive and cushioned fit, these boots are ideal for extended hiking. They provide stability and comfort, minimizing the likelihood of blisters, which is crucial for all hikers. The Scarpa Terra is known to run as a narrower boot.
Value?
Priced at the lower end for a full-leather gore-tex boot, the value of the Scarpa Terra GTX has value in its high quality and longevity. For avid hikers, these boots represent a worthwhile investment, promising consistent performance and comfort over many hiking seasons, especially when you keep the supple leather waxed.
Check out the Scarpa Terra hereMeindl Journey Mid GTX - Comfort & Durable
Why?
The Meindl Journey Mid GTX stands out as a top choice for trekking enthusiasts due to its lightweight design and exceptional grip. It's particularly suited for wider feet, offering spacious comfort in the flex zone. The boot's robust sole unit provides excellent lateral support, safeguarding the middle and heel. Additionally, it features a durable toe bumper and an efficient lacing system. The combination of leather and mesh in the upper part makes the boot breathable without compromising warmth, ideal for varying weather conditions.
Fit?
This boot is designed with a unique fit that caters to those with wider feet. Its spaciousness is most notable in the flex zone, enhancing comfort during long treks. However, it's worth noting that the boot might feel slightly wide at the heel for those with narrower feet, potentially affecting the sense of security when off-trail. The boot is cut just above the ankle, offering both support and flexibility.
Value?
As a durable, lightweight option for three-season hiking, the Meindl Journey Mid GTX offers significant value. Its ability to handle a variety of terrains, from tracks & boardwalks to muddy paths, makes it a versatile choice for avid hikers. The grid system on the sole ensures excellent traction in different conditions, adding to its overall worth, and the materials make for great all-day comfort. While it may be more suited for those with a wider foot structure, its combination of comfort, support, and breathability makes it a worthy investment for serious hikers. While it may not have the durability and ruggedness of a leather competitor, it is a serious performer for significantly less.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX - Fast & light
Why?
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX stands out for its exceptional comfort, making it an ideal companion for both seasoned hikers and beginners. Its construction with high-quality suede ensures both durability and a soft, supple feel, enhancing its wearability right from the first use. This boot is recognized for its longevity, maintaining performance and comfort over time. Despite being slightly heavier than some competitors, its supportive midsole and robust materials justify the extra weight, offering a balance of comfort and stability. Awarded for its outstanding value, the Moab 3 Mid delivers top-notch quality at an accessible price point.
Fit?
Both the men's and women's versions of the Merrell Moab 3 Mid are designed to provide a comfortable and supportive fit. This boot accommodates a variety of foot shapes, ensuring a snug yet flexible feel, which is crucial for long treks and challenging trails. The design caters to natural foot movement, reducing the break-in period typically associated with hiking boots. Overall: we would call this neutral-to-wide.
Value?
When it comes to value, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof excels. It offers a blend of quality, durability, and performance at a price that is hard to beat, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious hikers who don't want to compromise on quality. Its combination of comfort, support, and durability positions it as a top contender in the hiking boot market, especially for those new to backpacking or looking for reliable gear without a hefty price tag.
Check out the Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX hereSalewa ALP Trainer 2 GTX Mid - The Up-and-Comer
Why?
The Salewa ALP Trainer 2 GTX Mid boots are renowned for their versatility and durability, making them ideal for both men and women hikers. A standout feature is the women’s specific last, ensuring a tailored fit for female feet. The boots are popular for their comfortable yet secure fit, especially during long descents. The soft collar around the ankle reduces restrictions and enhances comfort, a crucial aspect for challenging hikes. The boot's design integrates the instep area with the sole and heel, offering a perfect balance of flexibility and stability on uneven terrains typically encountered in mountainous regions.
Fit?
One of the key strengths of these boots is their precise and supportive fit. The specialized lacing system allows for easy adjustments, ensuring a snug fit that's essential for scrambling and navigating through various terrains. The Vibram sole, divided into climbing, traction, and braking zones, adapts well to different ground conditions, offering reliable performance. The boots also excel in wet conditions, with the outsole providing impressive grip on both slick rock and mud. Overall, we would say that these boots fall into the narrow fit category.
Value?
For hikers who often encounter varied trails and long distances,we feel that the Salewa ALP Trainer 2 GTX Mid offers exceptional value. The boots are not just lightweight and protective but also supportive, ensuring a comfortable experience over long hikes. Their adaptability to different situations, from scrambling to trail walking, makes them a versatile choice for hikers seeking a reliable boot for all conditions. A special mention once again to the vibram sole, a fair comparison may be to say it is similar to a Pirelli tyre on an F1 car - extremely grippy.
Check out the Salewa ALP Trainer 2 Mid GTX hereColumbia Peakfreak II Outdry Mid
Why?
The Columbia Peakfreak II Outdry Mid hiking boots are a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts due to their advanced waterproof technology and lightweight design. Their Omni-Grip rubber outsole offers excellent traction on various terrains, ensuring stability and confidence during hikes.
Fit?
The Columbia Peakfreak II Outdry Mid boots provide a comfortable and supportive fit with their mid-cut height for ankle support and Techlite midsole for superior cushioning. They are designed to securely hold the heel in place while offering enough room in the toe box to prevent discomfort and blisters.
Value?
The Columbia Peakfreak II Outdry Mid offers great value with its durable construction and affordable price. These boots deliver high performance with their waterproof protection, comfort, and reliable traction, making them a cost-effective choice for hikers seeking quality without overspending.
Check out the Hedgehog Futurelight Mid here
Things to look out for
When it comes to purchasing hiking boots, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure you get the best fit and functionality for your outdoor adventures. Here are the key things to look out for:
1. Fit and Comfort
Proper Fit: The most important aspect of a hiking boot is the fit. Boots that are too tight can cause blisters, while boots that are too loose can lead to instability on uneven terrain. Ensure there is enough room to wiggle your toes, but your heel should stay firmly in place to avoid slipping.
Try Them On: Always try on hiking boots at the end of the day when your feet are swollen from daily activities. Wear the same socks you plan to use while hiking to get an accurate feel.
2. Support and Stability
Ankle Support: For rough or uneven terrain, look for boots with good ankle support. High-cut boots provide better protection against ankle injuries compared to low-cut or mid-cut options.
Midsole and Insole: The midsole offers cushioning and absorbs shock, while the insole should provide adequate arch support. Midsoles made from EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) are lighter and offer good cushioning, whereas polyurethane midsoles are more durable and supportive.
3. Material
Upper Material: The material of the upper part of the boot affects its durability, weight, and breathability. Leather boots are durable and provide excellent protection but can be heavier and less breathable. Synthetic materials are lighter and more breathable but might not offer the same level of protection and durability.
Waterproofing: If you plan to hike in wet conditions, waterproof boots are essential. Look for boots with a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex or eVent. Keep in mind that waterproof boots may be less breathable, leading to sweaty feet in warm conditions.
4. Traction
Outsole: The outsole should provide good traction to prevent slips on various terrains. Look for boots with deep lugs and a tread pattern that suits the type of hiking you plan to do. Vibram outsoles are a popular choice for their durability and grip.
5. Weight
Boot Weight: Consider the weight of the boots, especially if you plan on long hikes. Lightweight boots reduce fatigue but might sacrifice some durability and support. Heavier boots offer more protection and support but can be tiring over long distances.
6. Breathability
Ventilation: In warm weather, breathable boots are crucial to keep your feet cool and dry. Boots with mesh panels or made from breathable materials will help prevent overheating and blisters.
7. Durability
Construction Quality: Examine the overall construction quality of the boots. Look for reinforced stitching, durable materials, and robust laces and eyelets. Investing in a well-constructed pair of boots can save you money in the long run.
8. Price and Brand
Budget: Set a budget but be willing to invest in quality. Cheaper boots may not offer the same level of comfort, support, or durability.
Reputable Brands: Choose boots from reputable brands known for their quality and reliability in outdoor gear. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from experienced hikers.
9. Break-In Period
Breaking In: New boots often require a break-in period. Wear them around your house, on short walks, and gradually increase the duration to avoid discomfort on the trail.
By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be well-equipped to choose the perfect hiking boots for your adventures. Whether you're exploring the rugged trails of Ireland or embarking on a new hiking destination, the right boots can make all the difference in your outdoor experience.
Want to check out Ireland's best range of Hiking, Walking & Trekking boots from brands like Meindl, Columbia, Salomon, Salewa, Scarpa and more? Click here to shop now!
