If you’re planning a backpacking trip, you’re going to need appropriate footwear.
Usually, you’ll be contending with varying terrain and adverse weather, both of which will need heavy-duty shoes which can cope with more than your average pavement. So, as a general rule, you’ll want a pair of sturdy hiking boots.
“Ideally you want to invest in a quality boot that's going to last,” says Tommy Brady (@tommybrady7), former Team GB kayaker who has since turned his hand to adventure content creation. “If I’m backpacking, I personally love a lightweight shoe with plenty of grip over anything too heavy.”
With such a varied range on the market, though, it can be hard choosing what’s best for you. Some are built for warmth while others prioritise breathability. They come in leather, synthetic materials or rubber, or sometimes a combination of all three. Luckily, Dorte Vidal, the design director for Helly Hansen’s lifestyle division has some top tips: “I’d recommend a medium-height, lightweight boot that suits a range of hikes, minimising the need for multiple pairs and keeping your wardrobe streamlined.”
“First on my list is comfort—the boots need to feel as though I’ve owned and worn them forever,” says Vidal. “Waterproofing is also essential, as wet feet can ruin a hiking experience in both warm and cold weather and a sturdy, non-slip sole is equally important to handle varying terrains and weather conditions.”
Then comes the tricky bit: which brand is best? We’d recommend sticking to experts in outdoorsy apparel – namely the likes of the aforementioned Helly Hansen as well as tried-and-tested favourites The North Face, and Arc’teryx which comes celebrity-approved.
Brady’s favourite? “I personally really like the Salomon Speed Cross 6 Gore-Tex. It's more of a trail running shoe but the grip is incredible and super lightweight allowing you to feel connected to the path and stay agile over any rugged terrain.”
Shop the best backpacking boots for men below
Craghoppers Men's Adflex Boots
Craghoppers is a go-to for outdoor apparel – so, when it comes to backpacking, it’s a label you should have on your radar. Not only do these boots boast all of the breathable, lightweight, waterproof and cushioned credentials, but they’re even insect repellent so you’ll be protected from nasty bites when you’re out and about too.
Buy now £87.50, Craghoppers
Helly Hansen Men's Cascade HELLY TECH Waterproof Mid Cut Hiking Boots
Any guy who’s into exploring will be familiar with Helly Hansen – the heritage Norwegian label which is known for its high-tech apparel designed to deal with the Nordic elements.
Though we’re into everything from the outerwear to the base layers, this time, it’s the boots in the spotlight. They’re fully waterproof, quick dry, grippy and cushioned. Even better, the upper’s made using 70 per cent recycled materials.
Buy now £160.00, Helly Hansen
Merrell Men's Moab FST 3 Thermo Mid Waterproof
If you’re backpacking in the cold, you’ll need a pair of shoes built for the weather. Enter: Merrell’s Moab FST 3 Thermo boots. They have a fleece lining. They have a waterproof membrane. Even the grip is designed for icy conditions. With these on your shoe rack, you’ll be ready for even the worst of winter conditions.
Buy now £165.00, Merrell
Columbia Men's Peakfreak II Mid Outdry Hiking Shoe
When you’re hiking, it’s not rare to encounter rain, sun and ice in a matter of hours. If you’re wearing Columbia’s Peakfreak boots, though, you’ll be ready for all three. They’re breathable if it’s hot, will stay dry in a downpour and the versatile all-terrain grip will keep you steady regardless of your planned route.
Buy now £100.00, Columbia
Arc’teryx Kopec Mid GTX Boot Men's
Arc’teryx is an adventure gear label with an impressive starry fanbase – Frank Ocean and Drake included. Beyond the clientele, the designs expertly balance advanced technical details with a strong design perspective. From the fluorescent upper to the weatherproof finish as well as the comfy moulded footbed, these boots are a prime example.
Buy now £180.00, Arc’teryx
Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GORE-TEX
Based in the French Alps, Jean-Luc Diard and Nico Mermoud founded Hoka back in 2009 out of the desire to create a running shoe to improve the feeling of running downhill – and, seeing as it’s since been adopted by professional ultramarathoners and elite athletes, they succeeded.
So, it’s no wonder the label then branched out to hiking boots to contend with the mountains too. These, in particular, feature a GORE-TEX construction, a lightweight midsole and a supercharged grip for rocky terrain.
Buy now £160.00, Hoka
The North Face Men’s Storm Strike III Waterproof Hiking Boots
Though The North Face is best known for outerwear, the label also offers a strong range of footwear built for the elements. These boots are waterproof and breathable. They have a rubber sole with great traction and are even insulated for extra warmth when it’s cold out. We’d expect nothing less from the outdoorsy expert.
Buy now £88.00, The North Face
Mr P. + Diemme Roccia Vet Sport Leather-Trimmed Mesh and Rubber Hiking Boots
For upmarket hiking boots, head to Diemme. The brand's entire collection is handmade under one roof at the family factory in northern Italy - and this collab with Mr. Porter is no exception. A lightweight take with cool design details, these are great if you want a pair of boots which work for your day-to-day as well as your trips to the mountains.
Buy now £365.00, Mr. Porter
On Cloudrock Mid WP
Over the past couple of years, On has become one of the top technical footwear brands – for good reason. From running shoes to hiking, each and every style boasts innovative details which help you push harder no matter what the activity.
These, for example, are both lightweight and waterproof, have enhanced grip, a cushioned midsole, a toe cap and mudguard as well as a padded ankle. All you could ask for, and then some.
Buy now £210.00, On
