A man in a red T-shirt, hiking pants, and hiking boots walking through a sunny forest trail and looking at a tree to his right

Best Summer Walking Shoes

Whether it’s backpacking in the hills, multi-day treks in the mountains, adventures far from home, or your daily dog walk in the park. Having the correct footwear to combat the summer season is essential. Undertaking hikes often means battling against uneven and diverse terrain, requiring sturdier shoes and boots that will provide you with the correct support, traction, flex, and cushioning you need to stay safe and comfortable while getting out and exploring the outdoors. And let's face it. Even when we want the sun to be shining, we all know that our UK summer is anything but predictable. The chance of summer showers hides behind every grey cloud - making a waterproof coating on your shoes and boots vital for your comfort when far from home.

 

Here at Cotswold Outdoor, we’ve compiled a guide to our top ten summer walking shoes made for hikes and treks, both here in the UK and on your warm-weather adventures further afield. Showcasing some of the best shoes and boots in our outdoor collection - from some of our best-loved performance footwear brands - this is our essential list of summer hiking shoes made for all activities, needs, and budgets. So what are you waiting for? Step in and get ready to explore further this summer. It’s time to discover your outdoor happy.

MERRELL - Moab 3 GTX Boots

Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX Expert Review - 1

Merrell Moab 3 GTX - Expert Review

The best-selling hiking boot in the world and the choice of hikers for over a decade, Merrell's Moab 3 has enabled over 25 million people to step further outdoors - so why not let it help you make the move too?

 

A worldwide best-seller, the women's and men's Merrell Moab 3 is made from a breathable and highly durable pig suede leather and mesh upper, making them ideal for long treks, multisport, mountain biking, and more. With its famous out-of-the-box comfort thanks to a highly cushioned insole and fully recycled lining, the Moab 3 is great for long-distance and tricky terrain with a Super Rebound Compound for durable shock absorption and reduced torque. The highly durable and technical Vibram TC5+ outsole gives great overall performance and all-purpose versatility. At the same time, the new, insole offers much-needed support along with a toe cap and bellows tongue for protection from rocks and debris - perfect for that baked summer soil.

MERRELL - Claypool Sport GTX Shoes

Merrell Claypool Sport 3 GTX Shoes - Women's Expert Review - 1

Merrell Claypool Sport GTX - Expert Review

If you’re looking for an athletic, lightweight summer hiker capable of blazing trails and paths without the bulk, then the Merrell Claypool Sport 3 is the shoe for you. Perfect on light trails and hikes for those that don’t wish to prioritize ankle support, the Merrell Claypool Sport 3 is the incredibly versatile, low-cut shoe built to withstand whatever the outdoors throws at you at a fraction of the weight of other leading hiking boots.

 

Made from a highly flexible, breathable mesh this hiker is incredibly comfortable, whether traversing baked trails in the summer heat or caught out in a shower. The inbuilt Gore-Tex waterproof liner can easily withstand wet, slick ground and puddles – making it perfect for the unpredictable British summer. The incredibly lightweight, cushioned EVA midsole and Air Cushion heel deliver exceptional shock absorption and stability, handy on those hard-to-traverse rocky paths to help keep you steady and on your feet. Additionally, the sticky rubber outsole with a protective rubber toe bumper helps give you added grip and confidence when traversing those less sturdy paths and trails, allowing you to move fast and comfortably ahead of the pack. Additional features include a comfortable, plush bellows tongue to keep out debris, a moulded nylon heel for durability and stability, and a heel construction designed to lock your foot in for reduced friction and incredible comfort, mile after mile

MEINDL - Durban GTX Shoes

Meindl Durban GTX Expert Review - 1

Meindl Durban GTX - Expert Review

Ideal for the everyday and low-level trails, Meindl’s Durban GTX is an excellent choice for the more casual hikers, walkers, and ramblers that enjoy tackling a wide range of terrains underfoot. Offering unbeatable support in the outsole, the Meindl Durban GTX comes constructed with a Magic Active PRO outsole for a highly cushioned tread and incredible grip - giving an unbeatable level of underfoot support and shock absorption. The highly breathable yet durable Nubuck leather and suede upper help give this shoe a modern, sleek look for a casual style that can take you from town to the countryside without breaking a sweat. In addition, the Durban GTX comes outfitted with a Gore-Tex membrane that ensures incredible waterproofing and breathability, only further enhanced by the Air-Active footbed underneath, which quickly wicks away moisture for fresh circulation and comfort all-trail long.

 

Although a low shoe isn’t great for those needing additional ankle support, this neutral drop hiker is ideal for those looking for something a little bit more lightweight to chuck in their backpack alongside their heavy-duty boots on longer trekking trips. A fantastic choice for those seeking a casual, neutral shoe for family walks and low-level hikes in the country - make the Durban GTX your new go-to walking shoe this summer. And for men looking for something along the same lines, we also stock the Meindl Ontario GTX. An everyday, all-round walking shoe with the same durable, breathable construction as the Women’s Durban GTX - the Ontario GTX lends itself just as well to the hiking trails as it does the urban jungle.

MEINDL - Respond Mid GTX Boots

Meindl Respond Lady Mid II GTX Boots - Women's Expert Review - 1

Meindl Respond Mid II GTX - Expert Review

For those seeking a shoe with a bit of extra ankle support, the Meindl Respond Mid II GTX may be the boot for you. Ideal for traversing uneven terrain on tracks, trails, and travels this hiker comes in a sporty, sleek design with a deep profile, providing the grip and stability you need to tackle those rocky uphill and downhill slopes.

 

With an upper constructed from rugged velour leather for support around the ankle and instep alongside mesh for enhanced breathability, the Respond Mid II GTX keeps you comfortable and stable without sacrificing durability. The Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining provides advanced wet weather protection – ideal for the unpredictable British summer. While an Air-Active footbed gives incredible breathability even underfoot. All this combines to help make wet and sweaty trail feet a problem of the past, giving you the comfort and motivation to keep moving forward up the path ahead. However, the most notable feature of this boot is the aggressive Meindl sole unit. Made from 22% recycled rubber, the Contagrip provides incredible traction and stability while still working hard to give you the exceptional grip and abrasion resistance the brand is known for.

 

And for women, the Respond Lady Mid II GTX Boot is designed with a specific feminine fit in mind. Constructed with a heel cup for extra stability in the heel – this boot is ideal for ladies that pronate while on the move.

MERRELL - Kahuna III Sandals

Merrell Kahuna III Sandals - Men's Expert Review - 1

Merrell Kahuna III - Expert Review

For those looking for a hiking shoe made for exploring summer lakes and riversides, meet the Merrell Kahuna III sandal. Whether you’re traversing summer trails, heading out to the beach, or getting ready to head abroad to the med. Come hill or high water. The Kahuna III is the essential walking sandal for any summer adventure.

 

With a lightly cushioned sole and casual beachside look, the Kahuna III Sandals from Merrell are ideal for those seeking the perfect summer adventure shoe that can keep up with all outdoor pursuits. The super-soft suede upper with Aegis-treated lycra neoprene lining wraps and secures your feet in place, making it the ideal footwear for navigating steep riverbanks and rocky trails where foot support and comfort are vital. The all-over antimicrobial treatment helps keep things fresh and comfortable, an essential when coming in and out of the water and sweating it out in the sun during the warmer summer months. Lastly, the technical Vibram Chameleon Sport high traction sandal soles help keep you on your feet and on the go across multiple terrains, with a versatile tread pattern that’s ideal when navigating hot, baked summer trails and sandy dunes on the shoreline. Additional features of this outdoor adventure sandal include an easily customizable toe buckle, an adjustable Velcro foot strap to provide easy on/off, and a comfortable, wide, tailored fit. Nick-named the boss with good reason. Embrace the Kahuna III and make this summer one to remember.

KEEN - Targhee III Waterproof Shoes

Keen Targhee III - Women's Expert Review - 1

Keen Targhee III - Expert Review

The Targhee III Waterproof Shoe from Keen is the iconic hiking Shoe that brings a new, updated look to your all-terrain summer adventures. Taking all the elements from their much-loved Targhee Boot, the Targhee III Waterproof Shoe has the same roomy toe box and durability as its predecessor but with a sleeker look and feel made for those warmer weather adventures both in the UK and abroad.

 

Although not the lightest hiking shoe, the Keen Targhee III Waterproof is a great summer option for individuals looking for a shoe with extra durability and grip for technical hikes - without the loss in breathability for underfoot comfort. With an upper constructed from waterproof leather and a highly breathable performance mesh, this is an ideal option for those seeking a performance hiker made for those more demanding off-road hikes and trails. Highly abrasion resistant, the Targhee II is well-equipped to tackle it all, with a leather mud shield for resilience, a resilient internal shank, and an injected TPU heel-capture system for enhanced stability on those dicey uphill and downhill slopes.

 

With all these incredible durability and performance features, don't think the Targhee isn't also comfortable to boot. A dual-density, compression-moulded EVA midsole gives you light cushioning to pump the miles, while the metatomical dual-density EVA footbed gives your foot a soft space to rest on water breaks - it’s even removable to shed unnecessary weight when and where you need it! And with Cleansport NXT pro-biotic technology, helpful microbes also help eliminate natural odour on the move - helpful for those sweaty summer treks. Who said summer wasn’t hiking season?

MEINDL - Journey Mid GTX Boots

Meindl Journey GTX Expert Review - 1

Meindl Journey Mid GTX - Expert Review

For those looking to prioritise comfort, the Journey Mid GTX walking shoe is an excellent lightweight choice for summer for those who need a broader, wider fit. Part of Meindl's Comfort-Fit collection, the women's and men's Journey Mid GTX boot is ideal for walkers and ramblers, with a Nubuck leather-engineered mesh upper for exceptional breathability in warmer weather and a Gore-Tex lining for waterproof protection near rivers and flats.

 

The Air-Active footbed provides room for movement, especially in the flex zone, while ensuring a snug and supportive heel hold over varied terrain. With exceptional moisture-wicking, the contoured footbed provides welcome relief in warm weather and conforms to the foot's shape for remarkable comfort, suitable for extended daily use. The Meindl Comfort Sport outsole also features excellent shock absorption and a reliable grip profile, perfect for those wishing to take their hikes further off-road on challenging terrains.

SCARPA - Cyrus GTX Shoes

Scarpa Cyrus GTX Shoe - Women's Expert Review - 1

Scarpa Cyrus GTX Shoe - Expert Review

If you’re looking for a more durable shoe without a deep lug pattern for the less arduous paths and trails – then the Scarpa Cyrus GTX fits the bill. Ideal for walking summer trails and when jet-setting abroad to warmer climates, the Cyrus GTX is the classic leather walking shoe you’ll be wanting to wear out when durability and comfort are the priority.

 

The Cyrus GTX is constructed by Scarpa to be a more relaxed and comfortable shoe than other competitor models, sacrificing technical performance to be a classically aesthetic, ultra-comfortable outdoor shoe you’ll be reaching for all-day, every day, whatever the occasion - whether it be on dogs walks, family excursions, or trips abroad where you know you’ll get your steps in. The Cyrus GTX’s direct injection construction means it comes with a more consistent, progressive flex than other models, along with a PU cushioning layer that helps give long-term durability and support to the shoe – perfect for those that put in the miles. The soft, supple nubuck leather upper gives you straight-out-the-box, breathable comfort, and is backed up with a Gore-Tex waterproof lining to help keep feet nice and dry, no matter the weather overhead. Finally, there’s Scarpa’s own brand Energy L outsole – specially designed in-house for summer use on prepared trails and pathways, helping keep you on the move and ready for just about anything.

HI-TEC - Raven Mid Waterproof Boots

Hi-Tec Raven Mid WP Boot - Men's Expert Review - 1

Hi-Tec Raven Mid Waterproof - Expert Review

A fantastic choice for first-timers and those on a tighter budget, the Hi-Tec Raven Waterproof Boot is an ideal all-rounder. Giving you durability, support, and comfort in all weather conditions, it's ideal for younger people looking at pursuing hiking for the first time or tackling their Duke of Edinburgh award out in the British countryside.

 

Hi-Tec's Raven Mid Waterproof Boot is the trusty, versatile companion capable of taking on both long multi-day and short every day hikes on many different terrain types. The mid-height fit gives the wearer a little extra support and stability, especially around the ankle cuff, ideal for a little extra protection on the more technical tracks and trails. The upper is made from a breathable, perforated softshell with mesh for exceptional breathability in warmer temperatures and less bulk – great for shedding a little unnecessary weight from your set-up and step-on multi-day endeavours. In addition, this boot has a completely waterproof lining alongside a Made Dri-Tec waterproof membrane that wicks away moisture to leave your feet dry and comfortable from the trailhead to the picnic site. The rock-solid carbon rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs provides exceptional grip and traction across multiple surfaces, with a reinforced heel and protective toe cap for added durability and abrasion resistance from rocks and pebbles. Finally, there are the extra features, including an easy hook eyelet lacing system and an easy-grip heel pull tab – giving you easy on/off when you reach the campsite at the day’s end.

MEINDL - Caribe GTX Walking Shoes

Meindl Caribe GTX Expert Review - 1

Meindl Caribe GTX - Expert Review

Designed to tackle all your summer walking adventures, the Meindl Caribe GTX Walking Shoe is an incredible, lightweight hiker that can tackle off-road trails, multiple sports, and your everyday errands and outdoor pursuits without breaking a sweat. A high-quality walking shoe with enough stability and underfoot protection for consistent daily use, the Meindl Caribe GTX is a multi-purpose trail shoe that will take you from summer weekend escapes to walks and low-level paths with ease.

 

A dependable walking partner, this is the ideal shoe for those looking for an everyday companion for the tracks and trails. The upper is constructed from a lightweight, breathable mix of velour and mesh with a hardwearing, waterproof Gore-Tex lining for exceptional performance in all weather conditions. Summer-proof ventilation comes courtesy of the highly breathable Air-Active footbed underfoot, which ensures a constant flow of fresh air whilst wicking away and drying moisture on sight. In addition, there’s the Meindl Trail Activity Sport outsole. Giving excellent traction and the utmost comfort to the wearer, it’s the perfect baselayer for a shoe you wouldn’t want to get caught without. Lastly, this shoe comes outfitted with a solid heel cup for rigid support (an essential for those putting in the big miles), a rigid shank for rocky, uneven paths, and proves a fantastic all-rounder for those looking for a versatile outdoor shoe with that extra bit of durability against the lumps and bumps of the trail.

To explore even more walking shoes and walking boots, why not check our our fantastic men's walking shoes and women's walking shoes collections?

Shop All Men's Walking Shoes
Shop All Women's Walking Shoes

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