Salomon Daintree Mid GTX Nik/Black/Antique

Product Information

But, that freedom of choice isn’t without consequence. The online market is so big and vast and confusing; where should you even start? Top-notch build quality: The X Ultra 3 Mid is showing very little wear after well over a year of consistent use.

Brasher boots are glorious things. I’ll declare an interest here: these are my favourite walking boots and have been for about 20 years, in the city as well as the country. I found them to be instantly comfortable (certainly not something you can say for many hiking boots as solid and durable as these) and need no wearing-in whatsoever. In fact, they’re so warm and comfy that they actively make you want to go for a walk, and they’re so light and supportive that you’ll want to keep going. Your dog will be delighted!How about starting off your search with a great brand built for getting you outdoors? A company not keen on cutting corners who haven’t grown too big for their britches. It’s not easy to find in the modern market, but we’ve been blown away time and time again by one particular contender. When we put these on the scales, we could hardly believe our eyes. At 13.8 oz (390g), these boots are an unbelievable 29% lighter than the average for the waterproof hiking boots we have tested! We could really tell the difference after long days on the hill, and our feet still had energy to spare! Regardless of where you’re hiking, or how long you plan on getting out there, these boots will keep your legs moving and get you deeper into the stoke one step at a time. The Salomon Elixir boots are instantly comfortable, straight out of the box, and I found that the excellent-quality partially leather upper required no breaking in at all. What does require some getting used to, however, is the additional height these boots bestow upon the wearer.

It’s the midsole of the Elixir’s that will raise the most eyebrows, though, because they are massive – a lot like hiking and running hoofs from Hoka– those pioneers of the maxi sole. Absolutely loaded with ‘Energy Foam’, the Elixir’s midsoles are designed to supply super amounts of cushioning and rebound momentum. So if you’re not expecting to venture far from pavements and you’re not used to wearing walking boots, opt instead for a pair of light walking boots that offer good grip, weatherproofing and ankle support, but don’t make your feet feel weighed down. They won’t last as long as hiking boots, but they’ll be more comfortable and flexible. READ NEXT: The best hiking boots for the great outdoors The best dog walking boots to buy 1. Keen Steens Leather Waterproof Boot: Best all-around dog walking boots With the incredibly chunky midsole, I found myself several centimeters taller than usual, which literally affected my spatial awareness, so that I would brush my head against trees branches I usually walk under. I also unintentionally scuffed my feet occasionally while walking in the Elixirs, due to the extra height of the midsole. Brashers have a heritage-inspired design that some might find a little clumpy-looking, but others (including me) find very beautiful. Beneath that classic exterior is a waterproof eVent membrane system designed to protect against all kinds of adverse conditions, including ice and snow, without making your feet feel hot. They’re pricey, but look after them and they’ll last a lifetime.

Here’s our pick of the best boots to keep you comfy and dry for miles while walking your four-legged friend

Salomon hiking boots and walking shoes are the ultimate companions for hikers seeking unbeatable performance and comfort. Engineered with advanced features such as Gore-Tex technology, these boots offer waterproof protection while allowing your feet to breathe, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable throughout your outdoor adventures. Keen’s leather walking boots are the closest you’ll get to your very own built-in paws. The waterproof full-grain leather uppers are cut and shaped to provide ample flexibility along with protection, so there’s no wearing-in or plasters needed: they’re good to go out of the box. The addition of a breathable waterproof membrane and mesh liner help to keep the water out while also staving off any clamminess or smelly feet, whatever the weather. They’re also designed to be as easy as possible to clean. A Gore-Tex membrane acts as a weatherproof layer across the chassis of the Elixirs, and the top of the boot features mesh panels to assist with levels of breathability. The rubber Contragrip outsole boasts 5mm lugs arranged in a way that provides grip during ascents and braking control during the downhills. These studs aren’t particularly aggressive, and they’re widely spaced to avoid mud becoming accumulated in between them. Key features – Material: Leather upper, polyurethane sole, Vibram vulcanised rubber outer sole; Waterproofing: eVent; Sizes available: UK 4-12 Fitting out your trip with a fully waterproof, grippy, and comfortable pair of hiking boots will guarantee this weekend isn’t the last time you get out there, and Salomon Boots are some of the best pairs for the job.