Last reviewed and updated: October 2026.
No, you do not always need waterproof hiking boots in the UK. They are useful surprisingly often, because Britain has perfected wet grass, boggy edges and puddles that are deeper than they look, but waterproofing is only one part of choosing footwear.
Grip, fit, terrain and how long you will be out matter just as much.
When waterproof boots earn their keep
- wet grass and muddy farmland
- cooler autumn and winter walking
- longer days where cold wet feet would become miserable
- boggy or repeatedly damp routes where shallow shoes are likely to get soaked
The British Mountaineering Council notes that waterproof linings can make wet and cold conditions much less unpleasant, although they are not miraculous: water can still enter from the top and a lining can be damaged.
When non-waterproof footwear can make more sense
On dry summer paths, lighter and more breathable footwear can be nicer to wear. Trail shoes in particular are designed to give grip over mud, bog and rock while remaining much lighter than traditional walking boots.
The trade-off is that many trail shoes are not waterproof, they usually offer less support than stiffer boots, and they may wear out sooner.
For easy lowland walks, even ordinary trainers can sometimes be enough. Our guide to hiking in trainers explains where that line starts to move.
Waterproof does not mean dry forever
A waterproof membrane helps stop water coming through the upper, but it cannot stop water entering over the top of the boot. Step into deep enough water and you have essentially created a small waterproof bucket for your foot.
Waterproof footwear can also feel warmer in mild conditions and may take longer to dry once water does get inside. This is one reason some walkers prefer fast-drying trail shoes in warm weather.
What matters more than the membrane?
Fit. The BMC emphasises that a good fit is crucial. Too loose and your foot can move enough to blister; too tight and descents can punish your toes.
Grip. A waterproof boot with a poor outsole is still a poor choice on slippery ground.
Stiffness. Steeper and rockier ground generally benefits from more support and a stiffer sole than gentle paths.
Your actual routes. Buy for the most demanding walking you genuinely do, not for an imaginary expedition you may never take.
Boots, waterproof shoes or trail shoes?
| Typical use | Sensible starting point |
|---|---|
| Short dry countryside walks | Comfortable trainers or walking shoes |
| Wet mixed paths | Waterproof walking shoes or light boots |
| Long, rough or boggy routes | Supportive waterproof walking boots |
| Fast summer walking | Breathable trail shoes if the terrain suits them |
| Winter mountain conditions | Boots selected for the specific conditions and any traction equipment required |
What would I choose for ordinary UK walking?
If I wanted one pair for year-round countryside use, I would lean towards a comfortable waterproof walking shoe or light boot with genuinely good grip. It gives useful protection from wet grass and mud without automatically committing you to a heavy traditional boot.
If most of my walking were dry summer trails, I would happily give up some waterproofing for lighter, cooler footwear.
That is an editorial judgement based on the conditions each type is designed for, not a claim that one style is universally better.
Before you buy
Try footwear with the socks you actually walk in. Walk up and down an incline if the shop has one. Check that your heel is held without crushing your toes, especially on the descent.
If you want lighter options, see Rambl’s walking-shoes guide. For rougher routes, see the walking-boots guide.
