Walking Boots.
It always amuses me when on a walk just what some people class as suitable footwear for the countryside. I have seen people in trainers, wellies, brogues, I have even seen girls teetering along in straps and heels.

Walking boot selection is by far the most important decision you will make when selecting any type of outdoor wear. Not only do they need to be comfortable and keep your feet dry, they must also support your feet and be rugged enough to take the strain out of any terrain you will be walking on.

Depending on what sort of walking you plan on doing depends on what sort of boots you will need to buy. I would recommend having two pairs of boots for different seasons. A summer pair of lighter, less cumbersome boots and a pair of heavier winter boots. Manufacturers these days produce a range of very practicle and strong walking shoes that are more than adequate for lighter summer walks.

Don't think that a £15 pair of high street unbranded boots will do ... they won't. They may be fine for a walk or two but sooner or later (usually sooner) the cheap materials will start to give, and the support offered and water resistance will break down and you will find yourself binning them after having wasted your money.

The only time I would recommend buying cheaper footwear is when buying for children. Children never wear their boots out, they just grow out of them and the extra expense cannot be justified. However, having said that, the initial fitting of the boots is very important and all the checks outlined below must be adhered to.

I have a pair of Scarpa boots that I bought in 1985, over thirty years ago, and I still wear them today. I am not an old skinflint, believe me, but the boots are still in useable condition. I remember once walking Helvellyn with my wife and two friends and when we got to the bottom they all couldn't wait to get their boots off, me, I kept mine on and I didn't feel in any way uncomfortable.

When you are choosing boots take a pair of socks with you, the type you would normally walk in. Make sure the boots are comfortable and not pinching anywhere. Walk around the shop with a spring in your step to see if they are lifting off your heel at the back ... a sure sign of blisters to come. Make sure they are not tight accross the bridge but also firm. Then try without the socks on, as sooner or later your boots will stretch and the material will give. Your toes should not buckle at the front of the boot.

Also, check inside the boot for the level of comfort and support offered by the liners. Your boots should be both comfortable when on a gentle stroll and rigid and supportive, should your walks be a rough scramble up a scree slope.

In most good walking boot shops they have a mock up of a rough terrain on an incline. Try walking over this several times. Also, try standing on it downhill and uphill for a few minutes to see if your feet slip too far down into the toe. You should not feel any discomfort in this position.

Finally, it is down to personal choice when choosing the colour and style. Boots are made from a variety of materials and in many fashions.

Whatever your choice, have a great time on your walks, and remember, don’t go down the strappy heels or wellies route.

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