Hiking footwear - Boot or Shoe?

[Gimpymoo]

What do people prefer?

I am on the lookout for something new owing to current pair being VERY VERY worn and for as long as I can remember, have always wore shoe type hiking shoes.

My ankles are not made of glass and to be honest, have had some hairy moments which the shoes have served me well in.

I find they offer more "foot freedom" compared to boots, if that makes sense.

For reference, my usual jaunts are in the peak district on good 7 hour walks.

Should I change to a boot?

What is your preference?

Any feedback welcomed.

Thanks.

 

[Gimpymoo]

but then there's the extra benefit if you step into a bog by mistake.

Talking like a pro

Do you lose an movement with boots if scrambling up a rock formation?

 

[Gimpymoo]

Anyone know if Grisport are any good?

Looking at these:
https://www.grisport.co.uk/walking-boots-c78/saracen-brown-p1308

For a winter pavement plodder boot.

Thank you for the replies to the thread, rather interesting.

For a new hiking boot, I was going to go for this:

https://www.thenorthface.co.uk/shop/en-gb/tnf-gb/mens-hedgehog-trek-gtx-boots-2ux1?variationId=TCP

 

[Gimpymoo]

could not immediately see if Amazon do free return on boots

They do free returns

You read my mind though.

I ordered 2 pairs of the Grisport in a size 12 and 13 (Normally a 12).

In the end I disregarded the Northface, it seemed too light personally on closer observation. Not saying I like boulders on my feet but something substantial is nice. Even then, at under 800g, they are not heavy for a leather boot.

My last walking boots were also my "regular" walking around shoes so they were very well worn in so when going hiking, it was just like wearing a pair of slippers

In that regard, as you say, no need for seperate boots if the Grisports are good enough. They are breathable so bar the odd stink, should be Ok in the summer

I looked at Berghaus and Northface and nothing of theirs caught my eye. Well, their is a Berghaus for the same price however does not have a Vibram sole.

Grisport are a british company who manufacture in Italy. I guess Berghaus and Northface manufacture in China?

I might gamble on a Solomon boot for dedicated hiking, never used their kit but look good and sturdy if the Grisport is not upto the task

 

[Gimpymoo]

Received the Grisports and they are a great boot upon initial inspection.

Will get some wear in tomorrow and see whats what.

One thing to add, I am a size 12 normally, these are a 13 and fit very well (just fit finger between heel and shoe) but when looking at size charts, the difference between a 12/13 is 6mm so not much difference.

I think I would be happy to keep these as an all round show and use the other money to get more gear BUT.. these Solomons are calling me.. very loudly:



Nowt wrong with having too many boots

 

[Gimpymoo]

I've got a pair of the Quest 4D GTX - super comfy and fine for weight, even for "casual" use (wore them to the footy last weekend for extra warmth and waterproofing).

I have heard the soles are softer than Vibram soles but does that mean they wear out quicker?

 

[Gimpymoo]

The Grisport boots are just great.



Has padding around the toes, soo comfy.

Never heard of this brand before but glad I took a punt, build quality is very good on what I got. Very happy.