YOUR FLEXIBLE FRIENDS

Or, why the walking boot is the greatest invention on Earth.

Ahiking boot is a cluster of contradictions. Tough but flexible. Complex but simple. Rainproof (in most cases) but breathable. Heavier than a trainer yet often just as nimble. It’s an extraordinary puzzle for bootmakers, and we’ll never of seeing how they solve it. So before we introduce you to the options, let’s take a detailed look at what’s happening inside the average boot, and how it all helps to make your walks so fabulous.

UPPER 1

The material that sits above the sole unit, enclosing the foot. May be synthetic fabric, leather or a hybrid. Inside it there’s likely to be a waterproof/breathable membrane: either a sock-like ‘bootie’ (as used in most Gore-Tex models) or sometimes heat-bonded directly to the upper.

INSOLE 2

The cushioned surface on which your foot rests. Usually contoured and often with pores for breathability and/or antimicrobial treatment for hygiene.

MIDSOLE 3

A shock-absorbing layer which cushions impact and provides stability. Commonly made of a hardened foam polymer called ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA).

SHANK 4

A narrow strip of metal which adds stiffness and stops the arch from collapsing. By preventing the boot from bending in the middle, it forces the boot to bend at the forefoot, as your foot does.

OUTSOLE 5

The external floor of the shoe, with treads (known as lugs) to bite into the terrain. Mountain boots have an aggressive lug pattern for grip; all-rounders favour a more balanced tread pattern and a smooth rolling curve.

RAND 6

A strip of toughened rubber at the front to fend off bumps and scuffs. In tougher, heavier boots, the rand may run all the way round the sides too.

ANKLE CUFF 7

Provides support for the ankle. Usually heavily padded for extra protection and comfort.

LOCKING EYELET 8

An extra pair of runners, set further back than the rest, which help to pull and hold the lacing taut in the lower foot while you tie the ankle comfortably.

HEEL CUP 9

Protects against impacts, cradles your heel, and helps the boot keep its shape.