Berghaus Hillmaster GTX

£160 / 1522g (pair, size 11)

weight; leather upper; minimal stitching; full rand; aggressive sole lugs; size range

higher-priced and heavier boots offer more support for rockier ground

A well-established classic hillwalking boot that has changed little since it appeared in the 1980s under the Brasher brand, today this comes under the Berghaus banner. The leather upper has very little stitching and there is a Gore-Tex waterproof lining. The rubber rand adds further durability. The sole has good lugs that are well-spaced for grip on moorland, mud and loose terrain. Stiffness is good for general use. 5/5

With a size range of 7-14 for men and 3-9 for women this boot has the capacity to fit more people than most. The Hillmaster feels quite spacious, and may match the needs of those with wider feet than mine. As the laces don’t extend to the toe box this area can be baggy if you have narrow feet. The ankle cuff is relatively low. 5/5

The spacious forefoot and toe box make this less restrictive and better than some for those with wider feet. The low ankle cuff also improves comfort on easier ground, but conversely is less supportive on challenging slopes. The sole is a little more flexible than higher-priced options, making it great on soft level surfaces but less comfortable on rougher steep ground. 4/5

On moorland and easy fell paths this is an excellent boot for hillwalking, but when the terrain becomes a little rougher others begin to perform better. The sole stiffness and lower ankle cuff mean the foot has to work a little harder on rockier ground than with other boots. The broad forefoot area is great if this fits closely but it may allow more foot movement when traversing slopes. 4/5

This remains well-priced for what it offers compared to others, but for a little extra cash benefits can be experienced. 4/5

The Hillmaster is a well-proven and justifiably popular hillwalking boot, but others have small benefits 4.4/5 for those with more cash.