Alt-Berg Malham

£165 / 1476g (pair, size 11)

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

even more support is available at higher prices

From the outside this does look like some other leather boots, but it is the detail that sets it apart. You get a full-grain leather upper with minimal stitching and a Sympatex waterproof lining that is protected by a full rubber rand. The ankle cuff is low and softly padded for easier terrain, but you also get a stiffer sole with a very aggressive lug pattern for more challenging ground. 5/5

The size range for men is 7½-14 and 3-8½ for women so this should fit many people. The forefoot isn’t as wide as some others, but neither is it the narrowest and as the stitching does not extend all the way to the toe this differential is important to consider when choosing a boot for your own foot shape. 5/5

The low weight combined with the low cuff and good padding around the ankle makes this instantly very comfortable. There is slightly more stiffness in the sole compared to some other boots at lower prices, and this makes it more comfortable on rockier ground than softer boots. There is also a natural rolling action to the sole for comfortable walking. 5/5

This boot has a wider range of performance than some lower-priced boots so you can use it on moorland and easy fell paths, but it also performs quite well on slightly rockier ground too. The medium width controls the foot well when traversing slopes and it has the precise feel needed for scrambles. Others offer more ankle support, but it is still great for typical Lakeland walks. 4/5

The Malham is a well-priced boot for what it offers, with a little more performance than lower-priced options. 4/5

A great boot for tackling Lakeland fells and moorland walks; but even more support is available 4.6/5 if you pay more.