MAMMUT COMFORT HIGH GTX SURROUND £170

Fans of traditional leather look away now, but I think this could be my all-time favourite pair of walking boots. I use the word ‘boot’ lightly, because they’re so thin and flexible they feel more like a high-ankle trainer. They certainly don’t offer bombproof protection, but make up for it in flexibility, breathability and comfort. The grip is good enough for wet rock, but I wouldn’t consider them on ice or snow. This exact model isn’t available any more, but Mammut have confirmed the Sapuen High GTX (£165), which is brand new for spring 2021, is a close match.

VERDICT Great for summer hillwalks, and I’ve even used them for the Grade 2 Ledge Route scramble on the north face of Ben Nevis.

USED BY Oli Reed, Trail editor

USED FOR 6 years