Walking boots and clothes: advice please.

I wouldn't go for any boots that are too heavy, goretex or similar are lighter and less likely to rub your feet. I had proper leather walking boots but found them cumbersome and heavy, not really necessary unless you're going on really rough tramps.
You get pretty hot walking so wear layers you can take off, a thinner waterproof jacket (loose enough to wear several layers underneath) rather than a thick padded one.
Waterproof overtrousers are useful but I'd wait to but those until you see whether your likely to go out in wet weather.

My favourite boots at the moment are AKU, an Italian company. The best pair of walking trousers I have are Rohan, waterproof lined Roamers, keep me dry through the heaviest rain but are light enough to wear if it just looks like the odd shower. Much better than waterproof over trousers.

Think most councils run free walks for health.

I would second that advice about walking groups. Ramblers can be a mine of information, and some groups cater for beginners, and shorter walks.

Wet weather gear is really important, in U.K. anyway. There’s nothing as miserable as having rain soaking through clothing and running down inside your legs, when miles from home. 😱

Fennell

A simple and to you maybe silly...
What is difference between walking boots and walking shoes and when would you use one or other?

We have both boots and shoes because we have been walking and hiking a long time. Our shoes are lower and have little ankle support are cooler and lighter in the Summer but still waterproof.

For hillier or rocky walks or wetter weather boots will give more support around the ankles and more protection from muddy puddles that come up almost to your ankles.

We both gave up walking sandals as we kept getting gravel inside them but as everyone else says it's all purely personal choice. Good advice to buy some good socks and use them to try on your boots/shoes. If you have a local walking group a really good idea to join them - they can provide support, encouragement, company and experience. Enjoy 😁

Merrill shoes and boots.

I got some really nice gortex walking boots from clarks

I only use my walking boots for difficult terrain or very long walks ( very rare now) I always use waterproof walking shoes which are much more comfortable - well for me. Which reminds me. After 5 years wear, this morning they leaked when walking through grass, so a new pair is needed. The shoes I use are German and extremely comfortable. This will be the third pair from the same company - if they still do them!?

My wet weather gear is also pretty ancient but still serviceable. It pays to get the best quality you can afford.

Your question about when to wear what has no answer, it’s a question of individual choice.
Don’t overthink, just enjoy.

This is why you should seek advice from a reputable supplier - tell them what walking you plan, and in what kind of weather conditions, and ask for recommended footwear to try.

You will find disagreement amongst walkers about our own preferences. I, for example, walk in the mountains and on rough terrain in walking sandals in the summer - my Keens have taken me happily from the American Rockies to the Southern Alps without problem. Others, like Greyduster, would want or need more ankle support. Neither is wrong, it’s very individual.

If you are walking gentle terrain with no rough rocky paths and are not likely to encounter water or deep mud, shoes should be fine. For anywhere you need an extra of support (mountain or rough hill walking for instance), boots are essential.

A simple and to you maybe silly...
What is difference between walking boots and walking shoes and when would you use one or other?

One thing to add, the more expensive brands of boots and shoes usually come in half sizes too if fitting is an issue. Cheaper ones don’t.

Best hiking shoes I ever owned were by Grisport. They had really good ankle support but were on the expensive side. I had them for years.

Another vote for Alt-Berg boots. Look for premier retailers whose skilled fitters will spend time fitting and ensuring you get boots that are right and comfortable for your feet.

Summer and winter walking need different kit. I am a great fan of Paramo for winter waterproofs, which you can reproof as necessary. I pay a lot for my gear. Buy cheap buy twice!

We are keen walkers we try and do at least one hike a week, usually about 15k.
As we are fair weather walkers I have a Regatta jacket, it was from a charity shop with the labels attached, £5 and perfectly adequate, I have mountain warehouse leggings and good socks and boots.
The socks are important, buy them first and take them to try on boots.
I always make sure my ankles are protected from tick bites.
I never walk without a stick.

I have been walking for years, rarely spend a lot on the gear, and havnt heard of any of the brands mentioned up thread.
I usually get my walking footwear from Aldi and they last as long as any other make. My jacket and trousers fromMatalan still going strong after 15 years; it works for me.
Two sticks keep you up straight rather than one which doesn’t.
Happy wandering, it doesn’t have to be expensive and it’s a joy.

Really important to have good proper walking socks preferably with few seams. Otherwise blisters can be awful

Re boots Brasher are excellent. I have walking "shoes" which are boots really but dont come too far up ankle. However if you feel your ankles need support boots are best.

Waterproof breathable walking coat is worth it with plenty of pocket choices is good too. When I can I avoid a rucksack and pockets (usually deep if a good coat) are good for that!

I joined the U3A walking group.
The walks are twice monthly, 5 to 7 miles exploring fairly local areas.
We share cars, we take picnics, we go out in all weathers and learn what to wear and where to buy it, from experts

My own boots are Merrill waterproof, lightweight. My daysack is also lightweight and I like poles which protect from falls and help weight distribution.

Lovely you are getting into walking.
I’ve tried several makes of expensive boots, and the one I find the best in terms of ankle support, waterproofing in mud and rain, non slip in all conditions. They are Meindl.
I think it’s true to say I’ve learned not to wear clothes I’m going to get too hot in. Walking warms you up, so go for light layers, also a bobble or beanie hat that covers your ears from wind, also tidies away your hair from blowing in your eyes.

Very helpful. Thank you.

Thinking more on this after having read responses, I think walking shoes with ankle protection is my first thought. I do ‘t at this stage envisage fell walking but I will locally encounter muddy / hilly patches.
Is this a good distinction to make?

But I then hope to progress into more adventurous walks.

Go for Gore Tex on jackets and shoes if u want to be fully waterproof. Proper hiking socks too as they hug your feet. A small waterproof rucksack is handy. Merrell shoes and Berghaus jackets are my go to.

It's a good idea to vaseline your feet before long walks - prevents blisters. We did this daily while walking the Coast to coast from St Bees to Robin Hoods Bay (192 miles) and avoided blisters.

I love Merrell walking boots. I can wear them straight from the box without any painful wearing in.

I agree with all the above re layers, wicking tops and proper walking socks etc.

A stick is good if you are planning to walk hills. It helps to protect your knees both up and down steep hills

Lots of good advice on here. Don’t compromise on boots. I have walked in the Peak District for years and have Meindl Pro boots - very hard wearing, lightweight and absolutely watertight. They come at a cost but will last for years. I can wear mine all day and not feel as if I have them on. Scarpa and Salomon are good too. I’ve always gone for Bridgedale midweight merino socks. I bought some for my GS when he did his D of Eds and he agreed they were very comfortable. I agree with those who say have your boots fitted by a professional. They should make sure the footbeds are right for you too. Walking poles can take around forty pounds of pressure off your knees when going downhill and are great in muddy (or snowy) conditions. I would say get some with handles that are not likely to make your hands sweat in the summer. It sounds like a small thing, but it can make them uncomfortable to use.