Best Unisex Walking Shoes 2026 — Top Picks for UK Trails

#1: Why Scarpa Terra GTX is the best in test

Scarpa walking shoes have a reputation for durability, but the Terra GTX takes things further with a build that feels solid from the first step. During a 12km trek across the Peak District, the Gore-Tex lining kept my feet completely dry, even when I waded through a shallow stream for over two minutes. The weight, at 1.2kg per pair (UK 8), is noticeable but never cumbersome, and the Vibram sole gripped confidently on both wet limestone and loose gravel. I measured the noise at 54dB on tarmac, which is quieter than most hiking boots I have tested. The fit is genuinely unisex, with a roomy toe box that did not pinch after hours of walking. Scarpa’s attention to supportive soles is clear: there is real arch support and enough shock absorption to keep fatigue at bay on mixed terrain. The upper leather feels premium and resisted scuffs during a muddy woodland scramble. For anyone seeking the best unisex walking shoes 2026, the Terra GTX delivers a rare blend of comfort, protection and all-weather reliability.

The main drawback is the price: at £168, the Scarpa Terra GTX is the most expensive shoe in this test. Some users may find the break-in period a bit longer than with synthetic models, as the leather needs a few outings to soften fully. The weight, while manageable, will not suit those who prioritise ultra-light gear for fastpacking or summer trail runs. On hot days, breathability is average, and my feet felt slightly warm after a long July hike. The classic styling may not appeal to those wanting a sportier look. Mud can cling to the deep treads, requiring extra cleaning time. The laces are sturdy but quite stiff out of the box. Finally, the heel collar could use a touch more padding for those with sensitive ankles.

Pros

• +Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
• +Excellent durability and build
• +Comfortable for long walks

Cons

• −High price point
• −Heavier than synthetic options

Hoka Tor Summit: Does maximum cushioning mean maximum comfort?

The Hoka trail shoes are known for their plush midsoles, and the Tor Summit is no exception. I wore these on a 10km urban-to-trail loop, and the difference in underfoot comfort was clear: the EVA midsole absorbed impact so well that my knees felt fresher than usual, even after pounding 8,000 steps on concrete. At 950g per pair (UK 8), they are lighter than the Scarpa but still offer a stable base. The rocker sole design encourages a smooth stride, which I noticed most when descending steep park paths. Breathability is above average thanks to the mesh upper, and my feet stayed cool at 19°C ambient temperature. The fit is generous, with enough room for thicker socks, and the unisex last did not create any pressure points. While not marketed as waterproof, the upper dried quickly after a surprise shower. For those prioritising comfort over technical features, these are among the top walking shoes for men and women.

The Tor Summit’s main limitation is its lack of full waterproofing, which rules it out for boggy moors or persistent rain. The mesh upper, while breathable, lets in water quickly during wet grass crossings. The chunky midsole, though comfortable, can feel unstable on very uneven ground, especially when side-hilling. Mud tends to stick to the deep lugs, requiring more cleaning than smoother-soled rivals. Some testers found the heel slightly loose, which may not suit those with narrow feet. The styling is more athletic than classic, which will not appeal to everyone. At £120, it is not the cheapest option for a non-waterproof shoe. The thick sole also means less ground feel, which may bother those who prefer a more connected stride.

Pros

• +Superior cushioning
• +Lightweight design
• +Breathable upper

Cons

• −Not fully waterproof
• −Premium price

adidase walking shoes review: How does the Terrex AX4 stack up for budget buyers?

The adidas Terrex AX4 is the most affordable shoe in this line-up, but it does not feel like a compromise. I wore these for a 7km woodland circuit, and the 780g weight (pair, UK 8) made them feel nimble and responsive. The mesh and synthetic upper is breathable, which kept my feet cool on a mild spring day. The Continental rubber outsole provided surprising grip on both muddy paths and slick roots, outperforming some pricier rivals in terms of multi-surface grip. The fit is genuinely unisex, and the lacing system allowed for a snug, secure feel. While there is no waterproof membrane, the upper dried quickly after a splash through a shallow puddle. Shock absorption is moderate, but I did not notice any heel pain after a brisk walk. For those seeking affordable unisex trekking shoes, the Terrex AX4 offers a lot of value for the price.

The main shortcoming is the lack of waterproofing, which limits the AX4’s use in persistent rain or boggy conditions. The synthetic upper, while breathable, does not block water, so your socks will get wet if you step in anything deeper than a shallow puddle. Cushioning is adequate but not plush, so those with sensitive joints may want more support. The styling is sporty, which may not appeal to those who prefer a classic hiking boot look. The outsole, while grippy, picked up small stones in the lugs during gravel sections. Durability is good for the price, but the upper may show wear after a season of heavy use. The tongue is lightly padded, which can feel thin on longer walks. Finally, the colourway is bold and may not suit all tastes.

Pros

• +Affordable price
• +Good grip for trails
• +Versatile design

Cons

• −No waterproof membrane
• −Less durable than leather

Waterproof value: Can the Terrex Trailmaker 2 GTX handle British downpours?

The Terrex Trailmaker 2 GTX from adidase is a rare find at this price point: a Gore-Tex walking shoe with a genuinely unisex fit. I put it through its paces on a wet 9km canal towpath, and the waterproof membrane kept my socks dry even after several minutes in ankle-deep puddles. At 850g per pair (UK 8), it is light enough for day hikes but sturdy enough for rougher ground. The EVA midsole offers decent shock absorption, and the outsole gripped well on slick cobbles and muddy banks. Breathability is fair for a waterproof shoe, and my feet did not overheat, even at 16°C. The lacing system is easy to adjust, and the padded tongue adds comfort on longer walks. For those seeking the best waterproof walking shoes UK, this is one of the most accessible options currently available.

The Trailmaker 2 GTX is not without flaws. The fit is slightly narrower than the AX4, which may not suit those with very wide feet. The upper, while robust, feels less premium than leather rivals and showed some creasing after repeated flexing. The outsole, though grippy, is not as aggressive as some trail shoes, so it can slip on wet grass. The styling is quite technical, which may not appeal to those who prefer a more understated look. The Gore-Tex lining adds a bit of stiffness, and the shoe takes longer to dry if fully soaked. At £72.84, it is good value, but not the cheapest in the line-up. The heel cup is shallow, which may cause minor heel lift for some users. Finally, the colour scheme is quite muted, which will not suit everyone.

Pros

• +Gore-Tex waterproofing
• +Affordable for features
• +Lightweight feel

Cons

• −Synthetic upper less robust
• −Limited ankle support

Mixed terrain tested: Can the Gel-Venture 6 GTX handle everything from pavements to rocky paths?

Asics hiking footwear is often praised for its comfort, and the Gel-Venture 6 GTX brings that reputation to a trail-ready shoe. I tested these over 8km of mixed terrain, including tarmac, gravel, and a short rocky scramble. The Gel cushioning in the heel noticeably reduced impact, and my feet felt fresh even after 90 minutes of brisk walking. At 890g per pair (UK 8), they are not the lightest, but the weight is well balanced. The Gore-Tex membrane kept water out during a sudden downpour, and the mesh upper dried quickly once the rain stopped. The outsole provided multi-surface grip, though it excelled most on hard-packed trails. The fit is true to size, and the unisex last worked well for both men and women in our test group. For those seeking the best shoes for mixed terrain, the Gel-Venture 6 GTX offers a versatile package.

The Gel-Venture 6 GTX is not without its compromises. The outsole, while grippy on dry and hard-packed surfaces, struggled a bit on slick mud and wet grass. The styling is more running shoe than hiking boot, which may not appeal to traditionalists. The upper, though breathable, is less robust than leather rivals and may show wear after a season of heavy use. The Gore-Tex lining adds some stiffness, and the shoe takes a while to dry if fully soaked. At £109, it sits in the middle of the price range, but does not feel quite as premium as the Scarpa or Hoka. The tongue is lightly padded, which can feel thin on longer walks. Finally, the colourway is quite subdued, which may not suit those wanting a bolder look.

Pros

• +Gore-Tex waterproof lining
• +Good for road and trail
• +Comfortable fit

Cons

• −Not as grippy on wet rock
• −Limited colour options