As summer fades to beautiful autumn and then to winter, many walkers will be swapping their lighter, less robust summer walking boots for winter footwear. Winter walking boots need to be able to cope with colder, wetter and muddier conditions. Footwear will also fall into different categories, such as boots suitable for trail walking, boots for hill walking and boot that can keep you safe on snowy and icy mountains and are capable of being fitted with crampons. For this guide we’ll be looking at boots that are most suitable for hill walking in winter.

Salomon Quest Prime GTX

For fast-paced walking, a lightweight boot will be an advantage. But in autumn and winter you still need footwear to have a stiffer sole for better stability, good grip and waterproofing. The Salomon Quest Prime GTX boots tick all these boxes and also boast a suede leather and water-resistant textile combined outer for better durability on rough terrain, a higher cut for improved ankle stability and protective heel and toe caps.

Waterproofing is thanks to Gore-Tex and comfort comes with Salomon’s tried-and-tested technologies for cushioning and support. This is a boot I would use for trails and hills in winter, although if it is snowy or icy I would step up to something a bit stiffer and grippier. There are male and female colourways and fit. See Salomon Quest Prime GTX, RRP £130. Shop around for cheaper.

Asolo Shiraz GV boots

These boots are heavier than the Salomon Quest but still relatively lightweight for winter footwear. The sole is stiffer and there is more grip, especially at the heel. You’ll notice the heel is square cut and that gives much better grip when descending on loose terrain, mud or snow. This is more of a technical boot that would be suitable for higher-level walking in winter. The boots feature a one-piece water-resistant upper including suede leather and also a Gore-Tex lining. The Asolo/Vibram sole has “Anti- Shock” technology, which absorbs impact, and helps with traction. There are male and female sizes and colourways. See Asolo and buy in various outlets in the UK and on-line. Around £135 to £185.

Scarpa R-evo Pro GTX Boots

Scarpa’s R-evolution Pro GTX boots offer all the requirements for keeping your feet dry in autumn and winter in the UK as well as great comfort and grip. There’s a water-resistant suede upper, Gore-Tex lining and a “Sock-Fit XT by Scarpa” construction system. The outer also boasts lots of protection for rugged terrains and the sole, with a grippy sole and square cut heel, will keep you upright in mid, scree and snow.

There are male and female designs and fit. See Scarpa and buy from various outlets including Tiso for £225.