Whether you are scaling Croagh Patrick or strolling a coastal path, the right footwear can make or break a summer adventure. This guide covers when to choose hiking boots over walking shoes, how to match them to Irish summer terrain, and the best picks in stock right now.
When to choose hiking boots
Hiking boots offer the most ankle support, durability and protection across rugged ground. If your summer plans include multi-day routes, mountain ascents, heavily laden backpacking trips or technical terrain, boots are the safest bet. The higher cut locks in the ankle and reduces twists and sprains on loose or rocky ground, and many boots add a GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, which still matters in an Irish summer that can turn wet without warning.
When to choose walking shoes
Walking shoes are the lighter, low-cut cousins of the hiking boot. They trade some ankle support for breathability, freedom of movement and a more natural footstrike, which makes them ideal for day hikes on well-kept trails, forest walks, coastal paths and longer walking holidays on packed ground. Many hikers carry both: boots for big mountain days, shoes for everything else.
Walking shoes for summer
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SaleMerrell
Men's Moab 3 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
In stockSale price €11200 Regular price €16000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleMerrell
Women's Moab 3 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
Low stockSale priceFrom €11200 Regular price €16000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleHoka
Women's Anacapa 2 Low GORE-TEX Walking Shoes
In stockSale priceFrom €11200 Regular price €16000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleMerrell
Men's Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX Shoes
In stockSale priceFrom €11900 Regular price €17000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleColumbia
Women's Peakfreak Rush OutDry Waterproof Shoes
In stockSale priceFrom €7800 Regular price €13000 Save 40%Unit price
SaleMerrell
Women's Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX Waterproof Shoes
In stockSale price €11900 Regular price €17000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleColumbia
Men's Peakfreak Rush OutDry Waterproof Shoes
In stockSale price €7800 Regular price €13000 Save 40%Unit price
SaleHoka
Men's Anacapa 2 Low GORE-TEX Shoes
In stockSale priceFrom €11200 Regular price €16000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleThe North Face
Men's Offtrail Hike GORE-TEX Waterproof Shoes
In stockSale priceFrom €11900 Regular price €17000 Save 30%Unit price
Matching your footwear to summer terrain
Ireland's landscape is varied, so no single pair works everywhere. As a simple guide:
- Boggy upland trails and mountain ridges: wet underfoot in any season. Choose hiking boots with deep lugs and a waterproof lining.
- Coastal paths and forest trails: generally drier and easier, so lightweight walking shoes keep you comfortable and agile.
- Day hikes with moderate elevation: either works. A mid boot or a supportive walking shoe both suit a few hours on a groomed trail.
The Merrell Moab
One of the most popular hiking ranges we stock, the Merrell Moab is a dependable all-rounder available in both GORE-TEX boot and walking-shoe versions for men and women, so you can pick the level of support you want. It is a great first serious pair and a reliable workhorse for regular walkers.
Our pick
Built for long days on Irish trails, the Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots pair dependable waterproof protection with the support of a mid-cut design. The breathable GORE-TEX membrane helps keep rain and wet ground out, while the pigskin leather-and-mesh upper balances durability and ventilation.
A removable Kinetic Fit ADVANCED footbed reinforces cushioning beneath the heel, supported by a moulded nylon arch shank for stability on uneven ground. Merrell Air Cushion absorbs impact at the heel, while Super Rebound Compound smooths the transition into the midfoot and helps reduce unwanted twisting.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole and 5mm lugs provide versatile traction across mixed surfaces. Recycled laces, webbing and mesh lining reduce the use of virgin materials without compromising the familiar comfort and durability that define the Moab range.
Other top picks in stock
Beyond Merrell, it is worth looking at Salomon for lighter, faster hiking, Scarpa for Italian-built boots aimed at more serious terrain, and Meindl for traditional boot-making with a focus on comfort and fit. Between them you will find a pair for almost any summer plan.
Hiking boots in stock
View all
SaleMerrell
Women's Moab 3 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
In stockSale priceFrom €12250 Regular price €17500 Save 30%Unit price
SaleSalomon
Men's X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX Waterproof Boots
In stockSale priceFrom €12600 Regular price €18000 Save 30%Unit price
SaleMerrell
Men's Moab Speed 2 Mid GORE-TEX Waterproof Boots
In stockSale price €12950 Regular price €18500 Save 30%Unit price
SaleColumbia
Women's Peakfreak Hera Mid OutDry
In stockSale price €8400 Regular price €14000 Save 40%Unit price
Fit, break-in and care
Try footwear on in the evening with the socks you will hike in, and check for a snug heel with room at the toes. Break new boots in on shorter walks before a big day out. After each trip, brush off mud, dry them away from direct heat and reproof the waterproofing when water stops beading. A little care keeps them performing for years.
Hiking boots versus walking shoes at a glance
| Hiking boots | Walking shoes | |
|---|---|---|
| Ankle support | High | Low |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Best for | Mountains, multi-day, rough ground | Day hikes, trails, coastal and forest paths |
| Breathability | Good | Excellent |
| Protection | Most | Moderate |
Ready to find your perfect pair?
For a deeper walkthrough of fit and construction, see our complete guide to choosing hiking boots, and for the wettest Irish conditions our hiking boots for Ireland guide. If summer has you thinking lighter still, our walking sandals guide is worth a look. Order online for delivery across Ireland: Order online for free Click & Collect, or free home delivery over €100 across Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, usually 1 to 2 working days with DPD.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose hiking boots or walking shoes for summer?
Choose boots for mountains, multi-day trips and rough ground, and walking shoes for day hikes, forest and coastal paths in dry, warm conditions.
Are the Merrell Moab available as both boots and shoes?
Yes. The Moab range comes in GORE-TEX boot and walking-shoe versions for men and women, so you can pick the support level you want.
Do I still need waterproof footwear in an Irish summer?
Often yes. Irish summers can turn wet quickly, so a GORE-TEX lining is worth having, especially on upland or boggy trails.
How do I break in new hiking boots?
Wear them on shorter walks first to let them mould to your feet before a long day out, and always hike in proper socks.
Can I get fitted in store?
Yes. Our team offers expert fitting across our Irish stores, and you can order online for delivery across Ireland.
Can I collect orders in store?
Yes, choose Click & Collect at checkout. Orders are usually ready within 24 hours and you will get an email when ready. Available from our Dublin Carrickmines, Dublin Blanchardstown and Cork City Centre stores.
Do you offer free delivery on orders?
Yes, we offer free standard delivery on all orders over €100.
Where are your stores located?
We have four stores across Ireland: Dublin Carrickmines, Dublin Blanchardstown, Cork City Centre and Arnotts Dublin.