Four of us are visiting the Highlands the last two weeks in May. There is a debate about packing rain boots. I had just planned to take two pairs of waterproof sneakers, but do I need more? Rain boots or waterproof hiking boots? We plan to take a lot of walks, but nothing strenuous.
If I don’t pack boots will I be able to purchase affordable boots once I arrive Edinburgh?
Hi Judy -
I suppose it all depends on where you plan to walk. Even low level walks can be very wet. Generally speaking I’d say you would be fine with your original choice. Wearing hiking boots comes into its own when heading into the hills. Many of the trails are rocky and a thicker, less flexible sole a la Vibram will prevent some of the battering your feet would take in a sneaker. By the same token the higher cut of a boot adds support and prevents ankle rolls and sprains on similar terrain.
Push come to shove you could pick up a cheap pair of boots from outlets such as Mountain Warehouse or Go Outdoors or maybe Tiso or Blacks once in situ, but I’d be cautious about that given that you’d probably want to be certain of the boots not hurting or rubbing your feet. Finding out your purchase has been ill-advised while out walking doesn’t really improve matters.
If you’ve any clue in advance of what walks you hope to be doing (I realise this is a big ask, but…) let us know and maybe we can be more specific!
Ian
Hi Judy, well personally I wouldn't consider going to the Highlands walking without broken-in rain proof hiking boots. Your second pair of shoes can be sneakers for the flight, and just getting out of the boots at the end of the day. That sort of uneven terrain is hard on the feet, as are cobblestones. I know they take up lots of space in a carry-on, but I wouldn't compromise when it comes to footwear. I wear Maob 2 water proof Merrills. https://www.merrell.com/US/en/moab-2-mid-waterproof/27933W.html. Here is a thread about walking shoes for Scotland (under Tips on main page of Forum) https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/best-travel-shoes/shoe-recommendations-for-scotland-in-aprilI
Sandancisco, that link is dead - I think you may have accidentally inserted at extra "L" at the end of "April". Here's the correct one. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/best-travel-shoes/shoe-recommendations-for-scotland-in-april
hey thanks Mardee
We are walking Kingussue, Inverness, Balmoral, Kishorn, Skye, Oban areas.
Thanks for replies thus far!
Judy, you are smart to think ahead for adequate foot protection while on your trip. Like others have indicated here, a good pair of waterproof hikers with a bit of ankle protection is definitely called for. My feet were happy in the Oboz waterproof shoe. I liked the low cut, which gave me good protection for the walkabouts I did. Mind you, I did not do much heavy hiking in these but have since used them for snow showing here in the Northwest and I appreciated not having wet socks. In Scotland, I did appreciate their grip on wet pavement in Glasgow and on the trail at Glen Affric and the trail to the fairy pools for the slippery scree at times.
https://obozfootwear.com/en-us/product/women-s-sypes-low-leather-waterproof
One other item you may want on your packing list are rain pants. Good for rain, obviously, but also wind protection. A good lightweight rain proof jacket with a hood that is adjustable is also a must.
Happy travels to you. I loved my trip in Scotland (September 2022).
I find that I like wearing my hiking boots in cities as well as on the trail, not all the time, but definitely if it's raining. The sturdy soles are perfect for cobblestones and give me support throughout the day, whether standing in museums or walking. If you don't want a hiking boot, then I recommend Dansko Paisley. They are lace up with some tread on the bottom, and waterproof. I wouldn't wear them hiking the West Highland Way, but would be fine wearing them on a 2-4 day hike. You might check them out.
Thanks all for sound advice!
Remember to add foot powder if you're wearing boots. Upon my return to the states from the desert I nearly cleared out the customs area when I took my boots off.
