Our Favorite Waterproof Walking Boots & Walking Routes
Set in the Cumbrian countryside, the Lake District is arguably Britain’s most celebrated national park so pack your waterproof walking boots and get ready. Described by the National Trust as the ‘home of Beatrix Potter, dramatic landscapes and fascinating history’ the area is an abyss of lakes, rivers, fells, and quaint villages. Covering 885 square miles, the area is also home to a rich variety of wildlife including Red Deer, Red Squirrel, Fell Ponies, Red Kite, Peregrine Falcons and many more. It is no surprise that the area receives nearly 16 million visitors a year!
Of course one of the best ways to explore this region is by foot. The landscape is steeped in breathtaking scenery and is a walkers paradise with a maze of treks and trails, offering something for everyone of all ages and abilities. However, with so many spectacular routes, it’s hard to know where to begin! Here at Grisport we value tremendously the experience of a beautiful environment and like to make sure our clients are never left unprepared in their outdoor pursuits so we have put together our top picks of what the Lake District has to offer to give you a bit of direction. If you’re looking for the perfect riverside ramble, the Lake District is the way to go, so here are our top 5 lakeside walks to get you going…
#1 Ullswater
If you’re looking for a short stroll to suit a group of all abilities Ullswater is a fantastic place to start. The area has a wide array of rugged lakeside walks extending from the steamer jetty at Howtown but it can be walked in any direction with Glenridding, Glencoyne, Patterdale all providing great starting points. A top favorite of the Ullswater lake is the short route from the lakeside car park at Pooley Bridge along the waterside footpath to Gail Bay and back again. At less than 2 miles in length, this is always a great one for the kids!
#2 Wasdale Head
The panoramic views of Wasdale Head are an absolute must for a Lake District visit. Wastwater in England’s deepest lake and involves a short stroll to reach. It’s a perfect option for walkers seeking a laidback route to a beautiful stop, but do be cautious as it’s a rocky path that can be more tricky in wet or icy conditions so a good pair of waterproof walking boots is essential.
#3 Aira Force
Aira Force is an extraordinary waterfall trail set of Ullswater Lake. If you’re looking for an exciting and energetic day of walking Aira Force offers a great way to experience great views of the lake whilst also experiencing this site of natural beauty. As a National Trust site, Aira Force is well signed posted and looked after and also welcomes friends of the four-legged persuasion to accompany you on your stroll!
#4 Buttermere
Buttermere lake sits a the foot of Honister pass and is joined by Crummock Water to the West and is often regarded as one of the most stunning locations in the area. Walking Buttermere follows a circular 4-mile route around the shores of the Lake, a relaxed and easy hike for all abilities. If this sounds like your cup of tea, learn more about visiting Buttermere on the ‘golakes’ site!
#5 Mellbreak and Crummock Water
At 6 and a half miles this is the heftiest walk on the list and definitely one for the more experienced hiker! With a combination of both mountain and lakeside scenery, this route along the pretty lakeside path and dramatic fells of Mallbreak and Crummock Water is a popular choice. As this walk does venture off the beaten path, the walk follows a route that is not so heavily eroded and clear to follow so requires a sturdy waterproof walking boot to ensure safety at all times.
There is no arguing, these walking experiences would be unforgettable. However, as picturesque as these routes may be there is one catch!!! The weather! The distinctive geographical location of the Lake District on the northwest coast of England coupled with its mountainous terrain means there is no shortage of rain in the region. The UK Met Office reports average annual precipitation of more than 2,000 mm making it one of the wettest cross-sections of England. With such high levels of rainfall it would be negligent to go unprepared, therefore, a sturdy and reliable pair of waterproof walking boots are an absolute must!!! Here are our top picks for both men and women’s waterproof walking boots…
TOP 2 WOMEN’S WATERPROOF WALKING BOOTS…
#1 Ladies Hurricane
The Hurricane Boot is one of our best-selling ladies boots. The Waxed Leather Upper now comes in a range of colours and the Vibram Non-Slip Rubber Sole provides perfect grip in the harshest of the British conditions. The Hurricane has been a firm favourite with all of our customers and is the best-selling ladies boot by far. We have listened to our customers and introduced three new colours to the Hurricane Range this being Burgundy, Navy, and Purple. The Waxed Leather Upper has no lines of stitching or any points of weakness that could allow water ingress, while the comfort and fit are superior to any other brand. The Hurricane Boots are made in Italy at the bottom of the Dolomite mountains like all of the Grisport range they are made in the state of the art factory using solar energy.
Price: £89
#2 Grisport Lady Magma-Hi Pink
Fashionable, lightweight and durable sums up Magma-Hi in three words. The sporty Vibram sole gives this boot a clean and colourful look but it also gives great comfort and grip.These walking boots are pink in colour, with a suede and mesh upper. It has a Gritex lining; which is a membrane structure, resistant to rain, snow and protects against the cold. Also giving you the comfort you need for long treks. It also comes with a Vibram sole, designed to offer maximum performance, comfort, and durability to even the most demanding user. With over 60 years experience, Vibram has worked with Grisport to undergo a rugged test, and these boots have been through the same tests, passing each one.
Price: £85
TOP 2 MENS WATERPROOF WALKING BOOTS…
#1 Mens Grisport Everest
Everest is the hi-cut version of the most popular shoe in the whole Grisport collection – Dartmoor. It has the same rugged Vibram sole and richly waxed Italian leather upper. Made at the foot of the Dolomites in Italy, using renewable Solar power in one of the greenest factories in the world. This is actually a unisex boot suitable for all genders.
Price: £95
#2 Wolf Blue
Wolf is our best selling, lightweight, lowland walking boot. As with all our boots, the fitting is superb which makes Grisport the most comfortable boots that are available in the UK. Available in sizes 36 right through to 47, it is also a great boot for youths.
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