Founded in 1913, HF Holidays are the only walking holiday co-operative built on volunteer leaders who don’t just talk the talk - they walk the walk. Every year, they cover miles of footpaths across the UK, gaining first-hand knowledge of terrain, changing conditions and the kit that performs best in real life. Out in all seasons, they ensure they’re fully equipped to support guests every step of the way.
HF Holidays own and manage 16 characterful country houses, set within some of the UK’s best-loved national parks and National Landscapes. Perfectly placed for exploring on foot, each house is designed with walkers in mind - from boot rooms and drying spaces to full-board dining that takes care of everything after a day outdoors.
With this expertise in mind, a group of experienced HF Holiday Leaders put Grisport boots to the test on the routes they know best - from Lake District fells to rugged Cornish coastlines. Walking in real conditions, across varied terrain and unpredictable weather, to see how Grisport boots perform.
Meet the Testers & Their Experiences...
Malcolm - Lake District (Monk Coniston)
Based at HF Holidays’ Monk Coniston house, Malcolm regularly leads guided walks across the Lake District’s varied terrain. His first outing in the Grisport Crusader boots took him over Lingmoor Fell in cold, icy conditions.
“Very comfortable… snug, warm and supportive around the ankle. The tread handled rocky and muddy fells with ease.”
Final verdict: the Crusader boot has reliable comfort and strong grip, with promising waterproof performance for tougher terrain ahead.
Sue M - Chy Morvah, St Ives
Leading coastal walks along some of the UK’s most dramatic shorelines, Sue tested the Lady Tempest boots in true Cornish conditions while guiding guests on HF Holidays coastal breaks.
Facing 40 mph winds and hail, it was a proper test of both kit and resilience.
“So light I was skipping along!”
Key takeaway: lightweight performance without compromising comfort, even in extreme weather.
Seamus - Harrington house, Cotswolds
Seamus put the Saracen boots through their paces across two iconic long-distance routes from Harrington House, including sections of the Ridgeway and Cornwall’s rugged paths, both popular HF Holidays itineraries.
“A joy to wear straight out of the box… great traction on Cornish granite… feet warm and dry.”
Highlights: Vibram sole delivered excellent grip on wet rock. Waterproof leather proved highly water-resistant. Comfortable across 90 miles of mixed terrain
Conclusion: ideal for walking across varied landscapes.
Sue W - Cornwall (Chy Morvah, St Ives)
Walking from HF Holidays’ Chy Morvah house in St Ives, Sue tested the Lady Glide boots while leading guests along Cornwall’s dramatic coastal paths in stormy conditions.
“Comfortable straight out of the box… I was actually paddling at times and my feet stayed completely dry.”
Other highlights: Roomy fit accommodating wider feet. Excellent grip on mud and wet rock. Easy care and durable leather
“I was largely unaware of them while walking - exactly how good kit should be.”
Paul F - Sedbergh, Yorkshire Dales
Leading a guided walking holiday from Thorns Hall, Paul tested the Grisport Saracen boots across demanding Yorkshire Dales terrain, including a traverse of the Howgills and an ascent of Whernside.
“Very comfortable… I really think these boots could be worn straight from the box.”
Across multiple days of wet and muddy conditions, including stormy weather, the boots delivered consistent performance.
Highlights: Reliable comfort over long distances. Excellent waterproofing in heavy rain. Strong grip from the Vibram sole. Easy to clean after tough walks.
Conclusion: A dependable choice for multi-day walking in challenging conditions.
More Than Just Boots
Each tester also received gifted Grisport accessories - socks, a beanie and a flask - designed to enhance comfort on colder days and longer walks.
The feedback? Thoughtful, practical additions that support a more comfortable and enjoyable experience outdoors, whatever the weather.
Final Thoughts
Across all four leaders, one message came through clearly:
Grisport boots deliver comfort, grip and reliability where it counts.
From icy fells to windswept coastlines, they proved themselves as dependable companions - helping walkers stay comfortable, confident and prepared for changing conditions.
Because when you’re properly equipped, every walk becomes safer, more enjoyable and more rewarding. You can follow in the leaders’ footsteps. Book your next guided walking holiday with HF Holidays and experience comfort straight from the box with Grisport.
Set your own pace with up to three guided walks every day, supported by HF’s experienced leaders across the UK, Europe and worldwide. Follow in our leaders’ footsteps, and book your next guided walking holiday with Britain’s only walking co operative, a 112 year old award winning community. HF Holidays owns and manages 16 characterful country houses in some of the UK’s best loved National Parks and National Landscapes, perfectly placed for unforgettable walking adventures, use your exclusive promo code to save on your next holiday.
