‘THREE-SEASON’ is a broad category. Boots with this description are designed to be used in a wide variety of terrain and weather (pretty much anything besides snow and ice).
As with any footwear, the most important factor is fit. Aim to try boots on in a shop with a boot fitting service, and wear them around the house before committing to outdoor use. It’s also a good idea to do shorter walks to break the boots in before tackling anything too epic.
Boots in this category are made from a variety of materials including full-grain leather and a mix of fabric and leather, or are fully synthetic. The materials used affect durability, weight and comfort. Many people find that fabric boots require less breaking in, although modern leather boots should also be very comfortable if well fitted.
The outsole should have lugs that provide traction on awkward terrain such as mud, scree or steep grass. Some sole units have a clean ‘climbing zone‘ near the toe to facilitate scrambling – for example placing the toe on small rock edges. Note that softer, round-edged soles can feel insecure on this type of terrain.
Weight is a consideration especially if planning longer trips, multi-day hikes and big days in the mountains. The midsole provides support, but typically the more robust it is, the heavier the boot. Ideally, choose a model appropriate for the terrain (moorland bog vs rocky mountain, for example) but also think about what you find comfortable. A lightweight trainer-style boot may be perfect for someone experienced in travelling light and fast, whilst a more robust and supportive boot will provide comfort and durability when carrying heavy loads or trudging through pathless terrain.
Walking boots last longer if treated with a little tender loving care. Cleaning and reproofing extends the waterproofing and lifespan. If the soles wear out, it’s possible to get boots resoled, and there
