West Highland Way Footwear: Do You Need Hiking Boots, Shoes, or Trail Runners?

Do you need hiking boots for West Highland Way?

The necessity of traditional hiking boots for the West Highland Way is nuanced, depending heavily on prevailing weather conditions, the specific time of year, your personal biomechanics, and pack weight. While not always strictly essential, they offer significant advantages in wet, muddy conditions and for those requiring enhanced ankle stability and durability.

Understanding the West Highland Way Terrain

The West Highland Way (WHW) is a 96-mile (154 km) long-distance footpath that stretches from Milngavie to Fort William in Scotland. Its terrain is incredibly varied, transitioning from relatively flat paths and old railway lines in the south to more rugged, uneven, and often boggy sections in the northern Highlands. You will encounter:

• Paved sections and gravel paths: Especially in the initial stages.
• Forest tracks and dirt trails: Common throughout.
• Rocky paths and scree slopes: Particularly around Loch Lomond and towards the northern sections.
• Moorland and boggy ground: Frequent, especially after rain, leading to significant mud and standing water.
• Steep ascents and descents: Such as the climb over Conic Hill and the Devil's Staircase.

This diverse landscape means your footwear must be versatile, offering a balance of comfort, protection, and traction.

The Case for Hiking Boots

Traditional hiking boots are a robust choice for the WHW, offering several distinct advantages, particularly under challenging conditions.

• Ankle Support: The higher cut of hiking boots provides crucial support to the ankle joint, mitigating the risk of sprains on uneven, rocky, or root-strewn terrain. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with a history of ankle instability or those carrying heavier packs.
• Waterproofing: Most quality hiking boots come with waterproof membranes (e.g., Gore-Tex, eVent). Given Scotland's unpredictable weather and the WHW's propensity for boggy sections, keeping your feet dry is paramount to preventing blisters, trench foot, and overall discomfort.
• Durability and Protection: The rugged construction of hiking boots, often with leather or reinforced synthetic uppers, provides superior protection against rocks, roots, and abrasions. Their sturdy soles are designed to withstand hundreds of miles of varied terrain.
• Superior Traction: Hiking boots typically feature aggressive lug patterns on their outsoles, designed to grip effectively on mud, loose scree, wet rocks, and slippery gradients.

Considerations:

• Weight: Hiking boots are generally heavier than shoes, which can contribute to fatigue over long distances.
• Break-in Period: New boots require a significant break-in period to mold to your feet and prevent blisters. Do not attempt the WHW in brand-new boots.

The Case for Hiking Shoes or Trail Runners

In recent years, many hikers have opted for lighter footwear, such as hiking shoes or trail running shoes, for long-distance treks.

• Lightweight: The most significant advantage is reduced weight, leading to less energy expenditure per step and potentially faster hiking speeds.
• Breathability: Many hiking shoes and trail runners prioritize breathability, which can be a relief in warmer weather, helping to manage foot perspiration.
• Flexibility and Comfort: These shoes often offer more flexibility in the sole and upper, allowing for a more natural foot movement. This can translate to greater comfort for some individuals.
• Faster Drying: While not always waterproof, many lighter shoes, if they do get wet, can dry out more quickly than traditional boots.

Considerations:

• Less Ankle Support: The lower cut offers minimal to no ankle support, increasing the risk of sprains on technical terrain.
• Reduced Waterproofing: While waterproof versions exist, they are generally less effective than boots in deep puddles or prolonged wet conditions. Non-waterproof versions will get soaked quickly.
• Durability: The lighter construction may mean a shorter lifespan, especially on abrasive terrain. Sole protection against sharp rocks can also be less robust.
• Traction: While good, the lug patterns might not be as aggressive or as effective in deep mud as those on dedicated hiking boots.

Critical Factors Influencing Your Choice

The optimal footwear choice for the West Highland Way is highly individualized and depends on several key variables:

• Weather Conditions: If the forecast predicts significant rain and the ground is likely to be saturated and muddy, waterproof hiking boots are a strong recommendation to maintain foot health and comfort. In prolonged dry spells, lighter footwear becomes a more viable option.
• Time of Year: Spring and autumn can bring highly variable weather, including rain and colder temperatures, favoring boots. Summer might allow for lighter shoes, but even then, rain is common.
• Your Personal Foot & Ankle Stability: Individuals prone to ankle rolls or with weaker ankles will benefit significantly from the support offered by hiking boots. Those with robust ankle strength and good proprioception may manage well in lighter shoes.
• Pack Weight: A heavier backpack increases the load on your feet and ankles. Hiking boots provide better stability and cushioning to manage this increased stress. Lighter shoes are generally better suited for lighter loads.
• Previous Experience & Preference: Your personal comfort and experience with different types of footwear are paramount. If you've successfully completed similar treks in trail runners, you'll likely do well on the WHW. If you're accustomed to boots and value their protection, stick with what works.
• Foot Condition & Blister Susceptibility: Keeping feet dry is the best defense against blisters. If you are prone to blisters, prioritize footwear that will keep your feet dry and has a proven track record of comfort for you.

Essential Footwear Preparation & Care

Regardless of your choice, proper preparation and care are critical for a successful WHW experience.

• Break-in Period: Absolutely vital. Wear any new footwear for progressively longer walks on varied terrain for several weeks or months before your trip. This helps the footwear conform to your foot and reveals potential hot spots.
• Appropriate Socks: Invest in high-quality hiking socks made from merino wool or synthetic blends. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture. Carry multiple pairs and change them regularly, especially if your feet get wet.
• Foot Care: Trim toenails, moisturize your feet, and consider taping areas prone to blisters before they start. Carry a blister kit with various plasters and antiseptic wipes.
• Waterproofing Maintenance: If using waterproof boots, ensure their DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating is refreshed and the membrane is clean. For non-waterproof shoes, consider waterproof socks as an alternative layer of defense.
• Gaiters: Regardless of footwear choice, lightweight gaiters can be invaluable for keeping mud, pebbles, and water out of your shoes, especially in boggy sections.

Conclusion and Recommendation

While the West Highland Way can be completed in robust hiking shoes or trail runners, for the majority of hikers, especially those new to long-distance trekking or unfamiliar with Scottish weather, traditional waterproof hiking boots are the most prudent and safest choice. They offer superior protection, ankle support, and waterproofing, which are invaluable on the WHW's varied and often wet terrain.

If you are an experienced hiker with strong ankles, a light pack, and are undertaking the trail during a reliably dry period, trail runners could be a comfortable and efficient option. However, even then, be prepared for sudden weather changes and potential muddy sections. Ultimately, prioritize dry feet, comfort, and injury prevention. Choose the footwear that gives you the most confidence to tackle 96 miles of Scottish wilderness.