Do high-top boots actually prevent ankle sprains?

Not really — research shows ankle height makes essentially no difference to injury rates. The boot cuff isn't rigid enough to prevent your ankle rolling if you land badly, though it does provide proprioceptive feedback that might make you more aware and careful. High boots can even weaken ankle muscles over time by limiting natural movement, though they might provide useful confidence if you have weak ankles from previous injuries.

Are trail runners good enough for fell walking?

Yes, they can be, depending on your situation. Trail runners are lighter, more breathable, and dry quickly, which works brilliantly if you move fast, carry a light pack, and have strong feet. However, they offer less protection from rocks and less insulation in cold conditions, so traditional boots make more sense for heavy packs, winter walking, or particularly rocky terrain.

Why do my feet get so wet even in waterproof boots?

Because your feet produce about half a pint of sweat per day per foot when working hard, and waterproof membranes can't always expel all that moisture. Once water gets in from stepping in a stream or persistent rain, the membrane that was meant to keep water out now traps it inside. This is why waterproof boots often feel clammy and why non-waterproof boots sometimes end up more comfortable on longer trips.

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What Do Your Feet Actually Need on the Fells?

Everyone has an opinion on boots. Waterproof or not? Ankle support or trail runners? The answer, it turns out, depends less on the mountain and more on the feet inside them — and most of us have been getting it wrong for years.

30 June 20269 min read