Best cheap men’s trail and walking shoes for 2026 Review

Keeping your feet comfortable doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The men’s trail and walking shoes here are some of the cheapest options available for 2026, but still offer enough grip and support for everyday strolls, dog walks and light hikes.

We’ve focused on pairs that keep the price low without cutting corners too far on comfort or practicality. You won’t find every possible feature at this end of the market, but you will find solid, no-nonsense shoes that make it easier and more affordable to get outside.

Each recommendation has a slightly different balance of breathability, waterproofing and support, so it’s not just about picking the absolute lowest price. Choose the one that best matches how and where you actually walk.

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Why you can trust our budget picks

These recommendations are chosen by looking closely at real specifications, materials, pricing and owner feedback from trusted retailers, rather than simply sorting by the lowest number on the price tag. We look for shoes that combine sensible design, everyday comfort and adequate support for the kind of walking most people actually do.

Price is important, but we deliberately avoid models that appear to be a false economy, such as those with flimsy construction or unrealistic performance claims. Within this tighter shortlist we then highlight the shoes that genuinely feel like good value for money for casual walkers and newcomers.

Our aim is to help you spend less without regretting your purchase after a few wet weekends or muddy rambles.

How we chose these cheaper men’s trail shoes

We started by looking at the most affordable men’s trail and walking shoes available from Go Outdoors, focusing on the lower end of the price range where budget-conscious walkers are most likely to shop. From that pool, we filtered for models that offer sensible features for UK conditions, like usable grip, supportive soles and the option of either breathable or waterproof designs.

Any option that looked underbuilt for regular outdoor use or carried consistently poor feedback was dropped, even if it was very cheap. We then compared the remaining shoes on comfort cues, versatility and overall practicality, not just headline features.

Finally, we made sure there was a useful spread of choices: from ultra-affordable vented shoes for fair weather through to inexpensive waterproof styles that can cope better with wet paths and changeable forecasts. All of them keep budgets in mind, but each suits a slightly different type of walker.

The cheapest men’s trail shoes we recommend

The shoes below are all firmly on the budget end of the spectrum, but each earns its place by offering fair performance for the money. Some are the absolute lowest price picks, while others cost a little more yet add waterproofing or extra comfort that could be worth it if you walk regularly.

Use the summaries to match a shoe to how often you’ll wear it, the kind of paths you’ll be on and how important dry feet or maximum breathability are to you.

Our top pick:

Peter Storm Men's Buxton Vent Walking Shoes

Lowest price breathable pick
Typically around £40 at the time of writing, making it the cheapest men’s trail shoe in this line-up.

A very affordable men’s trail shoe with vented panels that keep things cool on everyday walks, ideal if you don’t need full waterproofing and want to spend as little as possible.

Pros

At around forty pounds, the Buxton Vent is one of the cheapest ways to get into a proper trail-ready shoe from a known outdoor brand. The vented upper should help your feet stay cooler and drier from the inside on mild days, which is great if you mainly walk in fair weather or hate the clammy feel of some waterproof shoes. The low-cut design keeps it light and easy to wear for everything from park loops to light countryside rambles. For occasional use or as a step up from everyday trainers, it offers a noticeable improvement in grip and stability without a big hit to your wallet.

Cons

The big trade-off with the Buxton Vent is the lack of waterproof protection, so your feet will get wet quickly in heavy showers or long, dewy grass. The airy upper may not feel as robust as heavier hiking shoes, so it’s better suited to paths and easier trails than very rocky ground. If you plan long or frequent walks in all weathers, one of the waterproof options on this list will be a safer bet.

Ideal for...

Ideal if you want the cheapest credible men’s trail shoe for parks, canal paths and dry-weather countryside walks. It suits casual walkers, new hikers and dog owners who mainly go out in fair conditions and value breathability over full waterproofing. It’s also a good choice as a spare pair for travel or light summer use when you don’t want to risk your more expensive walking footwear.

Other great options:

Peter Storm Men's Force Waterproof Walking Shoes

Best value waterproof option
Usually about £45, offering waterproof protection for only a little more than the very cheapest option.

A cheap waterproof walking shoe that keeps costs low while offering practical weather protection for mixed UK conditions and regular dog walks.

Pros

The Peter Storm Force Waterproof Walking Shoes bring waterproof protection to a very accessible price point, making them attractive if you’re often out in drizzle, wet grass or muddy fields. Compared with the very cheapest non-waterproof options, you’re getting a shoe that should cope better with typical UK conditions while still feeling like a casual, everyday trainer-style shoe. The brand’s focus on value means you can expect a straightforward, no-frills design that is easy to live with and doesn’t feel overly bulky. For regular dog walkers and weekend strollers, that mix of price, protection and simplicity is hard to beat.

Cons

At this price you shouldn’t expect cutting-edge cushioning or the toughest materials, so the Force Waterproof is best kept to paths, parks and light trails rather than punishing mountain routes. Waterproof shoes can also run warmer than vented models, so hot-weather comfort may not be as strong as the Buxton Vent. If you mostly walk in dry, warm conditions, you might find the waterproofing more of a compromise than a benefit.

Ideal for...

Best for budget-conscious walkers who are regularly out in typical British drizzle and wet grass and want a basic waterproof shoe without overspending. It’s a strong match for daily dog walkers, school run pavements and weekend forays onto local trails. If you prefer a shoe that can shrug off puddles and squelchy fields at a rock-bottom price, this one makes a lot of sense.

Peter Storm Men's Buxton Waterproof Walking Shoe

Affordable all-round waterproof
Also around £45, giving you a budget-friendly waterproof walking shoe without a big jump in cost.

A budget-friendly waterproof version of the Buxton that offers simple, reliable performance for casual walkers who want dry feet without a big spend.

Pros

The Buxton Waterproof Walking Shoe keeps the familiar Buxton shape and feel but adds a waterproof lining, giving you extra reassurance on damp paths and through wet grass. It remains firmly in the budget bracket, so you get that added weather protection without jumping up into premium price territory. The styling is neutral and practical, making it suitable for everything from town-to-trail walks to easy country footpaths. If you like the idea of one shoe that can handle a bit of everything on a tight budget, it’s a sensible, wallet-friendly choice.

Cons

Being a budget waterproof shoe, the Buxton Waterproof may not breathe as well as non-waterproof models, which can leave feet a bit warm on summer walks. The cushioning and support are likely to be more basic than higher-end hiking shoes, making it less ideal for long back-to-back days. If you want maximum comfort for big mileage, spending more on the Camborne Low or a more premium shoe could be worthwhile.

Ideal for...

Well suited to occasional hikers and weekend walkers who want one affordable shoe that can tackle mixed conditions without fuss. It’s a good option if your outings range from town paths to damp woodland trails and you’d rather not worry about avoiding every puddle. Choose it if you like the idea of a simple, all-round waterproof shoe you won’t mind getting muddy.

Hi Tec Men's Quadra Classic Walking Shoes

Best budget classic trail shoe
Generally priced near £50, sitting just above the rock-bottom options but still firmly in budget territory.

A classic-looking walking shoe from Hi Tec that sits at the affordable end of the market, suited to those who like a traditional feel and dependable everyday comfort.

Pros

Hi Tec’s Quadra Classic Walking Shoes lean into a traditional walking shoe look, which many walkers trust for its stability and all-day comfort. Coming in at about fifty pounds, they sit slightly above the cheapest options but still represent clear value for a branded trail shoe. Hi Tec has a long history in entry-level walking footwear, so you’re benefiting from tried-and-tested designs that are built for paths and low-level trails rather than fashion. This is the sort of shoe that feels equally at home on a National Trust path or a weekend stroll through the woods.

Cons

The Quadra Classic does not shout about advanced waterproofing, so you should treat it as more of a fair-weather or light shower shoe unless specified otherwise by the retailer. The traditional design can feel a little heavier and less sporty than some modern trail shoes, which might not appeal if you prefer a trainer-like feel. For very wet conditions or technical ground, a dedicated waterproof or more technical shoe would still be the smarter option.

Ideal for...

A great fit for walkers who like a classic, slightly sturdier feel underfoot and mostly stick to well-made paths, parks and low-level countryside. It’s ideal if you’re willing to pay just a little more than the rock-bottom prices in return for a more traditional walking shoe feel from a familiar brand. If you want something that looks the part for gentle hiking without breaking the bank, this is an appealing option.

Peter Storm Men's Camborne Low Waterproof Walking Shoe

Step-up comfort waterproof pick
Usually around £60, costing a bit more than the others here but still affordable for a waterproof walking shoe.

The priciest in this cheap range, but still firmly budget, the Camborne Low adds more supportive comfort and a robust waterproof design for frequent walkers.

Pros

The Peter Storm Camborne Low Waterproof Walking Shoe is the most expensive of this group, yet it still offers a very approachable price for a fully waterproof walking shoe. That extra money compared with the very cheapest models is likely reflected in a more supportive sole and a sturdier upper, which will pay off if you’re out several times a week. It is designed as a proper walking shoe first and foremost, rather than a casual trainer with a bit of grip, so it should feel more reassuring underfoot on uneven tracks. For the relatively small difference in cost, many regular walkers will find the extra comfort and durability well worth it.

Cons

Although still affordable, the Camborne Low is noticeably more expensive than the very cheapest shoes here, which may put off those on the tightest budgets. Like most waterproof shoes at this price, it may feel a bit warm on hot days and won’t offer the ultra-light feel of minimalist trail trainers. If your walking is very occasional, you might not fully benefit from the extra features you’re paying for.

Ideal for...

Best for men who walk often and want a comfortable, waterproof shoe that still comes in well under the cost of premium hiking footwear. It’s a sensible upgrade if you’re moving beyond casual strolls into longer countryside routes and want better support and durability. If you can stretch slightly beyond the lowest prices here, the Camborne Low is a strong value-focused choice for regular year-round use.

FAQs

Are cheap men’s trail shoes good enough for UK walking?

For casual walks, dog walks and easy trails, cheaper men’s trail shoes are usually absolutely fine as long as they fit well and offer decent grip. You may miss out on premium cushioning or ultra-tough materials, but for occasional or entry-level use they can be a very sensible way to get outdoors without overspending.
If you mostly walk in wet grass, muddy lanes or unpredictable UK drizzle, a budget waterproof shoe is often the safer choice. If you mainly head out in fair weather or your feet tend to run hot, a non-waterproof but more breathable shoe like a vented model will feel more comfortable and dry faster. Think about your typical walks before choosing.
With normal use on paths and low-level trails, and if you let them dry naturally between walks, budget trail shoes can comfortably last a couple of seasons or more. Heavy, rocky use or wearing them every day will shorten their life, so if you’re out constantly it may be worth investing a bit more in a tougher model.
For low-level hills in good conditions, cheap trail shoes can work well, especially waterproof styles with a supportive sole. For serious mountain days, winter conditions or very rocky routes, you’ll usually want stiffer, more protective footwear, so consider saving up for a more technical walking boot or shoe if that’s your main focus.
Aim for a snug but not tight fit with enough room to wiggle your toes and no heel lift when you walk uphill. Try them on with your usual walking socks and, if you can, later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen. If you’re between sizes, many walkers go up half a size for comfort on longer outings.
Budget trail shoes often use simpler cushioning, less technical tread compounds and more basic uppers. That can mean slightly less plush comfort, reduced long-term durability or less aggressive grip than premium models. For everyday walks and shorter hikes, though, these trade-offs are often perfectly acceptable for the money you save.
Let them dry slowly at room temperature after wet walks, clean off mud, and occasionally refresh the water-repellent treatment on the outer fabric. Pair them with decent walking socks to manage sweat. These simple steps help the waterproof lining perform better and extend the life of cheaper shoes.
If you regularly walk long distances, head into the hills in all seasons or carry a heavier pack, it’s usually worth investing more in footwear with better cushioning, stronger uppers and more technical grip. If you’re mainly doing shorter local walks and light trails, well-chosen budget shoes offer far better value.

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