Walking boots for winter riding.

I’ve been trying on different MTB winter boots and finding them uncomfortable, I’m wondering if anyone rides in walking boots. There seems to be a lack of decent mtb footwear around, I did get lucky once and found the Shimano MT91 very well made and comfortable, unfortunately that model is no longer available. I can’t see why a shoe can’t be made that’s as comfortable as a Merrel or Salomon shoe. I have used my Merrell Moabs in the past but the grippy sole isn’t the best on pedals. I’m struggling to find an alternative though, I’ve recently tried some Shimano GF 800 and some Five Ten Impact pro mid, both very uncomfortable.

Can’t think what to try next.

I’ve used some Decathlon ones now and again. I think the current equivalent is the MH100.

they’re OK for flat pedal grip – perhaps a bit soft in the sole for long rides.

lacing is a bit meh – hard to get the top tight.

more commonly I just put some Helly liners on, some SealSkinz, and put my (with the socks) snug fitting 2FOs on.

Columbia fairbanks were recommended to me a while back on here. Can’t fault them, warm, insulated, waterproof, lightweight. Haven’t actually done much riding in them but they are my go to boot in the winter for the Highlands of Scotland.

I used to ride in a pair of Merrell walking boots during the winter, it worked fine to be honest. I picked up some of high top EPS Five Tens. They keep my foot warmer I’d say, and they grip better on the pedals, but they’re definitely worse for walking. I was trying to get through some off camber wet muddy grass earlier this week and they have no walking grip whatsoever (mind you, it was also too slippery to pedal)

Columbia Fairbanks.   been using em for 15 years IIRC.  perfect for UK winters.

Keen arctic high targhee.  perfect for Norway in winter.

I bought some Columbia Fairbanks after recommendations on here, they’re very light and comfortable but for me way too hot.
Pedal grip isn’t that great compared to Five Tens.

My go to autumn/winter/spring MTB shoes are my Five Ten Trailcross Goretex. They’re on their 4th winter, I’ve just had to stick the soles back on, when they fall off again I’ll probably get another pair.

Pedal grip isn’t that great compared to Five Tens.

But better than 99% of “walking boots”, which will have a fairly rigid, rocker sole with big lugs.

@scotroutes true

I picked up some 5ten kestrel boa this summer and they are ridiculously comfy, so much so I bought 2 more pairs.

I always find hiking boots too clumpy and I haven’t a clue where my foot is on the pedal.

+1 for Fairbanks, love mine but it has to be cold. The rubber’s not super sticky but it’s OK, and for me it’s balanced out as the sole has better feel than a lot of mtb shoes (including the five ten goretexes, which have more grip but are pretty clumpy). Ironically, they’re pretty terrible for winter walking as they have no mud grip.

Vaude moab winter mid.

Amazing for the last few winters for me

Berghaus Expeditor Trek 2.0 for me – quite light, really comfortable and I’m happy with the grip, both on the pedal and the ground.

Yes. After all that was one of only 3 options when things kicked off in the mid 80’s . Those and tradition cycling shoes with a slotted plate on the sole  or trainers (which admittedly were not the mega clunky things we have now.)

Brasher boots were popular or maybe these new fangled fabric things, KSBs which you buy again, made by Asolo.

Use gaiters with them. Am seriously contemplating my Brashers for foul weather off road commuting.