Top Hiking Destinations in Wales Revealed – Expert Shares What to Look for When Buying Hiking Boots This Summer

• Research conducted by AussieBoots has revealed the top hiking destinations in Wales by analysing Google search data.
• 1 Wales hiking destination features in the Top 10 in the UK overall.
• Cardiff is revealed as the hiking capital of the country as searches for ‘hiking’ surge by 250% in the city.
• Expert shares top tips on what to look for when buying hiking boots this summer.

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Research conducted by AussieBoots has revealed the top hiking destinations in Wales by analysing Google search data on popular hiking destinations in the country.

Snowdon topped the list with 90,500 average monthly searches in the United Kingdom between July 2023 and June 2024 (10^th in UK overall). Pen Y Fan came second (60,500), and Brecon Beacons came third (49,500).

Popular hiking trails in those areas include climbing Snowdon. This breathtaking mountain climb with spectacular views of Cwm Dyli takes an average of 4 to 7 hours to complete depending on fitness level.

Another popular hiking trail is the Pen Y Fan and Corn Du circular walk. This hike will give you beautiful views of the picturesque town of Brecon taking you an average of 2 and a half hours to complete.

Looking at the top hiking destinations across the United Kingdom, The Lake District came first (301,000), Durdle door and The Cotswolds came second and third respectively (165,000). Snowdon came 10^th.

Further research by AussieBoots  revealed that Cardiff is the hiking capital of Wales. Searches for ‘hiking’ in the city from 2021 to 2023 skyrocketed by 250%.

When hiking, it is important to always be prepared especially with how rainy this summer season has been, although high temperatures can also pose a risk for long hikes.

Having emergency food is a must when embarking on long hikes as well as having enough water to always stay hydrated especially if you get lost.

It is also important to make sure you dress for the temperature, wearing durable waterproof coats for the rain, thicker layers for mountaineering and lighter layers when hiking in high temperatures.

One of the most necessary items is having the right pair of hiking boots. Managing Director of AussieBoots Pete Bryden shared his top tips on what to look out for when shopping for a new pair of hiking boots:

“There is so much choice on the market now when buying hiking boots, however, it is vital to pick the right pair for the health of your feet, especially if you plan on taking long hikes.

“My top 3 tips to look out for when buying hiking shoes are as follows:

1. Buy boots that are reinforced.

Hiking can involve long walks on difficult terrain; therefore, you must protect your feet as best as you can.

Reinforced shoes that provide you with a rubber toe and heel protector are vital for the protection of your feet when walking on hard terrain.

2. Make sure that the boot fits.

This one goes without saying but many people buy shoes for the look sometimes rather than shoes that are the perfect fit.

Your hiking boot should feel snug everywhere, make sure it is tight nowhere as you want to be as comfortable as possible and make sure you have enough room to wiggle your toes.

3. Buy boots that have deep tread grooves.

Similar to the grooves you see on athletic shoes, deep grooves on the outsoles are so important; the deeper the groove, the more traction and grip the shoe offers which is vital when hiking on rough terrain.”