When it comes to supportive walking shoes, it doesn't get much better than the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX. Combining comfort with a pleasing design, I've loved wearing these over the past few weeks - anywhere from a gentle stroll to serious hikes.
The best walking shoes provide components of walking boots and hiking sandals. While many sit around the ankle, some of them stretch to just above the ankle for a great level of ankle support - without being cumbersome - and those that do tend to sit among the most popular options. As impressive as walking shoes can be, they cannot provide the same support as walking boots, so mid-height boots make a happy medium.
The Teva Grandview GORE-TEX walking shoes get rave reviews. I tested them for a few weeks to see what all the fuss was about - and I was very pleased to see, they lived up to expectations on various terrains and different walks.
Teva Grandview GORE-TEX review
Specifications
- Size range: UK 3-9
- RRP: £160
- Weight per shoe: 383g
- Materials: Leather, polyester yarn and Vibram megagrip outsole
- Waterproof? Yes
This model is also available on Amazon in three colours from Amazon: Dark Shadow (pictured), Thyme, and Blue Mirage at a higher price point (£198) if the red colour isn't for you.
First impressions of the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX walking shoes
The Teva Grandview GORE-TEX walking shoe is a good-looking boot, sitting at 4.5inches at the back of the shoe and 5.5 inches above the tongue, so it's a little bit higher than the regular walking shoes I've reviewed in the past.
On taking them out of the box, I could tell they were from the same brand as another favourite shoe of mine - the Teva Trailwinder Low walking shoe. They felt instantly supportive. However, this one is available in much more exciting colours. Out of the box, I had the deep "masala red and sundried tomato" colourway, which translates to a medium red with a pale orange trim. However, you can buy alternative, more muted colours on Amazon if you prefer something more low key.
In testing these shoes on the trails and paths, there were a couple of niggles I had with the shoe design - but I couldn't fault the Grandview's waterproof credentials. From the first outing, they endured torrential rain and deep puddles triumphantly and kept my feet feeling dry and supported.
What are the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX shoes like to wear?
I first visited some parkland close to where I live to see how the Teva Grandview felt without committing myself to too long a walk on my first venture with them - but I needn’t have worried. These shoes felt comfortable from the off and stayed that way on a longer hike across the Pennines, close to where I live.
The walk entailed ascents, descents, mud and uneven terrain, and I felt stable for the duration of the hike. I often find walking downhill far more uncomfortable than walking uphill when my toes become scrunched at the top of the boot, but that did not happen wearing these, which is something of a revelation.
The combination of waterproof leather upper and Gore-Tex also coped brilliantly despite my thorough efforts in testing - which included deliberately stepping into a particularly deep puddle.
I didn’t slip on rocky, wet terrains either - thanks to the suitably named Megagrip outsole, which is an achievement in itself as the same can't be said for all types of walking shoes - even those made for tricky conditions like the KEEN 450 Dirt walking shoes. My ankles felt supported and the rain bounced off the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX walking shoes, so there were no messy boots to sort out once I got back. No blisters to report either.
The only downside I have to report is that the laces are surprisingly a little short for the shoe and can be quite fussy to tie up. I didn't find this so much of a problem as I'm often not in a huge rush when going out for my walks, but this isn't a pair of walking shoes you can slip on and off with ease.
How do the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX shoes compare?
Given these are Teva shoes, it's not surprising that these shoes are on the pricier side - but you are guaranteed quality in return for your investment. If the features appeal to you, but you would prefer something more shoe-like, there is the alternative Teva option I reviewed earlier this year - which is available on Amazon - or you could try the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX shoe. This is another waterproof woman&home favourite that offers excellent support and traction across terrains from city paths to country trails.
The Salomon x Ultra Alpine GORE-TEX walking shoes are another good option for fail-safe waterproofing at a similar price point.
However, if you are happy with the height of these mid-ankle walking shoes but looking to explore other options, I'd recommend looking at boots with an even higher support like a classic hiking boot.
"Walking shoes are ideal for everyday use, particularly in urban environments or on light trails where the ground is relatively flat. They offer greater flexibility and comfort, making them a good choice for long-distance walks on maintained paths or roads, where lightweight footwear helps reduce fatigue,” explains podiatrist Maggie Trevillion, the founder of the Callen Olive clinic.
“On the other hand, walking boots are better suited for rugged terrain, such as uneven trails with rocks / flint, mud, or steep inclines / declines. They provide essential ankle support, which is especially beneficial when walking on rough ground, carrying a heavy load.”
Should I buy the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX walking shoes?
Fussy laces aside, I think the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX makes a great option if you cannot decide between walking shoes or walking boots. It provides all the practical features you want from a hiking shoe (lightweight, impressively waterproof, comfortable, especially downhill and secure) but does not forsake style.
At £160, it is not the cheapest walking shoe, but you get plenty for your money and will get lots of wear out of these for years to come.
