Walking is one of my favorite ways to stay active and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Ireland. For years, I’ve been a fan of Karrimor walking boots, especially the Karrimor Mount Mid 9 model, which I’ve relied on for everyday strolls. These boots fit like a dream, provide ample ankle support, and handle uneven terrain with ease, making my daily 4 km walks both comfortable and enjoyable. But while I have plenty of love for Karrimor as a brand, I’ve had some concerns about the durability and value of the Mount Mid 9 that I think deserve some attention.

Why I Love Karrimor Mount Mid 9 Walking Boots

There’s a lot to admire about Karrimor’s design. The Mount Mid 9, in particular, strikes a great balance between weight and support. For walking on various types of terrain, from wet grass to rocky paths, these boots have been reliable. The waterproofing has been excellent, especially given the Irish climate, and I appreciate the way they break in quickly without causing those dreaded initial blisters.

For a moderate walker like myself, doing around 4 km daily, comfort is essential. With Karrimor, I never have to worry about sore arches or unstable steps, which has kept me loyal to the brand. And for the price, they feel like a reasonable choice initially.

The Durability Dilemma

However, despite all the positives, there’s one downside that’s made me question the long-term value of Karrimor Mount Mid 9 boots—their durability. Despite only averaging about 4 km per day, I’ve found myself replacing them roughly every six months. After a while, the sole starts to wear down noticeably, the waterproofing loses its effectiveness, and sometimes even the seams start to fray. It’s disheartening to see a boot I rely on so heavily give out so soon, and while Karrimor offers reasonable pricing, replacing boots twice a year feels like it defeats the purpose of buying a “durable” walking boot.

Is the Value There?

Given the frequency with which I need to replace them, I sometimes wonder if I’m getting the best value for my money. While Karrimor is generally more affordable than some premium outdoor brands, the cost of frequent replacements adds up over time. For a brand built on rugged, outdoor reliability, I feel this is an area where they could stand to improve.

Limited Availability in Ireland

Another challenge is that Karrimor products are often limited in stock within Ireland. I sometimes have to go out of my way to find my preferred model, and when it’s time to replace a pair, availability can be hit-or-miss. I’ve found that ordering online is sometimes the best option, but that doesn’t provide the convenience of trying on boots in-store. For Irish walkers, this limited accessibility can make shopping for Karrimor boots more of an ordeal than it should be.

Alternative Options to Consider

For those who might be in a similar situation, here are a few alternatives I’m considering:

1. Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX: Known for their durability and comfort, Salomon’s X Ultra line offers waterproof protection and excellent grip. They’re a bit pricier than Karrimor, but many hikers swear by their longevity, which might mean fewer replacements over time.
2. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof: Merrell’s Moab series is another popular choice for walkers and hikers alike. With a solid reputation for durability and comfort, the Moab 3 offers waterproofing and good arch support, which could make it a worthy upgrade for regular walkers like me.
3. Scarpa Terra GTX: Though Scarpa boots come at a premium, they’re known for ruggedness and durability that justify the price tag. The Terra GTX is a highly-rated model that could withstand frequent daily use and offer that extra longevity that the Mount Mid 9 lacks.
4. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof: For something with a similar price range as Karrimor, Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus II provides waterproof protection and reliable traction. These might not last forever but could be a more durable choice for moderate walking.

Final Thoughts

While I’ll always have a soft spot for Karrimor and the comfort they offer, I’ve reached a point where I need to question if the Mount Mid 9 is truly my best option for a daily walking boot. The frequency of replacements, paired with limited availability in Ireland, has made me consider looking at other brands that could give me greater durability and value for money. Walking boots are an investment, after all, and I want something that lasts as long as my love for walking itself.

For now, I’ll keep enjoying my Karrimors, but I’ll be keeping an open mind—and an eye out for alternatives that can better withstand the miles ahead.