Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes Review: The Comfort is Real, But Will It Last?

There’s a unique kind of frustration that comes with a failed pair of walking shoes. It’s the damp seep of a puddle through a supposedly waterproof membrane, the unwelcome rub of a blister forming five miles from home, or the disheartening sight of a sole peeling away after just a few months of use. I’ve been there. As someone who spends countless hours on trails, coastal paths, and simply walking the dog through dew-soaked fields, I understand that a reliable pair of walking shoes isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential piece of kit. The challenge is finding a shoe that balances rugged durability, all-weather protection, and immediate comfort without demanding a second mortgage. This quest is what led me to put the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes through their paces, a contender that promises premium features at an accessible price point.

What to Consider Before Buying Men’s Walking Shoes

A men’s walking shoe is more than just footwear; it’s a key solution for maintaining comfort, support, and safety across varied terrains and weather conditions. It’s the barrier between you and the elements, designed to absorb the shock of thousands of steps, provide unwavering grip on slippery surfaces, and keep your feet dry and stable. The main benefits are clear: reduced fatigue on long walks, prevention of blisters and foot pain, and the confidence to tackle trails you might otherwise avoid. Without the right shoe, a pleasant country ramble can quickly turn into an uncomfortable ordeal, potentially leading to slips, falls, or long-term foot issues.

The ideal customer for a robust leather walking shoe like this is someone who frequently walks on mixed terrain—think park paths, forest trails, and country lanes—and needs a durable, waterproof option for year-round use. This includes avid dog walkers, weekend hikers, and anyone who values the classic look and feel of leather. However, this type of shoe might not be suitable for ultra-light hikers or trail runners who prioritize minimal weight and maximum flexibility above all else. Similarly, mountaineers requiring stiff, crampon-compatible boots would need to look at a more specialized category. For those seeking lighter, more breathable options for hot, dry climates, a non-waterproof mesh trainer might be a better alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fit & Sizing: This is the most critical factor. Your walking shoes should be snug but not tight, with about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Consider the socks you’ll be wearing; thicker hiking socks require more room. Some brands run large or small, so it’s vital to understand the fit profile before you buy.
• Waterproofing & Breathability: A waterproof membrane (like Peter Storm’s StormShield or the more famous Gore-Tex) is essential for walking in unpredictable climates. It keeps water out while allowing sweat vapour to escape. The trade-off can sometimes be reduced breathability, so consider how crucial waterproofing is for your typical walking environment.
• Materials & Durability: The upper material dictates the shoe’s durability, support, and break-in time. Full-grain leather, as used in the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes, is highly durable, water-resistant, and supportive but can be heavier than synthetic alternatives. Synthetics (like nylon and polyester) are lighter, break in faster, but may show wear more quickly at flex points.
• Midsole & Outsole Performance: The midsole provides cushioning and absorbs shock. Materials like Phylon or EVA are common and offer a good balance of comfort and support. The outsole is your connection to the ground; look for deep, aggressive lugs for traction on mud and soft earth, and a durable rubber compound that grips well on wet rock and pavement.

Choosing the right walking shoe is a foundational step for enjoying the outdoors comfortably and safely. While our focus here is a deep dive into one specific model, understanding these core principles will empower you to make the best choice for your needs.

While the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes is an excellent choice for many, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Robust, Classic, and Ready to Go

Upon unboxing the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes, the first thing I noticed was the reassuring heft and the rich smell of the full-grain leather upper. They look and feel like a traditional, no-nonsense walking shoe, built for purpose rather than fleeting fashion trends. The rich brown leather has a quality finish, and the construction feels solid in the hands. The laces are thick and strong, and the metal eyelets give a sense of durability. Unlike many modern synthetic hikers that can feel flimsy, the Lindale gives an immediate impression of substance.

Slipping them on for the first time was a pleasant surprise. Many leather shoes require a significant “break-in” period, but these felt remarkably comfortable straight away. This sentiment was echoed by numerous users who reported “no problems at all” on their first walk. The Phylon midsole provides a noticeable cushioning underfoot, and the fit, in my UK size 11, was generous enough to accommodate thicker walking socks without feeling cramped. The toe box is spacious, a key feature for preventing discomfort on long descents. My initial impression was of a well-made, comfortable, and classic-looking shoe that offered excellent value for what you can see in its full feature set and user reviews.

Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the Lindale’s Capabilities

A walking shoe’s true character is only revealed after miles of testing on varied terrain and in challenging weather. A comfortable fit in the living room means little on a rocky, rain-slicked path. I wore the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes extensively over several weeks, subjecting them to daily dog walks on muddy fields, weekend hikes on woodland trails, and long treks across wet pavements to simulate the full spectrum of their intended use.

Out-of-the-Box Comfort and All-Day Wearability

The single most praised attribute of the Lindale, both in my testing and from other users, is its immediate comfort. This cannot be overstated. The combination of a well-designed last (the foot-shaped mould the shoe is built around) and the cushioned Phylon midsole creates an experience that feels more like a seasoned trainer than a stiff new walking shoe. On my first 5-mile walk, I experienced no rubbing, no hot spots, and no pressure points—a rare feat for any new footwear, let alone a leather hiker. One user perfectly captured this, stating they were “super comfy right out of the box” with a “spacious enough” toe area. The Phylon midsole does an admirable job of absorbing impact, reducing the jarring sensation of walking on hard surfaces and minimizing foot fatigue over longer distances. The lightweight TPU shank, embedded within the sole structure, adds a subtle but crucial layer of torsional rigidity. This prevents the shoe from twisting on uneven ground, providing a stable platform that supports your arch and reduces strain on your feet and ankles during longer hikes. This level of initial comfort makes the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes an incredibly appealing option for those who want to buy a shoe and head straight for the trail without a painful breaking-in period.

Grip and Stability: The StormGrip Outsole Under Test

Comfort is pointless without confidence in your footing. The proprietary StormGrip rubber outsole is the Lindale’s foundation, and I found it to be a reliable performer across most common UK walking conditions. The lug pattern is aggressive enough to bite into soft mud and wet grass, providing secure traction where flatter-soled shoes would slip. On a particularly slick, leaf-littered descent through a local wood, the shoes held their ground admirably, allowing me to move with confidence. On wet tarmac and paving stones—often the downfall of harder rubber compounds—the StormGrip sole maintained a respectable level of grip, preventing that heart-stopping skidding sensation. It’s a true all-rounder sole. As one user noted, they have “good grip,” a simple but powerful endorsement. While I didn’t get to test them on sheet ice, the flexible and tacky nature of the rubber suggests it would perform better than the very hard, rigid soles found on some competitors which can feel like skates in freezing conditions. The combination of this dependable outsole and the supportive upper makes for a very stable and secure-feeling shoe on the trail, which is a feature that really sets it apart in its price bracket.

Weathering the Storm: Waterproofing and Breathability

Peter Storm employs its own “StormShield” waterproof and breathable membrane in the Lindale, and my testing proved it to be highly effective, at least initially. I deliberately stomped through puddles, walked through long, sodden grass after a downpour, and stood in a shallow stream for a minute to test its integrity. In all instances, my feet remained perfectly dry. The gusseted tongue (attached to the uppers on both sides) does its job, preventing water from seeping in around the laces. For the typical wet conditions encountered on a British walk, the StormShield membrane is more than adequate, confirming user reports that they are “waterproof, as advertised.” Breathability, the other side of the waterproof coin, was acceptable. On a mild, dry day during a brisk walk, my feet didn’t feel overly sweaty or clammy, suggesting the membrane allows some moisture vapour to escape. It may not be as breathable as high-end Gore-Tex membranes found in more expensive shoes, but for 3-4 season hiking, it strikes a very reasonable balance between keeping water out and letting sweat escape.

The Achilles’ Heel: A Deep Dive into Durability Concerns

Here we arrive at the great paradox of the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes. For all their initial comfort, grip, and waterproofing, there is a significant and undeniable cloud hanging over their long-term durability, specifically concerning the stitching. My own pair held up during the intensive testing period, but the sheer volume of user feedback on this issue is impossible to ignore and points to a critical design flaw. Multiple users report the same failure mode: after a period ranging from a few months to just over a year of regular use, the stitching on the uppers begins to fail. One user noted with frustration that after 15 months, “the seams are coming apart. The thread is disintegrating.” Another reported that “both shoes have split in the same place” after just dog-walking use. The most common point of failure appears to be on the outside edge near the little toe, a primary flex point where the shoe creases with every step. What’s most telling is that this failure often occurs while the rest of the shoe remains in excellent condition. As one owner lamented, “I have worn these almost every day since I got them and the soles appear brand new. shame about the stitching.” This indicates that the core materials—the leather upper and the StormGrip sole—are robust, but they are literally let down by the thread holding them together. This is a critical consideration for any potential buyer. If you are a light or occasional walker, you may get good service from them. However, for those planning on daily, heavy use, this recurring stitching issue presents a significant risk to the shoe’s lifespan.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring user feedback reveals a consistent and sharply divided narrative. The initial experience is almost universally positive. Buyers rave about the shoes being “very comfortable” and a “superb fit” right from the first wear. There’s a genuine appreciation for the value proposition, with one customer noting, “The price was good for the quality… I am pleased with the appearance. Comfort and quality so far.” This honeymoon period seems to last for a few weeks or months.

However, the story often takes a turn. The most prominent negative theme, as detailed above, is the failure of the stitching. It’s not an isolated incident; it’s a pattern. Comments like “stitching is coming apart on them after having them 8 weeks” and “12 months later and the stitches on the uppers split in three places” are common. This transforms the initial satisfaction into deep disappointment. It’s a shame because the fundamental components of the shoe are clearly well-liked. The consensus is clear: a wonderfully comfortable and functional shoe is being undermined by a critical weakness in its construction.

How Does The Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes Compare to the Alternatives?

No product exists in a vacuum. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to see how the Lindale stacks up against other popular choices in the market. The Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes occupies a competitive space, but its specific blend of features and flaws makes for an interesting comparison.

1. Grisport Dartmoor Hiking Shoes

The Grisport Dartmoor is often seen as a step up in terms of rugged, long-lasting construction. Made in Italy, Grisport shoes have a reputation for durability, particularly in their stitching and bonding. For a user who has been burned by the Lindale’s stitching issues and is willing to spend a little more for peace of mind, the Dartmoor is a compelling alternative. It features a durable Dakar leather upper and a Vibram rubber sole, a brand name synonymous with excellent grip and longevity. While it may require a slightly longer break-in period than the instantly comfortable Lindale, its primary selling point is its reputation for lasting for years, not months.

2. Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Hiking Shoe

If the traditional leather construction of the Lindale isn’t a priority, the Columbia Fairbanks offers a completely different approach. This shoe focuses on lightweight performance and warmth, utilising a textile upper and Columbia’s proprietary Omni-Heat reflective lining to retain body heat. This makes it an excellent choice for colder weather walks. It’s lighter than the Lindale and offers a more athletic, trainer-like feel. This would be the better choice for someone who prioritizes low weight and insulation over the classic durability and water resistance of a full leather upper. It’s a modern, tech-focused alternative for a different kind of walker.

3. FitVille Extra Wide Fit Hiking Shoes Arch Support

The FitVille hiker targets a very specific and often underserved customer: the walker with wide feet or those who require enhanced arch support. While the Lindale has a reasonably generous fit, the FitVille is purpose-built with an extra-wide toe box to prevent cramping and improve stability. It also heavily emphasizes its arch support and cushioning for pain relief, making it ideal for those with plantar fasciitis or other foot ailments. If comfort for you is less about initial softness and more about accommodating a wider foot or supporting a high arch, the FitVille would be a far superior choice to the standard-width Lindale.

Our Final Verdict: A Comfortable Walker with a Questionable Lifespan

So, where does that leave us with the Peter Storm Men’s Lindale Walking Shoes? It’s a shoe of two halves. On one hand, it delivers an exceptional out-of-the-box comfort experience, reliable waterproofing, and confident grip that punches well above its price point. For the casual weekend rambler or the dog walker who prioritizes immediate comfort for shorter, less frequent outings, it’s a genuinely compelling option. The classic leather look and cushioned feel make it a pleasure to wear from the very first step.

On the other hand, the persistent and widely-reported issue with the stitching’s durability is a major red flag that cannot be overlooked. It’s a critical flaw that undermines the otherwise solid materials and construction. We can only recommend this shoe with a strong caveat: if you are a high-mileage walker or intend to use these for daily, demanding treks, you should be prepared for a potentially short lifespan. If, however, you understand this trade-off and are seeking supreme comfort for lighter use, the Lindale offers a lot to love. For those willing to take that chance, you can check the latest price and availability to decide if the value is right for you.

Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API