When Country Walking tested the Baltimore Lady GTX for its November 2025 issue, staff writer Fliss Freeborn found them impossible to take off.
“The Baltimore Lady GTX is my first ever pair from this storied brand, and since it came into my life six weeks ago, I’ve barely taken a step without them on.”
Fliss immediately noticed the craftsmanship and timeless style that define Meindl boots.
“The Baltimore GTX feels incredibly well-made, with great stitching, high-quality metal hardware, and a pleasingly timeless style. These don’t come with any modern gimmicks gaudy colourways or six inches of heel padding. Instead, they are more or less a prototypical walking boot: brown, sturdy, trim, dependable.”
Fliss praised the lightweight Magic Light Trail sole for its grip and feel on mixed terrain.
“From the bottom up, Meindl’s Magic Light Trail sole provides good grip and feedback, while weighing far less than other outsoles on comparable boots, adding to the lightweight and comfortable feel. This is reinforced by a firm EVA midsole, with just enough bounce to absorb bumps, but certainly nothing like the more modern, marshmallowy-feeling shoes… Instead, you can feel what’s going on beneath the Baltimore GTX, which is very useful for staying upright and balanced over challenging terrain.”
Fliss highlighted how the leather upper and Derby lacing system quickly adapted to her feet.
“Where the boot really comes into its own, however, is the upper. Many other boots pride themselves on the fact they do not need breaking in, but a little time makes all the difference here: the leather loosens up and makes the boot feel like yours and yours alone… these boots have rapidly become some of the most comfortable I’ve ever tested.”
Fliss described the Gore-Tex liner as reliable in the kinds of conditions UK walkers know well.
“The Gore-Tex liner keeps my tootsies dry in drizzle or on muddy paths, but also offers adequate breathability for all-day comfort. Paired with gaiters and waterproof trousers, the Baltimore certainly does a good job of keeping out everything except the most torrential of downpours and thigh-deep Scottish bog (which, after 10 relentless hours, even wellies would be hard-pressed to challenge).”
Fliss confirmed the boot’s suitability for the majority of UK walking, offering support without excess stiffness.
“The leather uppers also offer good ankle support, although they’re not stiff enough for serious off-trail scrambling or high alpine routes if that’s your sort of thing. Meindl classifies these boots suitable for footpaths and lower hills, and for 90% of walkers in the UK, that’s just the ticket.”
Weight: 460g
Membrane: GORE-TEX
Outsole: Meindl Magic Light Trail
Contact: meindl.co.uk
Ratings (Country Walking)
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