Hiking boots are a pretty big investment, so you want to make sure that you’re buying the right pair. And if you’re planning to hike in wet weather, then your boots have to be waterproof. That doesn’t mean they have to be ugly though!
In fact, there are plenty of hiking boots on the market that feature breathable fabrics and membranes designed specifically for keeping water out while still letting moisture escape.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Hiking boots can be made waterproof through various methods and materials. |
| The effectiveness of waterproofing in hiking boots depends on factors like construction, materials, and maintenance. |
| Look for specific features in hiking boots that contribute to their waterproof capabilities, such as sealed seams and waterproof membranes. |
| Expert recommendations and reviews can help in choosing hiking boots that are known for their waterproof properties. |
| Proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and application of waterproofing treatments, can extend the waterproof performance of hiking boots. |
Vasque Breeze LT GTX
If you’re looking for a waterproof hiking boot that’s lightweight, comfortable, and stylish but also retains good support, the Vasque Breeze LT GTX is an excellent choice.
The shoe is made with Gore-Tex waterproofing technology to keep your feet dry in any weather conditions. It has a Vibram sole and EVA midsole for long-lasting wearability and comfort on long hikes.
The upper is leather and mesh to prevent overheating while still providing some breathability. Finally, it features a wide toe box (which can be helpful if you have bunions or other foot problems) as well as plenty of ankle support—a feature that’s lacking in many other boots on this list!
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Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is a hiking boot that covers all the bases. Made with Gore-Tex and Gore-Tex lining to keep water out of your shoes, it has a full grain leather upper for durability and Grip Control rubber outsoles that give you good traction in wet or dry conditions.
It also features M Select Dry seals, which are breathable materials that stop moisture from seeping in through the seams of the shoe but still allow water vapor to escape.
The midsole of this boot is made with EVA foam cushioning for extra comfort and shock absorption on long hikes.
The lacing system allows you to adjust it easily so it fits perfectly on your foot, while its ankle height ensures stability when walking over rough terrain or climbing rocky hillsides and if you get stuck for any reason (say, because you fell into an icy stream), these waterproof boots will keep your feet warm until help arrives!
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Salomon |
| Model | Quest 4D 3 GTX |
La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX
The La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX is one of the best waterproof hiking boots on the market. It’s a winner in both categories, with its Gore-Tex lining offering solid protection from the elements while still keeping your feet dry and cool.
The Nucleo has a high ankle that protects you from water and snow, making it ideal for winter hikes or frequent wet weather. The sole is also durable enough to last through rocky paths or snowy terrain.
But what makes this boot so great is that it’s not just waterproof—it’s also breathable, meaning your feet will stay comfortable even when they’re wet thanks to a special lining made with engineered fibers that help regulate temperature (and keep odor at bay).
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Merrell Moab Mid Waterproof 2
Merrell’s Moab Mid Waterproof 2 is a lightweight, high-performance trail shoe. It has a waterproof leather upper with a Gore-Tex lining to keep you dry in wet conditions.
The full lace closure allows for a customized fit and provides additional stability on the trail. M Select™ DRY seals out water and lets moisture escape so you can stay dry on the trail, while M Select™ GRIP tunes each outsole with durable traction that grips when and where you need it.
Garmont Dragontail MNT GTX
The Garmont Dragontail MNT GTX is a high-performance hiking boot that is waterproof and breathable.
The boot has a protective rubber toe cap and heel counter to prevent the upper from tearing on sharp rocks or roots. It also comes with a Gore-Tex liner that keeps your feet dry in rainy conditions and lets them breathe when it’s warm outside.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Garmont |
| Model | Dragontail MNT GTX |
Oboz Bridger B-Dry Hiking Boot
The Bridger B-Dry Hiking Boot by Oboz has a good reputation for being waterproof, breathable, and durable. It’s also known as an all-around boot that can be used in all kinds of weather conditions.
The Bridger B-DRY is made with a Gore-Tex membrane that allows your foot to breathe while keeping you dry when you’re out hiking or backpacking in wet conditions.
The Vibram sole is designed for stability and traction on different terrains–it offers good grip even on slippery surfaces such as mud or gravel.
This boot can be used during any season because it’s capable of protecting you from both warm and cold temperatures due to its ability to keep moisture out while allowing air flow inside the shoe so that your feet won’t overheat under warm conditions (or get too cold under cooler conditions).
The shoe also comes with removable insoles so you can change them depending on your needs: if you want more cushioning then add an extra insole; if comfort isn’t a problem but durability is then remove one entirely!
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Asolo TPS 520 GV
If you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking in the mountains and need something that will give you good traction and ankle support, this is the boot for you.
They’re incredibly comfortable and waterproof, making them great for people who hike in all weather conditions including rain or snow.
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
Mid height: This boot is a mid-height boot, which means it sits above the ankle but below the knee.
Waterproof: It’s also waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about getting wet feet when hiking in rainy conditions.
Breathable: Additionally, this shoe is made with Gore-Tex technology for breathability and moisture transport, keeping your feet dry even if they’re hot and sweaty from hiking all day.
Comfortable: The Renegade GTX Mid has a contoured footbed that contours to your foot shape while providing great arch support so that you can hike as long as possible without having sore feet at the end of the day (or night).
The lacing system also helps keep your entire foot stable while walking on uneven terrain; I really appreciate how well these boots fit my wide feet!
Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boot
The Danner Mountain 600 is a great hiking boot for people who want a rugged, waterproof boot that can handle any terrain.
It has an aggressive tread, which helps prevent slipping on wet rocks and in mud. The material used on the sole of this shoe is also very durable, so you’ll be able to use it for years without wearing out your soles.
The stitching on this shoe is also high-quality and should last for many seasons of wear.
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Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Mountaineering Boot
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Mountaineering Boot is a hiking boot that is waterproof, breathable, and has a lugged sole.
The Vibram sole will keep you safe on the trail while the leather upper adds to its durability. It also has fleece lining for comfort and warmth.
The Zodiac Plus comes with lace hooks for easy on/off access and a toe cap for protection against sharp objects like rocks or sticks in the path of your hike or walk through nature’s paths as you travel from one destination to another along your journey throughout life.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Scarpa |
| Model | Zodiac Plus GTX |
| Type | Mountaineering Boot |
AKU Alterra GTX Hiking Boot
A new addition to the AKU line of hiking boots, the Alterra GTX is a waterproof and breathable hiking boot that also provides great traction.
It features Gore-Tex XCR with OutDry Extreme, which is completely waterproof but allows air to pass through it. The shoe has Vibram soles with Vibram rubber providing excellent grip on all sorts of terrain from rocks to mud to snow.
The polyurethane midsole provides extra comfort while walking around town or even on long hikes.
There’s also a rubber toe guard and heel guard for additional durability and protection against debris like sticks or rocks getting stuck in your shoe while you’re moving at high speeds across rough terrain.
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Montrail Caldorado Outdry Boot
If you’re looking for a hiking boot that’s waterproof, breathable and comfortable, the Montrail Caldorado Outdry Boot is a great option. It’s good for hiking, backpacking, trail running and climbing. The fit is good and it’s comfortable enough to wear all day long.
The Outdry technology on this shoe makes it waterproof so your feet won’t get wet in the rain or from walking through puddles.
It also has great traction on any surface you’ll encounter while hiking or backpacking; whether it be snow-covered trails or dry riverbeds in deserts.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found this article to be helpful. Scrolling through the list of what we think are the best waterproof hiking boots can be a little overwhelming, so we’ve included some of our personal favorites at the end of this post.
We know how important it is to have good quality gear when going out into nature! If none of these options sound like exactly what you need though let us know in comments below and we’ll help find something perfect for your needs!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources for further reading on the topic of hiking boots and waterproof footwear:
- Best Hiking Boots for Women: Discover a curated selection of the top hiking boots specifically designed for women, offering comfort, durability, and style.
- Best Waterproof Hiking Boots: Explore a comprehensive guide featuring a range of waterproof hiking boots that provide protection and performance in various weather conditions.
- Waterproof Hiking Shoes: What You Need to Know: Learn about the benefits and considerations of waterproof hiking shoes, including key features, brands, and tips for choosing the right pair.
FAQs
Are hiking boots necessary for hiking?
Hiking boots are not always necessary, but they can provide additional support, stability, and protection, especially on challenging terrains or longer hikes.
How do I choose the right size of hiking boots?
To choose the right size of hiking boots, measure your foot size accurately and consider trying on boots with hiking socks. It’s important to have a comfortable fit that allows for toe movement and prevents blisters.
How can I make my hiking boots more waterproof?
To improve the waterproofing of your hiking boots, you can apply a waterproofing treatment or wax specifically designed for footwear. Additionally, ensure that your boots are clean and well-maintained to maximize their water-resistant properties.
How often should I replace my hiking boots?
The lifespan of hiking boots depends on various factors such as usage, terrain, and care. As a general guideline, consider replacing your hiking boots every 500-1000 miles or when you notice significant wear, loss of support, or decreased waterproofing.
Can hiking boots be used for other outdoor activities?
Yes, hiking boots are versatile and can be used for various outdoor activities such as backpacking, trekking, camping, and mountaineering. Their durable construction and features make them suitable for different adventures.
Hellen James is an outdoor enthusiast, writer, and hiker. She loves to explore the world around her by immersing herself in nature and visiting new places.
