10 Best Waterproof Hiking Boots in 2021
Hiking can be an excellent activity for people of all ages. This is a great way to get out in the fresh air and explore nature around you while also working out your body. There are a lot of health benefits that come from hiking and walking, for both your physical and mental health. However, if you want to take your hiking seriously, then you need to be prepared, which means investing in boots for walking.
There are a lot of options when it comes to hiking boots, but the best are those that are waterproof. Wearing waterproof hiking boots allows you to be protected at all times, no matter the weather or location. These kind of hiking boots are versatile, allowing you to go walking in various locations and stay safe even if the floor is slippery or wet. Finding waterproof boots is not the only thing you need to look for when it comes to finding the best walking shoes.
View the Best Waterproof Hiking Boots, Below.
- Timberland Men’s Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
- Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II
- Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Boot
- Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus
- Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GORE-TEX Wide Hiking Boots
- Merrell Zion Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe
- KEEN Men’s Targhee iii mid Leather Hiking Boot
1. Timberland Men’s Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
These mid waterproof hiking boots are excellent quality as they are made from leather, which is a flexible and durable material. Leather is also naturally water-resistant, so these boots will protect your feet from all weather conditions and can be worn in various locations. Not only as these waterproof walking boots for mens made from full-grain leather, but they also feature seam-sealed waterproof construction to keep the feet dry in all seasons.
These waterproof hiking boots are great quality as they feature rust-resistant hardware that is designed to provide secure lacing to ensure longevity. These are trail-ready boots that offer protection and stability when hiking. This pair of hiking boots have a rubber sole that is rugged to offer great traction and balance, even on slippery surfaces. This is a casual style of boot that looks great on and off the trail, making them versatile.
These hiking boots are great quality as they are made from leather with rust-resistant hardware and a rugged sole for stability.
Check Price on Amazon ➞2. Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Waterproof Hiking Boot
These mid hiking boots are a great combination of functionality and style as they are made from neutral colored leather. These waterproof hiking boots are made from a combination of leather and textile membrane to protect from the elements as well as breathability. This helps keep the feet dry and cool in all weather conditions. The rubber sole of these day hiking boots is thick and rugged to offer stability and protection from the ground underneath.
These mid hiking boots offer ankle support due to the high cut, which keeps the feet in the correct position when walking to prevent injury. They feature rust-resistant hardware to ensure that the shoes will be in good condition for a long time, as well as continuing to provide a secure fit. The lace-up closure on these waterproof boots is adjustable, allowing you to get the most accurate fit to your feet, no matter their size. The rugged rubber outsole provides traction on every trail in all weather conditions.
These are high-quality mid hiking boots that provide waterproof protection while also allowing the feet to breathe.
Check Price on Amazon ➞3. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II
This waterproof hiking boot is very protective while remaining comfortable to wear on the entire trail as they are lightweight. They have a lighter weight, durable midsole that offers superior cushioning for long-lasting support when hiking on a trail. This will protect your feet from damage, as well as reducing fatigue, allowing you to keep going for longer and get to the end of your hike.
These mid hiking boots offer a lot of protection and support, while also being super comfortable to wear even for long periods, This is due to the cushioned insole that is fully responsive and is designed to mold to the shape of your feet to provide direct support to pressure points. The low weight of these boots is one of the greatest features as it makes them easy to wear. These waterproof hiking boots also feature a durable rubber sole that grips well to the trail to keep you balanced and stable when walking outdoors.
These waterproof hiking boots are very comfortable as they are lighter weight and feature a cushioned insole.
Check Price on Amazon ➞4. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
These Merrell Moab 2 waterproof boots are made with high-performance leather and mesh, making them durable. These boots not only keep feet dry from the weather, but they also keep the feel cool with the breathable mesh panels. This will keep you comfortable when walking on a trail by preventing sweating, chafing, and blisters. These waterproof hiking boots have a durable rubber toe box that will protect the feet from falling debris and rocks when hiking outdoors.
These Moab 2 hiking boots have a removable insole that can be used to provide additional comfort. It is made from Merrell Air Cushioning, which is shock-absorbing and can provide stability by keeping the feet in the correct position when walking. These are mid hiking boots that provide ankle support due to the high cut, which is great for balance and stability. The rubber sole has a lug pattern that can keep you stable on wet and dry trails, making these boots versatile.
These hiking boots keep the feet dry and cool as they are waterproof, with mesh panels that offer good air ventilation.
Check Price on Amazon ➞5. Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Boot
These waterproof hiking boots are made from durable leather that is suitable to wear in all seasons and all weather conditions. Theses are mid waterproof hiking boots that provide support to the ankle as they sit quite high on the leg. This is a great feature as it prevents injury and fatigue by keeping the feet in the correct position when walking. These waterproof hiking boots have a rubber sole that grips well to the trail to provide balance and stability, even when it can get wet and slippery.
These waterproof hiking boots are very comfortable due to the memory foam insole. This insole is designed to mold to the shape of your feet when walking to provide targeted support to the pressure points, like the heel and ball of the foot. These boots have a lace-up closure that is adjustable to provide the most accurate fit, and the tongue sits high on the leg to keep water and debris out. Even though these walking boots sit quite high on the leg, they have a relaxed fit that is gentle on the skin and comfortable.
These waterproof hiking boots are comfortable due to the memory foam insole and prevent water from getting in with the high cut.
Check Price on Amazon ➞6. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus
These waterproof hiking boots are designed with new technology to provide the highest level of comfort possible. The cushioned insole is lightweight that provides long-lasting comfort and support to the feet, keeping you protected throughout the entire trail. This cushioned insole is highly responsive to make every step more comfortable. Another new feature of these waterproof boots is the advanced traction rubber sole that provides slip-free movement on various surfaces, making them a good one to get when walking on difficult trails.
These waterproof hiking boots are made from full-grain leather and feature a mesh sock liner. This means that not only do these boots keep water out, but they also allow moisture to evaporate, keeping the feet dry and cool all day long. The tongue of these boots is also made from mesh to keep water out, as well as being gentle against the skin. These waterproof boots come with an adjustable lace-up closure that allows for the most accurate fit to your feet to ensure that you are getting the support you need when walking.
These waterproof boots are comfortable with the responsive cushioned footbed and mesh sock liner that keeps moisture at bay.
Check Price on Amazon ➞7. Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GORE-TEX Wide Hiking Boots
These Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX waterproof boots are designed to hold your feet comfortably in place when walking and going downhill, which will prevent injury. These boots are very comfortable to wear as they surround your feet with foam cushioning, which not only protects them from any kind of injury when walking but also ensures that you feel good every step of the way. These are lightweight hiking boots as they are made from synthetic materials, allowing you to be protected without being weighed down.
This Quest 4D 3 GTX X Ultra 3 Mid hiking boot has a rugged sole that provides good grip and traction, even when going downhill in wet conditions. This makes these hiking boots versatile and suitable to wear for serious hikers who like a challenge. They feature adjustable laces that can provide the most accurate fit and support to your feet. The outsole of this 4d £ gtx shoe is designed to stabilize the heel and comes with new descent technology to make even the most difficult trail safe.
These Quest X Ultra 3 Mid hiking boots weight less than many others as they are synthetic, making them comfortable and feature new descent technology.
Check Price on Amazon ➞8. Merrell Zion Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe
These mid waterproof hiking boots are made from durable full-grain leather with mesh panels. This means that they not only keep out water but also allow moisture to wick away to keep the feet dry all day long. These hiking boots also feature a tongue that bellows out to prevent water and debris from getting into the shoe. The rubber sole is protective and provides good traction on both wet and dry surfaces making these hiking boots versatile.
These waterproof boots can be adjusted to fit your feet well and provide the support you need through the lace-up closure. These laces are durable and will remain tight against your feet due to the metal eyelets that are abrasion-resistant. These are very comfortable mid hiking boots from Merrell due to the fact they feature targeted cushioning at the heel, which is one of the main pressure points when walking. This not only provides overall comfort when hiking but also reduces stress so you can keep going for longer.
These mid hiking boots are durable and comfortable as they feature a cushioned heel pad and high cut to keep water out.
Check Price on Amazon ➞9. KEEN Men’s Targhee iii mid Leather Hiking Boot
These iii Mid hiking boots from Keen Dry are durable as they are made from 100% leather. Even though they are durable, these boots are light in weight, which makes them comfortable to wear all day long. They feature synthetic layers that provide breathability and keep the feet cool, which is great when wearing them outdoors during the summer. However, this breathability is also a good thing as it makes these walking boots men versatile, as they can be worn in all weathers and all seasons due to the protection they provide.
These walking boots have a rubber sole that is thick to protect the feet from the trail underfoot as well as being able to get a good grip on the floor. These boots can be worn in both wet and dry locations, due to the traction they provide, allowing you to feel safe no matter the weather. They are mid waterproof boots that sit quite high on the legs with a gusseted tongue to prevent water or other debris from getting in the shoe. These waterproof Keen Dry boots have durable laces in a webbing system that provides the most accurate fit and keeps the foot stable when walking.
These waterproof hiking boots are durable as they are made from leather with a breathable lining and high cut to keep water out.
Check Price on Amazon ➞Buyer’s Guide To Waterproof Hiking Boots
Hiking can be fun, but a tough activity, which is why having the correct footwear is so important. Hiking is a big part of various kinds of activities and vacations, including backpacking trips, camping, and other family outings. This means that everyone may benefit from investing in a good quality pair of waterproof hiking boots to keep them protected.
Whether you are preparing for a vacation, like backpacking trips, or simply want to up your fitness by going on more day hikes, then you will want to find the best hiking boot for your needs. This is a search that can last a long time, as there are many options for hiking boots available. In this review, we have found the top ten hiking boots for waterproofing and durability, but you still need to choose these options.
This buying guide is designed to help you narrow down your options of waterproof hiking boots, allowing you to find the greatest option for your day hiking routine or family vacation. We are going to address several factors to consider when shopping for hiking boots, as well as answering customer questions regarding brands and care.
What is the Best Waterproof Hiking Boot?
To help you save time in your search, we are first going to answer the most commonly asked question regarding hiking boots. Although this review has highlighted the top ten mid hiking boots that provide waterproof protection, some products are better than others.
Whether you are day hiking, facing a rocky terrain, or going on an extended trip, you need to find the best waterproof hiking boots that are going to protect you no matter the weather.
In this review, two products are the best, but for different reasons. The top two mid hiking boots are the Salomon Quest 4d 3 X Ultra 3 Mid Waterproof Boots for men and the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Hiking boots for women.
Both of these hiking boots come from renowned brands that have developed an excellent reputation in the industry for their footwear, especially those made for hiking. This is something you will want to consider when shopping for hiking boots, as the brand can determine the quality and longevity of the shoes.
There are some differences between these waterproof hiking shoes, which is why we had to pick both of them as the top pick. One of the biggest differences is the weight of these shoes. The Salomon X Ultra mid hiking boots are made from synthetic materials, making them lighter than the Merrell ones that are made from leather.
The weight of a hiking shoe is something you will want to consider, as it can impact how comfortable they will be to wear. The more a shoe weights, the more they will increase fatigue when walking all day long, as they will weigh your feet down.
In summary, the lighter weight shoe is best for those going on a day hike, as they will keep your feet dry and cool without causing fatigue for several hours. However, if you are going to be hiking for an extended period, then you will require something more heavy-duty that is going to withstand repeated wear, which is why these two are the top picks from this review.
Who Makes the Best Hiking Boots?
As we have mentioned, the brand of the mid waterproof hiking boot you choose can determine the quality of them. There is no denying that hiking boots can be quite the investment, as these are heavy-duty footwear that is designed for a very specific purpose. The brand can also determine the price of the shoe, as some brands with a better reputation can charge more for their products than others.
In this review, we have covered some of the top brands in the industry, and you will likely have at least heard these names before. Based on the kind of hiking you do and the kind of shoes you are looking for, the best brand for you will differ greatly.
As you can see from this review, some of the greatest brands for mid waterproof hiking boots include Solomon, Merrell, and Keen. All of these brands have multiple models of mid waterproof boots based on customer needs.
No matter what kind of hiking boot you are looking for, including waterproof or non-waterproof, heavy-duty or lightweight, these brands should be regarded closely as they are certain to have something for everyone.
A brand that is not included in this review, but is a great option for waterproof hiking boots is La Sportiva. La Sportiva is a great brand for protective footwear overall as they cover everything from hiking boots to shoes for construction workers.
Features To Consider
When it comes to finding walking shoes for your hikes, there are some things you need to consider. As well as ensuring that the boots you have chosen are waterproof, so they can be worn in various locations and all-weather conditions, you should also consider:
Breathability
It is a good idea to buy shoes that not only keep water out but also allow your feet to breathe. You will get pretty warm on a hike, even if it is cold outside, due to the activity required, so you want to make sure that your feet are protected at all costs. A lot of the shoes in this review will have some form of paneling or even a lining that provides air ventilation to keep the feet dry when walking.
You want to make sure that as well as being kept dry from the elements, your feet are also being able to breathe and cool down as you work up a sweat. Wearing sweaty shoes for a long period can cause bacteria to build up as well as damage like blisters as your feet chafe against the heavy materials of the hiking boots.
Choosing a mid waterproof hiking boot can sometimes feel as though you have to compromise on breathability, as shoes that keep water out will inherently have no way for moisture to escape. However, this is a good way to select the best type of boot as only the greatest brands have been able to create a waterproof boot that also keeps the feet cool.
Durability
Durability is something that you will want to consider whether you are going on a day hike or trying something more heavy-duty. As we have mentioned, hiking boots can be quite expensive, especially those that are waterproof, so you want to make sure that your investment will be worth it. Considering both the materials used and the overall construction of the shoe can determine how durable they will be and, therefore, how long they will last.
Leather is a common material used for mid hiking boots as it is naturally water-resistant and provides good protection. However, there is also a good range of synthetic materials that can be just as durable and protective. The design of the shoe can typically indicate how many miles they can handle without wearing out. Look for features such as rust-resistant hardware and thick laces, to ensure that they will stay in place for a long period, as well as a rugged sole that can offer protection.
You can also increase the longevity of your hiking boots by taking proper care of them, including making sure to unlace them properly before taking them off and cleaning them regularly. This will be easier to do with durable boots, such as those made from leather and similar waterproof materials.
Protection
Hiking boots are designed to protect the feet from the outdoors. There are a lot of risks that can come with hiking outdoors, including rocky terrains, falling debris, and the weather, which means the mid waterproof boots you choose need to be able to keep you safe.
A good feature to look into for protection is the toe box of hiking boots. The greatest products in this review have some kind of reinforcement at the forefront of the boot to protect the toes from falling debris and tripping. You should also consider the width and height of the sole as this is your main source of protection from the ground underfoot. Depending on where you are hiking, you may be stepping on sharp stones and twigs, which can cause a lot of damage to your feet when not wearing the correct footwear.
Mid waterproof hiking boots also need to be able to keep water out of the shoe and ensure that your feet are dry at all times. This means not only considering the material of the boot, but also the height. Mid GTX hiking boots, like most of those in this review, are designed to cut quite high on the leg. Not only does this mean they offer ankle support, by keeping the leg in the correct position when walking, but they also can prevent water from going over the top of the boot and inside.
Traction
Hiking is an activity that can be done in various outdoor locations. Whether you choose to go for a hike in your local forest, beach, or mountain range, you need to get shoes that can provide stability and balance. The traction can be determined by the pattern that is used on the sole of hiking boots.
Boots that have a lugged pattern on their soles, with different shapes and compartments, will offer the best traction. This is because the pattern can determine how much of a grip the shoes will have on the surface of the hiking trail, and also determining whether they can be worn on slippery surfaces.
Before buying hiking boots, make sure the brand can show the style and shape of the sole. This will allow you to see how comfortable the boots will be to wear and also whether they are going to be safe enough to wear outdoors. You need to make sure that you can comfortably walk in your hiking boots, as well as being supported when going up or downhill or being on uneven surfaces as this is something you will encounter a lot when hiking.
What Are Mid GTX Shoes?
A lot of the shoes in this review feature a mid GTX lining. Mid GTX stands for Gore-Tex, which is a form of waterproof and breathable material that is commonly used in hiking boots and similar heavy-duty footwear.
Mid GTX is a brand and a trademark from W. L Gore and Associates (rights reserved), which means shoes with this kind of material can cost more than non-branded items. However, this kind of protection is unbeatable and something you will want to look out for when trying to find the best hiking boots.
The mid GTX fabric has been specially manufactured to repel liquid while also allowing water vapors to pass through. Shoes that feature mid GTX in their material listings are going to be both waterproof and breathable, which is something you will want. Likely, these kinds of boots will also be lightweight, as mid GTX is a lightweight material that was specially designed to be used in all weather conditions.
Lots of brands feature this kind of material, as it is a guaranteed way to ensure that their waterproof hiking boots will be breathable and protective. This material effectively keeps water out of the shoe while also allowing the foot to breathe. The greatest waterproof boots will be any that feature this kind of material, whether that is in the outer or as a lining.
Conclusion
There are a lot of options when it comes to hiking boots, but those who want to take this hobby seriously should only consider those that are waterproof. Waterproof hiking boots are highly versatile, as they can be worn in all weather conditions and locations, which means they will be better value for you to buy.
When it comes to finding good waterproof hiking boots, there are more features to consider than just waterproofing. You want to make sure that the boots you invest in will keep your feet dry by preventing water, either from the trail or weather, from getting in while also allowing moisture to escape so your feet can breathe. Hiking boots also need to be durable and offer good traction so they will keep you safe when exploring the great outdoors.
Did You Know?
Despite many brands’ claims, a lot of waterproof boots will not be breathable as they are designed to keep water out and will seal the foot to prevent anything from getting in or out of the shoe.
Expert Tip
You should get shoes that feature a form of gore-tex material, whether that is in the lining or upper, as these will be both breathable and waterproof to offer the most protection.