Best Waterproof Hiking Boots of 2022
Updated on November 9, 2020
You are tackling a long, strenuous trail and find yourself in front of a stream. The last thing you want to do is get your socks wet, but taking your shoes off isn’t fun either. The best waterproof hiking boots let you avoid exactly those kinds of situations.
Built to keep your feet dry on any type of terrain, quality waterproof hiking boots balance performance and protection. They support you thanks to their anti-shock properties, offer stability through gripping soles and, obviously, defend your feet against rain and swampy paths.
Whether you’re backpacking in inclement weather or crossing low rivers or streams to get to your destination, a reliable pair of waterproof boots are essential for the success of your hike. We’ve collected the ten best waterproof hiking boots available out there to make sure you arrive dry as dust at the end of the trail.
For more of our top hiking footwear recommendations, check out the Best Hiking Boots.
Quick Answer – The Best Waterproof Hiking Boots
Aku Alterra GTXView at REILa Sportiva Nucleo High GTXView at REILowa Renegade GTX MidView at REIOboz Bridger Mid WPView at REIMerrell Moab 2 Mid WPView at REISalomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTXView at REIVasque Breeze III Mid GTXView at REIKEEN Gypsum II Mid WPView at AmazonAsolo Falcon GVView at REIMerrell Phaserbound 2 TallView at Backcountry
Comparison Table – Best Waterproof Hiking Boots
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| Name | Weight | Type of Waterproofing | Outsole | Price | Rating | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aku Alterra GTX | 2 lbs. 15 oz. (Men’s) | Gore-Tex | Vibram Octopus Rubber | $$ | 4.9 | Read Review |
| La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX | 2 lbs. 1.6 oz. (Men’s) | Gore-Tex | Vibram Nano Rubber | $$ | 4.7 | Read Review |
| Lowa Renegade GTX Mid | 2.4 lbs | Gore-Tex | Vibram | $245 | 4.7 | Read Review |
| Oboz Bridger Mid WP | 2.3 lbs | Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (BDry) | Rubber | $180 | 4.3 | Read Review |
| Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP | 2.0 lbs | Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (M-Select DRY) | Vibram | $135 | 4.5 | Read Review |
| Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX | 1 lb. 15.6 oz (Men’s) | Gore-Tex | Contagrip Rubber | $$ | 4.4 | Read Review |
| Vasque Breeze III Mid GTX | 2 lbs. 10 oz (Men’s) | Gore-Tex | Vibram Contact Grip | $ | 4.5 | Read Review |
| KEEN Gypsum II Mid WP | 2 lb. 6.4 oz. (Men’s) | Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (KEEN.Dry) | Non-marking Rubber | $$ | 4.6 | Read Review |
| Asolo Falcon GV | 2.1 lbs | Gore-Tex | Vibram | $240 | 4.5 | Read Review |
| Merrell Phaserbound 2 Tall | 2 lbs. 15 oz. (Men’s) | Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (M-Select DRY) | Vibram Megagrip Rubber | $$$ | 4.1 | Read Review |
| Name | Weight | Type of Waterproofing | Outsole | Price | Rating | Review |
Want to learn more about a technical term? Check out our Features Explained section below.
Need buying advice? Take a look at these Things to Consider.
Reviews – The Best Hiking Boots with Waterproofing
Aku Alterra GTX
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2 lbs. 15 oz. (Men’s)Type of Waterproofing: Gore-TexOutsole: Vibram Octopus Rubber
Features
Breathable Membrane Lets Your Feet BreatheRugged DesignShock Absorption Technology
BEST FOR: “COMFORT-FIRST” BACKPACKERS
Thanks to the breathable membrane that covers the Aku Alterra GTX Hiking Boots your feet will stay dry while also being able to release some heat. These hiking boots are designed to allow your feet to move naturally through their range of motion, so you won’t feel cramped or uncomfortable when walking on uneven surfaces.
The Aku Alterra GTX are built with durable but soft materials, allowing you to hike for long distances on all kinds or terrain. They fit tightly around your ankle to prevent pebbles, debris and drizzle from entering, and the rubber toe caps offer protection from the larger rocks you may hit while walking on the trail.
While the inner soles are engineered to increase support and stability through light cushioning, the outsoles offer excellent grip and traction on all kinds of terrain.
View at REI
La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2 lbs. 1.6 oz. (Men’s)Type of Waterproofing: Gore-TexOutsole: Vibram Nano Rubber
Features
Durable Nubuck Leather Uppers (for breathable and long lasting comfort)Increased Torsion Resistance (to keep your ankles stable and prevent accidental rolling)Soles Provide Extra Traction And Grip
BEST FOR: TECH-SAVVY EXPLORERS
The innovative outer membrane of the La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX Hiking Boots guarantees maximum breathability from the underfoot while protecting from water. The combination of advanced synthetic fabrics with durable nubuck leather ensures that your feet are always comfortable and safe, while remaining dry, no matter how far you walk.
The rubber outsoles are designed to hold a strong grip in any type of environment, plus, thanks to the impact brake technology, the shock resulting from walking with a heavy backpack will be limited. It’s not by chance that Outside Magazine gave these boots the Gear of the Year Award in 2017!
View at REIView at Backcountry
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2.4 lbsUpper: LeatherType of Waterproofing: Gore-TexOutsole: VibramMidsole: Polyurethane
Features
Nylon Ankle Bands For Comfort and FlexibilityIncreased StabilitySuitable For Long Hikes And Backpacking
BEST WATERPROOF HIKING BOOTS
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a classic style mid-cut hiking boot that combines a full leather upper and a waterproof membrane that offers excellent waterproofing and breathability. It’s our pick for the best waterproof boot.
What we loved the most about the Renegade is its ability to keep your feet dry even in the wettest, soggiest conditions. The leather upper did a great job at repelling water while being breathable enough to not leave our feet swampy after hiking in warm weather. We also appreciate the generous cushioning around the ankle and the soft collar for added comfort when being fully laced. The Renegade is available in a wide range of sizes and comes in narrow, regular and wide widths. Both the men’s and women’s models come in a variety of color schemes, some are quite elegant, which isn’t something we can say about many other hiking boots.
One minor downside to a leather boot is that it does require slightly more maintenance to keep it waterproof compared to synthetic options. When it is made, a waterproof coding treatment is added to the leather which wears off with use and washing. The good news is, maintenance is simple, just clean them and apply a waterproofing spray or wax like Nikwax from time to time.
A close competitor to the Renegade is the Asolo Fugitive. But, the Fugitive loses points when put head to head with the Renegade because it is heavier, stiffer, more expensive and takes longer to break in. However, the Fugitive’s stiffness and more robust build make it a better option for those who want to tackle some off-trail routes or mountaineering.
This boot is also available in a women’s version.
View at REIView at Backcountry
Oboz Bridger Mid WP
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2.3 lbsUpper: LeatherType of Waterproofing: Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (BDry)Outsole: RubberMidsole: EVA
Features
A Tree Gets Planted For Every Pair Sold!Nylon Mesh Lining That Wicks MoistureRubber Caps On Toes and Heels To Prevent Abrasion
The Oboz Bridger Mid WP is a tough mid cut leather boot with metal hardware that’s built to last. It’s a popular option among hikers who want a bit more support and durability without having to upgrade to a burly heavy duty hiking boot.
What we like about this boot is it fills the gap between the ultralight, trail runner-inspired boots and the traditional style boots. It has plenty of cushion and protection underfoot, which is appreciated on rough trails. The leather upper can handle more abuse than its synthetic counterparts. The price tag is also attractive, at $180, the Bridger Mid WP are excellent value for money. For those who find the KEEN Targhee III or Merrell Moab 2 to be lacking in stability and durability for long backpacking trips, the Bridger might be a good alternative.
While it is an upgrade in support, the Bridger is noticeably clunkier than its lighter, sleekier competitors. Also, Oboz uses their in-house B-Dry as opposed to Gore-Tex, which we found to be far less breathable in warmer weather.
If you like the idea of the added stability and support that the Bridger gives but you love the extra space the KEEN Targhee gives you, Oboz makes this boot in a wide toe box option.
The Oboz Bridger also comes in a premium version.
This boot is also available in a women’s sizes, in both the waterproof, ventilated, insulated and premium versions.
View at REIView at Backcountry
Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP
Specs
Weight: 2.0 lbsUpper: Leather / MeshType of Waterproofing: Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (M-Select DRY)Outsole: VibramMidsole: EVA
Features
Arch And Heel SupportAir Cushion For Shock AbsorptionHigh Breathability
BEST FOR: HIKING ON A BUDGET
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP Hiking Boots are affordable, versatile, and lightweight. They are a safe choice for day hikers and backpackers walking on uneven surfaces, as they provide good cushioning, durable and gripping rubber soles, plus a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry.
Compared to the previous model, the Moab 2 has improved the midsole to increase stability and support in both the arch and the heel, and reviewed the design of the suede leather and mesh uppers, making them even more breathable.
These boots are lighter than more expensive models on this list, meaning that while they are great for summer hikes on well maintained tracks, you may want to consider something sturdier if you’re planning long backpacking trips.
View at REIView at Backcountry
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 1 lb. 15.6 oz (Men’s)Type of Waterproofing: Gore-TexOutsole: Contagrip Rubber
Features
LightweightHigh Traction OutsolesFoam Cushioning For Extra Comfort
BEST FOR: LIGHT PACKERS
The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots promise running-shoe comfort with all the technical features you’d want in an advanced trekking boot. Thanks to the high-traction Contagrip outsoles engineered to funnel water away from your feet, no surface is too wet or slippery for you to walk on. The risk of falling is reduced to a minimum thanks to the patterned soles that grip tightly to the ground.
The breathable membrane and inner linings are abrasion resistant and dry quickly, while the mud guards and rubber toe caps create a protective shield that prevents injuries when you hit roots or rocks. The Salomon X Ultra are also lighter in weight than most boots in the same category, meaning that they won’t be a pain to carry when not in use.
View at REIView at Backcountry
Vasque Breeze III Mid GTX
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2 lbs. 10 oz (Men’s)Type of Waterproofing: Gore-TexOutsole: Vibram Contact Grip
Features
Durable UppersCushion Pods For Increased SupportHeel and Toe Ventilation Ports
BEST FOR: CLASSIC STYLE WITH MODERN FEATURES
The classic-looking Vasque Breeze III Mid GTX offer everything you could ask for in a technical hiking boot without breaking the bank. The leather uppers combine abrasion-resistant leather with mesh panels that increase breathability. The Gore-Tex membrane repels water, while the ventilation ports on heel and toe areas allow the air to flow along the footbed, keeping your feet cool even on extended itineraries.
Comfort here does not come at a premium – the Vasque Breeze III are stabilized and contain cushion pods that keep your feet safe and sound even while performing high-impact activities. These boots are perfect for long backpacking trips and thru-hikes, competing with higher-end products in terms of both durability and features.
View at REI
KEEN Gypsum II Mid WP
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2 lb. 6.4 oz. (Men’s)Type of Waterproofing: Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (KEEN.Dry)Outsole: Non-marking Rubber
Features
Heel Support Structure For StabilityRugged Soles For Extra TractionNubuck Leather Uppers
BEST FOR: “STYLE-FIRST” BACKPACKERS
With a rugged outsole and a heel support structure for increased stability, no trail is too rough or wet for the Keen Gypsum Mid II WP Hiking Boots. The nubuck leather and mesh fabric uppers are combined with a waterproof and breathable membrane designed to repel both water and trail debris. This means that crossing shallow streams, muddy areas or rocky paths will be a breeze.
Get out of your comfort zone by slipping into these versatile boots with cushioned footbeds and natural odor control, designed to keep your feet comfortable on short and long trails in any weather condition.
View at Amazon
Asolo Falcon GV
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2.1 lbsUpper: Leather / SyntheticType of Waterproofing: Gore-TexOutsole: VibramMidsole: EVA
Features
Self-cleaning SolesWater-resistant Suede UppersBoots Can Be Resoled
The Asolo Falcon GV is a slimmed down version of a traditional hiking boot that can still hold its own on rugged technical trails.
What we loved the most about this boot is they are comfortable from day one, something we didn’t expect from this technical style boot which can feel stiff for the first few days. We also appreciated their versatility, they are light and flexible enough to be comfortable on long day hikes and supportive enough to tackle backpacking trips.
What the Falcon GV gains in weight loss and comfort it sacrifices in stability. When it comes to carrying a heavy pack over rocky and uneven terrain, we wish we had more ankle support. The Falcon has just enough cushioning but isn’t as plush as some of our favorite models. This shouldn’t be a deal breaker but just something you might need some time to get used to if you’re coming from an ultra cushy boot.
If you’re a long time user of clunkier boots like the Asolo Fugitive or the Zamberlan Vioz and want to cut weight without losing too much performance, the Asolo Falcon GV could be a great option for you.
This boot is also available in a women’s version.
View at REIView at Backcountry
Merrell Phaserbound 2 Tall
View Women’s Version
Specs
Weight: 2 lbs. 15 oz. (Men’s)Type of Waterproofing: Proprietary Waterproof Membrane (M-Select DRY)Outsole: Vibram Megagrip Rubber
Features
Durable Leather, Suede, And Mesh UppersProtective Rubber Toe CapsExcellent Grip On Wet And Dry Surfaces
BEST FOR: LONG HIKES WITH HEAVY BACKPACKS
Designed with the thru-hiker in mind, these elegant hiking boots offer maximum protection from both the elements and injuries. The full-grain leather, suede and mesh uppers keep your feet dry together with the impermeable membranes, while the protective rubber toe caps shield your feet against small rocks or exposed roots.
Pebbles won’t enter your boot thanks to the bellows tongue and the contoured insole, which are both flexible and soft enough to keep you going for hours on end. In the heel, an integrated Merrel Air Cushion absorbs shock from impact on hard surfaces, adding extra stability when you are carrying a heavy load on your shoulders. The Vibram Megagrip outsoles have 5mm deep lugs meaning that they will reduce your risk of slipping on both dry and wet surfaces.
View at Backcountry
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING WATERPROOF HIKING BOOTS
MATERIALS
One of the first things you should check when buying waterproof hiking boots is the materials with which they are built. Hiking boots are always made with a mix of fabrics and plastics, but depending on your needs some models might be more suitable than others.
The uppers are commonly made with leather and mesh. Leather is durable, abrasion resistant and water repellent, while mesh fabric is added to increase ventilation. Waterproof hiking boots will have a special kind of mesh fabric that allows the air to enter for ventilation, while stopping the water.
Different kinds of leather are employed to produce waterproof hiking boots. Full-grain leather (such as nubuck) is thick and durable, excellent for extended trips on rugged terrain. Split-grain leather, on the other hand is cheaper, lighter and more breathable, as the inner part of the cowhide has been removed.
Vegan hiking boots (made entirely with synthetic materials) are available on the market as well, although they are not as popular as leather boots because of their shorter life span.
Midsoles tend to be built with plastic materials (such as EVA or polyurethane) and provide some degree of cushioning in the parts of the foot where support is needed. Outsoles are always made of rubber, with Vibram being one of the most frequently used manufacturers.
PROTECTION
A good waterproof hiking boot doesn’t only protect you from water while hiking in the rain or crossing unexpected streams, but also lowers the risk of injuries.
Most boots offer some degree of cushioning in the midsole. This is necessary to protect you from the shock of walking or running on hard ground, but depending on what sort of activity you prefer, you may opt for more or less padding. High-impact activities like backpacking require more cushioning, which translates into a stiffer midsole built to provide extra stability. For hikes on well maintained trails without a heavy backpack, thinner and more flexible soles will do just fine.
Some boots include heel and toe caps. These are extra layers of rubber attached externally, that shield your feet against roots and rocks that you might hit while walking.
The outsole is usually patterned to provide traction and reduce the risk of slipping. Depending on how deep the lugs under the sole are, a boot will have more or less grip (deep lugs = more grip).
FIT
Obviously, you need to know your size before ordering a pair of waterproof hiking boots. It is important to remember that you may be wearing technical (read: thicker) socks on the trail, so consider the space needed.
Hiking boots should be comfortable but fit tightly around your feet to prevent movement and reduce the risk of blisters or abrasion. Also, consider that the fit could be affected by the way you lace your boots.
FEATURES EXPLAINED
GORE-TEX (GTX)
A waterproof and breathable fabric membrane commonly used in waterproof clothing and shoes.
NUBUCK LEATHER
Durable and resistant full-grain leather that resembles suede.
VIBRAM
One of the most frequently used manufacturers of rubber outsoles.
MIDSOLE
The layer between footbed and outsole that provides cushioning and protects against shock.
OUTSOLE
The rubber layer placed at the bottom of the hiking boot, usually patterned to increase grip.
TOE/HEEL CAPS
Protective layer of rubber (or other material) meant to shield against impact with roots or rocks.
READ MORE
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