Nothing ruins a good hike faster than soggy, uncomfortable feet. When you’re miles from the trailhead and your socks are soaked, every step becomes a miserable reminder that you should have invested in better footwear. Waterproof hiking shoes combine smart design with modern materials to keep moisture out while letting your feet breathe, making them essential gear for serious trail lovers.
1. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Ask any experienced hiker about reliable footwear, and chances are the Moab series will come up in conversation. This third generation improves on an already beloved design with upgraded cushioning and a waterproof membrane that actually works.
The shoe handles muddy trails and stream crossings without breaking a sweat. Its Vibram outsole grips wet rocks surprisingly well, while the mid-height design protects your ankles from unexpected twists. Many users report wearing these straight out of the box with zero break-in pain, which is pretty rare for hiking boots.
2. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
Speed hikers and trail runners absolutely love this lightweight option that feels more like a running shoe than traditional hiking footwear. Salomon packed serious technology into a surprisingly nimble package.
The Gore-Tex lining keeps water out during rainy adventures while allowing sweat to escape, preventing that clammy feeling inside. What really sets these apart is the Contagrip sole that handles slippery terrain like a champ. The quick-lace system means you can tighten them up with one pull, perfect when you need to adjust on the go without stopping.
3. Keen Targhee III Waterproof
Wide-footed hikers finally have a champion in the Targhee III, which offers generous room in the toe box without feeling sloppy. Keen built their reputation on comfort, and this model delivers exactly that promise.
The waterproof leather upper withstands serious abuse on rugged trails while the Keen.Dry membrane blocks moisture effectively. That signature rubber toe cap isn’t just for looks—it protects your toes when you accidentally kick rocks or roots. These shoes work equally well for day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips where reliability matters most.
4. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
Budget-conscious adventurers don’t need to sacrifice dry feet, thanks to this surprisingly capable option that costs significantly less than premium brands. Columbia proves that waterproof protection doesn’t require emptying your wallet.
The Omni-Tech waterproof breathable construction keeps puddles and rain on the outside where they belong. While these won’t win any awards for cutting-edge technology, they perform admirably for casual hikers and beginners. The cushioned midsole provides decent comfort for moderate distances, making them ideal for weekend warriors exploring local trails without breaking the bank.
5. Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX
Hoka brought their famous maximal cushioning philosophy from road running to the hiking world, creating something genuinely different. People with knee issues or those who find traditional hiking boots too harsh will appreciate this plush ride.
The oversized midsole absorbs impact on rocky descents while Gore-Tex keeps moisture away from your feet. Despite all that cushioning, these shoes remain surprisingly lightweight and stable on uneven ground. The aggressive tread pattern bites into loose dirt and gravel, giving you confidence on sketchy trail sections where footing matters.
6. Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof
Did you know Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold? Beyond their environmental commitment, they craft seriously durable footwear that handles tough conditions year after year.
The B-DRY waterproof membrane rivals Gore-Tex in performance while costing a bit less. These boots offer exceptional arch support that podiatrists actually recommend, making them ideal for people with foot problems. The nubuck leather upper breaks in gradually but becomes incredibly comfortable once molded to your feet. Expect these to last through hundreds of miles of adventures.
7. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX
Athletic shoe giant Adidas applied their sports performance expertise to create a fast-and-light hiking option that doesn’t sacrifice waterproof protection. These appeal to hikers who value speed over traditional boot-style support.
The Continental rubber outsole—yes, like the tire company—provides exceptional grip on wet surfaces that would send other shoes sliding. Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining keeps water out while maximizing breathability during warm weather hikes. The low-profile design won’t appeal to everyone, but trail runners transitioning to hiking will feel right at home in these responsive, nimble shoes.
