Hiking through muddy trails, crossing shallow streams, or trekking in unexpected rain can quickly ruin your outdoor adventure if your feet get soaked. The right waterproof hiking boots make all the difference between an enjoyable journey and a miserable slog. These nine top-performing waterproof boots have been tested across various terrains to ensure your feet stay dry while providing the support and traction you need for any hiking challenge.
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: The Agile Trailblazer
Topping Switchback Tested’s 2025 rankings, the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX delivers remarkable performance for fast-moving hikers. The GORE-TEX membrane creates an impenetrable barrier against water while allowing feet to breathe.
Weighing just 1 pound 14 ounces per pair, these boots feel more like trail runners than traditional hiking boots. The Contagrip outsole bites into muddy slopes and slick rocks with equal confidence.
Perfect for day hikers and weekend warriors who value speed without sacrificing protection, these boots require minimal break-in time before tackling challenging trails.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP: Budget-Friendly Excellence
Affectionately nicknamed “Mother Of All Boots” by loyal fans, the Moab 3 Mid WP proves you don’t need to empty your wallet for reliable waterproofing. At under $150, these boots deliver impressive value with Merrell’s proprietary waterproof membrane.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole grips confidently on wet rocks and muddy descents. Generous cushioning in the heel absorbs impact while the protective toe cap shields against trail hazards.
Weekend hikers and casual adventurers appreciate the immediate comfort—no painful break-in period required. The suede leather and mesh upper balances durability with breathability for all-day comfort.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX: The Long-Distance Champion
When backpacking demands serious protection, the Quest 4 GTX rises to the challenge with bombproof GORE-TEX waterproofing. The high ankle collar provides exceptional support for carrying heavy loads across demanding terrain.
Advanced Chassis technology stabilizes each step on uneven ground while the deep, aggressive lugs maintain traction through mud, scree, and wet surfaces. The modernized lacing system locks your heel in place to prevent blisters on long descents.
Serious backpackers trust these boots for multi-day adventures where failure isn’t an option. Though heavier than some options at 2 pounds 14 ounces per pair, the trade-off in stability and protection proves worthwhile.
Altra Lone Peak 9 WP Mid: Foot-Shaped Freedom
Most hiking boots force toes into unnaturally narrow spaces, but the Lone Peak 9 WP Mid revolutionizes fit with its FootShape toe box. Your toes spread naturally inside these boots, reducing fatigue and improving balance on technical terrain.
The zero-drop platform (heel same height as forefoot) promotes natural alignment while maintaining waterproof protection. Balanced Cushioning technology distributes impact evenly, reducing strain during long hikes.
Trail runners transitioning to hiking boots particularly love these lightweight performers. The MaxTrac outsole with multi-directional lugs grips confidently on wet surfaces without the clunky feel of traditional hiking boots.
Scarpa Rush 2 Mid GTX: Nimble Mountain Performance
Italian craftsmanship meets modern technology in the Rush 2 Mid GTX. Surprisingly lightweight at just 1 pound 10 ounces per pair, these boots deliver remarkable agility without compromising waterproof protection.
The seamless upper construction eliminates potential failure points where water might seep in. GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining keeps feet dry while allowing heat and moisture to escape during intense activity.
Fast-moving hikers and peak-baggers appreciate the responsive feel and quick-drying properties. The Presa outsole, designed specifically for mixed terrain, transitions seamlessly from wet rocks to muddy trails with confidence-inspiring grip.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX: Women’s Technical Specialist
Designed with female anatomy in mind, the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX earned OutdoorGearLab’s top women’s boot award by combining technical performance with female-specific fit. The narrower heel cup and adjusted instep dimensions prevent slippage on steep terrain.
GORE-TEX waterproofing extends protection through stream crossings while the Impact Brake System provides downhill traction even on slick surfaces. The TPU toe cap defends against rock strikes without adding unnecessary weight.
Women tackling technical trails appreciate the precise fit and exceptional stability. The FriXion XF 2.0 rubber compound maintains grip on wet rocks where lesser boots would surrender to gravity.
Zamberlan Thunder GTX: Ready-to-Hike Comfort
Selected as Travel + Leisure’s “Best Overall” waterproof hiking boot, the Thunder GTX breaks the painful break-in period stereotype. Right out of the box, these Italian-crafted boots feel comfortable without the typical stiffness that requires weeks of suffering.
The Hydrobloc-treated leather upper works alongside GORE-TEX lining to create dual waterproof protection. The Vibram 3D outsole features self-cleaning lugs that shed mud automatically, maintaining traction in changing conditions.
Travelers especially value these boots for unpredictable international adventures. When vacation days are precious, these boots don’t waste time with painful break-in periods before delivering reliable waterproof performance.
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX All-Terrain: Grip Master
Building on the standard Kaha’s success, the All-Terrain variant earned Travel + Leisure’s recognition for conquering diverse landscapes. The modified Vibram Megagrip outsole features deeper, more aggressive lugs specifically designed for unpredictable conditions.
The reinforced GORE-TEX bootie remains flexible while providing complete waterproof protection. The extended ankle collar keeps debris out while adding stability on uneven ground without restricting movement.
Adventure travelers crossing multiple ecosystems in a single trip rely on these versatile performers. From desert washes to alpine meadows, these boots transition between environments while maintaining waterproof integrity and preventing foot fatigue.
