Nothing ruins a great hike faster than wet, cold feet squishing around inside your boots. Whether you’re crossing streams, trudging through muddy trails, or getting caught in unexpected rain, having truly waterproof hiking boots can make the difference between an amazing outdoor adventure and a miserable experience. After testing dozens of options in real-world conditions, we’ve found the boots that actually keep your feet dry when it matters most.
1. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Merrell completely redesigned their legendary Moab line, and the results speak for themselves on wet trails. The updated waterproof membrane keeps moisture out while letting your feet breathe during long hikes.
What really sets these apart is the incredible out-of-the-box comfort that requires almost zero break-in time. The cushioned midsole absorbs shock on rocky terrain, while the Vibram outsole grips slippery surfaces like a champion.
These boots handle everything from creek crossings to rainy mountain trails without breaking a sweat. At a mid-range price point, they offer exceptional value for hikers who need reliable waterproof protection without emptying their wallet completely.
2. Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex
Built like a tank but surprisingly light on your feet, these boots redefine what waterproof hiking footwear can accomplish. Gore-Tex technology forms an impenetrable barrier against water while maintaining excellent breathability during strenuous climbs.
The ankle support feels like wearing a protective fortress around your feet, perfect for carrying heavy backpacks on multi-day adventures. Salomon engineered the lacing system to lock your heel in place, preventing painful blisters on steep descents.
Aggressive tread patterns bite into loose gravel and wet rocks with confidence-inspiring traction. These boots cost more than budget options, but serious hikers quickly discover they’re worth every penny for challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
3. Hoka Kaha 2 GTX
Hoka brought their famous cushioning technology to the hiking boot world, and the results feel like walking on clouds even during brutal all-day treks. The Gore-Tex waterproof layer keeps streams and rain completely at bay.
Maximum cushioning doesn’t mean sacrificing stability—the wide base provides surprising support on uneven ground. Your knees and joints will thank you after logging serious miles in these incredibly comfortable boots.
The extra cushioning makes them slightly heavier than ultralight options, but the comfort trade-off is absolutely worth it for most hikers. If you’ve got achy feet or need extra support, these boots deliver waterproof protection wrapped in unmatched comfort that lasts from sunrise to sunset.
4. Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Mid
Speed hikers and fast-packers immediately fall in love with how nimble these boots feel on technical trails. Salomon designed them to move quickly without compromising waterproof protection or ankle support.
The lightweight construction means you can cover more ground with less fatigue, while the waterproof membrane handles puddles and wet grass effortlessly. Precise footwork becomes easier thanks to the flexible sole that lets you feel the trail beneath your feet.
These boots shine brightest on day hikes and fast-moving adventures rather than heavy backpacking trips. The responsive feel and reliable waterproofing make them ideal for hikers who prioritize agility and quick movement over maximum cushioning and heavy-duty support features.
5. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II GTX
Italian craftsmanship meets cutting-edge waterproof technology in these technical trail masters. The Gore-Tex lining creates an absolutely bombproof barrier against moisture while maintaining breathability during intense climbs.
La Sportiva engineered the sole with sticky rubber compounds that grip wet rock like nothing else on the market. The precise fit runs narrow, which Europeans love but might require sizing adjustments for wider feet.
These boots excel on technical terrain where precise foot placement matters most—think scrambling over boulders and navigating exposed ridgelines. The aggressive tread pattern and waterproof construction make them perfect for serious mountain adventures where failure isn’t an option and conditions change rapidly.
6. Columbia Escape Thrive Titanium OutDry Mid
Columbia’s OutDry technology takes a different approach to waterproofing by bonding the membrane directly to the outer material. This innovative design prevents water from ever saturating the boot fabric in the first place.
Budget-conscious hikers celebrate these boots because they deliver serious waterproof performance without the premium price tag. The Titanium insulation reflects body heat back to your feet, keeping them warm during cold, wet conditions.
They might not have the fancy brand recognition of European imports, but they absolutely get the job done on muddy trails and rainy hikes. The combination of affordability, reliable waterproofing, and decent comfort makes them a smart choice for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
7. Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid
Keen built their reputation on creating boots that fit real feet comfortably, and the Targhee III continues that tradition beautifully. The roomy toe box gives your toes space to spread naturally, preventing cramping on long descents.
Waterproof protection comes from Keen’s proprietary membrane that keeps streams and rain outside where they belong. The rugged construction handles abuse from rocks and roots without falling apart after one season.
These boots feel slightly heavier than minimalist options, but the durability and all-day comfort justify the extra ounces. If you’ve struggled with narrow boots squeezing your feet, the generous fit and reliable waterproofing make these worth trying on immediately at your local outdoor store.
8. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof
Sometimes the previous generation still holds its own against newer competition, and the Moab 2 proves this point perfectly. These boots have earned their place as one of the best-selling hiking boots in history for good reason.
The waterproof membrane has protected countless feet through streams, rain, and muddy conditions over the years. Comfort arrives immediately without requiring weeks of painful breaking-in that tortures your feet and ankles.
Now available at discounted prices since the Moab 3 launched, they represent incredible value for budget-minded hikers. The proven track record, reliable waterproofing, and comfortable fit make them a safe bet for anyone needing dependable boots without spending top dollar on the latest models.
9. Scarpa Rush 2 Mid GTX
Scarpa brings decades of mountaineering expertise to these technical hiking boots that handle serious alpine conditions. Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps your feet dry when crossing snowmelt streams and hiking through wet meadows above treeline.
The stiff construction provides exceptional ankle support for carrying heavy loads on challenging terrain. These boots need proper break-in time, but the effort pays off with a custom-molded fit that lasts for years.
They’re definitely overkill for casual day hikes on maintained trails, but thrive in demanding mountain environments. Serious backpackers and mountaineers appreciate the bombproof construction and reliable waterproof protection that performs flawlessly when conditions turn nasty and the stakes get higher up in exposed terrain.
10. Salewa Pedroc Pro PowerTex Mid PTX
Salewa designed these boots specifically for fast-and-light mountain adventures where every ounce matters. The PowerTex membrane provides reliable waterproof protection without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to your feet.
Climbers love the reinforced toe area that handles scrambling over rocks and boulders with confidence. The flexible construction allows natural foot movement while maintaining enough support for technical terrain and stream crossings.
These boots occupy the sweet spot between trail runners and traditional hiking boots perfectly. If your adventures involve moving quickly through varied terrain with occasional scrambling sections, the lightweight waterproof design and technical features make them an excellent choice for dynamic outdoor pursuits that demand versatility and performance.
