Winter travel means dealing with rain, slush, and freezing sidewalks, but your feet don’t have to suffer. The right waterproof boot keeps you dry, comfortable, and ready to explore whether you’re hopping between museums or trekking through snowy trails. We’ve rounded up 17 boots that actually look good and perform even better, so you can pack light and stay confident all season long.
1. Danner Mountain 600 (Danner Dry)
Built for the Pacific Northwest but ready for anywhere rainy, this boot delivers serious weather resistance without the bulk. Danner Dry waterproofing keeps moisture out while letting your feet breathe, and the minimal seam construction means fewer weak spots for water to sneak through.
The Vibram outsole grips wet pavement and muddy trails equally well, making it a smart pick when your itinerary bounces between city streets and nature walks. It’s heavier than a sneaker but lighter than traditional hikers, striking a balance that works for most travelers.
Available for both men and women, the Mountain 600 breaks in quickly and pairs nicely with jeans or hiking pants.
2. HOKA Kaha 2 GTX
Maximum cushioning meets serious waterproofing in this plush powerhouse. The Gore-Tex bootie wraps your entire foot in waterproof protection, while HOKA’s signature thick midsole absorbs miles of cobblestones and concrete without complaint.
Vibram Megagrip rubber tackles slick surfaces with confidence, and the supportive ankle collar keeps you stable even when you’re carrying a daypack full of souvenirs. Some travelers worry max-cushion boots feel mushy, but the Kaha 2 stays surprisingly responsive and secure.
Perfect for long sightseeing days when you need both weather protection and all-day comfort. Men’s and women’s versions available.
3. On Cloudrock 2 Waterproof
Lightweight champions of packability, these boots fold the performance of a serious hiker into a surprisingly nimble package. Full waterproof construction keeps rain and slush out, while the precision fit hugs your foot without pressure points or hotspots.
The CloudTec sole grips confidently in wet conditions, and the relatively low weight means they won’t drag down your luggage or your energy levels. They excel when you need a boot that transitions quickly from plane to pavement to trail.
On’s Swiss engineering shows in the details, from the speed-lacing system to the reinforced toe cap. Available for men and women who value fast-moving versatility.
4. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
The Moab has earned cult status among hikers for good reason: it simply works, right out of the box. This third generation adds recycled materials and a waterproof membrane without losing the comfort and value that made earlier versions bestsellers.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole delivers reliable traction on wet surfaces, and the supportive footbed feels broken in from day one. You won’t find fancy tech or flashy colors, just solid construction that handles rain, mud, and long days without fuss.
It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on quality. Men’s and women’s sizes available with consistent sizing across both.
5. Sorel Out ‘N About III Classic
Rain boots don’t have to look clunky or agricultural anymore. This sleek design brings serious weather protection to city streets with seam-sealed waterproof construction that laughs at downpours and deep puddles.
The thick, high-traction sole grips wet sidewalks and cobblestones with ease, while the streamlined silhouette works with skinny jeans or leggings. Unlike traditional rain boots, these offer actual ankle support and comfortable arch structure for all-day wear.
Designed specifically for women’s feet, they’re ideal for urban travelers who prioritize style alongside function. Pack these when your forecast shows nothing but gray skies and umbrella weather.
6. Timberland Premium 6-Inch Waterproof Boot
Some boots become icons for a reason. This classic silhouette has protected feet through decades of winters with seam-sealed waterproof leather that stands up to serious weather and PrimaLoft insulation that keeps toes warm in freezing temperatures.
Yes, they’re heavier than lightweight hikers, but that heft translates to durability and warmth that synthetic boots can’t match. The full-grain leather upper breaks in beautifully and actually looks better with age and wear.
Perfect for cold, wet city breaks where you need bombproof protection and timeless style. Available for both men and women in multiple colors beyond the signature wheat.
7. ECCO Track 25 GTX
Heritage leather meets modern waterproofing in this handsome hiker that looks equally at home on trails or at dinner. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry without sacrificing the premium feel of ECCO’s carefully crafted leather uppers.
The travel-smart design pairs well with jeans or chinos, making it easy to pack just one pair of shoes for a mixed itinerary. ECCO’s direct-injection construction bonds the sole to the upper for flexibility and durability that outlasts glued competitors.
Designed for men who appreciate quality materials and understated style. These boots get better with wear and transition seamlessly from countryside walks to urban exploration.
8. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
Agility meets protection in this trail-running-inspired boot that moves fast without sacrificing waterproof coverage. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps weather out while Salomon’s Advanced Chassis system provides surprising support for a boot this nimble.
The Contagrip sole handles everything from wet cobblestones to muddy park paths with confidence, and the quick-lacing system means you can adjust fit on the fly. These excel when your travel plans mix urban sightseeing with spontaneous nature excursions.
Lightweight enough for all-day wear but supportive enough for actual hiking, they’re available for both men and women. Frequent travelers appreciate how well they pack and perform across varied terrain.
9. adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX
Sneaker comfort collides with hiking boot protection in this innovative hybrid. The BOOST midsole delivers the same energy return that makes adidas running shoes famous, while a Gore-Tex membrane ensures your feet stay dry when weather turns ugly.
The result feels more like a high-top sneaker than a traditional boot, making it perfect for travelers who find classic hikers too stiff or heavy. Continental rubber outsoles grip wet surfaces with the same compound used on car tires.
Lightweight waterproofing without the weight penalty appeals to minimalist packers. Available for men and women who want technical performance wrapped in athletic styling.
10. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped
Budget-friendly doesn’t mean low quality, as this popular boot proves season after season. Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproofing keeps feet dry while the leather and suede upper adds durability that outlasts its modest price tag.
The lightweight construction won’t weigh down your pack or your feet, and the cushioned midsole provides decent comfort for day hikes or urban exploration. Widely stocked at outdoor retailers, these are easy to find and try on before you buy.
Designed for women’s feet with proper arch support and heel shape. It’s an excellent first waterproof boot or backup pair that won’t break your travel budget.
11. The North Face Chilkat V 400 Waterproof
When temperatures drop below freezing and snow starts falling, this insulated boot steps up. Waterproof, seam-sealed construction keeps slush and moisture out, while 400 grams of HEATSEEKER Eco insulation traps warmth without excessive bulk.
The tall shaft and padded collar seal out cold drafts, and the aggressive lug pattern grips icy sidewalks better than fashion boots ever could. These are purpose-built for cold, wet city breaks where winter weather gets serious.
Men’s sizing runs true, and the insulation doesn’t make feet sweat during indoor museum visits. Pack these when your destination promises snowflakes and sub-zero wind chills.
12. Lems Boulder Boot Waterproof
Minimalist enthusiasts rejoice: you can finally have barefoot feel and waterproof protection in one package. The zero-drop design keeps your foot in natural alignment, while a waterproof membrane adds weather resistance without sacrificing the flexible, packable profile that made Lems famous.
These boots actually fold and roll, making them luggage champions that barely take up space. The wide toe box lets toes spread naturally, and the thin sole provides ground feel that traditional boots can’t match.
Available for men and women who prefer natural movement over cushioning. They’re ideal for travelers who want weather protection but refuse to give up minimalist principles.
13. Vessi Weekend Chelsea
100% waterproof knit sounds impossible, but Vessi’s Dyma-tex technology delivers exactly that. This Chelsea boot brings sneaker comfort and full weather protection together in a lightweight package that weighs less than traditional leather boots.
The elastic side panels make them easy to slip on and off at airport security, and the knit upper breathes better than rubber or coated fabrics. These lean more sneaker-boot than hiking boot, making them ideal for rainy urban itineraries where style matters as much as function.
Available for men and women who want waterproof protection without heavy, clunky footwear. Perfect for city travelers who face frequent rain but minimal trail time.
14. Dr. Martens 1460 Waterproof
The iconic 1460 gets a weather-ready upgrade with DryWair waterproof technology and a fully sealed welt. You get the classic Doc Martens look, complete with yellow stitching and Goodyear welt construction, but without the soggy socks that plagued earlier versions in wet weather.
The air-cushioned sole still delivers that distinctive Doc’s bounce, and the durable leather upper breaks in to fit your foot perfectly over time. These boots have moved from punk rock stages to mainstream travel gear without losing their edge.
Currently available in men’s sizing, they’re perfect for urban travelers who want waterproof protection wrapped in countercultural style.
15. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
Backpacking-grade durability meets innovative breathability in this technical boot. Gore-Tex Surround technology allows moisture to escape not just through the upper but also through the midsole, keeping feet drier during active use than traditional waterproof boots.
The robust construction and Vibram sole handle serious trails with ease, making these ideal when your travels include demanding hikes or multi-day treks. They’re heavier and stiffer than lightweight hikers, but that translates to support and protection on challenging terrain.
Designed for men who need boots that can handle real backcountry adventures alongside travel days. These are serious tools for serious trails.
16. Scarpa Mojito Hike GTX
Italian style meets alpine functionality in this surprisingly versatile boot. The Gore-Tex waterproofing handles wet weather confidently, while the mid-cut design provides ankle support without the bulk of traditional hiking boots.
Scarpa’s climbing heritage shows in the precise fit and quality construction, and the Mojito’s sleek lines look polished enough for everyday wear around town. The Vibram sole grips mixed terrain well, from rocky trails to slick city sidewalks.
Available for both men and women who refuse to choose between performance and aesthetics. These boots transition seamlessly from morning hikes to afternoon cafe stops without looking out of place in either setting.
17. Blundstone Thermal Winter Boot
Australian heritage meets winter necessity in this insulated take on Blundstone’s beloved Chelsea design. The waterproof leather upper keeps moisture out while Thinsulate insulation adds warmth for cold-weather destinations, and the elastic side gores make them easy to pull on and off.
The durable construction handles daily wear season after season, and the simple silhouette pairs with everything from jeans to casual trousers. Unlike bulky winter boots, these maintain a streamlined profile that works for travel wardrobes with limited space.
Popular with travelers who value durability and no-fuss style. They’re comfortable enough for all-day wear and tough enough to handle years of winter adventures.
