Hiking boots are an essential part of anyone’s wardrobe since they are versatile. The best hiking boots will be ideal for hiking, working, and even walking. To get the best out of your buck, you want to give enough thought to the kind of boot you want to buy, considering where you are wearing it or the kind of trail you want to hike.
Hiking boots are made from different materials, but waterproofness and comfort are top on the lost of must-haves on material choice if you plan to wear your boots to an area with water paddles. These 10 are some of the best on the market.
List of The Best Waterproof Hiking Boots
10. Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo
This is a hiking boot made from suede material. Suede is an easy to clean material and can also be dyed. These boots are comfortable and do not fall apart. Moreover, it has a relaxed fit and the shaft measures approximately ankle-high from the arch. It has a synthetic sole and it is waterproof. You can confidently hike through rain, water paddles or cross any streams with this shoe. The memory foam helps this shoe to fit comfortably and make it suitable for long hikes.
Although, these boots are lightweight and can be used for hiking, doing work around the home, and even for general everyday wear. The shoe has been lined with memory foam making it comfortable to walk around in. you can be sure that your toes will not be sore.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Can be used for several purposes
Cons
- They do not have steel shanks
9. Columbia Men’s Bugaboot
This hiking boot is made of a tech lite lightweight midsole so that it can give the wearer long-lasting comfort. The superior cushioning makes it comfortable to wear and walk-in. anti-slip rubber is also available to give the shoe good abrasion resistance making this shoe suitable for mountaineering.
Moreover, the shaft of the shoe measures approximately 7 inches from the arch and the heel approximately 1.5 inches. A combination of leather, nylon, webbing, and metal hardware has been used to make the shoe making it waterproof. The hiking boot fits well. They can be worn in snow and ice and keep the feet feeling warm and dry.
Pros
- A anti-slip rubber
- Has an Omni-heat reflective lining
- Comfortable
Cons
- The metal lace loops force the wearer to unlace the boot to get them out
8. Quicksilk Eyushijia Men’s waterproof boots
This is faux leather made hiking boot with a rubber sole. They are waterproof and can be worn in the snow without getting the feet wet. A padded collar has been incorporated in this shoe to make it extra comfortable. This shoe has a wide fit and therefore making it suitable for people with wide feet to wear. You can also use thick socks to wear this shoe.
Moreover, the interiors of the shoes are soft. The neutral colors make the shoe go well with most trousers. The material is solid and easy to clean. This is a good shoe for everyday activities and walk. The soloes of this shoe are although slippery over ice or packed snow.
Pros
- Durable
- They keep feet warm and dry
- They have a wide fit
Cons
- The rubber is thin in the middle and might not protect from sharp objects
7. Timberland Men’s Euro Hiker Boot
This is a boot made from 100{e26c06a30006207cd8540191faed959b4c4c291c3a1dcd1afea5a52102474541} full-grain leather. It is a high-quality shoe that has a rubber sole suitable for indoor or outdoor walking. Timberland has covered men’s, women’s and kid’s boots. The manufacturer also has other outdoor products including jackets, coats, and backpacks.
Further, this boot is trail-ready and has high performance while hiking. It is a stylish shoe with a padded collar D-ring lacing and has a toe guard to protect your toes from squeezing together while sloppy ground. This casual waterproof boot is comfortable and is designed to fit in with your outdoor ensemble. This hiking boot is made from rustproof hardware.
Pros
- A front toe guard
- Suitable for both outdoors and indoors
- Waterproof hiking boot
Cons
- Some reviewers say that the new design has made the shoe a little uncomfortable while hiking for long
6. Danner Men’s Mountain Light II boot
The USA made 100{e26c06a30006207cd8540191faed959b4c4c291c3a1dcd1afea5a52102474541} leather hiking boot. It is a boot that is light in weight and keeps you comfortable both indoors and outdoors. They are made of Vibram Kletterfit sole and a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. This shoe has been made to last long and suit hiking and walking around
The boot is handcrafted with one-piece leather and is breathable because of the Gore-Tex liner. The Mountain light II boot has been made for high performance in every step you make. The underfoot has been stitched down to maintain stability while hiking. Whether you are on a trail or a path, you are confident that this boot will ensure comfort and safety to your feet.
Pros
- A polyurethane instep for comfort
- Shock absorption technology
- Breathable material
Cons
- The inside of the shoe is bulky has wrinkles
5. NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High boot
This boot has a rubber sole and the shaft measures approximately 6 inches from the arch. It is has a durable outsole with multi-directional lugs that are meant for traction and make them suitable for different terrain. They have a supportive footbed that has been cushioned well. Therefore, This shoe is comfortable to the wearer the whole day while hiking or doing yard work.
Furthermore, this hiking boot opening measures approximately 13 inches around. The heel is 1 inch in height. It prevents slipping from oily and watery surfaces. This is a premium shoe made for style and comfort. They are designed for outdoor hiking, they have microfiber and heat-reflective lining that maximizes dryness and comfort all day.
Pros
- Give all-day comfort
- Slip-resistant
- A variety of colors and designs
Cons
- Some reviewers say that the boots are not durable
4. KEEN Men’s Targhee II mid Boot
This is a hiking boot made of 100{e26c06a30006207cd8540191faed959b4c4c291c3a1dcd1afea5a52102474541} waterproof Nubuck leather made in the USA. The boot has a rubber sole and the opening measures approximately 12.5 inches around. It features a padded tongue collar that has an easy on heel pull. This boot has a comfortable and secure fit.
Moreover, this shoe has a breathable leather lining and is waterproof. It is specially designed to keep the feet dry and let them breathe while on your hike. The mid-cut height of the boot adds support to your ankles. The outsoles are made to bite into terrain. This boot provides excellent traction because of its aggressive outsole.
Pros
- A lugged outsole With multidirectional lugs
- Easy to clean using a leather conditioner
- Ankle support
Cons
- The style is ½ inch small so you need to order a slightly bigger size
3. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge plus II boots
This is a high-traction waterproof hiking boot made of leather, mesh, and suede. It is made from high-quality material to ensure that the boot is durable and high performance. A lightweight midsole has been included for long-lasting comfort and a superior cushioning for high-energy return. It has an Omni-grip advanced traction rubber sole to make your movement slip-free while walking on any terrain
Additionally, this hiking boot for men is constructed with suede and durable mesh tongue for comfort and breathability. The lace-up closure is meant for a secure and adjustable fit. It provides adequate comfort during those days you will be out on the trail or hiking. These boots combine comfort and durability easily.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- A seam-sealed construction and are anti-slip
- Geared for all-terrain
Cons
- Some reviewers say that the boots are not waterproof
2. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid boot
This boot has been a hiker’s choice for over a decade because of its comfort and durability. It is made with durable suede and leather and a supportive footbed. It has a synthetic sole and Vibram traction suitable for hiking in any terrain. Vibram is a high-performance rubber sole that has unmatched durability, stability, and anti-slip features.
Moreover, the heel has an air cushion that helps improve overall comfort by reducing strain on the foot with each step you make. A special select dry seals out water and moisture so that your feet can remain dry while you are on the move. Moab stands for the mother of all boots.
Pros
- Comfortable and light
- Good ankle support
- Breathable mesh lining
Cons
- Some reviewers say that the boots are not long-lasting
1. Timerland Men’s White Ledge mid Ankle Boot
These Timberland hiking boots are made of leather and textile. They have a rubber sole and a removable EVA footbed with a dual-density. Rustproof lace hardware with hooks at the top has been incorporated for secure lacing. The Shaft of the boot measures approximately 4.75″ from arch. The style and performance of the boot are made trail-ready.
Furthermore,these hiking boots are made of premium full-grain waterproof leather uppers and seam-sealed waterproof construction. They have been designed to fit in with your outdoor clothes. They are high-quality casual boots for hiking and outdoor work. They can fit various activities, from the streets to the trail of the sea.
Pros
- A rugged look that fits with various styles
- A padded collar for extra comfort
- Waterproof
Cons
- The leather on the front toe area wears off quickly
Buying Guide – Waterproof Hiking Boots
Before you buy the most appropriate one for you, consider the following factors:
The Correct Fit
A good hiking boot should fit perfectly. Make sure the size of the boot can fit you well especially with socks on. Comfortable shoes are important so that your feet do not get sore if you are hiking for a while. A tight shoe is uncomfortable. You can always wear your shoes and walk around in them in your neighborhood before going on your hike. First of all is advisable to wear your shoes for a couple of hours before hitting the hiking trail. Sometimes you might need to get a boot that is a size or half size bigger. Check with the manufacturer if the shoe size indicated is the best fit for your feet.
Type of Trail
Take into consideration the type of trail you want to hike. This will determine the type of boot to buy; a rough trail requires ankle-high boots. It can be made from fabric, leather, or a combination of both. Mountaineering boots are mostly made with very rough soles to minimize slipping. Your boots should be able to protect your feet from rough terrain, rocks, and hilly areas well. You can use hiking boots to also do yard work around the home. Some of the terrain requires a boot that has a big toe area.
Comfort
A good hiking boot should be comfortable. You need to make sure that the hiking boot you buy can ensure your comfort all day long. Whether it is hiking, trailing or mountaineering, you should buy a boot that will not put a strain on your feet. Check properly the ability of the boot to support your ankle while you are hiking and a boot that will give your toes enough room while going down slopes. Your boot of choice should give you enough room even while you are wearing socks. Check the soles and make sure they will be comfortable while walking on rocky terrain. If you are using your boots to work, ensure that the sole can withstand sharp objects like nails.
Conclusion
Use proper ways and products to maintain your boots; you can use wax or silicone treatments to waterproof leather boots. You may want to bring along waterproofing treatments while on your hike. Rain and water from crossing streams may help the boots to conform to your feet, but remember that the water can also lead to shrinkage. So, reconditioning even the best hiking boots frequently is necessary so that they remain crisp for future hikes.