Wet feet can ruin a hike! Finding the best hiking shoes for a wet trail is a must so we created this guide to the best waterproof hiking shoes on the market in 2023.
When it comes to hiking in wet conditions, having this type of shoes is essential. Not only will they keep your feet dry while trekking through mud or shallow streams, but they also provide better traction on slippery surfaces.
Unfortunately, hiking is not always sunny, warm, and dry, and there are going to be days when you have to deal with rain and moisture.
From muddy trails, snow showers, and unexpected rainstorms, these waterproof hiking shoes will provide you with the protection your foot needs to brave the elements.
What Are Waterproof Hiking Shoes?
Before we get into the best options on the market. Let’s first discuss the most important features to look out for. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Has water-repellent membrane( most often Gore-Tex) or liner in the upper with protective overlays to keep debris out
- Water-resistant enough to block out wind and rain
- Should be breathable enough to release sweat and heat as your feet warm-up
- Provides great traction. This is important since you’re more likely to be dealing with slick conditions such as rain, ice, slush, and snow.
- Like with any other type of hiking shoes there should be good shock absorption and ample cushioning.
How do you waterproof hiking feet?
Waterproofing your hiking feet is essential to ensure that you stay comfortable, healthy, and safe on your outdoor adventures.
There are several methods for waterproofing your feet, depending on the type of hiking activity and weather conditions.
One of the simplest methods is to purchase a pair of waterproof hiking boots. This will ensure that your feet stay dry and comfortable, while providing a good grip on slippery surfaces.
These boots or shoes should also be breathable to keep your feet cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.
If you prefer lightweight protection without the added bulk of waterproof boots, then a good waterproof boot liner or gaiters can also do the job.
These liners and gaiters are designed to fit over your regular hiking shoes or boots and provide excellent waterproofing. For those wanting an extra layer of protection on their feet, there are specialised waterproof socks available.
Your feet are the most important part of your body and they will be doing a lot of work, so make sure to give them the extra protection they need!
Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Top Picks for 2023!
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is our pick for the best waterproof hiking shoes for women.
Conquer uphills and descents in any weather with the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Boots that are specifically designed for women. Featuring Performance Comfort Footwear technology which ensures breathable and waterproof protection.
The Pros:- Designed specifically for women
- Waterproof
- Excellent all-terrain grip
- Fully adapted to the morphology of your feet
- Improved stability
- A high-performance EVA foam that provides shock reduction
- Has a soft and breathable lining
- Feature protective mudguard
- Ankle support could be improved
- The laces are a bit bulky
We choose Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX as the best waterproof hiking shoes for men.
Enjoy lightweight precision, foothold, and waterproof protection with the Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX. These impressive hiking shoes are all you need to brave the elements.
The Pros:- Offers lightweight precision and foothold
- Fully waterproof
- Keeps your feet dry and comfortable in most conditions
- Comfortable footbed
- Lugs pattern provides for excellent traction on various surfaces
- Great stability
- Durable
- Efficiently sheds water, mud, and snow
- Quicklace system
- Can feel a bit (too)warm, especially on hot days.
The KEEN Men's Targhee II Hiking Shoe is our pick for the best waterproof hiking shoes for wide feet.
From the Keen’s Targhee line that has been a favorite of many, the KEEN Men's Targhee II
provides top-of-the-line quality and comfort that has made this lineup well known. Featuring durable waterproof protection that stands up to wet weather, and the luggy outsole for great traction.
The Pros:- Waterproof and breathable membrane
- Excellent support
- Features extra toe protection
- Provides high-traction grip on various surfaces
- Wide toe box
- Great lacing system
- Utilizes the external stability shank for lightweight support, improved mobility, and torsion control on uneven surfaces
- Impressively durable
- True to size
- Not very ideal for narrow feet
- Requires break-in
The La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoes is our pick for the best lightweight waterproof hiking shoes.
The La Sportiva Spire GTX features a Gore-Tex membrane, which offers waterproof protection and delivers impressive draining for multi-dimensional dryness on the trail. It has a well-ventilated in-shoe feel for all-day comfort on the trails.
The Pros:- Waterproof
- Excellent breathability
- Lightweight
- Has durable abrasion-resistant mesh upper
- Snug fit
- Sturdy even on technical terrains
- Comfortable
- Vibram sole provides excellent traction and grip
- Well-ventilated in-shoe feel
- Expensive
We pick KEEN Child Targhee Mid Hiking Boot as the best kids waterproof hiking boots.
Providing your child with good waterproof hiking shoes really does make a difference. The KEEN Child Targhee Mid Hiking Boot not only offers comfort and waterproof protection. They also provide minimum stress for parents and safety in different weather conditions.
The Pros:- Waterproof breathable membrane
- Quick lace system
- Hook-and-loop closures at the ankles
- Lace-capture system keeps laces out of the way
- Comfortable
- Great ankle support
- Durable
- Nonmarking rubber outsole
- Keeps feet warm and dry
- Has odor control
- out-of-the-box comfort
- The Velcro strap doesn’t hold too well according to some customer reviews.
The Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II is our pick for the best cheap waterproof hiking boots.
With a starting price of $89, the Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II is a steal! With Polyurethane-coated leather uppers and seam-sealed waterproof construction, you don’t need to worry when the sky starts to turn gray.
The Pros:- Seam-sealed waterproof
- Has Non-marking Omni-GRIP outsole
- Excellent traction and grip
- Great shock absorption
- Toe guard for added protection
- Great price point
- Comfortable all-day wear
- Superior cushioning
- Short break-in time
- Not the most durable
- Ankle support needs improvement
Fun & Cool Hiking Clothes
More Hiking Gear Resources
- My Absolute Favorite Wide Toe Box Hiking Shoes
- Best Kids Hiking Clothes On The Market
- 5 Best Kids Hydration Packs On The Market
- Best Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
If you love hiking in summer, check out our post on the best summer hiking shoes to keep your feet cool and comfy even on hot weather days.
And if you’re bringing your little one with you for a hike, then you need to see this list of the best hiking carriers for babies and toddlers from Lovicarious.