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Hiking on muddy trails, crossing shallow streams, or hiking in unexpected rain can quickly ruin your outdoor adventure if your feet get soaked. The right waterproof hiking shoes make the difference between an enjoyable trip and a miserable slog. These nine best-performing waterproof boots have been tested in a variety of terrain 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 pioneer
Topping Switchback Tested’s 2025 rankings, the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX delivers remarkable performance for fast 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 shoes than traditional hiking boots. The Contagrip outsole bites into muddy slopes and slippery 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 tough trails.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP: Economic excellence
Affectionately nicknamed “Mother Of All Boots” by its loyal fans, the Moab 3 Mid WP proves you don’t need to empty your wallet for reliable waterproofing. At less than $150, these boots offer impressive value thanks to Merrell’s exclusive waterproof membrane.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole grips with confidence on wet rocks and muddy descents. Generous heel cushioning absorbs shock while the protective toe cap protects against trail hazards.
Weekend hikers and casual adventurers appreciate the immediate comfort: no painful break-in period required. The suede and mesh upper combines durability and breathability for all-day comfort.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX: The long distance champion
When hiking demands serious protection, the Quest 4 GTX meets the challenge with rock-solid GORE-TEX waterproofing. The high ankle collar provides exceptional support for carrying heavy loads over demanding terrain.
Advanced chassis technology stabilizes every step on uneven ground while deep, aggressive lugs maintain traction in mud, scree and wet surfaces. The updated lacing system locks your heel in place to prevent blisters on long descents.
Serious backpackers trust these boots for multi-day adventures where failure is not an option. Although 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: freedom in the shape of a foot
Most hiking shoes force toes into unusually tight spaces, but the Lone Peak 9 WP Mid revolutionizes fit with its FootShape toe. Your toes naturally splay inside these boots, reducing fatigue and improving balance on technical terrain.
The no-drop platform (heel at the same height as the forefoot) promotes natural alignment while maintaining waterproof protection. Balanced Cushioning technology distributes impact evenly, reducing strain on long hikes.
Trail runners transitioning to hiking shoes especially love these lightweight, high-performance shoes. The MaxTrac outsole with multi-directional lugs grips confidently on wet surfaces without the bulky feel of traditional hiking shoes.
Scarpa Rush 2 Mid GTX: agile performance in the mountains
Italian craftsmanship meets modern technology in the Rush 2 Mid GTX. Surprisingly lightweight, at just 1 pound 10 ounces per pair, these boots offer remarkable agility without compromising waterproof protection.
Seamless top construction eliminates potential failure points where water could enter. GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining keeps feet dry while allowing heat and moisture to escape during intense activity.
Speed hikers and backpackers appreciate the responsive feel and quick-drying properties. The Presa outsole, designed specifically for mixed terrain, transitions easily from wet rocks to muddy trails with confidence-inspiring grip.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX: Women’s Technical Specialist
Designed with the female anatomy in mind, the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX won OutdoorGearLab’s Best Women’s Shoe award by combining technical performance with women’s-specific fit. Narrower heel cup and adjusted instep dimensions prevent slipping on steep terrain.
GORE-TEX waterproofing extends protection during water crossings while the impact braking system provides downhill traction, even on slippery surfaces. The TPU toe cap protects against stone impacts without adding unnecessary weight.
Women who tackle technical trails appreciate the precise fit and exceptional stability. FriXion XF 2.0 rubber compound maintains grip on wet rocks where lesser boots would give in to gravity.
Zamberlan Thunder GTX: Ready-to-walk comfort
Selected as the “Best Waterproof Hiking Shoe Overall” by Travel + Leisure, the Thunder GTX shatters the painful break-in period stereotype. Right out of the box, these Italian-made boots are comfortable without the typical stiffness that requires weeks of suffering.
The Hydrobloc treated leather upper combines with the GORE-TEX lining to create double waterproof protection. The Vibram 3D outsole features self-cleaning lugs that automatically shed mud, maintaining traction in changing conditions.
Travelers especially love these boots for unpredictable international adventures. When vacation days are precious, these boots waste no time with painful break-in periods before providing reliable waterproof performance.
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX All-Terrain: Grip Master
Building on the success of the standard Kaha, the off-road variant has earned recognition from Travel + Leisure for conquering diverse landscapes. The modified Vibram Megagrip outsole features deeper, more aggressive lugs designed specifically for unpredictable conditions.
The reinforced GORE-TEX liner remains flexible while providing complete waterproof protection. The extended ankle collar keeps debris out while adding stability on uneven ground without restricting movement.
Adventurous travelers traversing multiple ecosystems in a single trip rely on these versatile performers. From desert washes to alpine meadows, these boots transition between environments while maintaining their waterproof integrity and preventing foot fatigue.