Last updated on April 13th, 2021 at 10:27 pm
For many of us, heading off trail brings a new batches of obstacles. Namely, streams, wet grass, muddy puddles, or unavoidable rain storms. However, all is not lost with waterproof gear that goes the distance. Whether you’re searching for a first pair or you’re replacing the old, we’ve brought many models to task to find the best out there. And, we’ve put our findings together in this post of best waterproof hiking boots for men to help you navigate your options.
What Makes a Great Waterproof Hiking Boot
After many miles on the trails with and without waterproof boots, we’ve come to find the best waterproof hiking boots will have:
- Great Traction: Through varied tread patterns, quality rubber, and flexible outsole, a waterproof boot needs to have grip on every surface…especially those that are wet. We’ve found some options to be hard, low quality rubber tread that refuses to mold to rock faces and mossy roots.
- Support and Stability: As a rule, hiking boots should have sturdy lateral support to stabilize ankles while moving over difficult terrain. After many miles, shoes without this supportive ankle will cause fatigue, bruises, and rolled ankles more than those with support.
- Reliable Waterproofing: Waterproof boots should not allow water in and should remain that way. Understandably, waterproofing membranes do eventually fail, and in these cases a leather boot will be your best option. While some boots just simply don’t live up to their lofty claims, we’ve considered this during our system for testing and ranking below.
- Durable Materials: Simply put, if materials break down, water can seep in. We also rank our findings based on sturdy seams, reliable glues, and a flexible design.
Our Favorite Waterproof Hiking Boots for Men Are...
After weighing the options currently on the market, testing, and reviewing hiker feedback, we’ve narrowed the field. In fact, we have found a few boots that are built better than the rest and the following deserve special mention. Without further ado, our winners are:
Best for backpacking: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
Our favorite for day hiking: Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry
Best boot for overall value: Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX
Any of the above boots would make a fine vehicle to explore the wild. However, we’ve also got a few more options below that tick all of our boxes and deserve to have made the list.
Comparison Table of Waterproof Hiking Boots for Men
Here, we’ve displayed our favorites below for easy reference. If you’d like to view information quickly, feel free to follow their links here.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
Salomon Quest 4D3 GTX | $$$ |
 
|
Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry | $$ |
 
|
Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX | $$ |
 
|
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid | $$$ |
 
|
Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX | $$ |
All of our favorites in this category are tough and ready for the trails. Below we’ll go into more detail on why each is special and how we came to our conclusions.
1. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
First, if you’re looking for a boot that beats out the rest in our tests, look no further then the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX.
While this boot is best for backpacking trips or those with a 40lb pack, it shines on long day hikes and remains comfortable without break in.
And, weighing in at 2lb 13.2oz per pair, this midweight boot may be the right fit for any trip. With additional premium features like Gore-Tex waterproofing and custom-fit lacing, the Quest 4D 3 GTX is hard to beat.
Secure Ankle Support
While your hiking needs may not require such lofty ankle support, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is sure to keep you stable. Not only does this boot keep your ankle protected from lateral movement, it also features Salomon Sensifit Technology.
Sensifit is Salomon’s sturdy framework that comfortably forms to the instep to give more support to the lower/mid foot.
When wearing this on varied and uneven terrain, this feature performs incredibly well in granting a strong foothold and balance.
Additionally, the Quest 4D 3 has a lock tight lacing system that allows you to individually tension the upper part of the boot from the lower part. As a result, we’ve found this boot to give a truly custom and snug fit where needed.
Contagrip Sole
While the Quest 4D 3 is designed with a rigid supportive sole for long backpacking trips, it remains accessible even to day hikers. If you’re looking for extra support and grip during casual hikes, the Quest 4D won’t let you down.
Salomon’s contagrip is made of a high abrasion compound that performs in a variety of terrains. Unfortunately, some hikers have found its performance on wet slick rocks left something to be desired. However, we have no experienced this yet. We’ve found this boot has the best overall comfort and performance in its class.
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Pros and Cons
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX PROS
- Comfortable right out of box
- Breathable
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- Amazing ankle support
- Great traction
- Durable
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX CONS
- Slightly heavy for casual hiking
- Cost
Who is The Quest 4D 3 GTX Perfect For?
If you’re a backpacker this boot is the best of the best. Additionally, for those casual day hikers looking for a beefier boot with more support to conquer the trail, the Quest 4D 3 could be perfect. If the Salomon Quest sounds like the right boot for your next adventure, view more information, including current pricing and styles here: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
2. Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry
The star daily hiker is the Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry. We’ve find it extremely comfortable on long casual hikes without feeling heavy or promoting blisters as many waterproof boots may.
This boot is a true crowd pleaser, especially with its supportive upper that offers great stability while navigating tough track.
With ample movement, an ergonomic fit, and plenty of toe protection, hikers love this for everyday wear. Additionally, opposed to others in its class, this boot has some seriously great construction that lasts mile after mile.
Breathable Waterproofing
We’ve found the Bridger Mid to exceed our expectations time and time again. Oboz’s B-Dry membrane is not only waterproof, but entirely breathable.
And we can attest to that. In addition hikers have found this boot to be comfortable all day due to its breathable nature.
Phenomenal Support on Long Treks
When searching for a good trail hiker, you want ankle support for traveling over unstable ground. And with the Bridger B-Dry, you’re in luck.
We found this boot to be snug in the heel and midfoot, but roomy in the forefoot giving it a truly comfortable fit.
Not only will the super snug grip on your heel keep you balanced, the Bridger has on of our top performing support for ankles.
After many miles of travel, you’re ankles will show no signs of soreness, and because of its neutral position, neither will your knees.
Flexible Molded Sole
This chassis takes you places. Gone are the days where flexibility is sacrifices for forefoot protection.
In fact, the Bridger’s Granite Peak Midsole features a durable TPU chassis. This stabilizes your foot strikes and prevents stone bruising without sacrificing flexibility of the forefoot.
In short, the sole of this boot is flexible from heel to toe off while protecting your feet from jagged rocks.
As a result, hikers find this boot grants incredible agility on technical terrain.
Pros and Cons of the Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry
Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry PROS
- Reliable waterproofing
- Breathable
- Lightweight at 2lb 6oz per pair
- Great ankle support
- Comfortable fit
- Durable
- Great for a wider foot
Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry CONS
- Runs a size small
- Short break in period
Who Will Love The Oboz Bridger Mid?
The Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry is perfect for hikers looking for optimal stability in a short ankle boot. If you’re heading on daily casual hikes or venturing off trail, this boot is a great find. If this boot sounds like a winner, view more information, including current styles and pricing here: Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry
3. Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX is a classic that does not disappoint. We found this boot to be a great day hiker with a forgiving chassis that goes the distance.
If you’re looking for a fantastic hiking boot that is breathable and offers great traction, the Moab GTX is a great pick.
Comfort Right Out of the Box
Overall, this boot offers a fantastic fit and feel right out of the box.
Because the Moab 2 also presents an air cushioned insole, we found it to greatly reduce shock and fatigue during the journey.
With little to no beak in period, you can feel confident heading right out onto the trail without a worry. Hikers find this shoe to fit snug enough in the right places to prevent hotspots, bruising, and blisters.
Additionally, hikers love this boot for its secure ankle support over mixed terrain. While it’s not as supportive as a backpacking boot per se, the Moab 2 performs well for its class. For casual day hikes over mixed terrain, its ankle support performs every time.
Sticky Vibram Sole
For hikers traveling looking to travel varied rocky terrain and stream alike, this boot sings. We love the Moab 2 for its all day comfort without sacrificing function.
Through miles of tough pioneering, this boot will still remain supportive and feel great underfoot. And, with a durable Vibram sole, they’ll keep you upright offering sticky grip on most surfaces.
We say most, because sometimes we felt these boots were a little slippery on the wettest slick rock. However, it’s can all come down to the foot placement when traversing slippery surfaces. Additionally, we found these to be some of the best Vibram performers for non-slip.
Lightweight
Finally, it’s worth noting that all of this comfort and cushion doesn’t come at a cost. The Moab 2 is also securely nested in the lightweight category, and hikers will love the lightened load carried to their joints.
Part of this has to do with meticulously placed leather overlays and mesh upper. As a result, the Moab feels almost as light as a running shoe at the light weight of 2lb 1oz per pair.
Because of this, the Moab 2 can take you further with less fatigue.
Pros and Cons of the Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX
Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX PROS
- Good traction
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- Lightweight
- Nimble over tight terrain
- Comfortable right out of box
- Durable materials
- Great ankle support
Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX CONS
- Can get hot without proper socks
- Runs 1/2 size small
Who Will Love The Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX?
The Merrell Moab 2 is great for those looking for the best overall value in a hiking boot. If you’re looking for a versatile, lightweight day hiking boot, the Moab 2 GTX may be perfect for you. If this sounds like a great trail companion, view more information, including styles and current pricing here: Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTX
4. Lowa Renegade GTX
Next up is a beast on the trails, the Lowa Renegade GTX ranked well for its sustained comfort on long treks and impressive waterproofing.
All that being said, this boot has a snug heel cup and roomy volume so bring some additional snacks and plan for extra miles.
Impressive Waterproofing
All in all, this boot is extremely impressive with it’s durable materials and stable comfort while hiking all terrain. Because we’ve found this boot to have great craftsmanship, as mentioned below, you can bet that it’s waterproofing will stand the test.
As with many of our favorites here, the Lowa Renegade features an interior Gore-Tex membrane to protect feet and encourage ventilation. And, with its full leather upper without mesh, it leaves little room for water to seep in.
Additionally, with an all-leather upper, this boot can be easily treated with boot sealers or mink oil to maintain its waterproofed exterior long after (or if) it fails.
Durable Materials
We’re not only stunned by the performance of the Renegade, but also with its longevity. After 100 miles you’ll find that its seam work, lace hooks and sole are just as they should be.
The Lowa Renegade is built to move. If you notice the meticulously placed sections of leather and seam work near the side of your toes, this is where a lot of boots fail after mile and miles of toe off.
And where leather fails, there’s room for waterproofing to fail. However, we and many hikers have found this boot to be superior in its craftmanship to boots with solid leather uppers, like Vasque St. Elias for instance.
Lightweight for Everything it Provides
Furthermore, we were surprised by the lightweight nature of this boot while it travels over difficult ground.
With hefty toe protection, a beefy sole and tread, and all leather construction, we expected this to be more of a burden than it is.
With all it has to offer, the Lowa Renegade still weighs in at only 2lb 7oz per pair.
Lowa Renegade GTX Pros and Cons
Lowa Renegade GTX PROS
- Plenty of room for custom inserts
- Durable
- Very stable ankle support
- Impressive waterproofing
- Lightweight at 2lb 7oz per pair
- Great traction
Lowa Renegade GTX CONS
- Runs a size small
- Insoles leave something to be desired
Who Would The Lowa Renegade be Perfect For?
If you’re looking for a backpacking/hiking hybrid, you’ve got it in the Lowa Renegade. With tons of protection and stability this boot is perfect for those looking to go miles and miles over uncharted land. If this boot ticks all the boxes, view more information, including current pricing and styles here: Lowa Renegade GTX
5. Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX
For speed hiking or those that enjoy the agility of a running shoe, the Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX is a no-brainer.
Hikers love the X Ultra Mid 3 for its excellent flex and propulsion over all terrain. We’ve found its versatility and lightweight stability can’t be beat.
Durable Materials
For being made of synthetic materials the X Ultra Mid 3 really shines in terms of longevity. We found that its sturdy chassis and lamination really stands the tests of time on various trails.
Additionally, with durability in mind, we must mention the ankle structure and overall support on this one. We were surprised to note that Salomon was able to achieve such a torsional rigidity and supportive boot in this way.
While it may not offer as much support as say the Lowa Renegade, we found the X Ultra Mid 3 to stand up to rocky, difficult terrain.
Moreover, ankles are fully supported and legs don’t feel fatigue as they would with a trail shoe.
Lightweight
Not only is this boot comfortable all day, it looks and feels like a trail running shoe.
And to no surprise, it weighs in at only 1lb 15.6 oz per pair, making it the lightest boot on our list.
If you’re searching for a lightweight feel with all the trail protection of a great hiking boot, look no further.
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Pros and Cons
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX PROS
- Ample toe protection
- Very lightweight
- No break in period
- Agile
- Durable
- Great ankle stability
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX CONS
- Run narrow
- Run a size small
- Inadequate insoles, can be replaced
Who Would This Boot be Perfect For?
Casual hikers looking for a speedy boot that protects your feet from ankle to toe over rough ground, the X Ultra Mid 3 is a good fit. For those heading into mid-level trails and ones that require a certain agility, you’ll love this boot. If the X Ultra sounds like the perfect fit, find more information, including styles and current pricing here: Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX
Before Picking Your Waterproof Hiking Boots
Whether you’re heading on a 5 day backpacking trip or you’re a casual daily hiker, your boots will need the same core attributes. Remember to judge your selections as such; the best waterproof hiking boots will have:
- Great Traction. When discovering the unknown, you’ll want to prepare with a boot suited to the task. Great traction can take you places where lesser boots can’t.
- Reliable Waterproofing. Many boots won’t live up to their claims. We have found the most reliably waterproof boots to be leather and be from a reputable brand. Choose boots with interior membranes and exterior leather treatments for the best longevity.
- Durable Materials. Material defects are the leading reason waterproofing fails in hiking boots. Choose a boot that hikers rave about as standing the test of time.
- Ample Ankle Support. If you’re heading off a groomed bridal or all-purpose trail, you must bring boots that support your ankles. In doing so, you’ll avoid injury, blisters, bruising, and muscle fatigue.
Additionally, we’ve found that choosing a breathable or ventilated boot will be better at preventing blisters. So, while waterproof boots may be the answer to a waterlogged journey, water tight boots may create sweaty feet and therefore a prime environment for blister formation.
That being said, we had this in mind when ranking our favorites. And, with all waterproof boots, a good pair of moisture-wicking merino wool hiking socks will help keep feet comfortable while hiking in gore-tex.
Boot up for Spectacular Views
For the fearless forging through all terrain to find the best views and live the best life, this one’s for you. As an outdoorsmen you know that the gear you choose can make or break the hike. And, with a little luck and a lot of research, the best boot will help you conquer each trail. What’s more, it’s just within reach if you try on any of our above picks. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and make some pb&j sandwiches, it’s gunna be a grand adventure.
Image Credit: Marco Verch Professional Photographer|(source)|Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
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