Best Waterproof Hiking Boots in 2026
Wet feet can ruin a hike faster than almost anything else. We've tested and researched the top options for 2026 to bring you five boots that deliver real waterproof protection without sacrificing comfort or performance.
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Before diving in, check out our full hiking footwear guide if you're still deciding between boots, shoes, or trail runners—it covers terrain, pack weight, and fit considerations that will help you pick the right category first. If you already know you want a waterproof mid boot, read on.
All five picks below are men's versions. Women's fits exist for every model on this list—we note them in each section and link to our dedicated women's waterproof hiking boots guide so you can find the right fit for your foot shape.
What makes a hiking boot truly waterproof?
The membrane technology makes a big difference in how long protection lasts, how comfortable the boot is across seasons, and how much you'll pay.
GORE-TEX vs OutDry vs brand membranes
GORE-TEX is the most recognizable name in waterproof membranes, and for good reason—it's been refined over decades into one of the most reliable barriers available. A GORE-TEX-lined boot keeps water out for years of hard use, and the membrane is rated by GORE to maintain performance through extensive wet exposure. GORE-TEX Extended Comfort is the more breathable version; standard GORE-TEX Performance prioritizes waterproofing over airflow.
Columbia OutDry bonds the membrane directly to the outer material rather than attaching it as an inner liner. This eliminates the gap where moisture can accumulate inside non-OutDry boots, which improves dry-out time and reduces the "sweaty sock" effect. The direct-bond construction is highly durable and breathes comparably to standard Gore-Tex liners.
Brand-specific membranes — KEEN's KEEN.DRY, Merrell's M-Select DRY, and Oboz's B-DRY — are proprietary waterproof liners built into each brand's own boots. They're generally comparable to GORE-TEX in real-world waterproofing performance, cost less (because there's no licensing fee), and have improved significantly over the past few years. For day hiking and typical trail use, they're excellent.
The breathability trade-off
Here's the honest truth about waterproof boots: they're less breathable than non-waterproof boots. Every membrane creates a barrier that slows moisture vapor escaping from your foot—which means your feet run warmer and sweat more in hot, dry conditions.
GORE-TEX and OutDry are meaningfully more breathable than early-generation membranes, but no waterproof boot breathes like a mesh non-waterproof boot. If you hike primarily in hot, dry climates where trails dry quickly, a non-waterproof boot with good drainage may actually keep your feet more comfortable than a sealed waterproof boot.
When waterproof boots are (and aren't) worth it
Worth it when: you hike in the Pacific Northwest, Northeast, or anywhere with persistent wet conditions; you cross streams regularly; you hike in early spring when trails are muddy; you hike in cool or cold temperatures where wet feet become a hypothermia risk.
Skip the membrane when: you hike primarily in the Southwest or dry climates; you're a fast-and-light hiker who prefers shoes that dry quickly after a stream crossing; you're hiking in summer heat where foot sweat is a bigger comfort concern than external moisture.
For a full breakdown of how waterproofing fits into your footwear decision, see our hiking footwear guide.
Our top picks for waterproof hiking boots in 2026
Best Overall Waterproof — Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid is the default starting point for waterproof hiking boots for a good reason: it fits a wide range of foot shapes right out of the box, needs almost no break-in time, and costs significantly less than premium alternatives. The Moab 3 Mid waterproof version adds M-Select DRY waterproof membrane, a cushioned Q FORM midsole, and the iconic Vibram TC5+ outsole that grips confidently on both wet rock and dry dirt.
What sets the Moab 3 apart is its combination of accessibility and performance. The fit is roomy in the toe box and well-padded at the collar, making it one of the most comfortable first-hike boots available. The mid-cut height adds ankle support without feeling stiff or restrictive. At around $117 as of mid-2026, it's hard to beat this level of all-around capability.
A women's version is also available—the Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is consistently one of the top picks in the women's category as well.
Most Durable — KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
KEEN has built a reputation for boots that last, and the Targhee 4 Mid is no exception. The defining characteristic is KEEN's famously roomy toe box, which gives your toes real room to splay naturally—a huge benefit on long descents when feet swell. The protective rubber toe bumper and heel cap handle the rocky abuse that wears out lighter boots quickly.
The Targhee 4 uses KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane and features a wider platform that hikers with medium-to-wide feet find extremely comfortable on long days. The outsole is grippy and durable, holding up well on mixed terrain. At around $135 as of mid-2026, it's a step up from the budget tier but still reasonable for boots this durable.
KEEN makes a women's Targhee 4 Mid as well—it's a top pick in our best hiking boots for women guide.
Best for Technical Terrain — Salomon Men's X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX Waterproof Hiking Boot
If you spend time on loose scree, exposed ridgelines, or anything that demands precise footwork, the Salomon X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX is in a different league. Salomon builds boots with a trail-runner-influenced design philosophy—lower weight, snappier response, and more ground feel than traditional hiking boots—and the X Ultra Flare takes that approach with a proper GORE-TEX waterproof membrane.
The Contagrip MA outsole with its multi-directional lug pattern grips confidently on both wet rock and loose dirt. The Advanced Chassis midsole plate offers torsional rigidity for technical scrambling. Salomon's Quicklace system cinches the fit precisely with one pull. At around $150 as of mid-2026, you're paying for the technical engineering—and it delivers.
The Salomon X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX women's version is equally well-regarded for technical terrain.
Best Budget — Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is the go-to recommendation for hikers who need real waterproof protection without spending over $100. At around $89 as of mid-2026, it consistently delivers on the basics: Columbia's Omni-TECH waterproof membrane keeps water out, the Techlite midsole is cushioned and surprisingly lightweight, and the Omni-GRIP outsole handles packed dirt trails reliably.
The Newton Ridge is more traditional and structured than performance-focused boots—it's not the choice for fast-and-light hikers or technical terrain, but for casual day hikes, car camping, or hikers just getting started, it's excellent value. The full-grain leather and suede upper is durable and breaks in well over time.
Columbia also makes a well-priced women's Newton Ridge—see our budget hiking boots roundup for both options side by side.
Best Value — Oboz Men's Sawtooth X Mid B-DRY Waterproof Hiking Boot
Oboz is a Montana-based brand that punches above its weight in quality. The Sawtooth X Mid B-DRY uses Oboz's proprietary B-DRY waterproof lining paired with a supportive, cushioned midsole that delivers a planted, stable feel underfoot—particularly good for hikers who prefer a grounded sensation rather than a bouncy ride.
The Sawtooth X sits between budget and premium in price (around $90 as of mid-2026) but offers features and durability that match boots costing more. The Trail Tread outsole grips well on wet and dry surfaces, and the mid-cut collar provides solid ankle support without excessive stiffness. For hikers who want a durable, capable waterproof boot without paying GORE-TEX premium prices, this is one of the best-value options on the market.
Oboz also produces a women's Sawtooth waterproof option—check our women's hiking boots guide for details.
How our picks compare at a glance
| Boot | Membrane | Best for | Price | |---|---|---|---| | Merrell Moab 3 Mid | M-Select DRY | All-around day hiking | ~$117 | | KEEN Targhee 4 Mid | KEEN.DRY | Wide feet, long-term durability | ~$135 | | Salomon X Ultra Flare Mid | GORE-TEX | Technical terrain, agile feel | ~$150 | | Columbia Newton Ridge II | Omni-TECH | Budget hikers, casual trails | ~$89 | | Oboz Sawtooth X Mid | B-DRY | Value seekers, stable feel | ~$90 |
For more side-by-side comparisons and sizing advice, our how hiking boots should fit guide covers everything from toe room to heel lock.
What to consider when buying waterproof hiking boots
Mid vs. low cut: All five picks above are mid-cut boots, which add ankle collar support. If you carry a heavy pack, hike off-trail, or have a history of ankle sprains, mid-cut is worth the slight weight penalty. Lighter day hikers may prefer low-cut waterproof hiking shoes—see our men's hiking boots guide for mid and low-cut options together.
Fit and sizing: Waterproof boots typically fit slightly snugger than non-waterproof versions because the membrane adds a layer—see our boot fit and break-in guide for the full sizing process.
Wide feet: KEEN and Merrell both offer wide widths. The KEEN Targhee's naturally roomy toe box is often the first recommendation for hikers with wide or high-volume feet—see our best hiking boots for wide feet guide for targeted recommendations.
Break-in time: Waterproof boots with stiffer materials (leather, TPU frames) take longer to break in than mesh non-waterproof boots. Plan on 4–6 short walks before your first long hike.
Frequently asked questions
Are waterproof hiking boots worth it? For most hikers in most conditions, yes. If you hike in the Pacific Northwest, mountains, or anywhere with unpredictable weather, waterproof boots provide meaningful protection that keeps you comfortable and reduces blister risk from wet socks. In very hot, dry climates, a non-waterproof boot may keep your feet cooler and more comfortable day-to-day.
Are waterproof hiking boots breathable? They're less breathable than non-waterproof boots, but modern membranes like GORE-TEX and OutDry have improved significantly. Your feet will still generate moisture on long hikes—the membrane slows how fast that vapor escapes. To manage this, choose moisture-wicking hiking socks and consider lighter waterproof boots (like the Salomon X Ultra Flare) for warmer days.
How long do waterproof hiking boots last? Most quality hiking boots last 500–1,000 miles depending on terrain, your body weight, and how aggressively you hike. Waterproof membranes typically outlast the outsole—you'll usually retire boots because the lugs are worn flat before the membrane fails. Re-treating the outer material with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) spray every season extends waterproof performance.
Can I use waterproof boots for winter hiking? Waterproof boots help in cold, wet conditions, but true winter hiking in snow and ice requires insulated boots and potentially microspikes or crampons. Waterproof alone does not mean warm—look for boots with 200g or 400g insulation for cold-season use.
Do waterproof boots work in deep water crossings? No. Waterproof boots keep out surface moisture, splashes, and brief submersion, but once water rises above the boot collar, it pours in. For deep stream crossings, water shoes or fast-drying trail runners are a better choice—or simply wade through and let non-waterproof boots dry quickly on the other side.
Men's or women's specific? Women's hiking boots are engineered for narrower heels, lower-volume ankles, and different arch profiles—not just a smaller version of men's boots. Wearing the wrong fit dramatically increases blister risk. See our women's hiking boots guide for women's-specific picks from these same brands.
The bottom line
The best waterproof hiking boot is the one that fits your foot shape, matches your terrain, and stays within your budget. For most hikers, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is the right starting point—it delivers all-around capability at a fair price with minimal break-in. If durability matters most, the KEEN Targhee 4 Mid is built to last. For technical terrain, the Salomon X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX is the most capable and agile. And if budget is the primary concern, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II and Oboz Sawtooth X Mid both deliver solid waterproof protection under $100.
Once you've chosen your boots, revisit our complete hiking footwear guide for advice on pairing them with the right socks, breaking them in properly, and knowing when it's time to replace them.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid is the perennial best-selling waterproof hiking boot for good reason: it fits an unusually wide range of foot shapes out of the box, requires almost no break-in, and costs well under $120.
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid is the perennial best-selling waterproof hiking boot for good reason: it fits an unusually wide range of foot shapes out of the box, requires almost no break-in, and costs well under $120. The Moab 3 Mid adds a cushioned footbed made with partly recycled content, a Vibram TC5+ outsole for confident grip on both wet and dry surfaces, and M-Select DRY waterproof membrane that keeps feet dry through puddles, dew-soaked grass, and light stream crossings. The mid-cut collar adds useful ankle support without stiffness.
What we like
Comfortable from the very first mile with minimal break-in, a roomy fit that suits most foot shapes, and Vibram grip that handles wet trails with confidence.
KEEN Targhee 4 Mid Waterproof
KEEN's Targhee line has earned a reputation for durability and longevity, and the Targhee 4 Mid is the best version yet.
KEEN's Targhee line has earned a reputation for durability and longevity, and the Targhee 4 Mid is the best version yet. The signature roomy toe box gives your toes space to splay naturally on long descents, reducing hotspots and black toenails. A protective rubber toe bumper and reinforced heel cap handle rocky, abusive terrain. KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane provides reliable waterproofing, and the wider platform makes this the top choice for medium-to-wide feet who want a boot that will last several seasons of hard hiking.
What we like
Exceptionally durable with a roomy toe box that stays comfortable on long descents—ideal for hikers with wider feet who want boots that outlast the trail.
Salomon X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX
Salomon builds waterproof hiking boots with a trail-runner philosophy—lower weight, agile response, and precise footwork—and the X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX is the best expression of that approach.
Salomon builds waterproof hiking boots with a trail-runner philosophy—lower weight, agile response, and precise footwork—and the X Ultra Flare Mid GORE-TEX is the best expression of that approach. A proper GORE-TEX membrane provides waterproofing you can trust in sustained wet conditions. The Contagrip MA outsole bites into loose scree and wet rock with confidence, while the Advanced Chassis midsole plate delivers torsional rigidity for technical scrambling. Salomon's one-pull Quicklace system locks the fit precisely. The most capable boot on this list for exposed, demanding terrain.
What we like
Agile, precise, and fully waterproof—delivers trail-runner-like responsiveness with GORE-TEX protection and outstanding Contagrip traction on technical ground.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is the standard recommendation for hikers who want genuine waterproof protection without spending over $100.
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is the standard recommendation for hikers who want genuine waterproof protection without spending over $100. Columbia's Omni-TECH membrane blocks water reliably, the Techlite midsole provides cushioned, lightweight support, and the Omni-GRIP outsole handles packed dirt and gravel trails well. The leather, suede, and mesh upper is structured and durable, breaking in steadily with use. This is a traditional, stable boot—not built for fast or technical hiking, but ideal for casual day hikes, camping trips, and first-time boot buyers who want dependable wet-weather protection.
What we like
Reliable Omni-TECH waterproofing and comfortable cushioning at a price that undercuts most outdoor brands—excellent value for casual day hikers and beginners.
Oboz Sawtooth X Mid B-DRY
Oboz is a Montana-based brand that consistently delivers quality above its price point.
Oboz is a Montana-based brand that consistently delivers quality above its price point. The Sawtooth X Mid B-DRY uses Oboz's B-DRY waterproof lining paired with a supportive, cushioned midsole engineered for a grounded, planted feel underfoot—appreciated by hikers who dislike the bouncy sensation of heavily cushioned boots. The Trail Tread outsole grips confidently on wet and dry surfaces, and the mid-cut collar provides solid ankle support. At around $90 as of mid-2026, the Sawtooth X offers durability and performance that competes with boots priced $30–40 higher, making it the best value per dollar on this list.
What we like
Solid B-DRY waterproofing, stable planted feel, and durable construction at a price that punches well above its weight—a genuine value find.
Review of Our Favorite 3
About the Author
Victoria Miller
Victoria Miller is passionate about literature and outdoor adventures. After completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Utah, she spent a year traveling and hiking throughout New Zealand and Europe. She is an avid reader and has a penchant for escaping into worlds of her own creation.
