The 30 best waterproof hiking boots brands in 2026
KEEN, Merrell and Timberland lead our ranking of 30 waterproof hiking boots brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Waterproof Hiking Boots brands, ranked
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1
KEEN
Keen is a Portland, Oregon-based footwear and accessory business. Their footwear may not be the most attractive you've ever seen, but it is undeniably the best shoe for outdoor sports like boating and hiking. Every time they leave the house, outdoor aficionados insist on wearing Keens. There is a Keen boot for everyone out there, thanks to their vast product range.
Website: keenfootwear.com |Brands like KEEN
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Merrell
Merrell is a leading hiking apparel company that makes clothing and footwear for people who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. They started by making hiking shoes and later expanded and added additional items to their catalog. The brand uses premium and highly durable materials in making its products. They also have footwear and clothes for casual wear and have a separate collection specially designed for kids.
Website: merrell.com |Brands like Merrell
Popularity 9.7/10
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3
Timberland
Fashion is a field that has the capability to make changes to the world we live in. It is a symbol of the society we are currently present and helps us to make a difference. Timberland has taken the responsibility to equip the people with the highest quality footwear accessories that will act as the tools for the change. They offer a wide range of products from boots to sandals, so you keep walking.
Website: timberland.com |Brands like Timberland
Popularity 8.2/10
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4
Northwest Territory
High-quality materials and fine craftsmanship are what go into making every single Northwest Territory boot. It has more than 50 years of expertise in the field and has perfected its craft of creating boots that are resilient to wear and tear. The company is recognized for its hiking boots that are perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers. Sandals, chukka & Chelsea boots, slippers, and wallets are also available with Northwest Territory.
Website: northwestterritory.co.uk |Brands like Northwest Territory
Popularity 8.1/10
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5
Clarks
Around two centuries ago, Cyrus and James Clark utilized the of-f-cuts of sheepskin to make a slipper. This stroke of genius and innovation continues to be seen today in the company's products. Clarks uses its state-of-the-art technology to manufacture shoes of all sizes and for all people. It takes great pride in its invention skills and craftsmanship and continues creating unique shoes for its customers.
Website: clarksusa.com |Brands like Clarks
Popularity 7.9/10
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6
Dreams
Dreams manufacture fabulous, creative, and reasonably priced beds. They develop and produce their collections, from mattresses to bases and headboards. They employ the best materials and oldest established production procedures to supply their clients with the most excellent quality products at best possible value. All of their goods are designed in the United Kingdom. They accomplish extraordinary results for you by utilizing best-quality materials, giving low costs, and paying strict attention to detail at every stage of manufacturing. It also means they can guarantee that each mattress will be as pleasant.
Website: dreams.co.uk |Brands like Dreams
Popularity 7.7/10
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7
Boots
Every person tries to preserve the beauty of their skin using various methods. But mostly, none of them works, and you lose that freshness you once felt. Boots brings you a variety of products that can change your life. They are among the leading retailers of healthcare and beauty products developed by experts. They offer a chain of items ranging from beauty and skin care products to special wellness products.
Website: boots.ie |Brands like Boots
Popularity 5.3/10
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8
Trespass
Trespass is an outdoor gear and apparel company that sells various products for outdoor activities like hiking and running. They carry clothing pieces like waterproof jackets and high-quality shoes for both men and women. The brand is based in Ireland and makes premium products that are highly functional and also stylish. Their products can be found on their physical stores and website, and they also ship worldwide. The company's prices are also very reasonable.
Website: trespass.com |Brands like Trespass
Popularity 5.2/10
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9
Northside
Northside footwear manufacturing company was founded in 1985, and since then, it has been based in the small Pacific Northwest town of Marysville, Washington. All the products are designed to provide maximum comfort and are highly durable. Boots for hiking...
Website: northsideusa.com |Brands like Northside
Popularity 5.1/10
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10
Karrimor
Karrimor is meant for the people who love the great outdoors. It is not advised to go on an adventure without equipment. If you are someone who is an active person who likes to live in the outside world, then...
Website: karrimor.com |Brands like Karrimor
Popularity 4.9/10
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11
Finn Comfort
Finn Comfort USA, Inc. is the US subsidiary of the German shoe manufacturer based in Detmold, Germany, that dates back to 1908. The company designs and produces high-quality shoes made from handcrafted leather with a focus on comfort and premium...
Website: finncomfortusa.net |Brands like Finn Comfort
Popularity 4.6/10
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12
Muck Boots
Muck Boots manufactures 100% waterproof boots and shoes that can withstand the wettest conditions in any weather. They are designed to be the most protective, comfortable, and dependable boots possible via extensive innovation, experimentation, and testing. It is intended to...
Website: muckbootcompany.eu |Brands like Muck Boots
Popularity 4.0/10
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13
Freedom
Freedom is a furniture manufacturer that focuses on producing premium-quality furniture. Style, functionality, and durability are carefully considered while selecting the freedom line of home and office furniture. Nearly every room in your house is covered by their selection of...
Website: freedom.com.au |Brands like Freedom
Popularity 3.9/10
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14
Ariat
Ariat is a leading manufacturer and marketer of more great equestrian footwear, outerwear, helmet, and accessories. They create and produce products made to last under the harshest situations, emphasizing innovation, premium materials, and modern technology. Some of the world's top...
Website: ariat.com |Brands like Ariat
Popularity 3.5/10
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15
Base London
Base London was established in the year 1995 and was one of the first branded shoe labels in Britain. It designed, developed a quality and diverse range of men's footwear leading it to become one of the top brands during...
Website: baselondon.com |Brands like Base London
Popularity 3.1/10
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16
Rockport
With years of shoemaking experience, Rockport has combined the comfort of sports shoes with the sharp and stylish aesthetic of dress and casual designs. They pay attention to every detail because they are ultimately compelled to create and explore. The...
Website: rockport.com |Brands like Rockport
Popularity 2.3/10
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17
Spartan
Nobody likes to wander from website to website to find things of interest because of the need to make things easier spartan has brought every information to one platform. The website's committed to providing race information. They are offering bike...
Website: spartan.com |Brands like Spartan
Popularity 2.2/10
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18
Camel
Camel Store is an outdoor gear and apparel manufacturing company used in various activities like running and hiking. Their products are made from durable material to withstand rigorous use while also looking fashionable. The company uses breathable and comfortable fabric...
Website: camelstore.com |Brands like Camel
Popularity 2.1/10
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19
Hanwag
Trekking and mountaineering are the adventures of a lifetime, but such experiences can be sour without the proper footwear. Hanwag ensures that your outdoor adventure is memorable by providing innovative and comfortable footwear. The footwear is made to conquer any...
Website: hanwag.com |Brands like Hanwag
Popularity 2.1/10
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20
Jack Pyke
Jack Pyke is a pioneer in designing and developing best-performance clothes, accessories, and footwear. Jack Pyke items range from equestrian to shooting, fishing, camping, and rural hobbies and include footwear, outdoor coats, and hunting equipment built for performance in all...
Website: jackpykeshop.co.uk |Brands like Jack Pyke
Popularity 2.0/10
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21
SCARPA
Scarpa is an Italian company that makes equipment for backcountry skiing, freeride skiing, telemark skiing, mountaineering, trekking, trail running, and climbing. They were the first to use lightweight plastic boots, and they used some of the world's most groundbreaking design...
Website: scarpa.com |Brands like SCARPA
Popularity 1.8/10
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22
Teva
Teva Footwear presents new collections and unique shoe ideas that make your mobility comfier. Their collection includes all types of variations that come in the footwear department. With the motto of free to roam, Teva Footwear distributes a great mix...
Website: teva.com |Brands like Teva
Popularity 1.8/10
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23
Wood Wood
Whether it's about fashion or comfort, confidence always comes in handy. Wood Wood is an exclusive international fashion and lifestyle brand that believes in mixing high-end fashion, sports, and streetwear with youth and urban culture, art, and music. The collection...
Website: woodwood.com |Brands like Wood Wood
Popularity 1.8/10
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24
Muck
Based in the USA, The Original Muck Boot Company was founded to protect customers' feet from muck and mud. The company sells waterproof and muck-proof boots for all kinds of weather and aims to be reliable and rural-spirited. The products...
Website: muckbootcompany.com |Brands like Muck
Popularity 1.8/10
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25
Thorogood
Thorogood is a company that deals with making boots. The company set its roots over 130 years ago, in 1892. They have gathered years of experience and become the makers of quality boots. Their products are of a high standard....
Website: thorogoodusa.com |Brands like Thorogood
Popularity 1.8/10
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26
Zamberlan
Everyone seeks thrill and adventures in life and finds different ways to get it. Zamberlan is a brand that helps fulfill this desire of many people through its comprehensive line of specific adventure shoes. The company's product range includes shoes...
Website: zamberlanusa.com |Brands like Zamberlan
Popularity 1.8/10
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27
Grafters
Grafters Industrial Footwear is renowned workwear and safety footwear wholesaler. They are continually searching for innovative designs and technologies that will improve your product offering since they love to innovate. Their shoes are best in quality and long-lasting, so you...
Website: grafters-industrial.co.uk |Brands like Grafters
Popularity 1.7/10
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28
Helly Hansen
Helly Hansen delivers the utmost protection for professionals that work in hazardous circumstances all around the world daily. With headquarters in Norway and offices around the globe, their products are created and tested via constant innovation. Their performance wear keeps...
Website: hellyhansen.com |Brands like Helly Hansen
Popularity 1.7/10
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29
Imac
iMac is a footwear brand with an elegant style of shoes, boots, and glamorous footwear. It manufactures water-resistant and waterproof boots for both men and women. iMac made up of trusted genuine leather of premium quality. The catalogue includes all...
Website: imacshoes.ie |Brands like Imac
Popularity 1.5/10
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30
Jack Wolfskin
Jack Wolfskin, based in Idstein, is a prominent German outdoor clothing and equipment manufacturer. Mountain and leisure apparel, boots, rucksacks, sleeping bags, and tents are among their offerings. It focuses on practicality, durability, and, above all, creating clothing that is...
Website: jack-wolfskin.com |Brands like Jack Wolfskin
Popularity 1.5/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KEEN | keenfootwear.com | /keen | keen | @keen | KEENoutdoor |
| Merrell | merrell.com | /merrell | – | @merrelloutside | MerrellOutside |
| Timberland | timberland.com | /timberland | timberland | – | – |
| Northwest Territory | northwestterritory.co.uk | – | – | – | – |
| Clarks | clarksusa.com | /ClarksShoes | clarksshoes | – | clarksshoes |
| Dreams | dreams.co.uk | /dreamsbeds | dreams_beds | @Dreams_Beds | dreams |
| Boots | boots.ie | – | – | – | – |
| Trespass | trespass.com | /trespass | Trespass | @Trespass | – |
| Northside | northsideusa.com | /NorthsideUSA | northside_usa | – | – |
| Karrimor | karrimor.com | – | – | – | – |
Waterproof Hiking Boots Buying Guide
When it comes to hiking, having the right footwear is essential. You need shoes or boots that support your ankles, provide enough grip and traction, and keep your feet dry and comfortable. In particular, having waterproof hiking boots can make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable, preventing blisters, cold feet, and other unpleasant foot-related problems. If you're considering buying a pair of waterproof hiking boots, here's what you need to know.
What Are Waterproof Hiking Boots?
As the name suggests, waterproof hiking boots are boots that are designed to keep water out. They are typically made from materials that repel or resist water, such as leather or synthetic fabrics with waterproof membranes. The most common type of waterproof hiking boots is Gore-Tex, a patented material that is both breathable and waterproof. However, other materials or treatments can also make boots waterproof, such as polyurethane coatings, silicones, or hydrophobic treatments.
Waterproof hiking boots come in different styles and designs, from ankle-high to mid-calf or knee-high boots, depending on the type of hiking and terrain you plan to tackle. Some waterproof hiking boots have additional features, such as reinforced toe caps, extra padding, or specialized lacing systems, to enhance their performance and durability.
Why Choose Waterproof Hiking Boots?
Waterproof hiking boots can offer several advantages over non-waterproof or regular hiking boots. Here are some of the benefits of choosing waterproof hiking boots:
- Keep your feet dry: The primary benefit of waterproof hiking boots is that they keep water out, whether it's from rain, snow, puddles, or streams. Wet feet can cause blisters, chafing, or even frostbite, so keeping your feet dry can prevent these issues.
- Offer breathability: Despite being waterproof, hiking boots can still be breathable and allow your feet to sweat and release moisture. Breathable boots can prevent your feet from getting too sweaty and smelly, which also reduces the risk of blisters and fungal infections.
- Improve comfort: When your feet are dry and cool, you'll feel more comfortable and less fatigued during long hikes. Waterproof hiking boots can provide additional cushioning and support for your feet, reducing the impact and preventing injuries.
- Enhance grip and traction: Wet or slippery terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially if you don't have enough traction. Waterproof hiking boots often have specialized outsoles that provide better grip and stability on wet or uneven surfaces, such as mud, rocks, or ice.
- Last longer: Waterproof hiking boots can withstand more wear and tear than regular boots, as they are made from tougher materials and reinforced with extra features. Investing in a high-quality pair of waterproof hiking boots can save you money in the long run, as you won't have to replace them as often.
How to Choose Waterproof Hiking Boots?
When buying waterproof hiking boots, there are several factors you need to consider to ensure that you get the right pair of boots for your needs. Here are some of the key aspects to pay attention to.
Material
The first thing to look for in waterproof hiking boots is the material. As mentioned, Gore-Tex is the most common material for waterproof boots, but it's not the only one. Other materials or treatments can also make boots waterproof, but they may have different pros and cons.
- Leather: Leather is a durable and breathable material that can be treated with water-resistant finishes or membranes to make it waterproof. Leather boots are often preferred for their classic look and comfort, but they may require more maintenance and break-in time.
- Synthetics: Synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, polyester or mesh, can also be waterproofed with membranes or coatings. Synthetic boots are often lighter and more flexible than leather boots, and they dry faster, but they may not be as durable or breathable.
- Hydrophobic treatments: Some boots may have hydrophobic treatments, such as DWR (durable water repellent) or PD (polytetrafluoroethylene), that repel water on the surface of the boots. These treatments can enhance the water-resistance of the boots, but they may wear off over time or lose effectiveness in heavy rain or submersion.
Fit and Comfort
The fit and comfort of the boots are critical to ensure that you have a pleasurable hiking experience. Ill-fitting or uncomfortable boots can cause blisters, hot spots, or pain, and make you less likely to hike again. Here are some tips to ensure that you choose boots that fit and feel great:
- Try the boots on with hiking socks: Make sure you wear the same socks you would use for hiking, as different socks can affect the fit and feel of the boots. Hiking socks should be breathable, moisture-wicking, and provide enough cushioning and support for your feet.
- Check the size and width: Make sure you choose the right size and width for your feet, as different brands and models may have different sizing charts. The boots should feel snug but not tight, and leave enough room for your toes to wiggle.
- Test the arch support and cushioning: The boots should provide enough arch support and cushioning for your feet, especially if you have flat feet or high arches. Try walking or hiking around the store or on different surfaces to see how the boots feel.
- Ensure a good ankle support: Hiking boots should provide enough ankle support to prevent sprains or injuries, especially on uneven or rocky terrain. The boots should fit snugly around your ankles, without rubbing or chafing.
Design and Features
Lastly, you also need to consider the design and features of the waterproof hiking boots to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Here are some features and considerations to look for:
- Outsole: The outsole is the bottom part of the boots that come into contact with the ground. The outsole should have enough grip, flexibility, and durability for the types of terrain you plan to hike on. Look for boots with lugged or multidirectional treads for better traction.
- Lacing system: The lacing system should be easy to use and adjust, and distribute the pressure evenly on your feet. Different boots may have different lacing systems, such as quick-lace, traditional, or buckle closures.
- Reinforcements: Some boots may have reinforced toe caps, heel counters, or shanks, to provide extra protection and support for your feet on rough terrain. Look for boots with these features if you plan to hike in rocky or steep areas.
- Weight: The weight of the boots can affect your comfort and energy levels during hiking. Lighter boots are usually more comfortable and flexible, but they may not be as resilient or waterproof as heavier boots.
- Price: Waterproof hiking boots can range from affordable to expensive, depending on the brand, model, and features. Set a budget and prioritize the features that matter most to you, such as water-resistance, breathability, or durability.
Conclusion
Waterproof hiking boots are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast who wants to keep their feet dry, comfortable, and protected during hiking. Whether you choose Gore-Tex, leather, or synthetic materials, make sure you choose boots that fit well, feel comfortable, and have the right features for your needs. With the right pair of waterproof hiking boots, you can explore new trails and conquer challenging terrain without worrying about your feet.
