The 30 best waterproof hiking shoes brands
Valley, Dreams and Hoggs of Fife lead our ranking of 30 waterproof hiking shoes brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Waterproof Hiking Shoes brands, ranked
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1
Valley
Valley Tool is a Canadian-owned family business supplying North American customers with woodworking and gardening equipment since 1978. Professionals formed their firm on the concept that more fantastic equipment should be affordable to everyone, and they continue to provide items that are the best value for money. Products are sold through the company's website, catalogs, and retail locations in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It sells hundreds of items, from toy and hobby carvings to commercial-grade furniture and fittings.
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Dreams
Dreams makes retro suspender belts and girdles in the UK, and its range now includes garter belts with metal clips and elastic straps. Its nylon garter belts come in several strap counts, from four to fourteen, with adjusters for a close fit. Full bras and women's clothing also appear under the Dreams name.
Popularity 6.9/10
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3
Hoggs of Fife
If you have a craze for country clothing and accessories, Hoggs of Fire might help you find the best. An apparel and footwear brand founded way back in 1888, Hoggs of Fire has a diverse product catalog for you. You can witness fashion and quality go hand in hand across the categories of men’s, women’s, and kid’s apparel, footwear, and accessories. So, the next time you wish to grab the most comfortable and stylish country clothing, pick Hoggs of Fire.
Website: hoggs.co.uk |Brands like Hoggs of Fife
Popularity 6.2/10
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4
KEEN
KEEN builds outdoor footwear and accessories from Portland, Oregon, and its work centers on hiking and water sports. The brand makes boots and shoes for men, women, and kids. Its footwear is widely worn by people who spend time on trails and near water.
Website: keenfootwear.com |Brands like KEEN
Popularity 5.9/10
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5
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 5.9/10
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6
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 Karrimor has got you covered with the range of camping and other outdoor gear you will need. Footwear is a significant pivot point for the company. They started making suitable footwear to travel the rough and uneven terrain. Camping gear and rucksacks are also on sale.
Website: karrimor.com |Brands like Karrimor
Popularity 4.8/10
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7
Finn Comfort
Finn Comfort makes shoes from handcrafted leather in Germany, where the company has been based since 1908. Its Comfort System by Finn air technology is built into sandals, slippers and casual shoes for women and men.
Website: finncomfortusa.net |Brands like Finn Comfort
Popularity 4.6/10
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8
Mammut
Mammut has been creating the best quality items for mountain sports lovers since 1862. They are a luxury outdoor brand with hundreds of places the sale in over 60 countries, with their stores serving as the primary distribution route. They are a group of enthusiastic people who share the same goals and motivate others to attain them. Thanks to its endurance, slashing technology, and great materials, Mammut has always been the go-to choice for adventurers excited about their sports.
Website: mammut.com |Brands like Mammut
Popularity 4.5/10
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9
Grisport
Grisport makes men's boots, casual shoes and leather footwear designed for walking and outdoor work. Its range covers walking boots, safety boots and casual leather shoes, with leather care products sold alongside. The brand focuses on comfort for both everyday...
Website: grisport.co.uk |Brands like Grisport
Popularity 4.4/10
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10
Wolverine
Wolverine builds work boots, waterproof boots, and wide-fit men's shoes for outdoor and job use. The company was started in 1883 by G.A. Krause and has kept producing footwear for more than a century. Its boots are made to be...
Website: wolverine.com |Brands like Wolverine
Popularity 4.1/10
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11
Gelert
Gelert supplies camping gear for families and outdoor fans, including tents, sleeping bags and rucksacks. The British brand, founded in 1975, offers items for walking, trekking and climbing as well as children's camping kit. Its range covers everything from basic...
Website: gelert.com |Brands like Gelert
Popularity 4.0/10
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12
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...
Popularity 3.9/10
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13
SCARPA
SCARPA builds boots and footwear for backcountry skiing, mountaineering, trekking, trail running, and climbing. The Italian company is credited with introducing lightweight plastic ski boots. Its products suit demanding terrain and put performance and safety first for outdoor users at...
Website: scarpa.com |Brands like SCARPA
Popularity 3.7/10
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14
Trespass
Padding jackets and fleece jackets sit alongside waterproof and rain coats in the Trespass range. The Irish company makes outdoor clothing for activities such as hiking and running, with a choice of styles across the range. Its garments are designed...
Website: trespass.com |Brands like Trespass
Popularity 3.5/10
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15
SALEWA
From Italy, Salewa makes outdoor footwear and clothing for mountain climbing and other demanding activities. Its men's hiking shoes and boots are built for harsh conditions, and the brand also makes footwear for babies. Mountain climbing shapes the design of...
Website: salewa.com |Brands like SALEWA
Popularity 3.4/10
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16
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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17
Oboz
Inspired by the mountain trails at Bozeman, a group of passionate designers at Oboz made the ideal footwear that is perfect for hikers, runners, bikers, and practically everyone. Their iconic footwear is designed to mirror the lovely simplicity of a...
Website: obozfootwear.com |Brands like Oboz
Popularity 3.1/10
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18
Grafters
Grafters produces leather work boots and shoes for industrial and safety use, and its footwear is built to last. The brand sells wholesale to buyers in more than 150 countries. Its durable leather boots and shoes are made for demanding...
Website: grafters-industrial.co.uk |Brands like Grafters
Popularity 3.0/10
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19
Merrell
Merrell designs hiking footwear and outdoor clothing for people who spend time on trails. The brand started with hiking shoes and later added boots, casual footwear and clothing. Its products use durable materials, and it also offers a children's collection.
Website: merrell.com |Brands like Merrell
Popularity 2.9/10
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20
Danner
Hikers, hunters and tradespeople who need waterproof boots for rough ground often choose Danner. The company has made leather boots since 1932 and builds them with grain leather uppers and supportive soles. Its men's boots and leather shoes are designed...
Website: danner.com |Brands like Danner
Popularity 2.8/10
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21
Dolomite
Dolomite designs boots and shoes for hiking and city wear, drawing on a long Italian tradition of mountain footwear. Its men's boots, casual shoes and women's shoes are built with technical features for comfort on rough ground. The Black Shoes...
Website: dolomite.it |Brands like Dolomite
Popularity 2.8/10
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22
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 2.7/10
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23
Palladium
If you love adventures and seizing every new day is what excites you, then Palladium has got your back. They offer footwear for women, men, and kids and celebrates those who explore the urban environment with a brave attitude. From...
Website: palladiumboots.com |Brands like Palladium
Popularity 2.7/10
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24
Dunham
Dunham builds men's boots and shoes for all-day comfort. Waterproof options include a mid boot, and casual styles include a country low lace-up. Many pairs come in wide and extra-wide sizes. Its lineup also includes oxfords, slip-on sneakers and work...
Popularity 2.4/10
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25
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...
Popularity 2.1/10
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26
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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27
Asolo
Asolo manufactures footwear that is ideal for all outdoor activities. They have hiking boots and other sports footwear. The best-selling item from their women's range is the Eldo Lth, which are soft and stylish boots designed for specialist courses and...
Website: asolo.com |Brands like Asolo
Popularity 2.0/10
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28
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 1.8/10
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29
HAIX
HAIX was established back in 1948. The founder, Xaver Haimerl, intended to dedicate this business to footwear. The company was established in the Bavarian town of Mainburg. Hiking and work boots were the primary selling points for the company. HAIX...
Website: haixusa.com |Brands like HAIX
Popularity 1.8/10
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30
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...
Website: northwestterritory.co.uk |Brands like Northwest Territory
Popularity 1.7/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoggs of Fife | hoggs.co.uk | /hoggsoffife | hoggsoffife | @hoggsoffife | – |
| KEEN | keenfootwear.com | /keen | keen | @keen | KEENoutdoor |
| Timberland | timberland.com | /timberland | timberland | – | – |
| Karrimor | karrimor.com | – | – | – | – |
| Finn Comfort | finncomfortusa.net | – | – | – | – |
| Mammut | mammut.com | – | – | – | – |
| Grisport | grisport.co.uk | /GRIsport-UK | grisport_uk | @grisport_uk | Grisport UK |
| Wolverine | wolverine.com | /WolverineBoots | wolverine | @wolverine | wolverinebrand |
Waterproof Hiking Shoes Buying Guide
If you're someone who enjoys outdoor activities and explorations, then having the right gear is essential. Hiking shoes are one of the most important investments for every hiker. A good pair of hiking shoes can make your outdoor activities more comfortable, safer and enjoyable.
When it comes to hiking, your feet are your primary tool. Therefore, it is important to choose the right hiking shoes that provide proper support, stability, and protection for your feet.
Moreover, if you're hiking in wet and rainy areas, having waterproof hiking shoes is crucial. Wet feet can lead to blisters, chafing, and even hypothermia, which can ruin your entire trip.
Buying waterproof hiking shoes can be overwhelming with many options available in the market. However, this guide will help you choose the right waterproof hiking shoes that meet your needs.
Consider the Hiking Conditions
The first step when shopping for waterproof hiking shoes is to consider the hiking conditions. The type of hiking you engage in, and the environment you plan to hike in will determine the type of hiking shoes you need.
Some of the factors to consider include:
Weather Conditions
The weather condition and the environment you plan to hike in will affect the type of waterproof hiking shoes you choose. If you plan to hike in wet and muddy environments, then you need hiking shoes with strong waterproof protection. However, if you plan to hike in dry areas, then you don't require high waterproof protection.
Terrain
The terrain you plan to hike in will also affect the type of hiking shoes you need. If you plan to hike on rugged terrains, you need hiking shoes with sturdy soles and good traction. For smooth terrains, a lightweight shoe with a less rigid sole would be sufficient.
Hiking Intensity
The intensity of your hiking is another factor to consider when buying waterproof hiking shoes. If you plan to engage in long hikes, then get shoes with comfortable footbeds, good cushioning, and arch support for reduced fatigue. If you engage in short hikes, then less cushioning would be enough.
Types of Waterproof Hiking Shoes
When shopping for waterproof hiking shoes, you will come across different types of shoes. It's essential to understand the different types of waterproof hiking shoes to choose the right one that meets your needs.
Lightweight Hiking Shoes
Lightweight hiking shoes are designed for individuals who want to hike fast and have low-weight gear. They are comfortable, breathable, and suitable for short hikes or day hikes. They provide less ankle support, making them suitable for smooth terrain hiking. Lightweight hiking shoes are not suitable for rugged or steep terrain hiking.
Advantages:
- Lightweight, hence suitable for fast hiking
- Flexible, making them comfortable for long hikes
- Breathable, ensuring your feet don't stink
- Less cushioned, giving you better connection to the ground
Mid-Weight Hiking Shoes
Mid-weight shoes are suitable for individuals who want to hike on ruggedterrain. They offer a balance between weight, durability, and ankle support.
Mid-weight hiking shoes are suitable for multi-day hiking or hiking with a heavy pack because they can support your feet, ankles and protect your toes from impacts. They also have thicker soles that provide comfortable cushioning on hard terrain.
Advantages:
- More supportive and durable than lightweight hiking shoes
- Provide better grip and protection for rugged terrain
- Occupy the middle ground in terms of weight and support
- Generally, less expensive than heavier hiking shoes
Heavy Hiking Shoes/Backpacking Boots
Heavy hiking shoes/backpacking boots are designed for individuals who plan to hike on steep and rocky terrain, for multi-day backpacking trips, or with heavy packs. They have thick soles, sturdy lacing systems, and offer the highest degree of support, protection, and traction.
Heavy hiking shoes/backpacking boots are heavy, have insulated, and have a high degree of waterproofing. These shoes are suitable for individuals who plan to hike over long distances and need comfortable, supportive, and durable shoes.
Advantages:
- Excellent ankle support and protection
- Much more durable than lightweight hiking shoes and midweight hiking shoes
- Optimum support for steep and rocky terrain
- Many heavy hiking shoes offer ample waterproofing
Waterproof Technology
When it comes to waterproof hiking shoes, the technology used is important in determining its performance. There are several types of waterproof technology used in hiking shoes, including:
Gore-Tex
Gore-Tex is a membrane used in waterproof hiking shoes to keep feet dry even in the heaviest of rainfalls. Gore-Tex is highly breathable, which allows heat and moisture from the feet to move outside the shoe. Gore-Tex provides excellent waterproofing while keeping the feet comfortable and dry.
Advantages:
- Completely waterproof
- Breathable
- Keeps feet dry and comfortable
- Durable and long-lasting
Event
Event is a waterproof technology that offers a high degree of protection against the elements. It is highly breathable, which keeps the feet dry and comfortable. Event technology is designed for use in harsh conditions and offers reliable waterproof protection.
Advantages:
- Provides a high level of waterproof protection
- Very breathable, which keeps feet dry and comfortable
- Durable and long-lasting
H2No
Patagonia's H2No technology is another waterproof technology used in some hiking shoes. H2No is highly breathable and keeps feet dry in wet conditions. H2No technology allows moisture and heat to escape, maintaining comfortable feet.
Advantages:
- Completely waterproof
- Breathable
- Durable and long-lasting
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are crucial when it comes to hiking shoes. Hiking shoes that don't fit properly can cause discomfort and pain, leading to a miserable experience. When purchasing waterproof hiking shoes, the following tips can be helpful:
Try on Hiking Shoes Late in the Day
Feet tend to swell during the day, which can affect shoe fit. When trying on hiking shoes, do it towards the end of the day when your feet have expanded. This will help you get an accurate fit.
Wear Hiking Socks
When trying on hiking shoes, wear hiking socks. Hiking socks are padded and provide a better feel of how the shoes will fit when outdoors.
Use the Store's Insole
The insole that comes with the hiking shoe is designed for that particular shoe. Most shoe companies use removable insoles that can be replaced with custom insoles. However, before you replace the insole, use the one that comes with the shoe to get a better feel of the fit.
Walk Around in the Shoes
Before you purchase the hiking shoes, walk around the store to determine how they feel. Take note of areas that are tight, rubbing, and overly stiff. The shoes should feel comfortable and flexible while providing support.
Conclusion
When it comes to outdoor activities, waterproof hiking shoes are essential. They provide protection, support, and comfort needed on rugged terrain or during wet conditions. When buying hiking shoes, it's essential to consider the hiking conditions, types of waterproof hiking shoes, waterproof technology, comfort, and fit.
Avoid buying shoes based solely on their design, brand, or price since this can lead to purchasing the wrong shoe. When you're fully equipped with selection criteria for waterproof hiking shoes, you can easily identify what you need and make the right purchase that will satisfy your needs for many outdoor activities to come.
