Waterproof Walking Shoes & Boots

Keeping your feet dry changes everything in bad weather. Waterproof hiking boots block out rain and ground moisture while staying breathable, so you can walk comfortably through a downpour or across sodden terrain. Here's how to choose the right pair.

Why choose a waterproof boot?

Out on the trail, water comes at you from all sides: rain, dew, mud, river crossings. A waterproof boot has a membrane that keeps water out while letting sweat escape. The result? Dry feet, fewer blisters, and more warmth in cold, damp conditions. That's real comfort when you're in the mountains or walking through the colder months.

Waterproof and breathable: dry feet, no sauna effect

The membrane does all the work: it keeps water out whilst letting the moisture your feet produce during exercise escape. Without breathability, your boot would turn into a sauna. Leather uppers, often treated with a water-repellent finish, add extra protection on more rugged models. One thing to note: a waterproof boot takes longer to dry out once water gets in over the top of the upper.

Sole and grip in wet conditions

On wet ground, grip is everything: a sole with deep lugs and sticky rubber keeps you steady on slick rock and mud. A good waterproof boot never skimps on traction. Depending on how you walk, take a look at the rest of our walking and trekking boots, available in high-cut or low-cut styles.

What's it best for?

A must-have for the mountains, mid-season walks and winter, or on wet terrain, a waterproof boot is slightly less breathable than a non-membrane model. For dry summer days, a well-ventilated boot will dry out faster. Pair yours with technical socks to keep your feet dry from the inside too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a waterproof walking boot breathable?

Yes : its membrane blocks water from the outside whilst letting perspiration escape. Without this breathability, your foot would end up damp and clammy. It's the balance between waterproofing and moisture evacuation that makes a good waterproof shoe.

When should you wear waterproof boots?

For rainy weather, in the mountains, during the mid-seasons and winter, or on wet and muddy terrain. For the dry summer months, a breathable, non-membrane boot is more airy and dries faster if it gets wet.

Does waterproof footwear dry quickly?

Slower to dry than a non-membraned model once water has got in through the shaft, as the membrane traps moisture inside. All the more reason to keep water out in the first place and air your boots out after every outing.

How to care for waterproof boots?

Clean off the mud, air dry away from any heat source, and reactivate the water repellency of the leather or fabric with a suitable product. Good care keeps the membrane waterproof for the long run.

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