Unearth The Voyage
You don’t need perfect weather to crush a perfect hike. We laced up the most talked‑about waterproof boots and dragged them through mud, snow, slick rock, and root-laced climbs to see what truly holds up. From ultralight rockets to burly backpacking workhorses, these picks kept our feet dry and confidence high. Ready to find your next trail-proof companion? Let’s dive in.
1. Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX excels where speed meets security. Its Contagrip outsole bites into wet slabs and loose gravel, while the GORE-TEX membrane shrugs off creek crossings and slushy shoulder-season trails. We loved the precise chassis that keeps ankles aligned without feeling restrictive on quick scrambles. Traction stayed dependable on mossy roots and dusty switchbacks alike. Breathability proved solid for a waterproof boot, minimizing clamminess during steep climbs. Fit runs performance-snug; consider sizing accordingly for thicker socks. For hikers who prize agility without sacrificing confidence, this boot is a weather-anything all-rounder.
2. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is the dependable daily driver of trail boots. Its cushioning feels plush right out of the box, and the Vibram outsole offers trustworthy grip on muddy inclines and chattery gravel descents. The waterproof membrane held strong in puddles and rain, while the upper’s durability shrugged off scuffs. Support is moderate but comfortable for day hikes and light loads. We appreciated the roomy toe box, which prevented hot spots on longer hikes. Not the lightest in the category, yet its comfort-to-cost ratio shines. A crowd-pleaser for varied terrain and changing weather.
3. Salomon Quest 4 GTX
When the route gets remote and the pack gets heavy, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX steps in. This boot’s supportive chassis and tall collar stabilize ankles on off-camber traverses and loose talus. The GORE-TEX liner blocked sustained rain and snowfields without soggy socks. Underfoot, the firm midsole inspires confidence under load, translating energy efficiently across long mileage. Traction is excellent on wet granite and rooty singletrack. Break-in is minimal for such a robust boot, though the fit favors medium-volume feet. Ideal for multi-day missions, it’s a fortress for backpackers tackling demanding terrain and unpredictable conditions.
4. Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
The Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX brings plush cushioning to wet, rugged trails. Its rocker profile rolls smoothly over mileage, easing fatigue on long days. We found the Vibram outsole steady on damp rock and packed mud, while the GORE-TEX membrane sealed out weather without turning the boot into a sauna. Heel stability feels dialed, and forefoot flex keeps steps natural. It’s lighter than traditional backpacking options, making it great for fast-paced day hikes and weekend loads. Fit skews slightly generous in the forefoot. Comfort-first hikers who refuse to compromise on waterproofing will love this pick.
5. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
Built for technical missions, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX grips like a mountain cat. Its aggressive lugs claw into scree and mud, and the protective toe bumper takes the sting out of stubbed rock contact. The GORE-TEX liner kept our socks dry through snow patches and creek hops. Despite its burly traction, the boot remains nimble, bridging trail-runner agility with mid-top security. Fit is performance-snug with excellent midfoot hold. On sharp climbs and sketchy descents, stability inspires bold foot placements. For rugged, steep, and variable surfaces, this boot is a precision instrument.
6. Columbia Escape Thrive Titanium OutDry Mid
Columbia’s Escape Thrive Titanium OutDry Mid leverages a seamless OutDry membrane to lock out water without extra bulk. We appreciated the immediate comfort and lively midsole response on rolling terrain. The outsole’s multi-directional lugs handled sloppy mud and slick boardwalks far better than expected. Upper materials resisted abrasion from brushy trails, and drainage remained controlled in sustained rain. It’s a versatile, modern-feeling boot for hikers who want all-weather security with a springy ride. Fit is medium with a forgiving forefoot. If your adventures span rainy forests and mixed singletrack, this is a compelling waterproof companion.
7. Hoka Kaha 3 GTX
The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX is a cushion fortress tailor-made for long hauls. Its towering midsole smooths out rock gardens and rooty corridors, reducing leg fatigue on back-to-back big days. Vibram Megagrip rubber bites confidently on wet slabs, and the GORE-TEX liner seals out weather relentlessly. Despite the plush feel, lateral stability is impressively controlled. The supportive heel cup and refined upper deliver a locked-in, cramp-free fit. It’s not the lightest, but efficiency blossoms over distance. If you want all-day comfort, stout waterproofing, and reliable traction in one package, the Kaha 3 is a standout.
8. Zamberlan Thunder GTX
The Zamberlan Thunder GTX blends Italian craftsmanship with trail-ready performance. Its leather upper, backed by a GORE-TEX lining, fends off weather and ages gracefully. Underfoot, the Vibram outsole grips confidently across loose rock, wet roots, and compact dirt. The boot strikes a sweet spot between immediate comfort and long-term support, suitable for day hikes or light backpacking. We admired the precise heel hold and smooth flex pattern that keeps strides efficient. Break-in is brief for a leather-dominant build. A durable, versatile option for hikers who value classic materials without sacrificing modern waterproof reliability.
9. Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry
The Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry is a tank in the best way. Its supportive platform and stout nubuck upper create a secure, protective ride, while the B-DRY membrane keeps water out through slush and stream splashes. The outsole’s deep lugs excel on muddy inclines and rocky steps alike. We found arch support excellent for long days, and the fit leans slightly structured with a roomy toe box. It’s heavier than fast-and-light options, but durability is top-tier. For hikers who prioritize support, longevity, and dependable waterproofing, the Bridger Mid is a trustworthy trail partner.
10. Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof
The Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof brings day-hike comfort and trail versatility in a familiar package. Its roomy toe box keeps feet happy on swelling miles, and the waterproof membrane holds strong in drizzle and shallow crossings. Traction is reliable across dirt, light mud, and slabby rock, while the mid-height collar adds welcome ankle assurance. Cushioning is balanced and supportive without feeling bulky. We appreciated the easy on-trail manners and minimal break-in. Not the most technical choice for steep scrambles, but for varied everyday terrain and fickle weather, it’s a comfort-first crowd favorite.
11. Altra Lone Peak 9 WP Mid
The Altra Lone Peak 9 WP Mid caters to hikers craving a natural stride with real weather protection. Its zero-drop platform and FootShape toe box encourage stable, splay-friendly footing over uneven terrain. The waterproof upper kept feet dry during unexpected showers, while the grippy outsole handled sandstone and soft loam. Cushioning is moderate and responsive, ideal for fast-paced day missions. We noticed excellent ground feel without punishing impacts. Fit is generous up front with a secure midfoot wrap. For lightweight adventures where flexibility, comfort, and waterproofing matter, this boot checks all the right boxes.
