Read and follow the waterproofing product’s application instructions. Some treatments will ask you to apply the treatment when the boots are dry. Others will require the boots to be fully soaked in water. To ensure a successful waterproofing treatment, following the instructions is a must. For hikers who like a bit of ground feel, the 31.5 mm midsole heel height is a bonus (the average is 35.8 mm), and it also helps to keep the weight down. At just 13.8 oz (390g), the X Ultra Mid GTX is almost as light as a hiking shoe, but with the extra support afforded by a boot. Given that the average weight for hiking boots is 19.5 oz (553g), this is a godsend! It’s also got some of the most amazing waterproofing we’ve seen - the gusseted tongue and high collar keep the water out, even when standing in running water for over a minute!

We measured the flexibility of the boot with a force gauge by bending the boot to 90°. The average measurement is 42.8N - at 27.9N the X Ultra Mid GTX is a really flexible boot! It gave us a lot of confidence as it helped our feet flex and grip the ground underfoot. Striding out in the Fairbanks Mid is like taking a walk on clouds. We measured the midsole with a durometer to test the softness, finding it to be 29% softer than average. With such a soft midsole, our feet withstand the pounding of asphalt and feel comfortable for miles.

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M-Select GRIP outsole delivers durable, highly slip-resistant stability on wet and dry ground and over mixed terrain. Water will enter through the boot’s opening if you completely submerge your boot in a stream or lake. On our hikes, our feet felt supported by the high ankle collar, and we felt secure even when carrying heavy loads. We can’t get enough of the Contragrip sole, which works wonders on practically anything. The 5.1 mm lugs are 16% deeper than average, and we walked confidently even on loose ground.

The Bugaboot III is a clear winner when it comes to insulation in waterproof hiking boots! It became our best friend on sub-zero hikes and, in the lab, we tore it to pieces and got even more convinced that it does not get better than this when warmth is a priority. Such a watertight boot often weighs over the odds, but not the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX. Tipping the scales at just 15.4 oz (436g), it’s 4.5 oz (127g) lighter than the average waterproof boot. This makes it our top choice for long hikes, as we can put in more miles before our feet get tired from hauling extra ounces. Take note, however, that smearing waterproof treatment solutions on a boot can decrease its breathability. It does not also last long. But, if you’re just planning to go on a day hike then consider this a great alternative. Yes, the best waterproof boots are more than enough to protect your feet from various wet conditions such as rain, sleet, snow, or bodies of water encountered along the trail. However, your feet aren’t totally shielded from water. Here are ways water can enter your waterproof hikers: Boasting ample cushioning to protect our feet over long days and impeccable waterproofing that doesn’t weigh us down, this boot is a great choice for those longer day hikes when the comfort of our feet is of paramount importance. That’s why we have chosen the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX as the waterproof hiking boots with the best cushioning.As a fully waterproof boot with a gusseted tongue, we might expect the Fairbanks Mid to weigh us down on our hikes, but we were pleasantly surprised. Weighing in at just 15 oz (425g), they are 3.9 oz (112g) lighter than our other lab-tested boots. Zero clunkiness while hiking and they blend seamlessly from the trail to the street. M-Select GRIP outsole delivers durable, highly slip-resistant stability on wet and dry ground and over mixed terrain. M-Select FRESH

Even after our test hikes, the outsole showed remarkably little wear. We tested it with our trusty durometer and were surprised to find the outsole measures 89.4 HC. This is a few notches harder than the average of 87.5 HC. In our experience, harder rubber on the outsole lasts longer, so we expect many happy miles together with the Columbia Fairbanks Mid! Slipping our feet inside this beast felt like a dream. From the first time we wore it, it already let us experience unimpeded comfort. Due to its superb cushion system, we could take the pair out on prolonged daily adventures. Apart from having a higher price tag, here are other traits that make waterproof hiking boots inferior when compared to non-waterproof boots or even water-resistant and water-repellent boots.You want boots that can protect your feet from water but then you encounter terms like waterproof, water-resistant, water-repellent. Is there a difference? Considering all its pros and cons, we can say that waterproof boots are not your all-around-type of footwear for hiking. Yes, it is versatile as it can adapt to various terrains and weather conditions but it has its limits. You’ll find below which activities, climates, and terrains waterproof hiking boots are best used/not used in:

When it comes to repelling water, waterproof boots indeed stand out. However, the high degree of water protection and the versatility that these shoes offer come with a price.

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The Gore-Tex lining runs high up the ankle, keeping our feet dry even during stream crossings. The particularly high collar and fully gusseted tongue are especially helpful at keeping water and debris out of the boot. Dry feet mean no blisters - especially important on multi-day hikes. Compared to other technologies like Merrell’s M-Select Dry, Columbia’s OutDry, and KEEN’s KEEN.Dry, Gore-Tex is said to be the most effective. You will also find this used by sought-after brands like Salomon and Merrell. However, this will cost more than those made with brand-exclusive waterproofing membranes. Bonus Topic: 4-step guide to waterproofing your boots Merrell has been providing the most innovative, quality outdoor footwear for over three decades, and has established its position at the forefront of the market with its comfortable, durable, and stylish walking boots for those who love the hills and trails. Here at Go Outdoors, we have a wide range of Merrell walking boots for sale!