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?

Gore-Tex is undoubtedly the oldest and most popular when it comes to waterproofing tech. Gore-Tex membranes contain small pores that stop the entry of water droplets while allowing moisture to escape. 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. 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. 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. 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.The boot’s multiple overlays and Gore-Tex lining work together to keep our feet completely dry in wet grass, pouring rain or even submerged in shallow streams! The fully gusseted tongue keeps water and debris out, although we had to be careful not to go any deeper than the low heel counter! 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: The Columbia Fairbanks Mid is a superbly comfortable boot which emerged from our test hikes and lab investigations as the best waterproof boot for urban hiking. With its extra-plush midsole, durable outsole and amazingly low weight, it’s our top choice for light hikes on non-technical terrain.

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. 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.In the lab, we simulated winter conditions by putting the boot in the freezer for 20 minutes before testing the midsole hardness. At room temperature, the midsole sits at the average of 27 HA. In the cold, it increases only a little, to 32.9 HA. In practice, this means the midsole will still be almost as soft and comfortable as it would be on warmer days without breaking in. 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. Prior to cleaning, remove the laces. You can use a soft brush and cleaner to scrub off the mud and dirt. Ensure to clean every nook and cranny including the folds of the tongue. After that, rinse well. 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

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. M-Select GRIP outsole delivers durable, highly slip-resistant stability on wet and dry ground and over mixed terrain. M-Select FRESH 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!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:

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. 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.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! When we look for the best overall waterproof hiking boot, it’s got to be supportive, grippy, lightweight, keep the water out, and we want our feet to be comfortable over long distances. We found all of that in the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX! A cherry on top is definitely the durability of the upper or, to be more precise, the toebox bumper. This protection is as hard as it gets. We tried destroying it with a dremmel and we barely made a dent. We rated the durability of this part with the highest rating: 5 out of 5! This is also how the boot feels - no worries about hurting your toes when hiking over ground covered with obstacles.