By Rehan Iqbal
Anyone who is passionate about exploring Mother Nature is familiar with the hesitation of planning out trips that involve hiking along wet, muddy paths. The reason is simple: you just can’t risk getting your shoes wet because that would make you really comfortable and eventually make you sick later, especially when the temperatures dip too low. And that’s where hiking boots with waterproof features come to the picture. They weatherproof your feet, at least till the water is at level with your ankles.
You can cross streams, step on puddles or walk in mild rains while keeping your feet warm, dry and comfy within. In addition to a breathable mesh covering and a waterproof membrane (preferably GoreTex), there are couple of other features that successfully make a boot waterproof. For starters, it should have a rugged rubber sole to lessen the chances of slippage. Also, they should be stain-resistant and easy to clean up, because you will be obviously be getting them pretty dirty on every trip. Also, look for aggressive tread patterns on the sole rather than a smooth and uniform underside. That way, you get a better grip over the ground below. Waterproof boots for hiking, should also be comfortable and often entail a stiff make, in order to allow maximum control over the terrain.
Men’s Waterproof Boots for Hiking & Backpacking
Here, in the following section, we’ll give you a quick rundown of the best waterproof hiking boots for men that ensure dry feet in wet conditions:
1. KEEN Men’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
A moderately priced, lightweight waterproof hiking boot, Keen Targhee combines a technical look with a soft, traditional feel, thanks to its nubuck leather make and solid body. But despite the muted exteriors, these boots are pretty aggressive and give you the support of a true hiking boot for tackling hikes of higher difficulty levels. The upper is waterproof and windproof, shielding your toes from getting all smelly and sweaty from the rain and heat. When it comes to comfort, these boots don’t disappoint.
They come equipped with a double density EVA footbed that offers anatomical support and nurtures the natural ridges of your feet, helping you adapt easily to a new pair of boots and requiring minimal break-in period in the process.
This also translates into more shock absorption. Additionally, the collar is padded and offers sufficient ankle support. Complementing the padding on these hiking boots is the cutting-edge lacing system that offers a secure fit. Breathability is not an issue either, though you may want to avoid wading through shallow streams because these boots have a tendency to retain water. With that being said, you can always cross puddles or even tread on wet ground without getting them wet. There are some issues related to the seam stitching but that’s only temporary and repairable. However, the general consensus is that KEEN Targhee is a robust pair of waterproof hiking boots that works just fine for general outdoor use, as well as hiking, backpacking and camping trips.
2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Hiking Boots
Merell’s Moab 2 Hikers for men are easily one of the most tried-and-tested shoes you can choose for your adventures. They come with a fine leather construction with mesh upper panels to allow complete escape of moisture and heat, thereby preventing the accumulation of noxious odor in the feet. The molded nylon shank keeps your arch raised and prevents it from feeling the tremendous impact of hard obstacles strewn on the trails. The air cushioning is a big plus, in the sense that it makes you feel as though you are walking on a cloud, while the ventilated mesh lining further adds to the breathability.
The Vibram TC5 outsole negates any shocks that come your way, helping you adapt easily to the rigors of your outdoor trips and not feel an iota of strain even after walking for miles at a stretch with these tough hiking boots. The suede finish on the upper is pleasing to the eye and bowls over anyone who is looking for proper aesthetics in their choice of footwear. In addition to the EVA footbed, there are lugs that help you maintain contact with the ground and stay alert for unwarranted slips and falls. The weight may be slightly on the heavier side, but for most hikers, that means extra support and stability.
3. Timberland Men’s Flume Hiking Boots
Apt for hiking during three to four seasons every year, Timberland’s Flume Hiking Boots are a definitely an upgrade from your run-of-the-mill sneakers. These moderately heavy hikers keep your feet cradled and protected from the bumps and jags of the terrain, giving you the grip and confidence to conquer every obstacle lined from the start to the summit. The seam-sealed construction gives it a robust and solid appearance, and enhances the durability, while helping it last longer and give you your full money’s worth. Additionally, the D-ring lacing on the tongue makes it easy to wear, and keeps you active on the go.
This is especially important for those times when you are on clockwork, either practicing for a marathon or participating in one. The shaft measures around 5-inches from the arch, meaning there is ample support at the arch. As a result, the chances of a developing soreness from a continuous walk is relatively low. The gusseted tongue flicks away debris, keeping your feet dainty, pink and healthy within, while EVA footbed ensures premium shock absorption when you need it the most. The rubber outsole comes fitted with lugs for dependable traction on wet, slippery surfaces while the waterproof leather upper further ensures a climate-controlled environment for your feet. Overall, the Timberland Flume are a tried-and-tested pair of waterproof hiking boots that justifies its hype.
4. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots
With unparalleled responsiveness at the sole, a supportive make that withstands the roughest of weather, and ample cushioning at the heels, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II hiking boots for men is up for most tasks that require you to stay on your feet. Its waterproof covering further keeps it shiny and good as new even after months and months of usage, while the leather and synthetic combo classes up the appearance, making it look pricier than it actually is. What’s more, its beauty is not the only thing to rave about; these hiking boots are just the right weight for beginners to tackle.
They are burly enough to give you the support you need at your soles and arches while covering miles in a row, yet not bothersome enough to weigh you down. Basically, these hiking boots are just as heavy as your ordinary running shoes. The Omni Grip outsole deserves special mention for its ability to lend forefoot flexibility without compromising on the fit. These boots are broader at the front; as such, they entail lots of room for your toes to move without feeling constricted. This also means that they are breathable within. Only concern is that the midsole is a little thin and doesn’t quite dilute the impact of rocks and stones. Besides this minor flaw, the Columbia waterproof hiking boots are a good choice for light, day hikes along easy trails.
5. Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boots
This midweight hiker demonstrates the functional abilities of similar award-winning trail runners for a lower cost, and remains supportive even when the miles stretch too far. They bend at will to adapt to the various motions of your gait cycle, while the rigid sole offers maximum level of traction to give you solid grip over wet surfaces. The sole is incorporated with Contagrip technology, which helps you stay put on your feet when the going gets rough. Robust for rigid terrain yet agile for miles of running, Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX is a great choice for most days that require you to stay on your feet.
The upper is made of a combination of materials that are stretchable yet firm, helping you maintain a steady gait and keep postural strain at bay. Furthermore, the presence of a 4D Advanced Chassis promotes torsional balance, keeping your body weight centered and your feet balanced. The lacing system is one of the best out there, while the padded ankle collar gives you the much-needed security of climbing down steep roads. What’s more, the sizing is pretty perfect and there is ample space to fit in thick socks. The only possible downside with these waterproof hiking boots is that they are way too sinewy and supportive for casual hiking purposes. Apart from this minor flaw, Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX is one versatile hiking boot that combines desirable features with a classy design without weighing getting too heavy.
6. Ariat Terrain H2O Hiking Boots
Whether you intend to cover steep roads, or cut through dense, swampy jungles, Ariat Terrain H2O has got you covered. Sporting a full-bodied leather construction with fine-grain, oiled uppers, these burly pair of hiking boots come with dynamic cushioning distributed strategically to massage the key pressure points of your feet and help you push your limits. The wide and airy interiors are apt for people with broader feet, and offer plenty of space to wiggle your toes when stress takes a toll on you. Not just that, the outer sole is rigid enough to allow maximum support for tackling all kinds of tricky terrain with the ease of a professional hiker.
The upper is fitted with ergonomic toe protectors that provide the right environment for your bunions to heal without having to deal with the rigors of the elements. Then there is the EVA midsole as well that helps absorb shock and dilute the strain of stepping on hard obstacles. The Torque Stability Technology further enhances stability, giving you the confidence to glide seamlessly into the next phase of your individual gait cycle without slipping or falling. One thing to keep in mind is that these hiking boots are moisture-resistant, and while they do a good job of preventing the entry of water and sweat, they don’t hold up well to downpours. Also, they take considerable amount of time to dry out. As a result, they are not a great choice for snowshoeing. However, if you are looking to tackle short backpacking trips as a beginnner-level hiker and don’t want to spend big bucks on fancier boots, the Ariat Terrain H2O waterproof hiking boots are your answer.
7. Danner Men’s Radical 452 GTX Hiking Boots
For those of you who intend who walk on hard concrete floors, or splash about in puddles and practically handle any thing that comes in the way of their goals, Danner Radical 452 GTX hiking boots are the ultimate option. Their rugged and robust look matches well with the fashion choices of the modern hiker, while the weatherproof GoreTex exteriors ensure all-day comfort. In case you’re still doubt full, the upper is 100% breathable, so you don’t have to shy away from streams and swamps and puddles.
You can splash and wade all you want and your feet will still be dry as bones. These Radical Boots are forever performance-ready, with a lightweight body that is easy to strap on and a TERRA-FORCE equipped footbed that provides optimum stability and control over the terrain. Some users have found the small sizes to run a little inaccurate, but that’s often due to mistakes on the buyer’s end or due to ignorance of dimensions. Another caveat is the stiffness in the ankle area, due to which the boots take about a week or so to feel fully flexible. However, all things said and done, these are minute flaws that far outweigh the pros and make the Danner waterproof hiking shoes a definite winner!
8. Lowa Renegade GTX Hiking Boots
Thanks to a clever combination of intuitively designed features, the Lowa Mens Renegade GTX hiking boots have the needs met of the most expert hikers out there. These lightweight multi-functional boots are comfortable right off the box, and can broken in on the first day itself. And the grip it provides at the outsole is unmatched to that of any other. The GoreTex lining makes the exteriors breathable, windproof and waterproof, thereby keeping your dainty toes protected and healthy. Plus, the footbed is climate-controlled. In other words, they do the job of wicking away moisture from the shoe and preventing your feet from feeling the actual weather ever.
This is of primary importance and often overlooked in hiking boots but you see moisture and heat is a lethal combination that eventually leads to foot fatigue and blisters. Renegade Hiking Boots are waterproof and hold up well to 4-inch deep puddles and light showers, but if you tend to hike in wetlands, you would be better off with a tougher pair. While they are not the best choice for winters and excessively tough conditions, they are pretty versatile and last long after those flimsy running shoes have worn off.
9. Hi-Tec Men’s Altitude VI I Waterproof Hiking Boots
With an innovative design that rivals the creme de la creme of hiking boots, and ergonomically fashioned components that come together to provide a luxurious experience both on trail and off, Hi Tec Altitude VI hiking boot is a supportive pair of boots that don’t wear out easily. They manage to hold on to their shiny appearance and maintain commendable performance on track, even after tons of hiking trips and rough use. It’s easy to understand the comfort quotient of the boot by seeing the time it takes to break in them. And the Hi Tec hiking boot is practically cozy and snug right from the start.
Besides a sporty look that complements all kinds of casual wear, the other feature that deserves mention is the ability to keep out moisture. These waterproof boots incorporate a patented hydrophobic technology that keeps out water. The sockliner is cushioned with foam padding to neutralize foot odor and improve breathability, while the EVA midsole sucks in shocks before your feet can feel them. Thanks to the rubber outsole, there is great traction whatever be the surface, and the lightweight shank keeps your feet agile, and your posture steady so you feel ready to tackle any obstacles that come your way.
10. Asolo TPS 520 GV Hiking Boots
For those of you who are familiar with the regret of buying impractical shoes that are no more than a pretty face, the Asolo TPS 520 GV is here to give you your full money’s worth. Made of genuine leather, these hiking shoes have garnered praise and popularity for their high-quality construction that retains its original appeal with any amount of outdoor use. The lugs are rugged with tread patterns to adapt to rough, bumpy surfaces, while the Vibram sole are adequately sticky to give you optimum traction on trail without falling apart at the seams.
Despite all the practicality and functional capacities that these shoes entail, they are surprisingly trendy and come in two contemporary color choices- brown and chesnut. Additionally, they are waterproof and the gusseted tongue rises high enough to preclude the entry of water and debris. As a result, they are apt for any trip that involves puddle crossings, snowshoeing or even shallow wading through creeks. Just make sure not to let the water wash over the shoes because the Gore-Tex lining makes it tough to dry out completely. Other than this minor caveat, these hiking boots are apt for everyday use, irrespective of the terrain.
11. Vasque Breeze III Men's GTX Hiking Boots
A brand new version of its predecessor, Vasque Breeze III GTX hiking boots represents the unique selling points of its brand, incorporating innovative design with latest functional capacities to give you flawless experience on trail. The uppers are made of Nubuck leather which are essentially waterproof. There are Airmesh panels as well with extended GoreTex linings to keep out the water from drenching your feet. In addition to being a lot more breathable than their older versions, Vasque Breeze III GTX boots feature intuitively designed components in the form of a tapered toe box, as well as a rockered design that allows a symmetrical fit at the heel and toes, helping you cruise over terrains without expending too much effort.
The presence of an Arc Tempo last allows for optimum accommodation of the toes and provides a good amount of support to the arches. Further enhancing the support and comfort is the pair of rubber toe bumpers that prevent your toes from getting stubbed by contact with hard obstacles. This ensures nothing ever comes in the way of your goals. The footbed is firm and made of double-density EVA with a TPU plate chassis to enable the right balance between postural flexibility and torsional rigidity, thereby keeping your body weight centered. The Vasque waterproof hiking boots may not be beefy enough for lengthy outdoor trips involving trails of varying complexities, but it is a good choice for some light and fast hiking on moderate terrain.
12. Scarpa Men’s Kinesis Pro GTX Hiking Boots
This easy-breezy hiking boot is an example of the fact that your shoes don’t need to be all clunky and bothersome in order to give you the requisite amount of support on track. While definitely not as popular as its more ventilated counterparts, the Scarpa Kinesis Pro GTX hiking boots are great for short summer hikes. In fact, if user reviews are anything to go by, you can even walk for hundreds of miles in them and still not feel an inch of discomfort or even copious amounts of sweating as you would with running shoes. What’s particularly praiseworthy is the fact that they do a commendable job at waterproofing your feet when you are out exploring nature in wet weather.
The stiff footbed further keeps you firmly in place so that you don’t bend awkwardly at the slightest behest. The Nubuck leather uppers offer an impenetrable shield of protection, while standing up to loads of abuse. The Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet dry and the Vibram sole keeps you steady on every kind of surface. The gusseted tongue further wicks away moisture and debris as and when they come in contact with your feet, while the padded collar nourishes the strained portions of your feet, helping them heal of their own accord. The hardware lacing seems like a little tacky at first, but it works well once you get a hang of it. In short, the Scarpa waterproof hiking boots are a good choice for anyone looking to cover short backpacking and hiking trips in mild to moderately harsh weather.
13. ECCO Exohike Gore-Tex Backpacking Boots
ECCO Exohike is the perfect example of shoes that deliver what they claim. They don’t entail the full set of cutting-edge features characteristic of those modern, hiking-specific boots, yet they incorporate just enough to let you ace hikes of moderate difficulty. Made of durable leather, these boots carry a fuss-free appeal which blends well with their functional capacities. The upper has a low-cut design with reduced seams for superior comfort, so that it doesn’t scrub uncomfortably against your skin or weigh you down.
The GoreTex membrane lining makes these hiking boots waterproof, thereby maintaining a dry, comfy and safe space for your feet even in the harshest of weather conditions. The rubber sole is rigid to say the least, and the PU midsole offers equal cushioning at the vulnerable parts of the feet, thereby enhancing walking comfort, regardless of the terrain type. There is a well-defined heel counter as well, for improved stability on bumpy and slippery surfaces. And the aggressively patterned rubber outsole gives you the confidence to climb down mountains without giving in to the obstacles and falling. The only downside with these hiking boots is that they are a bit bulky; but overall, they do manage to serve the purpose and give you a good value for your money.
If the very thought of covering mountains in snowfall or traversing through swampy forests brings shudders to your spine, then you really need to take note of waterproof hiking boots. They secure your feet from ever feeling the ravages of the weather and give them a conditioned environment when they can safe and cozy, regardless of the terrain. They help you take off-beaten paths as you can wear them without any restrictions, and keep hiking along even when they get wet. Their stiff, rugged make is especially designed for unfavorable trails, while the abrasion-resistant, weatherproof covering makes them suitable for year-round hiking.
When it comes to buying women’s waterproof hiking boots, it’s important to check the dimensions and fit. Ideally, such boots should have a higher arch support than those meant for males. Also, they should have a tapered construction to allow for a more feminine and tailor-made fit. Additionally, the presence of a tough Vibram sole is always desirable, as it provides excellent grip for tackling steep climbs and running water. The fabric used for construction should be durable and the construction has to be seam-sealed in order to evade as much water as possible.
Comfortable Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
In the following section, we will discuss the most comfortable and best waterproof hiking boots for women available today.
14. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
If you are specifically looking for hiking boots that give you the protection and confidence to walk around wet gravel and puddles without slipping, then Merrell Hiking Boots is your answer. They provide top-notch comfort at the ankles and the toe box is nice and round for comfortable accommodation of the toes during walking. What’s more, the presence of Gore-Tex waterproof lining ensures your feet stay dry and safe from sudden contact with water while exploring outdoors. What’s particularly commendable is that these boots retain friction and do not lose grip on wet trails.
As a result, any existing foot conditions automatically gets relatively sublime while wearing these. In fact, you don’t even have to spend a few days breaking in these as they are comfortable since the very use itself. The high quality workmanship is the reason why these boots hold their ground and do not give away easily to abrasion and weather changes as easily as their counterparts. And even if they do, a quick trip to the cobbler should sort it out. They are flexible enough to help you bend and move your feet without feeling any resistance, and yet stiff enough to offer a sturdy grip on the terrain. One of the few downsides is that they are not sufficiently padded inside; as a result, they don’t offer enough insulation in winter. However, you can always solve the problem by wearing thick socks in cold weather. Other than that, Merrell’s hiking boots are just as good as their men’s waterproof counterparts for a wide range of activities.
15. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots
Sporting a flawless combination of fine-grain leather construction and a dependable waterproof covering, Newton Ridge Hiking Boots are specifically designed for excessive use and abuse. The stain-resistant exterior, thanks to the Omni-Shield technology makes it suitable for daily wear. The mesh panels in the remainder of the body makes the boot breathable, and apt for year-round wear, especially when the temperatures soar. The waterproof lining further ensures that you stay comfy and dry while crossing a brook or hiking on a dusty trail in summer.
The sturdy footholds at the sole provide excellent traction, giving all those jittery hikers ample assurance to tackle tricky hikes without worrying about slipping and falling. One of the few downsides of these waterproof hiking boots is that they are not a great option for long hikes, as they don’t offer enough support and cushioning on the inside. However, for the price, they tick all the boxes for a medium hiker. And you can always insert orthotics to solve any support problems. Long story short, the Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots for women comes across as a high-quality hiker that strikes the balance between fit and flexibility, while incorporating latest technology to bring you maximum comfort on track, regardless of the weather outside.
16. Ahnu Women’s Montara Waterproof Hiking Boots
Come hail, come rain, come snow, the Ahnu Women’s Montara won’t fail you. These year-round waterproof hiking boots are built for rigorous use, and offer ample options of adjustability, thanks to their intelligent design, superior water resistance, reinforced traction and wide, padded interiors. The high mid-cut design offers adequate ankle stability, keeping your feet dry and odorless even when you have been wading in puddles all day. The Vibram sole adds stability to your stride, giving you the confidence and grip to scramble over boulders and granite slabs without feeling an inch of discomfort.
The padding on the heel seat and collar prevent constant rubbing at the vulnerable parts of the heel, thereby negating the development of painful hotspots. The leather used to make these boots is soft, supple and of high-quality. And the easily stretchable design further takes the comfort quotient to the next level. Some users complain that the toe box feels a bit tight, but that won’t be a problem with the right shoe size. Also, there are few options of lacing, but other than these few concerns, these hiking boots meet the benchmark in terms of design, durability and waterproof technology.
17. KEEN Women’s Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
Hiking boots come and go but the Keen Targhee III remains true to its name. With a fuss-free appeal that complements casual and sporty outfits alike, these boots are a versatile choice of footwear. Not just that, they have high-quality leather uppers that rub gently against your skin, taking to your feet instantly to a comfort zone that holds well even as the outer conditions change. The clever seam stitching on the wider parts of this boot further ensures durability. The rubber toe box, as expected is wide and round, helping your toes adjust and fit in naturally, without straining themselves in the process.
And the sole is thick and flexible, helping your feet to show maximum agility on rough hikes on trails strewn with rocks. Keen Targhee III hiking boots are also naturally water-resistant; they don’t give into a few inches of water, but due to the short ankle height, they do get wet in heavy rain. When it comes to support and traction, these waterproof boots don’t disappoint. The presence of 4mm lug depths enhance their ability to retain traction on bumpy terrain, while the rugged tread pattern keeps them upright irrespective of the surface type. Another creditable feature is the lightweight structure which doesn’t feel bothersome on your feet, even after walking for hours at a stretch. And to top it all, the low weight is not at the cost of support.
18. Salomon Women’s Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots
The newly revamped version of the still popular Salomon 4D GTX hiking boots is an instant charmer, and practical to boot! With a versatile body and fine detailing at various aspects of the design, these hiking boots are built to cater to every lady hiker’s needs. In addition to a solid and stable construction, the construction is of waterproof Gore-Tex material, making it suitable for hiking year-round. The contagrip outsole enables a robust grip regardless of the bumps and type of terrain, while the 4D chassis promotes even distribution of your body weight, thereby negating any uneventful sprains and blisters that often arising from wearing improper footwear.
The OrthoLite Footbed cushions and cradles your feet, preventing them from feeling the impact of the hard terrain below and keeping your bunions safe in the process. That is the reason why these boots feel equally comfortable while running as well. While some users are of the view that they squeak a little while walking, you can always fix the problem by altering the lacing system a bit. The no-nonsense look of the boots is what really wins your heart. The suede leather upper keeps your feet snug and secure and helps you cruise along downhill without slipping. Plus, there is zero break-in as they are comfortable right off the box. In short, if you want to bring your A-game to the trail, do consider strapping on the Salomon hiking boots.
19. Timberland Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boots
Timerbland White Ledge boots are a fine combination of top-notch construction and intelligent detailing. Made of premium full-grain leather, these shoes are durable and hardy, and do not give in to the ravages of weather easily. The laces offer a secure fit while the ankle support is soft and cushiony. While they are a bit heavy than the ordinary hiking boot, they don’t feel too clunky due to their leather make. Plus, the rubber soles are abrasion-resistant and offer a good grip, helping you stomp and tread on all kinds of terrain.
The cushioned footbed provides a uniform base for your feet, and precludes the chances of developing blisters and sores. There are multi-directional lugs fitted on the sides for solid traction. Within the shoe, there is a detachable dual-density EVA insole that provides a great deal of cloudy comfort. In fact, it’s perforated too for improved air circulation. The seam-sealed waterproof make ensures effective protection from heavy rain and untimely contact with puddles.
20. Ariat Women’s Terrain H2O Hiking Boots
Ariat Terrain H2O are a cleverly crafted pair of waterproof hiking boots that sport a full-grain leather construction and a burly finish for full-round support and durability. While made specifically to help you adjust to the rigors of hiking, these shoes are also suitable for everyday use, such as working in long shifts and walking for miles at a stretch. They are wider than normal, and come without the risk of slippage.
There is solid cushiony support on the heel and the rubber outsole provides responsiveness on track, and the high amount of arch support makes it easier to cope up with various feet ailments, including plantar fascitis.
The Dura tread outsole is easy to clean as well, as it’s smooth, oiled and features a moisture-wicking lining for supreme protection from the elements. To top it all, the boots are lightweight and roomy inside, giving your spurs, bunions and hammertoes plenty of space to rest and heal. The breathability is a bit of a concern with these boots as they tend to get a little too warm in summer, but they can be worn all year long. The heel cup is narrow so as to ensure that the foot doesn’t shift around flimsily, and the stitching is extra sturdy to prevent frayed ends from excessive usage. All in all, if you are looking to keep it stylish without compromising on functionality, the Ariat H2O hiking boot is your answer.
21. La Sportiva Women’s Core High GTX Hiking Boots
A lightweight, snazzy hiking boot from one of the most classy footwear makers of the world, La Sportiva High GTX boot gives a cut-throat competition to its equally popular coutnerparts, thanks to its solid structural reinforcements, improved durability and an unparalleled fit that does oodles to instil confidence on track. The thermoformed polyurethane upper enhances abrasion resistance and adds stability on the underfoot, while the sticky rubber panels enhance durability, keeping these boots brand new even after months of rough use.
The GoreTex membrane makes them breathable and waterproof, while the improved ankle padding keeps any persistent foot problems at bay. The upper lace hooks keep your feet firmly in place and prevent heel slip, while the round and wide heel seat makes for a cozy fit. Furthermore, the toe-box is equally roomy and does a good job of cushioning your delicate toes and bunions when you are out and about. The high stack height is a bit of a concern, as it makes these hiking boots heavy for long hikes. However, they are ideal for thru-hikers who are looking for more support and protection than ordinary running shoes. They are also perfect for backpackers and adventurers who hate traversing groomed trails.
22. Danner Women’s Mountain 600 Hiking Boots
Apt for conquering rugged, wet and rocky terrain, the Danner Women’s Mountain 600 is a burly but not bothersome hiker with waterproof suede lining that keeps off moisture and sweat from accumulating in the nooks and cranny of your feet and contributing to body odor in the long run. The detachable OrthoLite insole adds support to the underfoot, and the sturdy heel frame enhances stability, thereby simplifying the rigors of hiking for long hours in the sun. Additionally, the Vibram midsole improves responsiveness and rebound quotient, so your feet don’t move around floppily when you come across bumpy, uneven terrain.
This basically means you have ample support to adapt to tricky terrain. And the TPU heel frame ensures lightweight and dependable stability for hot, dusty treks. The waterproof suede lining keeps off sweat and moisture from accumulating in your feet and contributing to odor in the process. And the contemporary yet low-key design means you can strap them on for a quick trip to the supermarket or even hit the bar without looking like a gypsy woman. And if that’s not enough, the robust midsole construction maintains a fine balance between support and cushioning, helping your feet adjust according to the needs of the hiking trip easily. What more can you possible ask for!
23. Vasque Women’s Talus Trek UltraDry Hiking Boots
Vasque Women’s Talus Trek bowls you over with its sporty design and formal make. With sufficient padding on the forefoot area and a great amount of arch support, these hiking boots are just what you need to stay comfortable outdoors. The traction you get on rocky surfaces is a bit of a concern, but the waterproof lining coupled with the durable exterior more than make up for it. As a stretchy yet snug pair of boots with ample features for support and comfort, Vasque Women’s Talus Trek is as versatile as it can be; you can wear it all day, and even overnight.
It’s body weight is such that it won’t weigh you down with everyday use, and nor will it offer you any less amount of support than the typical hiking boot. The leather upper is waterproof for premium protection from sudden rain-showers and puddles; while there is a good amount of traction on trails, you won’t feel very supportive while walking on slabs. The sole doesn’t give away easily and lets you hold your ground in the face of bumpy, slippery terrain, and it’s responsive as well, helping you adjust to the demands of the track without falling or slipping at the slightest pretext.