Are Hiking Boots Waterproof? The Answer Might Surprise You

While you might naturally assume that all hiking boots are waterproof.  

The truth is not all hiking boots are waterproof and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.  

Why Aren’t All Hiking Boots Waterproof?

While you might think it would make sense to just waterproof all hiking boots.  The fact of the matter is there are some negatives to waterproofing hiking boots. 

Which makes waterproofing not always the best choice when it comes to hiking boots.

There are two main drawbacks to waterproofing hiking boot including a lack of breathability and added additional weight.

In order to understand why waterproof boots sacrifice on breathability and weight, let’s take a closer look at how a typical waterproof boot is put together.

How are Hiking Boots Waterproofed?

Sole

Starting from the ground up the first line of defense from water penetration is the sole of the shoe. The sole is typically made from rubber and has a rugged pattern for better traction while hiking. 

While this rubber sole doesn’t differ much from any other type of shoe other than a more aggressive tread pattern.  It’s still important to note it’s waterproofing benefits as it keeps the moisture from the ground from entering the bottom of the boot.

Membrane Liner

Next and the most important part of a waterproof shoe is the membrane liner.  This inner liner provides a protective waterproof barrier inside the boot.  While there are different versions of this waterproof membrane it is typically made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene which many people refer to as ePTFE for short.

One of the most common types of this membrane you find on the market today is made by the company called Gore-Tex which most shoe manufacturers use when making there shoes waterproof. 

While this membrane is invaluable when making a boot waterproof this liner is also what sacrifices the breathability and adds additional weight to the boot.  Because while the membrane liner does a great job of keeping water out it also does a great job of trapping moisture and sweat inside.

To be fair manufacturers have gone a long way to try and improve the breathability of their waterproof boots.  However, a nonwaterproof boot will always be more breathable than a waterproof one. 

Upper

The final line of defense or perhaps the first depending on how you look at it is the shoe’s upper.  This upper is often made from water-resistant material such as leather or canvas and is treated with a durable water repellent coating or DWR.  

Don’t forget though that overtime this DWR coating will break down and need to be reapplied.  A popular brand of waterproof coating is Nikwax which can be found on Amazon here.

Best Waterproof Hiking Boots in 2019

Below are some of our tops picks for both men and women waterproof hiking boots based on intended use, styling, and price point.

Best Overall

Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot

The best overall waterproof hiking boot that we could find was the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX.  This waterproof hiking boot has everything a modern hiking boot should have and more.  

Its mid-cut ankle offers ample support while traversing rugged and uneven terrain and it’s a combination of water-resistant mesh and synthetic materials provides both breathability and form-fitting comfort that you would expect from a modern hiking boot.  

Thanks to it’s Gore-Tex liner there is no need to worry about its waterproof capabilities either.  Because no matter how wet it gets outside your feet are sure to stay warm and dry wrapped in the latest Gore-Tex liner.

 

 

Best Classic

Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot

One of the most popular choices in classic hiking boots right now is the Timberland White Ledge Boot and for good reason.  This Timberland hiking boot with it’s all leather construction is a nod to the past and classic boot design before the advent of synthetic materials and aggressive modern styling.  

Timberland is also a name you can trust and count on as they have been making rugged and trail tested boots for over 40 years.

There’s no need to worry about this boot’s waterproof capabilities either thanks to its all-leather upper and seam-sealed waterproof construction.

 

 

Best Budget

Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

While the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot may be more budget-friendly don’t think this means you have to sacrifice on quality.  As this waterproof hiking boot still provides tons of quality and excellent waterproofing ability.

The hiking boots upper is made from a combination of suede leather and mesh giving it a unique blend of modern and classic styling.

While this boot does not have Gore-Tex waterproofing technology it does use M select Dry tech that provides its waterproofing ability. 

One other nice feature of this hiking boot is its air-cushioned heel that helps to soften the impact on your heels while traversing over rough and sometimes unforgiving terrain.  

 

 

How to Waterproof Hiking Boots

What if you already own a pair of hiking boots that are not waterproof and you don’t want to go buy a new pair of boots?

Well luckily for you there is a way to waterproof existing hiking boots that are not already waterproof or refresh their waterproofing ability.  

When waterproofing boots the first thing to note is the primary material used in the construction of the hiking boot.  Because the type of material your boot is made from will dictate the best way to waterproof the hiking boot.

The three main types of material used for hiking boots are leather, nubuck leather or suede, and synthetic material or cloth.

When waterproofing most of the steps are similar no matter the material with two notable exceptions.  The first exception is nubuck leather or suede and the second is the type of product used when waterproofing which is noted below.

Step By Step Instructions for Waterproofing Boots

1. Remove any dirt and grime using a brush.
2. Extract the laces from the boot.
3. Use a mild detergent to wash the boots clean.
4. Soak the boots in water.  ***Skip this step if your boot is made with nubuck leather or suede as it can stain the leather.***
5. Lightly rinse the boot with water.
6. Towel dry.
7. Before the material fully dries apply the appropriate waterproofing treatment to the boots upper.

Applying the waterproof treatment while the material is still wet allows the treatment to soak in easier especially for leather.

Also, don’t forget to always follow the directions from the manufacturer when using a waterproofing treatment as it will always yield the best results. 

For even more great information on waterproofing leather boots check out this helpful video by  Nikwax.  This video describes why it’s important to keep up with the waterproofing on your boots and the best way to apply waterproofing treatment to leather hiking boots.

Best Waterproof Treatments for Leather or Full Grain Leather

Our two favorite products for waterproofing leather which can be found on Amazon include Atsko 1330 Sno-Seal All Season Leather Protectant and Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather Liquid.

 

Best Waterproof Treatments for Nubuck Leather or Suede

Our two favorite waterproof treatments for nubuck leather or suede on Amazon include Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof Waterproofing and Scotchgard 1006R Leather Protector for Suede and Nubuck.

 

Best Waterproof Treatments for Synthetic Material or Cloth

The two best waterproofing products for synthetic material or cloth on Amazon are Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof Waterproofing and Gear Aid Revivex Suede Protector and Fabric Water Repellent,

 

 

How Often Should You Waterproof Hiking Boots?

While it isn’t necessary to waterproof your boots every time you go for a hike.  It is important to periodically apply a waterproof treatment to your hiking boots to ensure they stay 100% waterproof.

A good rule of thumb is to apply a waterproof treatment to your hiking boots every 4 or 5 hikes or every few months whichever comes first. 

By doing this you will not only keep your boots waterproof but also increase the boots longevity by conditioning and taking care of the leather.

Can You Use Waterproof Hiking Boots in the Snow?

Waterproof hiking boots are actually a must when hiking in snow and exactly what waterproof boots were made for.  

Depending on the level of snow your dealing with you might choose to add a pair of snowshoes to your boots.  However, the waterproof hiking boot will always be the foundation for warm and dry feet while hiking in the snow.

Not only can you use waterproof hiking boots in the snow but you can also use them for any other type of perception you might encounter while in the great outdoors.   

Want to know if camping tents are waterproof?  Check out our article “Are Camping Tents Waterproof?  What to Look For“.