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Finding the best waterproof boots for men comes with some challenges since the market is oversaturated with options. Forgive the pun, but just because the label reads ‘water-resistant’ doesn’t mean the boots are going to hold up in all wet environments.
What are the Best Waterproof Boots for Men
Keeping your feet dry and healthy while withstanding periods of time in wet conditions is imperative when it comes to your comfort and overall health. Finding the proper footwear for support and quality when it comes to waterproof boots means a lot to us.
The best waterproof boots are the ones that work for you by keeping your feet supported while staying watertight while you work and play.
So, whatever your adventure might be, here are our top picks for the best waterproof boots for men to keep your feet nice and dry. We reviewed dozens of options, so you don’t have to, and these are the six best we’ve found for you.
Our 6 Top Picks for the Best Waterproof Boots for Men:
- Best Overall: Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Prime Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Best for Fishing: Xtratuf Men’s 15″ Legacy
- Best for Working: Timberland PRO Men’s Titan 6″ Safety-Toe Work Boot
- Best for Hiking: North Face Steep Tech Crestvale FUTURELIGHT Hiking Boots
- Best for Style: Adidas Terrex Swift R2 Mid GTX
- Best for Budgets: Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking
So, when you need waterproof boots, these are the brands and styles we think will best suit your needs, whether it’s work or play. The truth is waterproof boots are a must in some situations, and it’s important to know what those situations are when the time comes.
Why You Need the Best Waterproof Boots for Men
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If you have ever found yourself squishing around in soppy sneakers or boots, you can understand the annoyance of non-waterproof shoes. Unfortunately, many jobs require water at some point, whether it is using water or experiencing water from natural elements like rain and snow.
Hiking can expose your feet to all kinds of natural environments, and the worst part is that it can be extremely unhealthy to be walking around with soggy shoes.
Wet boots become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Remember in Forest Gump, there were only two rules Lt. Dan gave the men; the most important one was for them to take care of their feet and keep them dry.
That’s because wet feet can produce infections that can result in catastrophic issues. Wet feet are more likely to crack and break. Once that happens, the infection possibilities are endless and quite painful. The best course of action is prevention.
The 6 Best Pairs of Hiking Boots in 2023
Keeping your feet from getting wet requires the best waterproof boots for men. Here’s how we rated the top choices to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
1. Best Overall: Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Prime Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 100% suede with bellows tongue keeps out the debris.
- Leather can crack without extra care.
When it comes to having a boot that can do more than just one thing, look no further than Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Prime Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots. These boots are stable for support and comfort while being versatile for hiking, working, or playing.
The waterproof membrane of Gore-Tex will keep your feet dry in wet conditions. In addition, customers love the versatility of Moab 2 since it can handle a rocky trail or lying hot asphalt for ten hours.
Either way, feet will stay comfortable with breathable mesh and Kinetic Fit™ ADVANCED footbeds that can be removed.
Merrell is also looking out for the planet. Merrell works with suppliers and materials that are safe for the environment and have plans to keep making their business a force of good for the earth.
2. Best for Fishing: Xtratuf Men’s 15″ Legacy
- Has flex and strength at stress points.
- Non-insulated boot.
Fishing boots can be stiff and rigid, but when it comes to Xtratuf, it’s a whole other level of comfort and flexibility. The 15-inch height, Triple Dipped Neoprene Shell prevents seeping up past the calf just in case you find yourself in standing water.
Open Cell Foam pads the footbed absorbing moisture and allowing breathability. The outsole is slip-resistant with non-marking Chevron.
The height can be rolled down without cracking or damaging the integrity of the boot and its waterproofing. The Xtratuf Legacy is usually seen on fishing boats in Alaska.
However, customers have stated how versatile these boots can be for gardening, swamping, walking in the rain, and laying concrete. So, there is no need only to use these boots for fishing unless fishing is the sole priority.
3. Best for Working: Timberland PRO Men’s Titan 6″ Safety-Toe Work Boot
- POWERFIT Comfort System is ergonomically designed for long-lasting comfort.
- Alloy steel toe for safety.
- Ankle support could be better.
Timberland has been able to maintain an excellent reputation since 1952, with ergonomically designed boots. The Titan is standard for dependability and comfort for those working long hours in many different weather conditions.
The waterproof membrane will keep your feet dry, and the sole has rugged traction for non-slip control. Timberland Pro has been labeled as one of the most comfortable work boots of all time.
Workers concluded that the Tim Pro is a must-have for those that spend 10 to 12 hours on their feet. Whether it’s a construction site or a carwash, the Pro keeps up with waterproofing needs.
The Titan can withstand a lot of wear and tear as a working boot. Some customers feel that the boot construction has changed over time regarding supporting the ankle region. However, the Timberland Pro continues to set the bar on the best waterproof men’s working boots.
4. Best for Hiking: North Face Steep Tech Crestvale FUTURELIGHT
North Face offers a lightweight boot that will allow flexibility in the sole while providing a waterproof membrane in a breathable shoe. This boot is excellent in cold and warm weather conditions.
In addition, being light weight will keep you from unnecessary fatigue while hiking. Pebbles and dirt have the magic of finding their way into a hiker’s boot.
However, with a gusseted tongue, the Crestvale FUTURELIGHT will keep debris out of the boot as you walk and climb. In addition, FUTURELIGHT is lightweight and breathable while being completely waterproof.
If hiking is your thing, the Crestvale FUTURELIGHT is a perfect choice for the everyday hiker. This boot is adaptable to all weather conditions and terrains.
5. Best for Style: Adidas Terrex Swift R2 Mid GTX
- Boots have molded heel cups and a speed lacing system.
- New boots can squeak a little when breaking in.
The hiking trails have never looked so good when wearing these Adidas Terrex Swift boots. The boots are sleek-looking, which makes them versatile for hikes in the mountains or strolls around town.
Gore-Tex membrane makes these boots perfect for wet environments, while the Continental Rubber outsole keeps your foot stable on rocky terrains. Although it takes a wear or two to break in the boots, they are incredibly durable.
Customers reported that the Terrex Swift boot is super comfortable and love the look. However, after trying on several pairs, Adidas holds its own, being one of the best waterproof boots for men.
6. Best for Budgets: Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking
- The soles are designed for superior traction on all types of terrain.
- The material is 100% synthetic.
The X Ultra 3 is a GORE-TEX product with mid-weight. It’s an all-around great hiking shoe that can protect feet in wet environments while featuring a protective mudguard around the entire sole to prevent slipping.
One of the best reviews from multiple customers is the fact that this Mid GTX doesn’t take any time at all to break in as most hiking boots do. Hikers agree this boot conforms to the foot right out of the box.
Most hikers complain about blisters, and with Salomon boots, most hikers haven’t had issues with blisters. Some say the waterproofing for MidGTX has been hit or miss, but these boots are not built for complete submerging.
However, these boots are outstanding for mud and snow, keeping feet warm and dry.
There are higher-priced waterproof boots from Salomon that can withstand the water better, but these boots are great for sporadic wet conditions and priced right for those with a tighter budget.
Finding the Best Waterproof Boots for Men
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Finding the best waterproof boots for men requires a few considerations before settling on your purchase. Some boots are specialized for hiking mountains, hiking trails, working, or simply walking in the rain and snow.
Depending on your purpose or the multipurpose you might have for waterproof boots, you probably want to learn about things like the material, weight, or traction before buying. There are a few other things to consider as well.
Water Resistance
The level of water resistance is a factor when picking out the best waterproof boot. If something states that it is water-resistant, it doesn’t mean it’s waterproof. However, if you see a bunch of numbers followed by ‘mm’, you can see if the boots are actually waterproof.
Those numbers determine the vapor rate, and choosing a higher vapor rate transfer will determine the resistance level. The vapor rate transfer is rated on millimeters. 5000 mm will protect you from a light drizzle.
Yet, 10,000 mm or higher will be a great starting point for picking the best waterproof boot for wet environments. Not all waterproof footwear will give this rating on the box, but it’s good to know how to understand it just in case the boots offer the vapor rating.
Materials
The materials a boot is made up of will determine if it is waterproof. Quality waterproof boots contain Gore-Tex products. Gore-Tex is a breathable, waterproof membrane that allows air and sweat to pass through without letting water into the shoe.
Other boots that don’t use Gore-Tex products have another patent waterproof membrane that can work just as well. Along with the waterproof membrane, shoes will use water-resistant materials to build the footwear.
For example, using leather or an abrasion-proof outer shell will help reduce the chances of water seeping through the typical five layers that make up a tremendous waterproof boot.
Stiffness
Choosing the appropriate stiffness is essential when it comes to picking out a waterproof boot. For example, Vibram outsoles are ideal for traction and proper weight. A mid-weight or lightweight boot is more flexible, literally.
On the other hand, heavy-weighted boots are stiffer in the outsole, which is excellent for mountain conditions, including coal beds, rocks, steep slopes, and snow. A stiff sole will protect the arch and instep from overexertion and overextension.
However, a mid to lightweight sole will bend more with each step. So, for example, if you aren’t in abrasive weather conditions and if you have to bend and kneel often, a lighter-weight boot makes more sense for flexing toes.
Breathability
The feet need to breathe. Ironically, when it comes to waterproof boots, it sounds like an oxymoron to say the shoe needs ventilation so the feet can breathe.
Needless to say, the waterproof boots will make your feet sweat, and without ventilation, your feet will stink and quickly become a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria to grow. When a waterproof boot is constructed correctly, the Gore-Tex membrane will allow sweat to escape.
It also prevents water from rushing into the boot. Heavyweight boots will hold more moisture than lighter-weight options, especially with heavier boots being more insulated for snow and ice travel.
Traction
Sole traction is essential in waterproof boots since being around wet environments can cause major slippage. If the boot doesn’t have much traction to the rubber, you can slip faster than if you were standing on ice.
Finding the proper traction tends to go hand in hand with the shoe’s weight. Heavy waterproof boots are specifically made for hiking and are less versatile for other activities or working boots because the traction is stiff, which is excellent for snowy conditions.
Nevertheless, the mid-weight and lightweight are similar since they are only a few ounces in weight difference and are much more versatile for activities like fishing, working, walking trails, and much more. On the other hand, rain boots have less traction than all other waterproof boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Read on to learn more about the most frequently asked questions about the best waterproof boots for men.
Are waterproof boots actually waterproof?
Yes. Waterproof boots can really be waterproof. However, it is best to remember that the water vapor transfer rate value should be between 10,000-20,000 mm waterproofness to keep feet dry in snow and wetter environments.
How long do waterproof boots normally last?
Waterproof boots can last from 1.5 years up to 20 years, depending on how frequently they are used and if seals get broken or dry rotted. Gore-Tex can stay waterproof for 20 years. However, the boot will leak if the seals around the soles wear down.
Are water-resistant boots waterproof?
No. Water-resistant boots are not waterproof. The material of the boot is water-resistant, but not sealed. Most water-resistant and waterproof shoes are breathable to wick sweat.
Why do you need waterproof boots?
If you spend your time in wet environments, it’s important to have waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry and clean. In addition, foot infections can happen fast, so waterproof shoes are necessary if you fish, hike, or work in a damp setting.
Are leather boots waterproof?
Leather is naturally water-resistant to a degree. Leather boots can be made waterproof if sealed entirely at the soles. However, without proper care, leather can get oversaturated or will age and crack, eventually letting water seep in.
So, What are the Best Waterproof Boots for Men?
Honestly, the best waterproof boots will depend on what you need them for. For example, fishing boots like Xtratuf Men’s 15″ Legacy are entirely waterproof, but lack support and traction.
Nevertheless, using the proper footwear for support and durability greatly counts in our calculations.
That is why Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Prime Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot has made it to the best waterproof boots for men overall because they offer the best waterproofing support for an all-purpose boot.
Remember, dry feet are happy feet. And you can’t go wrong picking any of the 6 pairs of boots above. Happy travels!