Waterproof hiking shoes split by membrane, not by brand. Gore-Tex seals hardest and costs most, KEEN.DRY seals well in a wider, tougher shoe, and sealed non-membrane builds like the Crestwood keep rain out for less money. This guide ranks the membrane shoes first for genuinely wet conditions, and treats warmth as the real cost of waterproofing: every shoe here runs hotter than its breathable twin, so buyers in dry climates should look at the main guide instead.
The Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes (2027)
Waterproof hiking shoes for 2027: Gore-Tex and KEEN.DRY low-cut shoes ranked on sealing, grip, width and warmth, for wet trails and rainy climates.
The short answer
For the wettest trails in 2027, take the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX for technical ground or the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof for wide feet. The Merrell Moab 3 GTX gives Gore-Tex sealing in a classic shape, the X Ultra 4 GTX gives the proven version of the same idea, and the Columbia Crestwood Waterproof gives real rain protection for the lowest spend. Kids are covered by the KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof.
Our top picks at a glance
- Salomon X Ultra 5 GTXThe newest X Ultra: a Matryx upper, Gore-Tex sealing and Contagrip traction in a lighter, more agile technical shoe.Best waterproof technical shoe
- KEEN Targhee 4 Low WaterproofThe updated Targhee: direct-attach construction, KEEN.DRY sealing and the same wide, forgiving fit in a tougher package.Best waterproof shoe for wide feet
- Merrell Moab 3 GTXThe Moab 3 with a Gore-Tex membrane: the same trail-proven platform, sealed for the wettest walking conditions.Best Gore-Tex classic
- Salomon X Ultra 4 GTXThe proven Gore-Tex all-rounder: Quicklace closure, ADV-C chassis and Contagrip grip for steep, wet and mixed ground.Best proven waterproof workhorse
- Merrell Moab 3 WaterproofThe classic Moab formula in a low cut with a waterproof membrane: leather and mesh, Vibram grip and the fit that made the line famous.Best waterproof all-rounder
- Columbia Crestwood WaterproofThe budget waterproof shoe that keeps beginners dry: suede and mesh, Techlite cushioning and Omni-Grip traction for sensible money.Best budget waterproof shoe
- KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low WaterproofThe kids Targhee: KEEN.DRY waterproofing, a protective toe bumper and the wide, sturdy fit young hikers need.Best waterproof kids shoe
The picks, ranked
Every product in this lineup was picked for this use case, ranked with our strongest choices first. If a product from the wider category does not genuinely fit this scenario, it is not listed here.
| # | Product | Award | Upper | Membrane | Outsole | Closure | Midsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX | Best waterproof technical shoe | Matryx woven upper | Gore-Tex | Contagrip rubber | Quicklace one-pull system | EVA foam cushioning |
| 2 | KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof | Best waterproof shoe for wide feet | - | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber traction | - | - |
| 3 | Merrell Moab 3 GTX | Best Gore-Tex classic | Leather and mesh | Gore-Tex waterproof membrane | Vibram TC5+ rubber | - | - |
| 4 | Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX | Best proven waterproof workhorse | - | Gore-Tex | Contagrip rubber | Quicklace one-pull system | EnergyCell EVA foam |
| 5 | Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof | Best waterproof all-rounder | Leather and mesh | - | Vibram TC5+ rubber | - | - |
| 6 | Columbia Crestwood Waterproof | Best budget waterproof shoe | Suede and mesh panels | - | Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber | Lace-up | Techlite lightweight midsole |
| 7 | KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof | Best waterproof kids shoe | Leather and textile | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | All-terrain rubber traction | Hook-and-loop strap with laces | - |
Best waterproof technical shoe
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
The newest X Ultra: a Matryx upper, Gore-Tex sealing and Contagrip traction in a lighter, more agile technical shoe.
Strengths
- Matryx upper resists abrasion from rock and brush while staying lighter than leather builds
- Gore-Tex membrane handles rain, wet grass and shallow crossings without soaking through
- Contagrip outsole bites on both wet and dry surfaces, from granite slabs to forest floor
- Agile, lower-profile build suits quick movement and scrambling better than bulkier hikers
Limitations
- Fit runs snug, and wide feet will likely find the toe box restrictive
- Less cushioning than the HOKA and New Balance trail runners for long flat mileage
- Newer model means fewer long-term durability reports than the X Ultra 4 it succeeds
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners describe the shoe as nimble on rocky trails, with grip that inspires confidence on steep steps
- Wet-weather hikers report the Gore-Tex sealing holds up through rain and boggy sections
- Scramblers like the precise feel, saying the shoe lets them place feet accurately on rock
Common complaints
- Buyers with wider feet say the snug last squeezes the forefoot on longer walks
- Some owners wish for softer cushioning on flat approach miles between technical sections
- A few note the price sits high for a shoe that replaces the already strong X Ultra 4
| Upper | Matryx woven upper |
|---|---|
| Membrane | Gore-Tex |
| Outsole | Contagrip rubber |
| Closure | Quicklace one-pull system |
| Midsole | EVA foam cushioning |
| Protection | Reinforced toe and heel caps |
Best for: Fast hikers and scramblers who want technical grip and waterproofing without a heavy boot-like shoe.
Skip if: You need a wide toe box, or you want maximum cushion for flat, long-distance days over technical performance.
Best waterproof shoe for wide feet
KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof
The updated Targhee: direct-attach construction, KEEN.DRY sealing and the same wide, forgiving fit in a tougher package.
Strengths
- KEEN.FUSION direct-attach construction bonds the sole to the upper for a sturdier build
- KEEN.DRY membrane seals out wet trails while the exterior treatment stays PFAS-free
- Wider KEEN form with regular and wide widths fits feet that narrower brands pinch
- All-terrain traction handles mud, gravel and wet rock without drama
Limitations
- Still a substantial shoe, so ultralight hikers will find it heavier than trail runners
- Leather-leaning build runs warm in summer despite the low cut
- Newer generation means fewer years of owner history than the Targhee III
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners with wide feet say the Targhee 4 finally gives them a waterproof shoe without squeezing the forefoot
- Walkers praise the sturdier feel, noting the sole and upper feel joined as one piece
- Wet-trail users report dry feet through mud and rain, with the membrane doing its job quietly
Common complaints
- Some buyers find the shoe heavier than expected for a low-cut design
- A few owners say the fit feels roomy enough to need careful lacing to stop heel movement
- Summer hikers note the shoe stays warm on hot days, like most waterproof leather-leaning shoes
| Membrane | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Construction | KEEN.FUSION direct-attach sole |
| Outsole | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber traction |
| Fit | Traditional wider KEEN form |
| Waterproofing treatment | PFAS-free exterior waterproofing |
| Sizes | US 7 to 15 men's, regular and wide widths |
Best for: Wide-footed hikers who want the newest Targhee with better build quality and waterproofing that avoids PFAS treatments.
Skip if: You chase the lightest shoe, or you prefer a snug, precise technical fit for scrambling.
Best Gore-Tex classic
Merrell Moab 3 GTX
The Moab 3 with a Gore-Tex membrane: the same trail-proven platform, sealed for the wettest walking conditions.
Strengths
- Gore-Tex membrane gives the strongest wet-weather sealing in the Moab family
- Vibram TC5+ outsole holds grip on slick rock and muddy descents
- Leather and mesh upper keeps the supportive Moab feel while shedding trail debris
- Super Rebound Compound midsole softens repeated impacts on hard, rocky paths
Limitations
- Gore-Tex version costs more than the standard waterproof Moab while feeling similar on dry trails
- Membrane warmth makes it a poor pick for hot-weather hiking despite the low cut
- Heavier build than the trail-runner shoes here, so fast hikers may find it slow
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners praise the Gore-Tex sealing on boggy trails, reporting dry socks where non-membrane shoes gave up
- Walkers who already trust the Moab shape say the GTX version keeps the same reassuring fit
- Cold-season hikers like the way the sealed upper blocks wind and drizzle on exposed ridges
Common complaints
- Buyers in warm climates say the membrane makes the shoe too hot for summer use
- Some owners question paying extra over the standard waterproof Moab for similar dry-trail feel
- A few report the shoe needs several outings before the fit feels broken in
| Membrane | Gore-Tex waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
| Upper | Leather and mesh |
| Cushioning | Super Rebound Compound midsole |
| Lug depth | 5 mm (Moab 3 GTX platform figure) |
| Cut | Low top |
Best for: Walkers who love the Moab fit but hike in persistent rain, boggy ground and cold, wet seasons.
Skip if: Your trails are mostly dry and warm, or you want the lightest shoe possible; Gore-Tex adds cost and warmth you may not need.
Best proven waterproof workhorse
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
The proven Gore-Tex all-rounder: Quicklace closure, ADV-C chassis and Contagrip grip for steep, wet and mixed ground.
Strengths
- ADV-C chassis steadies the foot on side slopes and uneven ground without feeling rigid
- Quicklace closure tightens the whole shoe with one pull and tucks away cleanly
- Contagrip outsole grips across wet rock, mud and dry hardpack
- Gore-Tex membrane seals out rain and stream splash on long wet days
Limitations
- Narrower last than the KEEN shoes here, so wide feet often need to size up or look elsewhere
- Quicklace cannot be re-tensioned across separate foot zones the way laces can
- Stiffer feel than the cushioned trail runners, which some walkers find tiring on flat miles
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners love how the Quicklace system locks the midfoot down on steep descents with no heel slip
- Technical hikers report sure footing on wet rock and muddy traverses thanks to the Contagrip sole
- Walkers praise the all-day support, saying tired feet stay steadier late in a long hike
Common complaints
- Wide-footed owners say the toe box pinches and the fit runs narrow compared with KEEN and Merrell
- Some buyers dislike the Quicklace feel, finding it hard to fine-tune pressure over the forefoot
- A few owners note the shoe feels firm underfoot on flat, easy paths where cushion matters more
| Membrane | Gore-Tex |
|---|---|
| Chassis | ADV-C advanced chassis |
| Outsole | Contagrip rubber |
| Midsole | EnergyCell EVA foam |
| Footbed | OrthoLite sockliner |
| Closure | Quicklace one-pull system |
Best for: Hikers who tackle steep, technical and wet trails and want a shoe that locks the foot down securely.
Skip if: You have very wide feet, or you dislike one-pull lacing systems and prefer traditional laces you can adjust zone by zone.
Best waterproof all-rounder
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
The classic Moab formula in a low cut with a waterproof membrane: leather and mesh, Vibram grip and the fit that made the line famous.
Strengths
- Vibram TC5+ outsole gives confident grip on wet rock, mud and loose trail surfaces
- Waterproof membrane keeps feet dry through stream crossings and sustained rain
- Leather and mesh upper balances support with ventilation better than full leather
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock on long descents and hard-packed trails
Limitations
- Waterproof construction traps heat on warm days, so summer hikers may prefer the vented Moab line
- Break-in takes a few walks before the leather panels soften and the fit settles
- Heavier than the trail-runner options here, which shows on fast, long-mile days
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners keep coming back to the familiar Moab fit, saying the shoe feels right from the first walk with little adjustment
- Wet-weather walkers report dry feet after rain-soaked paths and shallow crossings that soak lesser shoes
- Long-time Moab wearers praise the durability, with uppers and soles holding up across seasons of regular trail use
Common complaints
- Summer hikers say the waterproof version runs noticeably warm once temperatures climb
- Some owners find the shoe stiff out of the box and wish the leather softened faster
- A few buyers note the sizing feels snug with thick hiking socks and suggest trying the wide version
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Waterproof membrane construction |
| Upper | Leather and mesh |
| Cushioning | Merrell Air Cushion heel plus Super Rebound Compound |
| Sustainability | Partially recycled laces, webbing and mesh lining |
| Cut | Low top |
Best for: Day hikers who want one dependable shoe for mud, rain and rocky paths and who like the traditional Moab fit.
Skip if: You hike mostly in summer heat or need a featherweight shoe; the waterproof membrane runs warm and this is not the lightest shoe here.
Best budget waterproof shoe
Columbia Crestwood Waterproof
The budget waterproof shoe that keeps beginners dry: suede and mesh, Techlite cushioning and Omni-Grip traction for sensible money.
Strengths
- Waterproof construction keeps feet dry on rainy walks and muddy paths at a budget price
- Techlite midsole gives light, responsive cushioning for all-day comfort on easy trails
- Omni-Grip outsole holds traction across dirt, gravel and wet pavement
- Suede and mesh upper balances durability with airflow better than full synthetic builds
Limitations
- Less support and protection than the premium technical shoes for rough, rocky ground
- Cushioning and grip fall short of the Salomon and HOKA options on long, hard days
- Sizing and width range is narrower than the KEEN shoes, so wide feet should try before committing
What owners report
Most praised
- Owners call it a bargain, saying the waterproofing and comfort beat expectations at the price
- Casual walkers praise the easy, trainer-like feel on park trails and neighborhood paths
- Buyers like the sturdy look, saying the suede panels hold up well to everyday wear
Common complaints
- Experienced hikers say support runs out on rough, rocky terrain where pricier shoes hold firm
- Some owners report the cushioning flattens faster than premium midsoles on long days
- A few buyers find the fit narrow and wish a wide version were easier to find
| Style number | 210065 |
|---|---|
| Midsole | Techlite lightweight midsole |
| Outsole | Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber |
| Waterproofing | Waterproof construction |
| Upper | Suede and mesh panels |
| Closure | Lace-up |
Best for: New hikers and occasional walkers who want waterproof protection without paying premium-shoe prices.
Skip if: You hike steep, technical terrain weekly, or you need wide widths and a roomy toe box; this is a general trail shoe, not a specialist.
Best waterproof kids shoe
KEEN Kids Targhee 4 Low Waterproof
The kids Targhee: KEEN.DRY waterproofing, a protective toe bumper and the wide, sturdy fit young hikers need.
Strengths
- KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry through rain, mud and shallow puddles
- Rubber toe bumper protects small toes from rocks, roots and playground scrapes
- Wide, sturdy fit gives growing feet room without the shoe feeling sloppy
- All-terrain rubber traction grips on trails, wet grass and loose gravel
Limitations
- Sturdier build is heavier than the light Merrell kids shoe for running and play
- Waterproofing adds warmth, so feet can get hot on summer hikes
- Higher price than basic kids trainers, which stings when feet grow fast
What owners report
Most praised
- Parents praise the toughness, saying the shoes survive rocky trails and daily playground abuse alike
- Families report dry feet after rainy hikes, with the waterproofing holding up through mud
- Parents like the roomy fit, saying wide little feet finally have space to move
Common complaints
- Some parents find the shoe heavier than expected for younger, smaller kids
- A few report warm feet on summer walks, with the waterproof build trapping heat
- Parents note the price feels steep for a shoe outgrown within a season or two
| Membrane | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane |
|---|---|
| Style | 1029564 |
| Upper | Leather and textile |
| Toe protection | Rubber toe bumper |
| Outsole | All-terrain rubber traction |
| Closure | Hook-and-loop strap with laces |
Best for: Kids who hike proper trails in wet weather and need a tough, waterproof shoe with room for growing feet.
Skip if: Your child mostly walks pavements and parks, or you want the lightest possible shoe for running and play.
How we chose
Named membranes over waterproof labels
A shoe that only says waterproof may rely on coatings that fade, while Gore-Tex and KEEN.DRY are membranes with sealed construction behind them. This guide ranks named-membrane shoes above generic waterproof claims, and says plainly where a shoe uses a sealed build rather than a branded membrane.
Sealing means nothing without grip
Wet trails are slippery trails, so a waterproof shoe with a poor wet-weather outsole is a false promise. Contagrip, Vibram TC5+ and KEEN all-terrain rubber all hold on wet surfaces, and the ranking weighs wet grip alongside sealing, because dry feet in a sliding shoe still end a hike badly.
Warmth is the price of dry feet
Every membrane traps heat, and waterproof shoes dry slowly once water enters over the collar. The guide treats this as a genuine cost: buyers who hike in summer rain need a membrane shoe, but buyers in dry heat should choose breathable shoes and accept wet feet on the rare rainy day.
Questions, answered
How waterproof are Gore-Tex hiking shoes really?
Gore-Tex shoes keep rain, mud and shallow water out reliably, but they are not waders: water over the collar soaks in from the top, and the membrane then dries slowly. For stream crossings above ankle depth, gaiters help, and for truly deep water, no low-cut shoe stays dry. Within those limits, Gore-Tex is the most dependable sealing in this guide.
Do waterproof shoes need special care?
Yes, but little: clean off mud after hikes, let them dry at room temperature away from radiators, and reproof leather uppers occasionally. Heat damages membranes, so never dry waterproof shoes on a heater or in a tumble dryer. With basic care, the membrane shoes here keep sealing across seasons of regular use.
Are waterproof shoes bad in summer?
They run warmer than breathable shoes, and on hot, dry trails that warmth is a real drawback. Summer hikers who rarely meet rain are better off in a breathable shoe like the Speedgoat 6 or Hierro V8 and accepting wet feet on the odd rainy day. Waterproof shoes earn their place in wet climates, cold seasons and boggy ground, not in summer heat.
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