When it comes to tackling Britain’s unpredictable weather and challenging terrain, the right waterproof hiking boots can make the difference between an enjoyable trek and a miserable slog through soggy countryside. Navigating muddy Lake District paths, scrambling over Yorkshire Dales limestone, or facing the wet Scottish Highlands all demand boots that keep your feet dry, comfortable, and protected.
The UK’s unique hiking conditions demand boots that can handle everything from morning frost to afternoon downpours, rocky scrambles to boggy moorland. So to help you find the right pair for your next hike, I’ve compiled a list of the best waterproof hiking boots, covering everything you need to find the perfect pair of boots for year-round adventures.
Disclaimer: If you make a purchase via the links on our site, I may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. You can read my affiliate disclosure in the privacy policy. Thanks for your support!
Why Waterproof Hiking Boots Matter in the UK
Britain’s climate makes waterproof boots essential rather than optional. With over 150 days of rainfall annually across most of the country, you’re almost guaranteed to encounter wet conditions during longer hikes. Waterproof boots provide crucial protection that goes beyond keeping feet dry.
Dry feet mean fewer blisters, better temperature regulation, and maintained grip inside the boot. Wet feet quickly become cold feet, leading to discomfort that can ruin an otherwise perfect day on the hills. In winter conditions, waterproof boots help prevent frostbite and hypothermia by maintaining proper insulation.
The difference between waterproof boots and regular hiking boots becomes apparent when crossing streams, walking through morning dew on long grass, or dealing with puddles on muddy paths. Quality waterproof boots also offer better long-term foot health by preventing fungal infections and other moisture-related issues.
Key Features to Look For
Understanding what makes truly effective waterproof hiking boots helps you choose wisely among the hundreds of options available.
Waterproof Membranes
The heart of any waterproof boot lies in its membrane technology. Gore-Tex remains the gold standard, offering proven waterproofing with breathability that prevents internal condensation. Alternative membranes like eVent, SympaTex, and proprietary systems from brands like The North Face (FutureLight) and Jack Wolfskin (Texapore) provide similar performance at varying price points.
Look for boots with taped seams and gusseted tongues to prevent water entry through stitching. The best boots integrate the membrane properly rather than simply adding a waterproof liner, ensuring durability and performance over years of use.
Materials and Construction
Leather boots provide the best durability and water resistance over time, but require longer break-in periods and more maintenance. Modern synthetic materials dry faster and need less care, but may not last as long in rough conditions.
Full-grain leather handles rough mountain use really well, while nubuck leather gives you decent durability without being too stiff. Synthetic boots are great in wet conditions since they dry out faster, though they might not last quite as long.
Outsole and Traction
Vibram soles are everywhere in quality boots, and honestly, there’s a good reason why. Their rubber compounds and tread patterns work really well for different types of terrain. Megagrip compound grips wet rocks like nothing else, while the harder compounds last ages on mixed ground.
Deep, multidirectional lugs provide traction in mud and loose surfaces, while closer-spaced patterns work better on hard pack and rocky terrain. Consider your typical hiking environments when evaluating sole design.
Top Waterproof Hiking Boots
Now, let’s jump into my top picks for the best waterproof hiking boots…
Scarpa Terra GTX
Best Overall
Key Benefits:
- Vibram outsole with reliable grip on wet rocks and mud
- Durable suede and fabric construction with Gore-Tex waterproofing
- Medium-stiff build supports heavy packs while staying comfortable
- Long-term durability
The Scarpa Terra GTX keeps popping up on everyone’s recommendation lists, and after seeing how they handle British conditions, it makes sense. Built with suede and fabric upper plus Gore-Tex waterproofing, they cope with everything from muddy country paths to proper rocky scrambles.
The Vibram outsole grips wet rocks and slippery surfaces really well – the kind of stuff you’re always dealing with in UK conditions. They’re stiff enough to support a heavy pack but still comfortable for day walks. Loads of people say they’ve had theirs for 5+ years with decent care.
Around £160-180, they’re decent value for boots that actually handle our weather properly year-round. They fit true to size and don’t take forever to break in compared to proper leather boots.
Pros
- Proven durability in UK conditions
- Excellent grip on wet surfaces
- Comfortable for long distances
- Good value for the quality
Cons
- Takes time to fully break in
- Heavier than lightweight alternatives
- Limited colour options
Meindl Bhutan MFS
Best for Serious Mountain Hiking
Key Benefits:
- German precision engineering with traditional craftsmanship
- Full-grain leather construction built for extreme durability
- Memory foam system (MFS) provides customised comfort
- Vibram sole designed for technical mountain terrain
- Crampon compatible with rigid construction for winter use
The Meindl Bhutan MFS brings German engineering precision to serious mountain hiking. Built with full-grain leather and traditional construction methods, these boots are designed for hikers who tackle challenging terrain regularly and want boots that’ll last for years.
The Memory Foam System moulds to your foot shape over time, creating a custom fit that gets more comfortable with use. The rigid construction handles heavy loads and technical terrain, making them popular with mountaineers and serious hillwalkers who need maximum support and protection.
At £280-300, they’re a serious investment but deliver performance that justifies the cost for serious hikers. The traditional styling and robust build appeal to hikers who prefer proven designs over modern lightweight alternatives.
Pros
- Memory foam system creates a custom fit
- Extremely durable construction
- Handles technical terrain confidently
Cons
- Expensive initial investment
- Long break-in period required
- Heavy compared to modern alternatives
- Overkill for casual day hiking
Salomon Quest 4 GTX
Best for Fast Hiking and Mixed Terrain
Key Benefits:
- Trail running technology in hiking boot format for speed and agility
- Advanced Chassis provides stability without unnecessary bulk
- Continental rubber outsole grips wet surfaces brilliantly
- Quick-lacing system allows easy trail adjustments
- Lightweight synthetic construction dries faster than leather
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX brings trail running tech into hiking boots, so you get something responsive and comfortable for covering ground fast. The Advanced Chassis gives you stability without feeling bulky, while the 4D system helps your foot move naturally.
Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry while the quick-lacing system allows easy adjustment on the trail. The Continental rubber outsole (yes, the tyre company) provides exceptional grip in wet conditions, making it particularly suited to British weather.
This boot works really well if you like moving fast and staying agile rather than wanting maximum ankle support. It’s lighter than traditional leather boots while giving you comparable protection and waterproofing. You’re looking at around £180-200 from most UK shops.
Pros
- Lightweight and agile feel
- Exceptional wet weather traction
- Quick-lacing system
- Responsive ride quality
Cons
- Less durable than leather alternatives
- Expensive for synthetic construction
- May not suit heavy pack carriers
Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX
Best Budget-Friendly Boot
Key Benefits:
- Genuine Gore-Tex waterproofing
- Vibram TC5+ sole technology
- Comfortable straight from the box with minimal break-in
- Proven performance for weekend and occasional hikers
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX shows you don’t need to drop £200+ for decent waterproof boots. At around £120-140, you get proper Gore-Tex waterproofing, Vibram sole tech, and a comfortable build that works well for most UK hiking.
The suede and mesh upper gives you durability where you need it while keeping the weight sensible. The Vibram TC5+ sole handles mixed terrain pretty well, though it’s not quite as grippy as the premium compounds on wet rocks.
For weekend hikers and people who don’t get out that often, the Moab 3 Mid does the job without breaking the bank. It’s especially popular with families kitting everyone out, since you get proven tech at prices that don’t hurt.
Pros
- Excellent value for Gore-Tex boots
- Comfortable straight from the box
- Suitable for most UK terrain
Cons
- Not as durable as premium options
- Less aggressive tread pattern
- Basic styling and features
Hanwag Banks GTX
Best Premium Leather Boot
Key Benefits:
- Traditional European bootmaking with decades-long durability
- Full-grain leather construction can be resoled multiple times
- Crampon-compatible stiff sole for winter mountaineering
- Classic styling works from hills to town
- Narrow European fit
The Hanwag Banks GTX shows what happens when European bootmakers really go for it. Built with full-grain leather and traditional construction, these boots are made to last decades if you look after them and get them resoled when needed.
The classic design has a stiff sole that works with crampons, so they’re equally happy on Scottish winter hills or summer walks. They take longer to break in than synthetic boots, but you get unmatched durability and weather protection.
At £280-320, the Banks GTX needs serious cash upfront but gives you premium performance. The narrow European fit suits most UK feet pretty well, though wide-footed people should definitely try before buying.
Pros
- Excellent build quality and durability
- Can be resoled multiple times
- Works great in winter conditions
- Classic styling
Cons
- Expensive initial investment
- Long break-in period required
- Heavy compared to modern alternatives
- Requires regular maintenance
Keen Targhee IV Mid WP
Best for Wide Feet
Key Benefits:
- Generous toe box and roomy fit accommodates wider feet
- Keen.Dry waterproof membrane performs similarly to Gore-Tex
- Dual-density midsole provides all-day comfort
- 4mm multi-directional lugs handle muddy UK conditions
- Comfortable straight from the box with minimal break-in
The Keen Targhee IV Mid WP addresses a common problem: finding quality waterproof boots that accommodate wider feet. Keen’s generous toe box and roomy fit make these boots popular among hikers who struggle with narrow European lasts.
The proprietary Keen.Dry waterproof membrane performs similarly to Gore-Tex, while the dual-density midsole provides comfort for long days. The 4mm multi-directional lugs handle muddy UK conditions well, though they’re not ideal for hard rock scrambling.
Priced around £140-160, the Targhee IV offers good value for hikers needing wider fits. The comfortable feel straight from the box makes them popular for hiking holidays, where break-in time is limited.
Pros
- Excellent for wide feet
- Comfortable immediately
- Good traction in mud
- Reasonable pricing
Cons
- Bulkier appearance than some prefer
- Not ideal for technical terrain
- Durability questions with heavy use
Lowa Renegade EVO GTX
Best for Women’s Specific Fit
Key Benefits:
- True women’s-specific fit
- Narrower heel, wider forefoot, and lower instep height
- Nubuck leather and fabric construction
- Vibram Evo sole provides reliable traction across varied terrain
- Well-integrated Gore-Tex maintains breathability
The Lowa Renegade EVO GTX utilises a women’s-specific last that better accommodates female foot anatomy. The narrower heel, wider forefoot, and lower instep height create a more secure, comfortable fit for many women hikers.
Built with nubuck leather and fabric construction, these boots offer excellent durability while remaining relatively lightweight. The Vibram Evo sole provides reliable traction across varied UK terrain, from limestone pavements to muddy paths.
The Gore-Tex membrane integration is particularly well done, with minimal compromise to breathability. At £180-200, they represent solid value for boots specifically designed for women’s feet rather than simply sized-down men’s models.
Pros
- True women’s-specific fit
- Excellent build quality
- Good breathability
Cons
- Limited to women’s sizes
- Higher price than some alternatives
- Longer break-in for leather components
Berghaus Fellmaster Ridge GTX
Best for UK Conditions
Key Benefits:
- Designed specifically for British hiking conditions and terrain
- Opti-Stud sole configuration handles muddy, loose terrain well
- British brand understands UK foot shapes and hiking needs
- Versatile styling works on hills and around town
Designed specifically for British hiking conditions, the Berghaus Fellmaster Ridge GTX understands what UK hikers need. The combination of leather and fabric upper provides durability, while the Opti-Stud sole configuration handles muddy, loose terrain really well.
The Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry during typical British weather, while the cushioned midsole provides comfort for long days. As a British brand, Berghaus understands UK foot shapes and typical hiking conditions better than some international alternatives.
Priced competitively around £150-170, the Fellmaster Ridge offers solid performance specifically tuned for British hiking. The styling works well both on the hills and around town, making them versatile for various uses.
Pros
- Designed specifically for UK conditions
- Good value pricing
- Versatile styling
- Comfortable fit for UK feet
Cons
- Less technical than premium alternatives
- Limited international availability
- Basic feature set
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
Best for Technical Terrain
Key Benefits:
- Technical construction handles scrambling and via ferrata
- Vibram Megagrip sole provides exceptional grip on wet rock
- Precise Italian fit and quality construction
The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX bridges the gap between hiking boots and mountaineering footwear. The technical construction handles scrambling and via ferrata while remaining comfortable for regular hiking.
The Vibram Megagrip sole provides exceptional traction on wet rock, making it ideal for Lake District scrambles or Welsh ridge walks. The precise fit and responsive feel suit hikers who demand technical performance from their footwear.
At £200-220, these boots command premium pricing but deliver specialised performance. The narrow Italian last requires careful sizing, but rewards with precision fit and control on technical terrain.
Pros
- Exceptional grip on wet rock
- Precise, responsive fit
- Technical performance features
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Expensive pricing
- Narrow fit won’t suit all feet
- Stiffer than pure hiking boots
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Mid GTX
Best Hybrid Hiking Shoe
Key Benefits:
- Athletic shoe technology applied to hiking footwear
- Continental rubber sole with running shoe comfort
- Lightweight synthetic construction dries quickly
- Minimal maintenance compared to leather alternatives
- Modern styling appeals to younger hikers
The Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Mid GTX applies athletic shoe technology to hiking footwear, creating a lightweight, responsive option for fast hiking. The Continental rubber sole provides good grip while the Lightstrike midsole offers running shoe comfort.
The synthetic construction dries quickly and requires minimal maintenance compared to leather alternatives. The mid-cut height provides ankle support while maintaining flexibility for varied terrain.
Priced around £130-150, it offers good value for hikers prioritising speed and comfort over maximum durability. The athletic styling appeals to younger hikers and those preferring modern aesthetics.
Pros
- Lightweight and responsive
- Athletic shoe comfort
- Quick-drying materials
- Modern styling
Cons
- Less durable than traditional boots
- Limited support for heavy packs
- Not suitable for winter conditions
- Synthetic materials may not last
Asolo Traverse GV
Best for Mountaineering
Key Benefits:
- Mountaineering-grade construction for demanding conditions
- Full-grain leather with crampon-compatible stiff sole
- Gore-Tex membrane provides reliable waterproofing
- Vibram sole offers grip on varied mountain surfaces
- Built for winter hiking and technical mountaineering
The Asolo Traverse GV represents serious mountain footwear for demanding UK conditions. Built with full-grain leather and featuring a stiff sole suitable for crampon use, these boots handle winter hiking and mountaineering applications.
The Gore-Tex membrane provides reliable waterproofing, while the Vibram sole offers excellent grip on varied surfaces. The construction quality justifies the premium pricing for hikers needing maximum performance.
At £250-280, the Traverse GV requires significant investment but rewards with uncompromising performance. The stiff construction suits technical use but may feel less comfortable for casual hiking.
Pros
- Mountaineering-grade construction
- Crampon compatible
- Excellent durability
- Superior weather protection
Cons
- Expensive pricing
- Stiff ride for casual hiking
- Long break-in period
- Heavy compared to lighter options
Sizing and Fit Guide
Getting the right size in waterproof hiking boots is crucial for comfort and performance. UK sizing can vary between brands, with European brands often running differently from British or American sizing.
Visit a specialist outdoor retailer when possible to try different brands and styles. Your hiking boot size often differs from your casual shoe size, typically requiring a half to full size larger to accommodate thicker socks and foot swelling during long hikes.
Consider the socks you’ll wear hiking when trying on boots. Quality merino wool or synthetic hiking socks are thicker than regular socks and affect boot fit significantly. Your toes should have room to wiggle without the boot being loose around the heel or midfoot.
Pro Tip: Test boots later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen, simulating conditions during long hikes. Walk on different surfaces if possible, including inclines, to assess fit and comfort properly.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care extends the life of waterproof hiking boots significantly and maintains their performance. After each hike, remove mud and debris, then allow boots to air dry naturally away from direct heat sources.
Clean boots regularly with appropriate cleaners for the upper material. Leather boots benefit from occasional conditioning with quality leather treatments, while synthetic boots need less maintenance but should be cleaned to prevent odour buildup.
Reproof waterproof boots periodically with appropriate treatments. The DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on the outer fabric wears off over time, reducing breathability and potentially compromising waterproofing.
Store boots in a dry, ventilated area with cedar shoe trees to maintain shape. Avoid leaving boots in hot cars or storing them while damp, as this can damage materials and promote bacterial growth.
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When to Replace Your Boots
Even the best waterproof hiking boots eventually wear out. Signs it’s time to replace your boots include: worn tread that no longer provides adequate grip, compressed midsole foam that doesn’t provide cushioning, waterproof membrane failure that allows water penetration, and upper materials that show significant wear or damage.
Quality boots often can be resoled, extending their life significantly. Companies like Vibram and local cobblers can replace worn outsoles on many premium boots, making the higher initial investment more economical over time.
Consider your hiking frequency and typical terrain when evaluating replacement timing. People who hike weekly on rough terrain may need new boots annually, while occasional hikers might use the same pair for 5+ years.
UK Retailers and Where to Buy
Specialist Outdoor Retailers:
- Cotswold Outdoor: Excellent selection with expert staff advice
- Ellis Brigham: Premium brands and mountaineering expertise
- Blacks: Good range with regular sales and promotions
- Mountain Warehouse: Budget-friendly options and house brands
- Nevisport: Scottish-based with winter sports expertise
Online Options:
- Amazon UK: Largest selection with competitive pricing
- SportsShoes.com: Specialist footwear retailer with good returns policy
- Wiggle: Competitive pricing with frequent promotions
- Direct from manufacturers: Latest models with full warranty support
Physical Stores Benefits: Trying boots before buying remains valuable despite online convenience. Specialist retailers offer gait analysis, proper fitting services, and expert advice on choosing appropriate boots for your hiking style and typical terrain.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring and Summer: Focus on breathability and lighter construction. Quick-drying materials become more important as temperatures rise and water crossings increase.
Autumn and Winter: Insulation and weather protection take priority. Consider boots with higher cuts for additional weather protection and compatibility with gaiters.
Year-Round Options: Choose versatile boots that handle varied conditions well rather than specialising for specific seasons. Most UK hikers benefit from one good pair that works across seasons rather than multiple seasonal boots.
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the right waterproof hiking boots comes down to honestly assessing where you hike, how often you’re out there, and what you actually need from your footwear. Too many people either grab the cheapest pair and regret it later, or spend big on technical boots they’ll never fully use.
If you’re hiking every weekend and tackling proper hills, investing in quality boots like the Scarpa Terra GTX or Hanwag Banks GTX makes sense. The extra cost pays for itself in comfort, durability, and confidence on challenging terrain. For occasional hikers, something like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX delivers the performance you need without the premium price tag.
The key is matching the boot to your actual hiking style rather than what you imagine you might do. Most UK hikers do well with mid-range boots that handle our wet conditions, provide decent support, and don’t require a second mortgage. Remember that even the best boots need proper care and break-in time to perform their best.
Don’t overthink it too much – any of these boots will serve you better than inadequate footwear. The difference between soggy, uncomfortable feet and dry, supported ones transforms your whole hiking experience, especially in Britain’s unpredictable conditions.
Final Thoughts
The right waterproof hiking boots transform your outdoor experience, keeping you comfortable and confident in any British weather. Planning weekend rambles or serious mountain adventures both benefit from investing in quality boots that match your hiking style and typical terrain – it pays off in comfort, safety, and enjoyment on the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes hiking boots waterproof?
Waterproof hiking boots use breathable membranes like Gore-Tex that prevent water from entering while allowing moisture vapour to escape. These membranes are combined with sealed seams and waterproof materials to create a protective barrier around your feet.
Are waterproof boots worth it for year-round hiking?
In the UK’s wet climate, waterproof boots provide significant benefits for most hikers. While they may be slightly less breathable than non-waterproof alternatives, the protection from wet conditions, improved warmth, and reduced blister risk make them worthwhile for regular hikers.
How should I break in new hiking boots?
Start with short walks around home wearing your hiking socks. Gradually increase distance and terrain difficulty over several weeks. Use quality hiking socks and consider adjusting lacing techniques to reduce pressure points during the break-in period.
How do I care for and maintain waterproof boots?
Clean boots after each use, removing mud and debris. Allow them to air dry naturally, then treat leather components with appropriate conditioners. Reproof the outer fabric periodically with DWR treatments to maintain breathability and water repellency.
What’s the difference between men’s and women’s hiking boots?
Women’s-specific boots use different lasts (foot-shaped forms) that account for anatomical differences including narrower heels, wider forefeet, and lower instep heights. These differences create better fit and comfort for many women hikers compared to sized-down men’s models.
When should I replace my hiking boots?
Replace boots when the outsole tread is worn significantly, the midsole no longer provides cushioning, the waterproof membrane fails consistently, or the upper materials show major damage. Quality boots can often be resoled, extending their useful life considerably.
Learn More
Like this review? Well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- Wild Camping: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Best Tents For Wild Camping
- Best Hammocks + Best Bivvy Bags
- Best Portable Camping Fire Pits
- Best Places for Wild Camping Wales, Scotland and The Lake District
All images courtesy of Respective Brands, All Rights Reserved.
Disclaimer: If you make a purchase via the links on our site, I may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. You can read my affiliate disclosure in the privacy policy. Thanks for your support!
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
