Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes (2026)
Our picks for the best waterproof hiking shoes - the grippiest, driest, most comfortable GORE-TEX and membrane options for wet, muddy trails.
Wet grass, mud, and stream crossings will soak an ordinary shoe in minutes. A good waterproof hiking shoe keeps your feet dry and warm so you can focus on the trail. Below are our top picks across budgets and foot shapes - tap any button to check the current price on Amazon.
Looking for something more specific? See our best waterproof hiking boots for ankle support, budget picks, wide-feet options, and women’s waterproof hiking shoes. If you are still deciding whether you need a membrane at all, start with waterproof vs water-resistant; to revive a pair that has stopped beading, see how to waterproof shoes. For fast, light miles, our waterproof trail running shoes roundup is the lighter end of the same problem.
How we picked
We prioritized proven waterproof membranes (GORE-TEX and quality proprietary liners), outsole grip on slick rock, all-day comfort, and fit - including options for wide feet. Each pick is a widely trusted model with a strong long-term reputation among hikers.
How we test waterproof shoes
Every pick is scored on the same five criteria and cross-checked against real owner feedback - so the ranking reflects how a shoe holds up, not its spec sheet.
Waterproofing
How well it seals - GORE-TEX, eVent, or a quality liner, with gusseted tongues and taped seams.
Traction
Outsole compound and lug pattern, and real grip on wet rock, gravel, and slick mud.
Support
Midsole stiffness, torsional rigidity, and stability on uneven ground and under a pack.
Comfort
Fit and width options, cushioning, break-in, and weight over long days.
Durability
Upper toughness, toe and heel protection, and how it holds up season after season.
Best overall
La Sportiva Spire GTX
A do-everything waterproof hiker that scores high on every criterion. La Sportiva's GORE-TEX Surround keeps feet genuinely dry while venting through the sole for far more breathability than a typical membrane, and a supportive, backpacking-capable platform with a grippy FriXion outsole handles rocky, technical trails with room to spare.
Pros
- Waterproof yet unusually breathable (GORE-TEX Surround)
- Supportive, stable, backpacking-ready platform
- Durable build with grippy FriXion outsole
Cons
- Premium price
- Runs about a half-size large
Best value
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
One of the most popular hiking shoes for good reason: comfortable straight out of the box, roomy, and dependable in the wet - all at a friendly price. A great first pair for new hikers.
Pros
- Comfortable with almost no break-in
- Roomy fit and wide sizes available
- Strong value for the money
Cons
- Heavier than trail-runner-style shoes
- Membrane less breathable than some rivals
Most cushioned
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX
If you want maximum comfort over long, wet miles, HOKA's plush stack plus a GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet cushioned and dry. A favorite for hikers who value all-day comfort over nimbleness.
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning for long days
- Waterproof GORE-TEX with a supportive fit
- Grippy Vibram Megagrip outsole
Cons
- Tall stack feels less stable on very technical ground
- Premium price
Best for wide feet
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof
KEEN's signature roomy toe box makes the Targhee III a go-to for wide-footed hikers. The KEEN.DRY membrane and burly build shrug off mud, water, and rough trails season after season.
Pros
- Generous, foot-shaped toe box
- Durable, protective build
- Reliable KEEN.DRY waterproofing
Cons
- Bulkier and less nimble than lighter shoes
- Takes a short break-in period
Best lightweight
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Mid GTX
A light, agile GORE-TEX hiker with a mid-cut collar for a little extra ankle support. The Continental rubber outsole grips wet rock impressively, so you stay quick and dry on mixed terrain.
Pros
- Light and agile for a mid-cut boot
- Outstanding grip from Continental rubber
- Waterproof GORE-TEX membrane
Cons
- Less cushioning than max-stack shoes
- Fit runs on the narrow side
Sleekest design
On Cloudrock 2 Waterproof
On's unmistakable Swiss-engineered look - clean lines and a sculpted CloudTec sole - makes the Cloudrock 2 one of the most modern-looking hikers out there. Bonus: the upper is 95% recycled polyester.
Pros
- Sleek, minimalist Swiss design
- Stable, cushioned ride
- 95% recycled upper
Cons
- Firm underfoot for some
- Premium price
Best sneaker style
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
It looks like a Nike running shoe because it basically is - the Pegasus Trail 5 GTX brings springy ReactX foam and sneaker styling to wet trails, with a GORE-TEX upper and a raised cuff to block debris.
Pros
- Everyday sneaker looks
- Springy ReactX cushioning
- Great range of colorways
Cons
- Less rugged than true hikers
- Trail-light traction
Also worth considering
Strong, well-reviewed shoes that just missed our ranked list - worth a look if the picks above aren't quite right for you.
- Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX - An ultra-stable, top-rated waterproof trail-hiker (Advanced Chassis, all-terrain Contagrip) with thousands of owners - tough and grippy on uneven ground.
- adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX - A light, agile waterproof hiker with a grippy Continental outsole - a versatile, well-loved day-hike shoe.
- Oboz Sawtooth X Low B-DRY - One of the most genuinely supportive waterproof hikers - a firm molded arch and stable platform, PFC-free, with a tree planted per pair.
Frequently asked questions
Are waterproof hiking shoes worth it?
For wet, muddy, or shoulder-season trails, yes - a waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry and warm. In hot, dry climates a breathable non-waterproof shoe may be more comfortable.
Do waterproof shoes make your feet sweat?
A membrane like GORE-TEX is less breathable than mesh, so feet can feel warmer. Look for shoes that pair the membrane with good ventilation, and wear moisture-wicking socks.
What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
Water-resistant shoes shrug off light splashes and brief drizzle, but soak through in sustained rain or puddles. Waterproof shoes use a sealed membrane that keeps water out even during stream crossings - until water pours in over the collar.
Are waterproof hiking shoes or boots better?
Shoes are lighter and more breathable for day hikes and maintained trails. Boots add ankle support and higher waterproofing for heavy packs, rugged terrain, and deep mud or snow.
How do I clean and re-waterproof my hiking shoes?
Brush off dirt, wipe with a damp cloth, and let them air-dry away from direct heat. When water stops beading on the surface, refresh the durable water-repellent (DWR) coating with a spray-on or wash-in treatment.
How should waterproof hiking shoes fit?
Aim for a thumb's width of space at the toe so your feet don't jam on descents, with a secure midfoot that stops your foot sliding. Try them on with your hiking socks late in the day when feet are slightly swollen.
Are these good waterproof shoes for trekking?
Yes - every pick here handles trekking and long-distance day hiking on wet, muddy trails. For multi-day treks under a heavy pack, consider the extra ankle support of a waterproof hiking boot; for fast treks and day hikes, these shoes are lighter, cooler, and quicker to dry.
Are waterproof hiking shoes okay to wear every day?
Yes, and several here (the HOKA Transport, On Cloudrock, Nike Pegasus Trail) are designed for exactly that town-to-trail life. A waterproof membrane is a bonus on rainy city days - just know a membrane runs a little warmer than a mesh sneaker.
What is 'gorpcore'?
Gorpcore is the fashion trend of wearing technical outdoor gear - trail shoes, fleeces, shell jackets - as everyday style. Shoes like the Salomon Speedcross and XA Pro 3D became streetwear staples this way. GORP stands for 'good old raisins and peanuts,' i.e. trail mix.