There are so many enjoyable activities that take place outdoors during the winter season. Such activities include ice skating, building a snow fort and simple daily ones like walking through town when snowy. Of course, you need to have the best waterproof boots to avoid getting your socks wet and soggy.
Waterproof boots are a necessity when hiking, during rainy weather and on slippery sidewalks. However, the thought of stepping in a water puddle and soaking your boots can be quite uncomfortable. A good pair of boots will keep your feet dry and protect you from falling on wet slippery surfaces, especially during inclement weather. Below, we have rounded up the best waterproof boots on the market and looked at factors worth considering before buying a pair of boots.
5 Best Waterproof Boots
1.Columbia Men's Bugaboot Cold-Weather Boot
The Columbia Bugaboot boots are constructed with a rubber sole to offer protection against water. The sole has non-marking siping on the sole to increase the traction. In addition, the midsole is constructed with techlite energy to offer extra support and cushioning.
These cold weather boots feature a ghillie lacing and waterproof seam-sealed construction to prevent water from leaking into the feet. In addition, they have a reflective Omni-Heat lining that has 200g insulation rated to -25 degrees F (-32 degrees c). This lining helps to keep the feet warm and dry.
These boots are available in 3 colors and offer a stylish look. They are lightweight and functional. Additionally, the sizes are available in a broad range, including half sizes.
2. Timberland White Ledge Ankle Boot
The Timberland ankle boots are made of full-grain leather upper with an oil finish. The leather upper ensures that water does not get into the shoes. The tongue is also made of leather.
The insoles of these boots are contoured to give extra comfort and shock absorption. In addition, they have perforations to allow for breathing and keep the feet from being sweaty.
The Timberland White Ledge waterproof boots for men have a seam-sealed waterproof construction and rustproof speed lace hardware with hooks at the top for secure lacing. Additionally, the shoes feature a paddling in the ankle collar to offer a comfortable, watertight fit.
These boots are designed such that they perfectly fit with your other outdoor gear and accessories. Timberland offers a warranty on the boots should you feel unsatisfied with your purchase.
3. Sperry Women's Saltwater Rain Boot
The Sperry rain boot is 100% cotton. In addition, it has a rubber outsole that is slip-resistant and offers protection against abrasions. The sole has wave-siping in the tread to increase wet/dry traction. Furthermore, the shaft of the boot measures approximately ankles from the arch to provide arch support.
This duck-inspired waterproof boot has a microfleece lining for insulation purposes. Air is trapped within the microfibers locking cold air from entering the boot and heat from leaving. In addition, the insole is cushioned to provide warmth and comfort when wearing the boot.
The Sperry saltwater boot has a nylon upper that is far more breathable and durable than rubber and leather. The shoe is also more comfortable because of the softness of nylon. On top of that, the saltwater rainboot has a rubber foot that is water-resistant.
The lacing of this boot is rawhide with rustproof eyelets for a secure fit. The shoe also has a side zipper closure that makes it easier to wear and remove.
4. Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot
These Ridge boots have a shaft that measures approximately 5" from the arch and a heel that is approximately 1.5". The platform measures approximately 0.50".These shoes offer support and cushion. They have a tight grip and have rubber outsoles specifically made for areas with rocks, gravel, roots and grass.
Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features a lightweight, durable midsole for long-lasting comfort. As a result, the boot has superior cushioning and a high energy return. In addition, these waterproof boots for men have an advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement on rough ground.
The Columbia waterproof boot is comfortable on any terrain because of the boot's waterproof full-grain leather. Additionally, the boot has a durable mesh tongue for breathability that helps keep the feet airy and dry.
The Newton Ridge Plus II Boots feature a lace-up closure for an adjustable and secure fit. This men's waterproof hiking boot has contrasting color combinations that deliver style and durability. In addition, the soft mesh exterior makes the boot lightweight and breathable.
This shoe offers an all-around grip in a multi-terrain traction area. Additionally, the boot is specially formulated with compounds and treads that are environment-specific. For example, a dual-zone winter tread pattern ensures solid footing on surfaces such as ice and snow.
The upper of this pair of waterproof boots are made of leather, suede and mesh. These materials combined are water repellant and breathable. The midsole is made of Techlite EVA to give cushion and stability to the foot. Finally, the outsole is made of rubber which is water-resistant.
5. Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Merrell Moab Waterproof Hiking Boots are 100% Suede. In addition, they have a waterproof rubber outsole. They also have an Eva foam midsole for stability and comfort and a Vibram tc5+ 5mm lug depth to increase traction, especially in steep terrains.
These Moab shoes have a shaft that measures approximately knee-high from the arch to provide you with the necessary arch support. Arch support helps to alleviate pain on the foot.
The Merrell Boot opening measures approximately 6" round. Additionally, the shoe features an M Select DRY barrier impermeable membrane. This membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape through the pigskin waterproof leather-and-mesh upper. Due to the breathability feature, your feet remain dry at all times.
This pair of waterproof boots have bellows and a closed-cell foam tongue that keeps moisture and debris out. In addition, the protective rubber toe cap has a breathable mesh lining to allow for evaporation.
The insole of these shoes is contoured and removable. Moreover, it has an enhanced heel and arch structure and an integrated cushion pod for medium support. The cushion is made from molded nylon arch and placed in the heel to absorb shock and add stability.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Waterproof Boots
1. Weight of the Boots
Lightweight waterproof boots are more flexible and easier to pack than heavyweight alternatives. For this reason, they are more suitable as waterproof hiking shoes. In addition, these hiking boors are convenient for travelers looking to cover a long distance on foot.
Midweight waterproof boots are a little heavier than lightweight ones. However, these boots are more durable and offer more ankle support. In addition, this pair of waterproof boots is constructed so that it can withstand any given trail.
Heavyweight boots are tough and stiff. Therefore, they are more suitable for mountaineering and being in snowy, wet areas. However, when the weather is hot, these boots will have you super hot and sweaty.
2. Weather Resistant
As the name suggests, the best waterproof boots should have the ability to push back and resist water. The materials used to construct the boots determine the water resistance ability of the shoes.
Most manufacturers use gore-tex material in the construction of waterproof boots. Gore-tex is a breathable, waterproof fabric that is also water-resistant. In addition, this fabric also allows water vapor to pass through, keeping your feet fresh.
Rubber and Leather materials are also used in the construction of waterproof boots. The rubber on itself is waterproof and is used mostly to make the outsoles. However, leather is not 100% waterproof on its own. Therefore, a DMR finish is applicable with a special kind of stitching and sealed seams to enhance the leather's ability to repel water.
3. Comfort
The best waterproof boots should be comfortable. Given that you will be in the shoes for long periods, an uncomfortable pair of boots is not ideal.
The two things you need to be keen on when thinking of comfort are cushioning and shock absorption. A memory foam insole present in the shoes helps to provide a cushion. Cushioning and shock absorption reduces the force generated by your body's impact on the ground.
4. Breathability
With long hours spent inside the hiking boots, the result is sweat and bad odor. Breathability in the boots is therefore important. In addition to its being waterproof, the gore-tex membrane allows hot air and moisture in the boots to evaporate. As a result, your feet remain warm and dry.
5. Insulation Present in the Waterproof Boots
Waterproof boots are suitable for use in cold climates. As such, you need to keep your feet warm inside your boots. Common types of insulation in boots include Thinsulate and gore-tex insulation.
These materials provide insulation by trapping air molecules within the microfibers of the shoe and blocking the cold air from entering into the boot. In addition, the insulation materials also prevent heat from leaving the boots, hence keeping your feet warm and dry.
6. Durability
Waterproof boots endure some beating, whether by walking down the street when snowing or hiking and climbing mountains. As such, knowing how long the shoes will last is important. To do this, you need to pay attention to the materials used, the type of stitching and the lacing system. Additionally, monitoring the brand's reputation will give you perspective on the durability and quality of the boots.
7. Traction of the Boots
When hiking, walking on a wet slippery surface, or trekking on steep and uneven terrain, traction of the waterproof boot is important. A boot with poor traction could easily cause an accident. Therefore, manufacturers use a Vibram outsole when designing the boots since it is slip-resistant. In addition, a Vibram outsole increases the boot's traction. However, this is not to say that shoes not made of the same outsole have poor traction. Checking the sole description when considering to purchase a waterproof boot will give you a better idea of the traction performance to expect.
8. Design of the Waterproof Boots
The design and outlook of the boots is an important factor to consider. For example, some people prefer short boots while others prefer long ones. The same case applies to boots with a matte or gloss finish. The color of the boots is also significant. Dark-colored boots may be suitable for dirty terrains as compared to bright-colored ones.
9. The Fit of the Boots
The best waterproof boots should offer a comfortable fit. This varies from person to person, depending on the individual's foot size. Checking the sizing and customers reviews about the same will help you determine whether to order a size up or down, wide or narrow.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) on the Best Waterproof Boots
1. What are the Best Waterproof Hiking Boots?
Waterproof hiking boots should be comfortable, durable and breathable. In addition, they should be insulated and water-resistant to keep your feet nice and warm.
2. Are Waterproof Boots Really Waterproof?
Waterproof boots are worn in water and snow to keep your feet warm and dry. However, this does not mean completely submerging your feet in the water. These boots are weather resistant and are constructed from materials that repel water.
3. How do you Clean Waterproof Boots?
Cleaning waterproof boots can be a bit of a process. To begin, you need to remove shoelaces and insoles(if present). Then using an old toothbrush, gently remove any dirt from the surface of the shoes. Next, mix a mild dishwashing soap or special boot cleaner with water. Next, using the same toothbrush, gently scrub the surface of the waterproof boots. Rinse and repeat the process until the boots are clean.
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