Tested: The Best Men’s Waterproof Boots to Combat the Rain

For those of us who have been victimized by a sudden downpour, slight drizzle, or obnoxious spill, it’s a lesson that we’ve learned the hard way. Luckily, there’s a way to ensure that you’ll never have to worry about soaked-through shoes again: the waterproof boot. In today’s market, there are more manufacturers to choose from than ever. Once you’ve got a style, trait, or type in mind, it’s easy to find the water-resistant offering that’ll fit your preferences. This is doubly true for the heritage boot genre, which is the most likely to offer waterproof, weather-ready examples to wearers. Below, we tested a handful of favorites that have helped to turn even the bleakest rainy days around and send them packing.

How WE Tested

When looking at a market flooded with waterproof boots (GORE-TEX seems to be literally everywhere these days), it might be difficult to find the best options. That’s why for our guide, we tried finding the best for each category, and divided our article up as such. We surveyed the landscape, heading to our favorite names in the outdoor and technical wear space, along with some of the more popular brands around. We looked at the offerings from each brand, taking into account aesthetic, waterproofing, construction methods, uppers, outsoles, and utility.

From there, we sourced our products for testing and got hands-on with the waterproof boots, spending ample time with each one. This included wearing them out, on different terrains, both wet and dry, and seeing how they looked, felt, and fit. Since we tested during the summer months, we weren’t always able to get to wet conditions. For outdoor-focused boots, we were able to head to stream areas, while the non-outdoor-centric boots required more man-made methods (a bathtub). All our results are detailed below.

Tester: I, Ethan Brehm, was the person testing these hiking boots. I’m typically a men’s size 12.5 but went with size 12 for most of these boots since I anticipated many of them running large. I also have medium-width feet, so keep that in mind when reading my feedback on these units.

What to Look For

One-Piece Uppers: Any shoe constructed using a single piece of leather (or any material for that matter) typically makes them far more durable across the board. Still, it specifically assists in repelling rainfall and providing full-on puddle protection. In addition to their superior construction, this method naturally offers fewer openings for water to seep through.

Outsoles: While single-piece uppers are typical on most weather-ready silhouettes, more often than not, a waterproof stomper’s top half will retain the particular silhouette’s traditional look, be it a Chelsea or work boot. What matters just as much as the upper is the outsole beneath it and how it’s constructed. Does the brand use waterproof rubber? Are the soles slip-and-oil-resistant? These are elements you want to consider for your safety rather than that of your new boots. Look for solid proprietary outsoles or go-to materials like Vibram rubber.

Lining: After all, it’s what’s on the inside that counts, and a trusty waterproof lining through a boot’s interior is where any pair’s effectiveness gets tested. For example, the Nike ACG Gaiadome that we highlight on our list boasts a GORE-TEX lining that’s part-breathable, part-cushioned, and fully waterproof, assuring you’re protected from the elements inside and out. And while the pair you opt for doesn’t necessarily have to be GORE-TEX, it’s something to consider.

Filson x XTRATUF 12″ Elite Boots

Best Rain Boots: Gaiters and rain boots have a tendency to look incredibly utilitarian but Filson imbues these XTRATUF 12″ Elite Boots with so much style that they actually look fashionable. Of course, they start with XTRATUF’s proprietary oil- and chemical-resistant rubber compound insulated with 5mm of neoprene and lined with breathable Airmesh and moisture-managing Spandura. Not only do these keep your feet completely dry up to your mid-calf but they’re temperature rated down to -20ºF.

The Good

Perhaps the most comfortable rain boots I’ve ever worn, the 12″ Elite Boots from Filson and XTRATUF aren’t your average rain boots with a footbed that feels like indoor slippers. Despite the warming features on the inside, my feet were never hot. Better yet, they don’t just offer extreme coverage halfway up your calf but the rubber compound uppers are completely impenetrable. Nothing’s getting inside of these unless you have water entering from above. As such, these are most effective with pants that can be worn over the top collars. I also loved the grip underneath which wasn’t too sticky on slick surfaces but made me confident about walking on them.

As we said, these are a stylish take on the rain boot with cleverly placed lines and vintage-style branding on the uppers. The brown colorway is complemented by the black outsole and the handsome olive trim up top.

The Not So Good

My biggest complaint with the Filson x XTRATUF Elite Boots is the sizing. I’m a size 12.5 but went with a 12 since that was the next closest option available. However, there is WAY too much room inside the footbed. I’m talking about an extra couple of inches in front. And since these boots are rather rigid and don’t have any laces for tightening, my foot slides forward and backward very easily. I should also mention how heavy these shoes are. At 4.84lbs, they’re one of the heftier options we tested.

Verdict: Blending form and function perfectly, this collab between Filson and XTRATUF combines the heritage-inspired aesthetics from the former and the proprietary rain boot tech from the latter to make one heck of a boot. Unfortunately, these run rather large and require you to go down a size or two from your normal. However, once you find your perfect fit, you’re in for one of the most comfortable and impenetrable rain boots you’ll ever put on.

Dr Martens 1460 Trinity Wintergrip Waterproof Boots

Best Casual Waterproof Boots: While Dr. Martens’ offerings are far more metropolitan, the expertise that they’ve garnered over the years isn’t squandered. Instead, boots like the waterproof 1460 provide capable respite from the masses of stylish leather examples within their catalog, bridging the gap between fashion and functionality. The introduction of the waterproof 1460 model came almost 60 years after the icon’s first manufacturing run, but that doesn’t stop it from capturing all of the unique intricacies of the original. A twin heat-sealed welt joins with the boot’s air-cushioned sole, breathable DryWair bootie, and oiled leather material to stand up against harsh spills, puddles, and rain. Lastly, the shoe’s DMS tread pattern, yellow stitching, and two-tone sidewall are still instantly recognizable.

The Good

If you’re a kid of the ’90s, you’ll certainly remember the popularity of Dr. Martens boots, especially the 1460 model when it came to the grunge and Britpop scenes. And some 30 years later, the silhouette looks just as stylish. However, following a brand revival in the ’00s, we finally get a waterproof edition, and without losing the aesthetics that made these so iconic to begin with.

Compared to a lot of these work boot-style waterproof options, the 1460 is surprisingly lightweight. It also has a nice footbed that’s not too stiff or impractically cushioned. I assumed that the thickness of the laces would prevent the ankle from fitting snugly but I was pretty locked in. In terms of our waterproof testing, moisture didn’t get inside these shoes as long as I didn’t go too deep into the water. Although it didn’t rain during my testing, water from above would likely get inside if you’re not wearing pants to cover the shoes.

The Not So Good

Being that these have nearly ten pairs of eyelets, the laces create a bit of an obstacle when it comes to putting your foot in and taking it out. I had to loosen each lace considerably and unlace the top two holes just to get my foot in. While my feet had the perfect amount of room inside, my heel kept rubbing against the back but that’s likely because of the shape of my foot (this has always been a problem for me with certain shoes).

Verdict: Surprisingly waterproof considering how much of a style icon these 1460s are, the Dr. Martens boots are ’90s throwbacks but hold up exceptionally well today. We loved the fit, how the ankles locked in, and the footbed comfort. However, it was tricky getting our feet inside. At just around $200, these are a great pick-up if you’re looking for something that doesn’t look waterproof.

Danner Vicious 4.5″

Best Work Boots: Danner’s bread and butter is their work boots and this Vicious model, featuring a GORE-TEX membrane, is arguably its most revered pair. For this silhouette, the brand has taken what it learned in the hiking boot category and applied it to what it already knew about work boots. Putting its full-grain leather through six different tests before selection, Danner pairs the uppers here with a GORE-TEX liner. Meeting ASTM standards for electrical hazard protection with help from its non-metallic composite toe, it’s placed atop Vibram Vicious outsoles, which are oil- and slip-resistant, and Danner’s Trailguard TPU shanks.

The Good

Impressively lightweight considering how capable they are, the Danner Vicious boots felt great on my feet, even when I was just wearing them during my everyday activities. I did notice that they had even better traction the slicker the surface was, which is impressive, although wet surfaces gave it slightly more trouble.

Compared to other work boot-looking work boots, the Vicious had a really versatile, accessible style. I didn’t feel weird wearing these to the store or even during my non-outdoor weekend activities. I wasn’t so sure about how locked-in my feet would be considering the wide, stiff laces (even though these were incredibly easy to lace on). However, they fit better than nearly every pair I tested out. I went with a size 12 since Danner didn’t have a 12.5 for these.

The Not So Good

While I’m utterly impressed with how crush-proof the composite toe guard is, mimicking the metal of a standard work boot, the front of the shoe is nevertheless hard as can be, which makes wiggling your toes a potentially painful experience. As I mentioned, the shoes perform well on slick surfaces but could be better when wet underneath. However, what’s worse is that my socks were a bit damp after wearing the shoes in about 2″ of water. I didn’t notice this when the shoes were on, only after I took them off.

Verdict: While not as submersible as other shoes, the Danner Vicious is a superb work boot that meets electric hazard protection standards and is incredibly durable for the shop. Much more accessible stylistically than other work boot contemporaries, these will do great on slicker surfaces but proved to lose some traction when the bottoms were wet. Nevertheless, these will serve you well if you’re looking for versatile work boots that can transition to everyday life.

Blundstone #584 Thermal Chelsea Boots

Best Waterproof Chelsea Boots: Several pairs in, we’ve already mentioned a few archetypal brands in the space, so it’s no surprise Blundstone was bound to come around. The Australian bootmaker’s iconic #584 Thermal Chelsea Boots are constructed using premium waterproof leather and then finished with latex seams to ensure no moisture works its way in. And while that’s bound to help keep your feet warm, they’re equipped with a removable sheepskin footbed and thermal insulation. Moving to the lower end, they feature a slip-resistant outsole for guaranteed grip.

The Good

The Chelsea boot may not be your first choice when picking a waterproof boot but Blundstone makes a good case with its #584 Thermal Chelsea Boots. An absolute classic, whether you’re talking waterproof boots or Chelseas, these shoes went with just about anything I wore them with (save for fitness attire). Surprisingly waterproof even up to the lower shin, these boots provided me with great ankle support despite being sans laces. However, if you have ankle issues, we’d recommend something a bit more locked-in. In terms of waterproofing, the boots did well to keep out moisture and even had solid traction when wet.

Once you slip on the 584s from Blundstone, the first thing you’ll notice is the sheepskin interior. Forgetting what I was getting into, it initially took me by surprise. It was warm out but the footbed didn’t generate too much heat, although I wouldn’t recommend making a habit of wearing these during the summer. However, the shoes ran a bit large on me so there was plenty of access for air to get inside for ventilation (unintentionally). On the other hand, I loved the flatter feel on this compared to other boots where you really feel the heel drop.

The Not So Good

While I absolutely loved the sheepskin footbed, I probably would’ve preferred something with a bit more cushion. I’ve now realized that “soft” and “cushioned” are not necessarily one and the same. Fortunately, this is removable and can be replaced with something else. My biggest issue with the shoes, however, is the fit. I went with a size 12 here and there was way too much room in the front and back of my feet. These shoes don’t have laces so you can’t tighten them either. Likewise, this also caused the tabs in the back to rub against my calf down below, which got annoying throughout the day.

Verdict: Stylish Chelsea boots might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to waterproof footwear but the Blundstone #584 Thermal are undeniable when blending form and function. We noticed the boots ran large, which was an issue only compounded by the lack of laces to tighten these up. However, the feeling inside the shoes was still incredible, especially thanks to the furry sheepskin lining, which admittedly could’ve been more cushioned.

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Best Hiking Boots: A staple in the outdoor community for almost 100 years and even donned by the first American (Jim Whittaker) to ever peak Mt. Everest, LOWA makes arguably the best straightforward hiking boot around with the Renegade GTX Mid, which explains the higher price tag. At just 1.22lbs per shoe, these are extremely lightweight and supremely comfortable. Not to mention their waterproof capabilities thanks to the GORE-TEX lining. Aiding with shock absorption, the brand’s proprietary DuraPU MONOWRAP construction has also been double-injected into the midsoles as well.

The Good

The best-performing straightforward hiking boots from our Best Hiking Boots guide, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is the real deal. Heavy-duty footwear isn’t always preferred on the trails but you can’t deny the prowess of these boots. I loved the balanced heel drop with the outsole grip, which provided fantastic traction on more advanced trails but also helps on smooth surfaces as well, especially when wet.

You could easily use these as work boots if you really wanted to (although it won’t have the sturdy toe guard of the Danner Vicious boots). Regardless of the heavier weight (for hikers), I loved wearing these off the trail as well. Even after long summer-weather hiking, the boots never overheated my feet and even managed to cool my feet a bit. For waterproofing, the shoes handle moderate moisture really well, and can even be submerged a couple of inches without getting into your socks, as long as you keep below the tongue webbing.

The Not So Good

Despite being the best hiking boots around, the Renegade GTX Mid is admittedly pricey. However, if you’re a serious hiker, you’ll be more than willing to shell out the extra dough. For testing, I got hands-on with a size 13, which were a little too large for me (again, I’m a size 12.5). Yet still, I could tell these would run a bit large regardless. Even the “medium” version felt wide on my feet (there are also “wide” options). The collar was too loose around my ankle and the lace locks didn’t help much.

In terms of cinching up the laces, these took a bit to break in. The Renegades are stiff, even according to the brand. For the insoles, I’d opt for a third-party option that would be a bit more comfortable than the stock options here. But when you’re on more advanced hikes, you do want something tougher like these; my feet felt protected. The boots served me well when going over more uneven terrain.

Verdict: One of the most popular hiking boots on the market, LOWA’s Renegade Mid GTX holds up to its reputation. Some may take issue with how stiff it is, but serious hikers who frequent more difficult trails will appreciate how it protects your feet and provides a favorable balance and responsiveness. Performing well in wetter conditions, these boots have a moderate heel drop and versatility on multiple terrains. And if you wanted to use these as your go-to work boots, they’ll more than deliver.

L.L.Bean Original Boot GORE-TEX

Best Duck Boots: With all duck boots already offering weather protection, the smartest way to spotlight this branch of footwear is with the silhouette that started it all. The Maine-bred brand’s attention to detail comes into full effect with this symbolic design, boasting all the integral elements to taking on a tough forecast. These include Thinsulate insulation for enhanced warmth, a chain tread outsole for optimum traction, and, as their name suggests, a trusty GORE-TEX lining. Most importantly, they feature a steel shank for maximum support and stability on any terrain.

The Good

In terms of doing a lot of walking on slick wet surfaces, these duck boots from L.L. Bean are superb. Not only did they completely eliminate any moisture, even when submerged up to a few inches, but they won’t make you slip. Interior comfort blends a sturdy footbed with deep comfort that can last for hours on end. The extra support on the arches helps a lot, as does the extra lift in the back to help out your posture. Despite the Thinsulate insulation, I was surprised at how easily I could wear these in warmer weather. Likewise, I was surprised by how lightweight the boots were.

While some duck boots have a very utilitarian aesthetic, the L.L.Bean Original is pretty darn accessible, looking like some sort of cross between Timberlands and classic gaiters, but without the height. Even though the shoes ran large, the width of the boots was favorable, keeping my foot from shifting left to right. Likewise, the softer toe box didn’t feel as restricting as other boots I tested.

The Not So Good

Regardless of the lower profile compared to other rain boots, the collars here are quite stiff, which really get in the way when going from sitting to standing. Also, for a size 12, these fit rather large on my feet. Even so, the ankles are a bit wide and can only be tightened so much. I cinched the laces as far as they go and there was still tons of room left over.

Verdict: Classic duck boots with a touch of style, the L.L.Bean Original Boot kept out moisture entirely and even did really well when walking on wetter surfaces. Rather lightweight, the shoes ran a bit large and couldn’t really be tightened much despite having laces. On the other hand, we loved the arch support underfoot, which allowed us to keep these on for much longer than expected.

Red wing Shoes Gore-TEX Moc

Best Waterproof Moc: While the iconic Classic Moc has taken on different roles over the years, it’s stayed true to Red Wing’s original design, incorporating heritage-inspired traits, up-and-coming materials, and an exceptional outdoor design that’s allowed the brand to adapt throughout the years. The most topical example of the boot arrives as a moc toe equipped with a GORE-TEX bootie for offering weather-readiness that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Additionally, the brand adopts Puritan triple stitching methods and uses a reinforced storm welt for unprecedented water resistance. If you’re looking for an iconic piece of footwear that’ll take on the flooded trail with ease and work as well on a construction site as they do in any casual outing, the Red Wing Classic Moc GORE-TEX is for you and always will be.

The Good

Regardless of its waterproof reputation, I would’ve picked these Red Wing GORE-TEX Mocs for their aesthetic alone. Not only was I a fan of the general moc look but the brand’s red-brown leather color just looks fantastic (it was also the one my wife complimented me on the most). I also loved the laces on these. They’re rather thick but they still let you fine-tune the fit quite a bit. Under my feet, the footbed had some solid arch and heel support that kept me from wanting to take these off.

While most of the boots I tested ran large (I got size 12 for almost all of them despite being a size 12.5 myself), the Red Wings fit exceptionally well, from the sides of my feet to the room in front of my toes to the space behind my heels.

The Not So Good

While I loved the fit and feel of these Red Wings, my biggest complaint has to be the boots’ tongue. Unlike other waterproof boots where the tongue folds into itself to help preclude moisture from getting inside, the tongue here just kinda bunches up. As such, they had a tendency to push on the tops of my feet, depending on how exactly they bunched.

It’s important to note that you should wear these with longer socks as the collar did tend to rub the backs of my ankles with lower socks on. Also, in terms of waterproofness, these will definitely keep out lower waters (puddles, light drizzles, etc.) but once the level got to a certain height, the shoes began letting in water pretty easily.

Verdict: Expectedly expensive, these Red Wing GORE-TEX Mocs are nevertheless the best-fitting boots that we tested. Extremely comfortable as well, we loved the footbed cushioning, the arch and heel support, and the fine-tuning of the laces, although the tongue design could use a bit of a rewrite to reduce bunching. While they won’t be submersible, they’ll do just fine in rainy conditions.

La Sportiva Nepal EVO GTX Mountaineering Boots

Best for Mountaineering: Pretty much the de facto mountaineering boots for anyone who wants the best of the best, La Sportiva’s Nepal EVO GTX boots will be overkill for your average hike through the woods but will keep you well-equipped when traversing the treacherous terrain of an icy landscape. Made specifically for mountaineering, the Italian brand’s ultra-high-end hikers might post a hefty price tag at $600 but they will serve you well when you need them thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane, Vibram outsoles, and proprietary Impact Brake System for inclines and declines. For extreme temperature control, the Idro-Perwanger rough-out leather uppers are abrasion-resistant and insulated with a whopping 3.2mm of silicone.

The Good

Make sure you know what you’re in for if you’re going to be traversing with this beast of a boot on your foot. It’ll take you a few minutes to lace up these sturdy and large Nepals, with literal layers involved to the lacing system with several switchbacks and even a sort of lace lock clasp at the halfway point to give you a breather and save your progress. Luckily, the three lace locks up top don’t stick out too far as they do on other boots which snag when walking.

For anyone with ankle issues, these boots will give you tons of support, even if you don’t decide to lace them all the way up. Likewise, the grip underfoot is one of the best I’ve ever worn, and that doesn’t even include the Impact Brake System that helps prevent falls. As far as waterproofing, these held up insanely well to our testing and didn’t let a drop inside, all the way up the mid-calf. They’re also probably the warmest option you’ll find, with thick uppers that will cocoon your feet from the elements and keep them warm with insulation. And I haven’t even mentioned the styling yet, which is the first thing you’ll notice when taking them out of the box. I loved the yellow, blue, and red color combo.

The Not So Good

Although these boots give you ample ankle support, keep in mind that a serious ankle buckle could do a number on your knee instead. Needless to say, unless you’re trekking through intense conditions, the super-heavy Nepals are definitely overkill. I only wish that La Sportiva had a less aggressive silhouette with a similar look (the Trango Tech GTX might be the closest option). So if you’re after these for their look alone, you’re kinda out of luck.

We don’t need to tell you that it will be incredibly difficult to walk in these boots and even pose an injury hazard if you’re attempting to move quickly on a standard trail rather than meticulously trekking through icy mountaintops.

Verdict: Certainly overkill unless you’re actually mountaineering, the La Sportiva Nepal EVO boots aren’t just insanely impressive when it comes to protecting your feet both inside and out, but look amazing as well. The learning curve is steep and it’s difficult to walk in these monsters, as they provide about 3″ to your overall height, but when it comes to aggressive mountaineering boots, these are the best.

Waterproof Boots Comparison Chart

Waterproof Vs. Water-Resistant

“Waterproof” and “water-resistant” are often used interchangeably but they’re vastly different from one another. If something is water-resistant, it simply means the product can resist moisture, whether through a special water-repellant fabric treatment or materials that are inherently water-resistant, such as polyester or nylon.

“Waterproof” means that both the materials and the way the product is constructed are fully impenetrable to moisture. Elements such as GORE-TEX membranes and seams will be designed in a way that they don’t let water inside.

Honorable Mentions

A formidable budget option, Wolverine’s Floorhand Waterproof Work Boot sits atop a slip-and-oil-resistant outsole that guarantees your safety in any form of spillage. And while the cement construction may be a call for concern when it comes to durability, the boot’s lightweight appeal may sway you toward the more affordable method. We opted out of these for our main guide because of recent quality issues with newer versions.

A runner-up work boot to the Danner Vicious boots above, the Chippewa Edge Walker Comp Toe is just a step below. However, you might be able to get these for a lesser price.

Merrell is an undeniable force in the hiking boot world and if you’re looking for another waterproof winter hiking boot, and one that’s lower in price, the Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof is a solid choice.

Carhartt makes another incredibly popular moc in their Lightweight Wedge Moc Toe Chukka. If you don’t want to shell out nearly $400 for the Red Wings above, check these ones out.

The Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 are among our favorite hiking boots but since they’re not as traditional or as waterproof as the LOWAs above, we decided to add these as honorable mentions instead. However, if you want something a bit lighter in weight, and perhaps even more versatile, these are a great option.

If you like the rain boot style, the BOGS Workman 17″ Tall is a solid runner-up. However, the Filson x XTRATUF boots above are hard to beat.

Tested: The Best Hiking Boots for Men

Not all hiking boots are waterproof but if you want to take a look at what’s out there, check out our recent guide to the best hiking boots where we got hands-on with our favorite pairs.