Just because the rain, snow, and cold weather is here, it doesn’t mean you have to stop hiking. Here are five waterproof hikers we tested since last spring that range from fast and light to ultra cushioned rides. All with waterproof membranes, these shoes will not only work to keep your feet dry, but also warm. Lots of snow? Simply throw some trail crampons over top and be on your way.
1. AKU Fastalpina GTX ($180): Whether hiking through the German Alps, your neighborhood trails, or the notoriously wet and windy White Mountains of New Hampshire, The Gore-Tex Performance Comfort waterproof breathable membrane means your feet stay dry but not sweaty. The triple density midsole makes for an all day cushy ride. The Vibram Cloud outsole grips well in muddy or gravel heavy terrain, but take care over slippery, wet slab.
2. Chaco Layna ($130): Any Chaco loving, LUVSEAT PU footbed fan can’t go wrong with this waterproof hiker and the promise of no blisters even with out of the box wear. You won’t slip, even when scrambling over steep, wet rocks or muddy terrain thanks to the Active Adventure non-marking rubber outsole.
3. Columbia Conspiracy Razor OutDry ($110): For those that prefer lightweight hikers, these waterproof multi-sport shoes feel great right out of the box and will keep you quick on your feet. Lugged for serious traction, the Omni-Grip outsole features strategic grooves and smear zones to keep you locked to the terrain–they even stood up well against boggy Irish mountains. The super-soft footbed and Techlite midsole offer comfort and protection from sharp objects. Available for both men and women.
4. La Sportiva FC ECO 2.0 GTX ($150): The aggressively lugged Vibram outsole together with La Sportiva’s Impact Brake System, where the lugs of the soles are oriented in opposing slanted directions, make for bomber grip and braking power, even down steep, wet, and snowy trails in Yosemite. The Gore-Tex liner keeps your feet dry, while the highly breathable mesh upper ensures they stay that way from the inside out. These waterproof hikers come in both a men’s and women’s version.
5. KEEN Durand WP ($160-low, $180-mid): American built in KEEN’s Portland, Oregon factory, these waterproof hikers offer long lasting comfort thanks to a thick, shock absorbing PU midsole and integrated PU heel cushion. The dual rubber compound outsole provides plenty of traction over slick surfaces. The Durand come is a low and mid version, available for both men and women. Top tip–order up a 1/2 size as the consensus is they run a tad small.