Waterproof Walking Boots & Hiking shoes

The Waterproof Walking Boots & Hiking shoes, essential for staying dry!

There’s nothing more unpleasant than walking with wet feet in your hiking shoes during a hiking trip across the Aubrac plateau. When choosing the right pair of shoes for your outdoor activities in the mid-mountains, it is practically essential to opt for a pair of waterproof shoes. They will keep you dry in all circumstances, ensuring you comfort no matter the weather conditions you face. However, it is never easy to find the right fit, and choosing the ideal waterproof walking boots & hiking shoes is often a headache. Here are some factors to consider and tips to help you choose the waterproof walking boots & hiking shoes that will meet your needs.

How to choose your waterproof hiking shoes

Choosing your waterproof hiking shoes based on their waterproofing

Let’s start with the basics; the level of waterproofing in hiking shoes is not the same across all shoes. Some are waterproof, while others are water-repellent. Waterproof hiking shoes like the Columbia Terrebonne Outdry Extreme Mid will withstand heavier rain than water-repellent shoes. It’s up to you to determine what type of rain you will encounter. Keep in mind that it won’t be useful to get waterproof hiking shoes if you only need water-repellent hiking shoes.

Choosing your waterproof hiking shoes based on their water resistance

The weak point of waterproof hiking shoes is, of course, breathability. Since your shoe prevents water from entering from the outside, it also blocks the escape of moisture. However, if you are facing light precipitation, consider opting for water-repellent hiking shoes, which will be slightly less effective in keeping your feet dry during heavy rain but will still be breathable to expel moisture and sweat. A hiking shoe like the Columbia Ventralia™ Razor 2 Outdry will be perfect for light rain.

Choosing the right ankle height for your waterproof hiking shoes

Depending on the hikes you plan, you will need to choose waterproof hiking shoes with either high or low tops. If you anticipate fording streams or crossing brooks, opt for high-top waterproof hiking shoes like the X Ultra 3 Mid GTX from Salomon. Effective waterproofing on a high-top hiking shoe will ensure you stay dry, no matter the terrain and precipitation. If you do not plan to go out in torrential rain, you can simply use a waterproof hiking shoe with a low top to avoid wet feet when an unexpected rain catches you off guard.

The waterproof hiking shoes from the biggest brands are on Hardloop.co.uk

One thing is for sure, waterproof hiking shoes have become essential for anyone wishing to hike regularly. They provide a protective layer to keep your feet dry during exertion and thus lessen the impact of weather conditions. You can find the biggest brands of hiking shoes on Hardloop.co.uk.

Millet, Lowa, Salomon, Mammut, La Sportiva, Meindl... the hiking specialists have developed increasingly innovative technologies to ensure the highest performance without compromising your comfort: Vibram soles, Gore-Tex® membranes…

To learn more about the features of your next hiking shoes, feel free to read our guide: How to choose your hiking shoes well?