The best waterproof shoes and trainers for hiking in 2025
Be prepared for wet weather
Jen & Sim Benson have been testing walking gear on behalf of the Ramblers since 2019.
A buyer's guide
While trainers and shoes do offer less in the way of wading depth and ankle support than a traditional hiking boot, the payoff is the freedom and flexibility of lighter and more breathable footwear.
Hiking shoes usually fall into one of three categories. The first is the traditional sturdy design, much like a hiking boot only shorter. The second is the approach-style shoe, designed for precision of foot placements on technical, rocky terrain, usually with a ‘climbing zone’ at the toe and high friction rubber soles. Finally, and currently very popular, are those based around trail running shoes, taking the grip, comfort and lightweight designs of trainers designed for running long distances on rugged terrain and adding some walking-specific features.
Women’s
Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX Shoe
RRP £200
Weight 598g/pair size 39.5
Designed to be as lightweight, cushioned, and comfortable over long distances as a trail running shoe, but with the durability and stiffness specific to the demands of hiking, these shoes may well live up to their hefty price tag. The foot sits deep in the footbed, creating a stable, customised feel with cushioning that’s almost bouncy. The result is added efficiency as you walk, reducing fatigue over long days on your feet. The leather and fabric upper looks great, and is comfortable and secure on the foot, with Gore-Tex waterproofing for year-round use.
Salomon X Ultra 360 Mid Gore-Tex
RRP £150
Weight 700g/pair size UK6.5
This lightweight yet protective all-rounder is ideal for year-round lower-level walks. It grips well on wet and muddy terrain, with Gore-tex waterproofing and a mid-height cut keeping your feet dry in wet grass and puddles. The balance of flex – allowing the foot to move naturally – and supportive protection is great, ensuring all day every day walking comfort.
Columbia Konos TRS OutDry Mid
RRP £115
Weight 700g/pair size UK7
Designed for fast-and-light hiking, these mid-height boots combine the plush cushioning and smooth ride of a running shoe with the waterproof protection and ankle support of a walking boot. The super-grippy outsole with its sharp tread maintains traction on just about any terrain, while Columbia’s Outdry waterproofing keeps your feet dry, with the extra height ideal for wet grass, mud and puddles. We’ve been really impressed by the versatility and performance of the Konos, and they’re great value too.
La Sportiva TX4 Evo GTX Shoe
RRP £190
Weight 666g/pair size 40
On technical terrain, when precision is paramount but comfort is also essential, these outstanding approach shoes are the answer. The upper is made from a soft and supple yet abrasion-resistant and durable suede leather with Gore-Tex for waterproofing. The sole unit, designed to allow easy resoling in this updated version of the shoe, is a hardwearing, high friction Vibram Megagrip. A tapered ‘climbing zone’ at the front allows for precise foot placements on steep sections, scrambles or via ferrata. Designed for all-day use in technically demanding conditions, they’re a perfect balance of comfort, grip, precision, and protection.
Men’s
Salewa Dropline Gore-Tex Shoe
RRP £165
Weight 760g/pair size 45
Designed as an agile speed-hiking shoe, the Dropline feels like a running shoe but with a slightly stiffer and more protective sole. The sole also offers plenty of cushioning, with a forefoot rocker that aids an efficient toe-off at the end of each step. They are especially grippy on gravel and rocky trails, but the shallow tread does struggle in mud. The upper has a sock-like fit with a wrap-around lacing system that combines with the 3F heel to offer a snug, supportive and very comfortable feel. A rubber toe bumper protects both shoe and foot from rocks, while a Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry.
Haglofs L.I.M. Proof Low Trainer
RRP £140
Weight 742g/pair size 46
Part of Haglofs’ Less Is More range, this lightweight trekking shoe looks smart and feels comfortable. The polyester upper is lightly padded with a supportive heel cup, but the feel is a little stiff. A TPU toe bumper adds durability and protection, while waterproofing is a PFC-free and bluesign approved Proof Eco membrane. The rubber outsole grips well on rocks and gravel trails, but lacks traction on wet grass and mud. The sole is protective and cushioned with shock absorbing gel technology from parent running shoe company Asics. A decent choice for general walking with a light pack, everyday or travel wear.
Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX
RRP £150
Weight Weight 820g/pair size UK11
The latest edition of this popular walking shoe is comfortable, grippy and protective with plenty of cushioning throughout and a fit that works for a lot of people. The Vibram outsole has deep tread which copes well with mud or grass and feels confident on rock and gravel. Underfoot the partially recycled FloatPro foam midsole is cushioned and supportive, ideal for long days on your feet. The upper is waterproof thanks to a Gore-Tex liner, and protective with a toe bumper and TPU overlays to increase durability and support. The lining, laces, webbing and footbed are all recycled, and the shoes are vegan friendly. A more breathable non-waterproof version is available for £125.
Lowa Innox Evo II GTX
RRP £155
Weight 720g/pair size UK10.5
The Innox range is designed to be lightweight and cushioned, ideal for moving nimbly over technical terrain and for comfort during a long walk. They are more flexible than other shoes on test, which enhances the lively responsive feel, but this also means you can feel the pointiest of rocks through the sole. The lightly padded synthetic upper is vegan friendly and very comfortable, holding the foot securely without movement. A Gore-Tex lining keeps the water out. Underfoot Lowa’s own Enduro Evo sole unit is grippy on rock and gravel but the shallow tread that works so well in drier conditions struggles in mud. Overall these are great for short or long distance, lightweight walking adventures, they’re best on trails, tracks and mountains but not so god with big packs or deep mud.
Explore more
Our gear testers, Sim & Jen Benson have a wealth of outdoor and walking experience. They provide regular gear reviews and kit advice in Walk magazine, the Ramblers quarterly magazine that forms part of your Ramblers membership benefits. Join today from only £3.21 per month.
Ramblers Members also receive a 15% discount at Cotswold Outdoor, home to many of the outdoor brands featured in this article and a great place to get expert advice on walking gear. When this discount is used a percentage of the purchase price is returned to the Ramblers to help us look after the places you love to explore.
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