Water-repellent boots offer basic protection from water splashes and rain and still have some breathability. But if you want full protection, go for the waterproof options.
Disclosure: We earn
affiliate commissions
at no extra cost to you when you buy through us.
If you find a good deal on RunRepeat, you click to the retailer and you buy the shoe, we get a commission of the sale. This is how we pay ourselves. It does not make the shoe pricier for you.
Be trail-ready with a pair of the best leather waterproof hiking boots. These sturdy mid- or high-top hikers offer long-lasting protection and robust performance in whatever outdoor conditions. Choosing which gear to wear is one of the crucial decisions you have to make when you are preparing for a backpacking trip. Read on to find out why waterproof leather hiking boots are a good trail companion.
Technologies behind some of the best men’s and women’s leather waterproof hiking boots
Best leather waterproof hiking boots - May 2020
Gore-Tex
Gore-Tex is a popular brand that produces laminates making a number of outdoor gears waterproof. Its technologies are designed to provide all-weather protection. Most rugged leather boots have a Gore-Tex membrane which creates a breathable yet waterproof interior. Numerous brands partner with this company to maximize the potential of their footwear.
eVent
Launched in 1999, eVent has been able to help outdoor enthusiasts and athletes in their adventures. Its waterproof-slash-breathable fabrics use a dry system which vents moisture out of the boot as you sweat.
Keen.Dry
Some hiking boots from Keen are made waterproof by the brand-owned Keen.Dry membrane. This barrier also claims to deliver a breathable and waterproof feel. It is paired with various upper materials and comes treated with Cleansport NXT odor control.
M Select Dry
Most hiking boots from Merrell have a leather upper with M Select Dry membrane. This is a Merrell-owned patented technology designed to keep you dry and wick moisture away from your foot. It includes a lightweight layer which can also block wind, keeping you warm.
OutDry
OutDry is different from the abovementioned technologies as it is a patented construction process. You can often see this feature in some of the best Columbia waterproof leather hiking boots. It binds fabrics together without leaving any seams or gaps, creating a watertight bootie.
Danner Dry
This is a Danner-owned technology which is commonly incorporated in some of its best men’s and women’s waterproof leather hiking boots. Like the other membranes mentioned, it helps keep your feet dry, helping in the regulation of moisture and temperature.
A few brands that offer the best waterproof leather hiking boots for men and women
Columbia
American footwear brand Columbia provides some of the best waterproof leather hiking boots. A number of its offerings are available in wide version which enables the brand to cater to a much larger audience. The leather upper of its boots are made watertight, thanks to the OutDry construction process. This feature is partnered with other technologies such as Omni Grip, for a sticky sole and Techlite for a comfy and cushioned step.
Danner
Danner men’s and women’s hiking boots are known for their traditional look. A common yet remarkable feature of their hikers is their neutral-colored upper that are highlighted with red laces. Aside from their very own Danner Dry, they also partner with Gore-Tex to make their products waterproof. Some select styles wear a Vibram sole unit for a supportive and cushioned step.
Merrell
US-based Merrell footwear company is known for its vast offering of waterproof leather hiking boots. Some of Merrell’s best products are Gore-Tex lined while others use its proprietary M Select Dry membrane. Aside from its watertight offerings, they also have breathable lightweight hikers, so you will be able to find one that suits your liking.
Lowa
European brand Lowa has an extensive list of some of the best boots for backpacking. A good portion of these offerings have a leather upper which also offers protection against water intrusion. Lowa’s Renegade GTX Mid is one of the brand’s well-known products, thanks to its sturdy and durable build. The people behind it have included other technologies such as the Monowrap support frame, a double injection DuraPU midsole, and a Vibram EVO outsole to create a recognizable product.
Oboz
Montana-based shoe brand Oboz is known for its sturdy over-the-ankle boots. Its waterproof leather hiking boots are some of the sought-after styles in the outdoor footwear industry, thanks to the cozy confines and durable materials present in its products. A number of Oboz models also provide comfort right out of the box so you will be able to enjoy its products from the get-go.
Salomon
If you love the outdoors, you may be familiar with some of Salomon’s mid-top and high-cut boots. A significant number of its products have a leather upper that is lined with Gore-Tex for a waterproof interior. The sturdy construction of its models uses various technologies for optimal trail performance. Salomon is also one of the many brands known for its lightweight products.
$200 $158 Save 21%
$180 $128 Save 29%
