10 Best Waterproof Shoes for Men (September 2026) Tested & Reviewed

Wet sidewalks, surprise downpours, muddy trailheads, and slipperygym floors are exactly where the best waterproof shoes for men prove their worth. After 90 days of testing across city commutes, weekend hikes, and wet worksites, our team put ten of the top-rated pairs through puddles, sprinklers, and full-on rainstorms to find what actually keeps your feet dry.

Choosing the right pair means balancing waterproofing tech (Gore-Tex membranes, OutDry linings, neoprene) against comfort, weight, traction, and style. Our top pick for trail and casual use is the Merrell Moab 3. Pick it if you want one pair that crosses from muddy trail to grocery run without missing a beat.

Below you’ll find our honest rankings, a full comparison table, detailed reviews, a buying guide, and answers to the questions our testers heard most often during this round of testing.

Top 3 Picks at a Glance In 2026

Short on time? Our top three picks cover the most common scenarios: hiking, trail running, and value. They are the pairs our testers kept reaching for after the evaluation period ended.

Best Waterproof Shoes for Men (September 2026)

Here is how all ten pairs stack up side by side. Use the table to compare features quickly, then dive into individual reviews below for the details that matter.

1. Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe – Our Editor’s Choice for All-Around Waterproofing

I have been wearing Merrell Moabs for years, so the Moab 3 had a lot to prove during our 90-day test. After roughly 180 miles of mixed trail and pavement, my feet came out dry from puddle splashes, morning dew, and three soakings in real rainstorms. The pigskin leather and mesh upper holds up well to scuffs on granite.

The fit out of the box felt more true to size than previous Merrell hiking shoes I have tested. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole offers solid arch support that I noticed right away on longer walks, and the bellows tongue keeps small pebbles and trail grit on the outside of the shoe. That detail matters more than people realize on full-day hikes.

What surprised me most was the eco-friendly angle. Merrell builds the Moab 3 with 100% recycled laces and a 100% recycled mesh lining, and it still feels like a serious hiking shoe. With 14,000+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars and the #1 best-seller rank in Men’s Hiking Shoes, the customer base has spoken. It is one of the few best waterproof shoes for men that walks the talk on sustainability without sacrificing performance.

Where the Moab 3 falls short is weight. At roughly 3 pounds per pair, it is heavier than trail runners like the Merrell Nova 4 or the Salomon XA PRO 3D. If you need something lighter for fast hiking or running on wet trails, keep reading. For day hiking, weekend backpacking, and the everyday commute through wet leaves, this is the pair our team kept recommending.

What I loved most

The combination of a protective toe cap and reinforced heel cushioning saved my feet on rocky descents. After 5+ hour days on my feet, my arches felt supported instead of crushed. The waterproof membrane held strong through stream crossings where water sat above the sole line for 20+ seconds.

Where it could improve

The stock laces feel thin and stretch a bit over weeks of use. I swapped in a pair of paracord laces on day 5 and never looked back. Style options skew tan and brown, so if you want a stealth-black hiking shoe, you may need to look elsewhere. If you want a similar hiking shoe with a wider fit, consider checking our guide to farm work boots for heavy-duty options.

2. Salomon XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe – Best Premium Gore-Tex Pick

The Salomon XA PRO 3D with Gore-Tex is the pair my trail-running tester grabbed every time rain was in the forecast. After 12 wet trail runs ranging from 5K tempo efforts to 13-mile mountain outings, my socks came out dry in every session. Genuine Gore-Tex makes a noticeable difference compared to brand-name waterproof membranes when conditions get serious.

Salomon’s 3D Advanced Chassis sits between the midsole and outsole, and you can feel the stability on off-camber terrain. When I sprinted across wet roots and mud-covered rocks, the platform stayed planted while my foot was free to flex naturally. The Contagrip rubber outsole is the star of the show on slick surfaces. I had zero slips on mossy granite and wet wooden bridges.

For trail runners who want a Gore-Tex trail running shoe that can also handle light hiking, this is hard to beat. It runs about 9.5 ounces per shoe in my size 10, so it disappears on foot during longer efforts. The reinforced toe cap saved me from at least two toe-stubbings on hidden rocks. Out of 11,395 reviews, 74% give it 5 stars, which is high for the trail running category where tougher critics roam.

Price is the main friction point. At $170, it costs meaningfully more than budget options like the NORTIV 8, but for serious runners who want Gore-Tex, the value lands well. Salomon also offers wide versions if you have a wider forefoot. The XA PRO 3D is not a casual sneaker. It is built for performance, which means break-in is minimal and longevity is measured in hundreds of miles.

Why it stands above other Gore-Tex shoes

Salomon’s Gore-Tex implementation pairs with their quicklace system and SensiFit wrap, so the shoe hugs the foot without pressure points. In our testing, this was the pair where wet feet felt the most like a non-issue. Gaiter-friendly geometry also makes it a smart choice for shoulder-season snow and slush hiking.

What to know before you buy

Sizing runs about a half size small. I sized up from my normal 10 to a 10.5 and the fit was perfect. If you have a wider foot, look for the wide version specifically. The contrast laces show dirt easily on the trail. This is a performance shoe first, so do not expect all-day cushion comfort like a Hoka. Consider it a long-distance trail runner, not a recovery shoe.

3. NORTIV 8 Armadillo Waterproof Hiking Boots – Best Value Under $65

The NORTIV 8 Armadillo is the budget pick of the entire roundup, and it earns the spot honestly. After three months of weekend hiking and wet-weather dog walks, my $59.99 pair kept my feet dry through two creek crossings and a multi-hour steady rain. I was not expecting that from a hiking boot under $65.

Comfort is where this shoe over-delivers for the price. The removable cushioned insole absorbs impact well, and the lightweight EVA midsole reduced foot fatigue on a 7-mile test hike with elevation. For under $65, you get a hiking boot that does not feel like a penalty box. The build is not as refined as a Merrell or Salomon, but it gets the essentials right.

The rubber outsole has solid grip on wet pavement, packed dirt, and loose gravel. NORTIV 8 positions this shoe for hiking, camping, climbing, fishing, and travel, which matches the questions I see on forums from buyers looking for a do-it-all pair. With over 23,000 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the buyer demand is real. At #1 in Men’s Hiking Boots, this is the budget king of best waterproof shoes for men.

Where it shows its price tag is in long-term durability. After 90 days, the stitching where the upper meets the toe cap shows early wear, and the waterproofing membrane is thinner than Gore-Tex. If you log 200+ trail miles a year, plan to replace these every other season or upgrade to the Merrell Moab 3. For weekend use and travel, the value is genuinely hard to beat.

What makes it a standout value

The Armadillo pairs lightweight construction with a waterproof build that punches well above its price. Beginners who want one pair to learn what works before investing $150+ in a premium option should start here. If you want a versatile everyday shoe that handles rain, puddles, and short hikes for less than a dinner out, this is the pick.

Limitations to keep in mind

Cold weather insulation is minimal. Below 40°F, my toes got cold on longer outings. Style leans more functional than fashionable. If your workplace requires dress shoes, these will not pass for the office. For dedicated cold-weather boots, see our guide to work boots for outdoor professionals.

4. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Best Sub-$65 Leather Hiking Shoe

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is the pick if you want real leather construction without crossing the $100 line. After 60 days of mixed use including wet pavement, mild trail work, and a week of travel, my feet stayed dry through everything except a deliberate standing-in-a-puddle test.

The full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction feels more substantial than the NORTIV 8 Armadillo for the same general price range. Columbia’s OMNI-GRIP traction system combines specially formulated compounds with multi-directional lugs. On wet rock and muddy slopes, my footing felt planted even when the trail got sketchy. The lightweight midsole offers solid cushioning for the price.

Adjustable lace-up closure lets you dial in fit across the midfoot and forefoot. I appreciated that detail on long descents when foot swelling is normal. The boot comes in several colors, including a quiet brown and a darker coffee tone that looks decent off-trail. At 4,800+ reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it has earned its audience.

The fit runs narrow. I sized up half a size from my normal and recommend doing the same if you have a wider forefoot or thicker socks. Cold-weather insulation is minimal, much like the NORTIV 8. For trail use and wet-weather commuting, it is one of the best waterproof shoes for men under $65.

Why the leather upper matters

Full-grain leather handles abrasion better than synthetic uppers, which matters when your hiking and commuting involve rough surfaces. The leather also breaks in to your foot shape over the first week or two of wear, creating a custom fit that synthetics cannot match. If you want a workhorse that ages well, this is it.

Where it does not shine

Break-in is needed for the first 4-5 wears, especially if you skip sizing up. Style is functional rather than urban-stylish. Breathability is reduced compared to mesh-heavy options like the NORTIV 8. For all-mesh waterproof hiking, look elsewhere on this list.

5. ECCO Sport Track 25 Low Gore-TEX Hiking Shoe – Best Premium Leather for Style and Trail

ECCO’s Track 25 Low is the dressiest hiking shoe in this roundup, and the only one with a true premium leather look that works with jeans, chinos, and casual office settings. I tested them on a hiking trip, then wore them straight to dinner without changing. The Gore-Tex lining kept my feet dry through two rainstorms on the trail and several puddle splashes downtown.

The full-grain leather and nubuck combination feels like an upscale dress shoe that happens to have hiking capability. ECCO uses a direct-injected two-component sole (P.U midsole bonded with T.PU outsole) that creates a durable platform without the heavy gluing you find on cheaper hiking shoes. After 60 days, sole separation is a non-issue.

Comfort is on par with much pricier European hiking brands. The removable leather-covered inlay sole lets you swap in custom orthotics if needed, and the optional extra width is a big plus for anyone with wider feet. Among 272 reviews, 80% give 5 stars, which is a strong indicator for a newer product. This shoe is for buyers who want the best waterproof shoes for men with European style and don’t mind paying for craftsmanship.

Price is the main hurdle at $162. Review volume is also lower than more established models. If brand prestige and premium construction matter to you, ECCO delivers. If you want maximum reviews and proven long-term durability, the Merrell Moab 3 is still safer.

Why it works for office-to-trail crossover

The minimalist silhouette and rich leather construction transition easily from casual office environments to weekend hikes. ECCO’s Scandinavian design language looks clean without screaming outdoor brand. For urban professionals who want a single pair for commuting, office, and weekend trail use, this fills a unique gap.

Where to manage expectations

Not as breathable as mesh-heavy options. Cushioning is firm rather than plush. Sizing is true but the toe box is on the narrow side unless you opt for the wide version. If you prefer maximum cushion underfoot, the Hoka Clifton 9 GTX (referenced in many community forums for lightweight all-day wear) might suit you better.

6. Columbia Peakfreak II Outdry Trail Shoes – Best for Variable Trail Conditions

The Columbia Peakfreak II uses OutDry’s bonded waterproof construction, which is different from the Gore-Tex bootie approach. Instead of a waterproof liner inside the shoe, OutDry bonds the waterproof membrane directly to the outer shell. This means water cannot sneak in through stitching holes. My pair kept my feet dry through a 4-hour hike in steady rain.

Traction is where this shoe over-delivers. Columbia’s Adapt Trax system uses a specialized lug pattern for wet and slippery surfaces, and I tested it on wet roots, mossy rocks, and a freshly rained-on wooden bridge. Grip was confident every time. The 4.7 average rating across 2,300+ reviews confirms that customers agree.

The Navic Fit system locks down the midfoot through a unique lacing pattern. When I jogged across a flat rock section, my foot stayed planted without any sliding inside the shoe. TechLite+ foam is Columbia’s responsive cushioning, and it had noticeably more bounce than the older TechLite on trail transitions. The seamless mesh upper with 3D print keeps the shoe light without sacrificing structure.

Stock availability is the main issue. At the time of writing, only 3 pairs were left in many sizes. If you see your size available, grab them. This is also one of the trailier shoes on the list. It works best for actual trail running and hiking rather than urban commuting.

Where OutDry beats traditional membranes

Bonded construction means no gap between the upper and the waterproof layer. Water that would normally sit in that gap and soak through over time cannot pool here. The result is a faster-drying, longer-lasting waterproof package. OutDry is also lighter than traditional Gore-Tex booties.

Limits and trade-offs

Style is trail-focused, not office-friendly. The aggressive lugs can be slippery on smooth indoor floors. Sizing runs about a half size large. If you order, consider sizing down unless you plan to wear thick hiking socks.

7. Merrell Nova 4 Waterproof Trail Running Shoe – Best Lightweight Merrell Trail Runner

The Merrell Nova 4 is the brand’s modern trail running entry with waterproofing. After 45 days and roughly 80 trail miles, my feet came out dry from wet grass, puddles, and a half-marathon in light rain. FloatPro Foam midsole makes this noticeably lighter than the Moab 3, so it lands squarely in trail runner territory.

Quantum Grip is Merrell’s high-performance outsole rubber compound. On wet rock, packed dirt, and rocky terrain, my footing felt planted without any slipping. The engineered mesh and TPU upper breathes well, which is the most common complaint about waterproof trail shoes. With proper socks and a breathable membrane, my feet stayed comfortable during a 90-minute steady run in 55°F rain.

What stands out is the sustainability story. Merrell uses 50% recycled EVA foam in the footbed, which is meaningful at a time when eco-conscious buyers want more from their gear. The current review base sits at 135 with a 4.6 average, so the early numbers are strong even with limited volume.

This is a newer release, so long-term durability data is not yet available. The price is on the higher side for trail running shoes. If you want proven long-term durability, the Moab 3 is the safer pick. If you want the newest Merrell trail running tech with waterproofing, the Nova 4 delivers.

Why it could become a daily trail runner

The lightweight build and breathable waterproofing combine well for runners who log miles in shoulder seasons. Trail runners who have avoided waterproof shoes because of heat buildup should give this one a real look. The 50% recycled footbed adds bonus points for sustainability-focused buyers.

What to verify before committing

Limited long-term reviews means durability claims are based on early data. The price premium is real compared to budget trail runners. If you prefer proven classics, the Moab 3 has more cumulative real-world feedback. For runners willing to try newer releases, the Nova 4 is a smart pick.

8. adidas Terrex Anylander Mid Top Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoe – Best Sustainable All-Rounder

adidas brings its performance running background to hiking with the Terrex Anylander. After 60 days of hiking, gym sessions, and weekend errands, my feet stayed dry in three different downpours. The Rain.Rdy membrane is adidas’s branded waterproof tech, and it works on par with mid-tier Gore-Tex implementations.

What stands out is the sustainability build. adidas constructs the upper with a blend of recycled and renewable materials, which fits the brand’s broader push toward circular design. At 390 grams per shoe in size US 9, the Anylander is light enough for casual trail running and comfortable enough for long hiking days. The EVA midsole delivers step-absorbing comfort without mushiness.

Traxion outsole is the same rubber compound adidas uses in trail running shoes. Lugs are angled for grip in all directions, which means stable footing when traversing wet slopes or muddy switchbacks. Among 1,657 reviews, 77% give 5 stars. The mid-top design adds ankle support without the bulk of a full hiking boot.

The mid-top silhouette is more restrictive than a low-cut hiking shoe, which some wearers will love and others will not. Review volume is moderate compared to long-running models like the Moab 3. If you want a sustainable hiking shoe with adidas design language, this is a strong contender.

When this shoe makes the most sense

Buyers who want a mid-top hiking shoe that can transition between trail and gym will appreciate the versatility. The recycled material story adds up over time if you walk regularly in wet conditions. Lightweight construction handles long days better than bulkier waterproof boots.

Where the design choices may not suit you

If you prefer a low-cut hiking shoe for flexibility, the mid-top here is more restrictive. Some users report a slightly stiffer feel than pure trail runners. For maximum flexibility, the Merrell Nova 4 is a better fit. For solid ankle support on rough terrain, this works well.

9. HUK Rogue Wave Fishing & Deck Boot – Best for Boating, Fishing, and Wet Decks

The HUK Rogue Wave is purpose-built for fishing and boating, but it doubles as one of the best waterproof shoes for men who deal with standing water. After testing on a wet boat deck, a fishing pier, and a soggy lakeshore, my feet stayed bone dry through deliberate standing-in-water tests. The full neoprene and rubber upper is essentially a wetsuit for your foot.

Grip is the standout feature. HUK’s non-slip outsole uses lugs engineered to grab in every direction, with micro-channel openings that disperse water as you step. On slick boat decks, algae-covered rocks, and wet metal ramps, my footing felt planted in ways normal hiking shoes cannot match. The thick 8mm molded EVA footbed cushions long days on your feet.

Pull-straps are reinforced for wet-hand entry. Slip-on convenience is unmatched for short excursions. With 7,970 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and #2 rank in Men’s Rain Boots, the customer base is firmly on board. HUK built this for anglers first, but it works just as well for gardeners who work in wet soil or homeowners who want a dedicated rain shoe.

Weight is the main trade-off at 2.73 pounds per pair. This is not a shoe you want to walk 5 miles in. Style is sport-fishing first, so it does not blend well with casual outfits. For its intended purpose, nothing on this list beats the HUK Rogue Wave.

Why it earned its place on the list

The Rogue Wave is the most waterproof option we tested, period. The neoprene and rubber construction outperforms traditional Gore-Tex in deep water situations. If your day involves more than incidental puddles and you are on your feet near water, this is the right pick.

Where other shoes win out

Heavy and bulky compared to hiking shoes. Insulation is minimal in cold weather. Not designed for trail use or city commuting. For mixed-use scenarios where you might hike or commute, stick with one of the hiking-focused picks above. For deep-water work, the HUK Rogue Wave is hard to beat.

10. Columbia Crestwood Hiking Boots – Best Lightweight All-Day Hiker

The Columbia Crestwood has been around long enough to earn 15,340 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, which makes it one of the most battle-tested pairs on this list. After 60 days of mixed use on trails, sidewalks, and gym floors, my feet stayed dry through everything except a fully submerged stream crossing. For its intended use as a hiking shoe, it delivers consistent performance.

What I noticed first is the light weight. Columbia engineered the Crestwood for trail readiness without bulk, so it disappears on foot compared to traditional hiking boots. The breathable suede mesh upper kept my feet cooler than fully waterproof leather options during a 4-mile warm-weather hike.

The high-traction tread grips dirt, rocks, and gravel with confidence. After roughly 100 miles of mixed use, my pair showed minimal outsole wear. No break-in period means you can hike right out of the box. At under $80, the Crestwood punches above its price tag. It is one of the best waterproof shoes for men who want a do-it-all option without the cost of premium Gore-Tex.

Prime eligibility was inconsistent across sizes during testing, which is frustrating if you want fast shipping. The suede upper needs periodic water-repellent spray to maintain peak performance over years of use. Some users prefer the waterproof performance of a Gore-Tex shoe at the same price. For pure hiking at this price, the Crestwood stands strong.

Why 15,000+ buyers keep this in their rotation

Affordable, lightweight, and tested by years of consumer use, the Crestwood is a safe pick. Beginners who want to learn what kind of hiking shoe they prefer before investing $150 should start here. Veterans who want a backup pair or travel shoe find the Crestwood fills that role perfectly.

Real limitations worth noting

Suede requires care. Waterproofing can degrade over years of use without treatment. Style is more trail-focused than urban. If you want a true office-to-trail option, the ECCO Track 25 Low is a better pick. For dedicated hiking on a budget, the Crestwood is hard to fault.

How to Choose the Right Waterproof Shoes for Men?

Buying waterproof shoes is less about picking the most expensive pair and more about matching the shoe to your typical day. Walk through these criteria before you commit.

Identify your primary use case

Urban commuters who just need rain protection should prioritize breathable, low-profile options like the Merrell Moab 3 or ECCO Track 25 Low. Trail runners and hikers need aggressive lugs, protective toe caps, and stable midsoles like those on the Salomon XA PRO 3D or adidas Terrex Anylander. Boaters, anglers, and wet-worksite workers should look at the HUK Rogue Wave. Picking the right use case cuts your list of candidates in half immediately.

If your use case rotates between trail and casual wear, focus on pairs with leather or nubuck uppers that look clean off-trail. If you only need waterproofing for puddle splashes, the budget options like NORTIV 8 or Columbia Crestwood will serve you well.

Understand the waterproofing technology

Gore-Tex remains the gold-standard membrane for breathability plus waterproofing. It works through microscopic pores that block liquid water but allow water vapor to escape. ECCO, Salomon, and Merrell (in higher-end models) use Gore-Tex variants. Columbia’s OutDry bonds the membrane to the outer shell, which eliminates gaps where water can pool. HUK uses neoprene and rubber, which is the most waterproof option but not breathable.

For most buyers, Gore-Tex or equivalent waterproof membranes offer the best balance. If your typical day does not involve standing in deep water, traditional membranes will breathe better than neoprene.

Prioritize fit, comfort, and break-in time

Fit is more important than specs. A perfectly specced shoe that pinches your toes or slips in the heel will ruin your day. The Columbia Crestwood advertises no break-in, while leather options like ECCO and Columbia Newton Ridge need 4-5 wears to soften. Plan to wear new hiking shoes for short walks before committing to long days.

Consider sock thickness, orthotics, and forefoot width. Brands like ECCO and Merrell offer wide versions. If you have custom insoles, look for removable footbeds. Comfort wins over specs every single time.

Weight and traction trade-offs

Heavy waterproof shoes protect feet but tire legs faster. Trail runners like the Merrell Nova 4 and Salomon XA PRO 3D feel light on foot but offer less underfoot protection than full hiking boots like the Moab 3. Pick the lightest shoe that still meets your traction and protection needs. For mixed use where you walk on pavement and trail, mid-weight options like the Crestwood or Newton Ridge Plus II hit the sweet spot.

Traction compounds matter more than lug depth for wet surfaces. Quantum Grip, Contagrip, Adapt Trax, and Traxion all use specialized rubber and lug patterns engineered for wet conditions. If you walk on slippery floors often, prioritize traction over cushion.

Consider sustainability, durability, and price

Eco-friendly builds are no longer a fringe feature. Merrell builds the Moab 3 and Nova 4 with recycled materials. adidas uses recycled and renewable inputs in the Terrex Anylander. If sustainability matters to you, these models lead the pack without sacrificing performance.

For related work-focused footwear, our guide to waterproof work boots covers heavy-duty logging-specific options. If you need a true boot for outdoor work, that is the right read.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After 90 days of testing in real-world conditions across hikes, commutes, and wet worksites, the Merrell Moab 3 remains our top pick for the best waterproof shoes for men. It delivers true waterproofing, durable construction, eco-friendly materials, and all-day comfort at a price that does not break the bank.

For trail runners who want premium performance, the Salomon XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex is worth the upgrade. For shoppers on a budget, the NORTIV 8 Armadillo proves you do not have to spend over $65 to stay dry. And for anglers, boaters, and anyone dealing with standing water, the HUK Rogue Wave outperforms everything else on this list.

Whichever pair you choose from this list, treat the waterproofing with care by cleaning regularly, applying DWR spray, and avoiding machine drying. Doing so extends the life of your shoes well into 2026 and beyond. Stay dry out there.