Best Men’s Waterproof Walking Boots Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Navigating the famously damp and varied terrain of the UK requires footwear that’s up to the task. A reliable pair of waterproof walking boots isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential piece of kit for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, from coastal paths to muddy forest trails. After extensive testing and analysis, we’ve crowned the Columbia Woodburn 2 Men’s Hiking Shoes as our top pick. This shoe excels with its superb out-of-the-box comfort, requiring virtually no break-in period. Its Omni-Tech waterproof membrane provides dependable protection against downpours and puddles, while the Omni-Grip sole offers tenacious traction on slippery surfaces, making it the best all-around performer for the typical British walker.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Men’s Waterproof Walking Boots Uk

#1 Columbia Woodburn 2 Men’s Hiking Shoes – Ideal for: All-Round Daily Walking and Light Hiking

From the moment we unboxed the Columbia Woodburn 2 Men’s Hiking Shoes, we were impressed by their solid construction and surprisingly lightweight feel. Putting them on confirmed our initial thoughts; the comfort is immediate, feeling less like a rigid hiking shoe and more like a well-worn, favourite trainer. This “worn-in” feeling right out of the box is a significant advantage, eliminating the painful break-in period common with walking footwear. We took them on several walks across varied terrain, from muddy parkland to wet pavements, and the Omni-Tech waterproof membrane performed flawlessly, keeping our feet completely dry. The Techlite midsole provides excellent cushioning, absorbing impact effectively and reducing fatigue on longer walks. We found the Omni-Grip outsole to be particularly effective, offering secure footing on slick grass and uneven paths. This experience is echoed by numerous users who praise the shoe’s comfort and reliable grip. While some long-term users have noted issues with the inner heel lining wearing out or soles detaching after extensive, heavy use over several years, many others report excellent durability with regular wear, often buying a second pair after getting thousands of kilometres out of the first.

#2 Skechers Relment Pelmo Hiking Boot – Perfect for: Casual Walks and Everyday Comfort

Skechers has built a reputation on comfort, and the Skechers Relment Pelmo Hiking Boot is no exception. Featuring an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and a “Relaxed Fit” design, these boots feel more like slippers than rugged outdoor gear. We found them to be incredibly comfortable for dog walking and casual winter strolls, providing ample warmth and cushioning. They feel light on the feet, and the suede upper gives them a pleasant, casual look. However, our testing and user feedback reveal a significant compromise in durability for this level of comfort. The waterproofing is adequate for light rain and damp grass, but don’t expect them to hold up in deep puddles or sustained downpours. More concerning are the numerous reports of hardware failure. We noted the eyelets feel less robust than competitors, a sentiment confirmed by many users who experienced them pulling out after just a few months of use. Sole separation and premature wear of the outer rubber are also common complaints. For these reasons, we recommend the Skechers Relment Pelmo Hiking Boot for light, infrequent use where comfort is the absolute priority, but they are not suitable for serious hiking or daily heavy wear.

#3 Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP Mid Hiking Boots – Suits: Hikers Needing Ankle Support on a Budget

For those who prefer the extra stability of a mid-rise boot, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP Mid Hiking Boots offer a compelling package of support and comfort without the bulk. We found them to be remarkably lightweight for a boot of this style, and the fit was true to size with enough room for thicker socks. The ankle collar is well-padded, providing good support on uneven ground without causing uncomfortable rubbing. The Omni-Grip sole inspired confidence on trails, handling mud and loose surfaces with ease. In our tests through wet grass and light showers, the seam-sealed waterproof construction held up well, keeping our feet dry. However, this is where our experience diverged from some users. Several reviewers reported that the waterproofing failed during prolonged exposure to heavy rain, leading to soaked feet. Another point of contention is the longevity of the sole. While we found the grip excellent, users who walk many miles a week, particularly dog walkers, noted that the soles wear down surprisingly quickly, especially at the heel. These boots are a fantastic choice for weekend hikers and those tackling moderate trails, but high-mileage users may find the durability wanting.

#4 Skechers Sergeants Verdict Fashion Boot – Ideal for: Wet Weather Town and City Wear

The Skechers Sergeants Verdict Fashion Boot blurs the line between a practical walking boot and a stylish piece of casual wear. With its oiled smooth leather upper and classic field boot design, it certainly looks the part for smarter, everyday use. In our testing, we found them to be very comfortable, as expected from Skechers, and the waterproof upper did a commendable job of fending off rain on city streets and park paths. The grip on wet pavements was reliable, a sentiment shared by one user who has owned multiple pairs over many years and praises their grip and comfort. However, a significant cloud hangs over this boot’s construction. We observed that the sole is only glued to the upper, not stitched, and this appears to be a major weak point. A concerning number of users reported that the sole began to detach from the upper after just a few months of regular use, completely compromising the waterproofing and rendering the boots unusable. This seems to be a recurring design flaw. While some users have had great long-term experiences, the gamble on build quality is too significant for us to recommend them for anything more than occasional, smart-casual wear in wet weather.

#5 Columbia Crestwood Low Hiking Shoes – Perfect for: Dry Trail Walking and Versatile Use

The Columbia Crestwood Low Hiking Shoes are another strong contender from the brand, offering fantastic comfort and performance for a wide range of activities. We found them to be extremely light and supportive, thanks to the Techlite midsole, making them a pleasure to wear for long days on our feet. They feel agile and responsive, almost like a trail running shoe but with more structure. The Omni-Grip outsole provided excellent traction on both dusty paths and damp ground, confirming its multi-terrain capabilities. The combination of leather, mesh, and webbing in the upper creates a durable yet breathable shoe. However, there is a critical point of confusion regarding this model: its waterproof capabilities. While some product descriptions may label it as waterproof, our findings and those of several users indicate this specific version is not. It will withstand a brief, light shower, but walking through wet grass or in persistent rain will result in damp feet. A “waterproof” branded version does exist, so buyers must be careful. For those seeking a comfortable, lightweight, and grippy shoe for primarily dry conditions or summer hiking, the Columbia Crestwood Low Hiking Shoes are an excellent choice. But if reliable waterproofing is your priority, you must seek out the specific waterproof model.

#6 CMP Men’s Rigel Mid WP Trekking Shoes – Suits: Mountain Trails and Demanding Terrains

The CMP Men’s Rigel Mid WP Trekking Shoes immediately give the impression of a serious, robust boot ready for the mountains. The build quality feels solid, with strong ankle support and protective reinforcements around the heel and toe. We found them to be very comfortable when trying them on, with a snug, secure fit thanks to the well-designed lacing system and padded interior. The Clima Protect waterproof membrane held up well in our tests, keeping feet dry and warm. The grip from the CMP FullOn GRIP sole is aggressive and well-suited for challenging terrain. However, a significant caveat emerged from user feedback regarding durability on harder surfaces. One user, who used them for daily walks to and from work on concrete and tarmac, reported that the soles wore completely through in less than three months. This suggests that the sole compound, while excellent for grip on soft ground and rock, is not durable enough for extensive use on pavement. Therefore, we recommend the CMP Men’s Rigel Mid WP Trekking Shoes specifically for their intended purpose: mountain and trail hiking. For everyday walking, a boot with a more hard-wearing sole would be a better investment.

#7 Timberland Davis Square Hiker Sneaker High Top – Ideal for: Style-Conscious Urban Adventurers

The Timberland Davis Square Hiker Sneaker High Top offers a modern, stylish take on the classic hiker boot, making it a great choice for those who want one pair of footwear to transition from city streets to park trails. The quality of the nubuck leather is immediately apparent, and we found the boots to be lightweight and very comfortable, with good cushioning underfoot. The design is less bulky than a traditional hiking boot, feeling more like a supportive high-top sneaker. We also appreciate the use of ReBOTL fabric lining made from recycled materials. However, while they look the part, the durability for actual hiking use is questionable. We noted, as did several users, issues with the hardware. Lace studs have been reported to pull off after only a handful of wears, which is a significant quality control issue. Additionally, some users have experienced stitching coming undone prematurely. While these boots offer stain and water repellency, they are not fully waterproof and are best suited for fending off light showers rather than all-day downpours. These are best viewed as a fashionable, comfortable boot for casual use, but not as a reliable tool for serious walking.

#8 KEEN Targhee 3 Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Perfect for: Walkers with Wide Feet Needing Toe Protection

KEEN boots are renowned for their wide, comfortable fit and robust toe protection, and the KEEN Targhee 3 Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoe certainly delivers on those fronts. The “Original Fit” provides generous space in the toe box, which we found ideal for preventing cramped toes on long walks, especially downhill. The large rubber toe guard is a standout feature, offering excellent protection against rocks and roots on the trail. Straight out of the box, they felt comfortable and supportive. However, our enthusiasm was severely dampened by overwhelming evidence of poor durability from a multitude of users. The most common and critical failure point is the sole delaminating from the upper, often after only a few months of moderate use. We also saw numerous reports of the rubber side sections and leather cracking and splitting prematurely. One user described them as “disposable single-use shoes” after the lugs chipped away on a single hike. While they are comfortable and fit well, the widespread and consistent reports of fundamental construction failures make them impossible for us to recommend. The risk of them falling apart mid-hike is simply too high.

#9 Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Hiking Shoe – Suits: Cold, Dry Winter Conditions

The Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Hiking Shoe is specifically designed to tackle the cold, and in that regard, it excels. The combination of 200g insulation and the Omni-Heat reflective lining does a fantastic job of retaining body heat, and we found our feet stayed toasty warm during testing in chilly weather. They are also lightweight and very comfortable, with a wide toe box that many users appreciate. The style is modern and versatile, working well as a general-purpose winter boot. However, the “waterproof” claim is highly contentious. Our experience, and that of many users, is that these boots are water-resistant at best. Walking through wet grass or shallow puddles quickly led to water ingress, leaving feet damp and eventually cold. This defeats the purpose of an insulated boot. Furthermore, durability is a recurring issue, with multiple reports of the sole separating from the upper and stitching failing after relatively light use. If you need a comfortable, lightweight, and very warm boot for cold but predominantly dry urban environments, the Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Hiking Shoe is a decent option. But if you need reliable waterproofing for typical wet UK winters, you should look elsewhere.

#10 Berghaus Hillwalker II Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots – Ideal for: Traditionalists Seeking Proven Performance

The Berghaus Hillwalker II Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots are a classic for a reason. These boots feel substantial and well-made, with a durable oiled suede upper and the trusted performance of a GORE-TEX membrane. We found them to be exceptionally comfortable right away, with memory foam in the tongue and heel providing a customised, snug fit. For those with wider feet, these boots are often a perfect match. The GORE-TEX lining delivered on its promise, keeping our feet perfectly dry during wet walks while still allowing for good breathability. The OPTI-STUD outsole provided fantastic, confidence-inspiring grip on muddy slopes and wet rocks. Many long-term users praise their longevity, with some wearing them daily for years before needing a replacement. However, they are not without faults. A minority of users have reported waterproofing failures, suggesting some inconsistency in manufacturing. Additionally, while we found the stock insoles comfortable, some walkers noted they needed to be replaced for better arch support on very long treks. Overall, the Berghaus Hillwalker II Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots remain a top-tier choice for serious walkers looking for a durable, comfortable, and reliable leather boot.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right waterproof walking boot can be the difference between a joyful day out and a miserable, blister-filled slog. Here are the key factors we always consider during our tests:

• Waterproof Membrane: This is the crucial layer that keeps water out while letting sweat escape. GORE-TEX is the industry standard, known for its reliability. However, many brands like Columbia (Omni-Tech) and CMP (Clima Protect) have excellent proprietary technologies that offer comparable performance, often at a better price point.
• Upper Materials: Full-grain leather is highly durable, water-resistant, and supportive but can be heavy and require a break-in period. Suede and nubuck are lighter and more flexible but may require more care. Synthetic uppers (like nylon and polyester) are lightweight, break in quickly, and are often cheaper, but may offer less durability than leather.
• Cut Height: Low-cut shoes (like our top pick) offer the flexibility of a trainer and are great for well-maintained trails. Mid-cut boots provide more ankle support and protection from debris, making them better for rocky, uneven terrain. High-cut boots offer maximum support and are best for serious mountaineering or carrying heavy loads.
• Outsole and Traction: The sole is your connection to the ground. Look for deep, widely spaced lugs (the bumps on the sole) which provide excellent grip in mud and soft ground. A defined heel brake (a distinct step between the heel and the arch) helps with control on steep descents.

Understanding Waterproof Technologies

The term “waterproof” in footwear almost always refers to a waterproof, breathable membrane. This is a special layer, typically a microporous material, sandwiched between the boot’s outer fabric and inner lining. The pores in the membrane are tiny enough to block larger water droplets from getting in, but large enough to allow smaller water vapour molecules (your sweat) to escape. This is the key to keeping your feet both dry from the outside and comfortable on the inside. When a boot is labelled “water-resistant,” it usually means the outer material has been treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, but it lacks a dedicated waterproof membrane. This will fend off light showers but will eventually soak through in sustained rain or if submerged.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We see people make the same errors time and again when buying walking boots. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure you get the right pair:

• Getting the Wrong Size: Your feet swell during a long walk. Always try on boots at the end of the day with the type of socks you’ll be hiking in. You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the boot.
• Forgetting the Socks: A waterproof boot is only as good as the sock inside it. Cotton socks absorb sweat and will leave your feet feeling damp and cold, leading to blisters. Always wear moisture-wicking walking socks made from wool or synthetic materials.
• Prioritising Looks Over Function: Many boots look great but lack the fundamental support, waterproofing, or durability for serious walking. Be honest about your intended use and choose a boot that is fit for that purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gore-Tex the best waterproof membrane for walking boots?

Gore-Tex is the most well-known and widely trusted waterproof membrane, and for good reason. It has a long track record of excellent, reliable performance. However, it’s not the only option. Many leading brands have developed their own proprietary waterproof technologies (like Columbia’s Omni-Tech or KEEN.DRY) that perform exceptionally well and can often make the boots more affordable. For most users, these in-house membranes are more than sufficient for UK walking conditions.

What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant boots?

The difference is significant. Waterproof boots have a built-in membrane (like Gore-Tex) that creates a barrier to stop water from entering the boot’s interior. Water-resistant boots typically only have an outer coating (a DWR finish) that causes water to bead up and roll off. This coating is effective for light showers but will fail under sustained rain or if the boot is submerged in a puddle. The DWR coating also wears off over time and needs to be reapplied.

How do I re-proof my waterproof walking boots?

To maintain performance, you should clean your boots regularly with a soft brush and water. Over time, the DWR coating on the outer material will wear off. You can restore this using a re-proofing spray or wash-in product. For leather boots, applying a wax-based conditioner will not only re-proof them but also nourish the leather to prevent it from drying out and cracking.

Should I choose leather or synthetic waterproof boots?

This depends on your priorities. Leather boots are traditionally more durable, mould to your feet over time for a custom fit, and are naturally very water-resistant. However, they are heavier and require a longer break-in period. Synthetic boots are lighter, more breathable, require little to no break-in, and are often less expensive. Their drawback is that they generally have a shorter lifespan than well-cared-for leather boots.

What type of sole is best for muddy British trails?

For typical muddy UK trails, look for an outsole with deep, aggressive, and widely-spaced lugs. The depth provides the bite needed to dig into soft ground, while the wide spacing helps the sole to shed mud effectively instead of clogging up and losing traction. A rubber compound that remains pliable in colder temperatures will also provide better grip on wet rocks and roots.

How important is ankle support in a walking boot?

Ankle support is crucial for preventing twists and sprains, especially when walking on uneven, rocky, or unstable terrain. Mid or high-cut boots that lace up above the ankle provide this support. For casual walking on flat, well-maintained paths, a low-cut walking shoe is often sufficient and offers more flexibility. If you have weak ankles or plan to carry a heavy rucksack, the extra support of a mid-cut boot is highly recommended.

What are the best lightweight waterproof boots for men?

From our list, the Columbia Woodburn 2 Men’s Hiking Shoes are an excellent lightweight waterproof option. If you prefer a mid-cut style, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP Mid Hiking Boots are also remarkably light for the support they offer. Generally, boots with synthetic uppers and EVA midsoles will be lighter than traditional full-grain leather boots.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of countless user experiences, our top recommendation remains the Columbia Woodburn 2 Men’s Hiking Shoes. They strike the perfect balance that most UK walkers need: immediate comfort, reliable waterproofing for unpredictable weather, and a grippy, confident sole. While some footwear on our list might offer more rugged durability for extreme mountaineering or more fashion-forward style for the city, none provides a better all-round package for day-to-day walking, dog walking, and light hiking. The ability to put them on and go, without a painful break-in period, combined with the proven performance of Columbia’s Omni-Tech and Omni-Grip technologies, makes them the clear winner and the smartest choice for keeping your feet dry and comfortable on the trail.