NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots Review: The Ultimate Test for the Budget-Conscious Adventurer

There’s a familiar story every outdoor enthusiast knows. You’re planning a trip—a weekend ramble through the Peak District, a muddy dog walk in the local woods, or just a season of unpredictable British weather—and you realise your old boots have finally given up. The sole is flapping, the waterproofing is a distant memory, and your feet are paying the price. The immediate reaction is to look for a replacement, but then comes the sticker shock. Premium hiking boots can easily cost hundreds of pounds, a steep investment for casual hikers or those on a tight budget. This is the exact dilemma we faced: finding a boot that promises trail-ready features like waterproofing, support, and traction without demanding a premium price tag. The challenge is navigating a market flooded with options that look the part but often fail when truly tested. That’s precisely why we decided to put the popular and affordably priced NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots to the test.

What to Consider Before Buying Waterproof Hiking Boots

A pair of hiking boots is more than just footwear; it’s a critical piece of equipment that serves as the foundation for every step you take on the trail. It’s the primary interface between you and the unpredictable terrain underfoot. The right pair solves numerous problems: it prevents blisters and discomfort on long walks, provides crucial ankle support to guard against sprains on uneven ground, keeps your feet dry and warm during sudden downpours, and offers reliable grip to prevent slips and falls. A good boot transforms a challenging hike into an enjoyable adventure, while a poor one can end it prematurely with pain and frustration.

The ideal customer for a boot like the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots is someone who enjoys the outdoors but doesn’t necessarily need expedition-grade gear. This includes the weekend warrior tackling local country parks, the dedicated dog walker out in all weathers, or even someone in a trade who needs a sturdy, comfortable, and water-resistant boot for daily work. It’s for the person who values comfort and practicality on a budget. Conversely, this type of boot might not be suitable for those embarking on multi-day, high-altitude treks or serious mountaineering. These demanding activities require boots with stiffer soles, superior durability, and guaranteed waterproofing from brands with a long-standing reputation for performance in extreme conditions, albeit at a significantly higher cost.

Before investing in any hiking boot, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fit & Sizing: This is the single most important factor. A boot that is too small will cause painful blisters and bruised toenails, while one that is too large will allow your foot to slide, causing friction and instability. Look for a snug fit around the heel and midfoot, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes freely. Ankle support, especially in a mid-ankle boot like this one, is vital for preventing twists on rocky paths.
• Waterproofing & Breathability: Most boots in this category claim to be waterproof, but the technology varies. A waterproof membrane is designed to keep water out while allowing sweat vapour to escape. However, there is often a trade-off; highly effective waterproof barriers can sometimes lack breathability, leading to sweaty feet in warmer weather. Consider the climate you’ll most often be hiking in.
• Materials & Durability: The NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots use a combination of faux leather and nylon. This construction offers the benefit of being lightweight and requiring minimal break-in time compared to traditional full-grain leather boots. However, the long-term durability of synthetic materials, stitching, and hardware like lace hooks can be a point of concern, especially under heavy use.
• Support & Comfort: The comfort of a boot comes from its internal structure. The midsole (often made of EVA or MD foam) provides cushioning and absorbs shock, reducing fatigue. The insole offers immediate underfoot comfort and some arch support, though many serious hikers choose to replace stock insoles. The outsole’s lug pattern and rubber compound determine the boot’s traction on different surfaces like mud, rock, and gravel.

Understanding these elements will empower you to choose a boot that truly meets the demands of your specific outdoor activities.

While the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots is an excellent choice for many, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the NORTIV 8 JS19001M

Upon unboxing the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots, the first thing we noticed was their modern, rugged aesthetic. The combination of brown faux leather and black nylon panels gives them a look that punches well above their price point. They don’t look like a “budget” boot. Picking them up, the second surprise was the weight—or lack thereof. They feel significantly lighter than many traditional leather boots, a feature that promises less fatigue over a long day on the trails. The construction feels solid enough, with a chunky rubber toe cap and a reinforced heel counter designed to offer protection against rocks and roots.

Lacing them up for the first time revealed what is perhaps their most celebrated feature: immediate, out-of-the-box comfort. There was no stiffness or uncomfortable rubbing that we’ve come to expect from new boots. This aligns perfectly with numerous user reports, with one individual noting they were “comfortable from the beginning” and another praising them as being “like wearing slippers.” The fit for our Size 10 was true, offering a secure hold around the ankle while leaving adequate space for the toes. The flexible MD midsole and the padded tongue and collar contribute to this slipper-like feel, making the dreaded break-in period seem almost non-existent.

Putting the NORTIV 8 Boots Through Their Paces: A Detailed Field Test

A boot can look great and feel comfortable in the living room, but its true character is only revealed on the trail. We subjected the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots to a variety of conditions over several weeks, from damp woodland paths and muddy fields to gravel tracks and light, rainy-day work, to see if its performance could match its promising first impression.

All-Day Comfort and In-Shoe Feel

Comfort is where these boots truly shine, particularly during the initial testing phase. We wore them for a continuous 6-hour hike, covering around 10 miles of mixed terrain. The lightweight construction was immediately noticeable; our legs felt fresher and less fatigued than they often do in heavier, more rigid boots. The flexible MD (Phylon) midsole does an admirable job of absorbing shock from rocks and hard-packed ground. Each step feels cushioned, reducing the impact on knees and joints. The provided insole is soft and offers a decent level of arch support for a stock insert, contributing significantly to that “slipper-like” comfort that users rave about. We experienced no hot spots or blisters, a remarkable feat for a new pair of boots straight out of the box. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to understand why so many prioritise this aspect.

However, this initial comfort comes with a caveat regarding long-term quality. One user noted that after just one week, “the top of the inner sole started to peel back & now the foam is wearing away.” While our test pair didn’t exhibit this issue in the first few weeks, it points to a potential weakness in the materials and adhesive used for the insole. It’s an easy and inexpensive component to replace with a higher-quality aftermarket insole, but it’s a compromise worth noting for prospective buyers.

The Waterproofing Conundrum

The term “waterproof” is a bold claim, especially at this price point, so we were keen to test it thoroughly. Our initial tests were very positive. We confidently strode through long, dew-soaked grass, splashed through muddy puddles, and even stood in a shallow stream for a minute. In every instance, our socks remained perfectly dry. The waterproof membrane, combined with the gusseted tongue that prevents debris and water from entering around the laces, performed exactly as advertised. One user confirmed this, stating that after an hour’s downpour, their “feet didn’t get wet.” For handling unexpected showers or damp morning trails, these boots initially deliver on their promise.

The story, however, becomes more complicated when looking at long-term performance. The user feedback contains a clear and recurring theme: the waterproofing does not always last. We found multiple reports of the boots failing after just a few months. One user disappointingly stated, “Less than 2 months use and they are no longer waterproof. This was after walking through heavy dew, not deep puddles.” Another was more blunt: “Comfortable, but not waterproof, I constantly have wet feet when wearing them.” This suggests that while the membrane is effective when new, it may lack the durability to withstand the constant flexing and stress of regular walking, potentially developing micro-tears or seam failures over time. Our verdict is nuanced: the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots are reliably water-resistant for light and occasional wet weather use, but they should not be counted on for guaranteed dryness over months of demanding, soggy conditions.

Durability and Traction Under Scrutiny

A hiking boot’s lifespan is ultimately determined by the durability of its outsole and hardware. The NORTIV 8 boots are equipped with a thick, rugged rubber outsole featuring what the brand calls Multi-Directional Traction (MDT). On our tests across mud, loose gravel, and forest floors, the grip was confident and reliable. The lugs are deep and spaced well enough to shed mud effectively, preventing the sole from clogging up and losing traction. For the typical British countryside trail, the grip is more than adequate.

Unfortunately, durability is this boot’s most significant weakness. The rubber compound used for the sole, while grippy on natural surfaces, appears to be relatively soft. One user who walked 2-3 miles a day for work noted that after one year, the sole was showing significant wear. An even more concerning report came from a user who found the sole “Worn smooth in less than 4 months.” This rapid wear, especially on harder surfaces like pavement, is a major trade-off for the boot’s low price. Furthermore, the hardware is another point of failure. We encountered several complaints about the metal lace hooks, with users stating a “top lug broke” or a “lace hook broke” after only a month or two of use. This is a critical failure, as it renders the boot unusable for providing proper ankle support. While our pair held up during testing, the volume of similar complaints suggests a quality control issue with the metal alloy used for the hardware. These durability concerns mean that while the price is low, you may find yourself needing to replace them much sooner than a more expensive pair.

What Other Users Are Saying

Sifting through the wealth of user feedback reveals a starkly divided opinion that perfectly mirrors our own findings. The positive reviews almost universally praise the boots for their exceptional value and immediate comfort. One ecstatic user exclaimed they were “like wearing slippers A+++++++,” while another confirmed their long-term potential under the right conditions, stating, “Had these boots for over 2 years now. Still waterproof, very comfortable, still look great.” This represents the best-case scenario: a hiker who gets a well-made pair and uses them within their limits, resulting in a fantastic return on investment.

On the other side of the spectrum, the negative reviews focus squarely on the critical issues of long-term durability and waterproofing. The recurring complaints paint a clear picture of the product’s limitations. Comments like, “the sole is not very durable. Worn smooth in less than 4 months,” and “Comfy light and waterproof but after wearing them once a day for about a month 1 of the lace hooks broke” are common. These aren’t isolated incidents; they form a pattern of feedback that highlights the compromises made to achieve the boot’s accessible price point. A particularly telling review states, “You’d probably be better spending a bit more for better quality, certainly wish I had.”

How Does the NORTIV 8 Compare to the Competition?

No product exists in a vacuum. To truly assess the value of the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots, it’s essential to compare it against some popular alternatives in and around its class.

1. Salomon Quest Element Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Outdoor Shoes

The Salomon Quest Element represents a significant step up in both performance and price. This is a boot for the serious hiker who demands proven, reliable technology. Its key advantage is the Gore-Tex membrane, the industry standard for guaranteed waterproofness and superior breathability. The build quality, materials, and Contagrip outsole are all engineered for longevity and performance on challenging terrain. While the NORTIV 8 excels in initial comfort and value, the Salomon is the superior choice for anyone embarking on multi-day treks, tackling mountainous terrain, or who simply wants a boot they can depend on for years to come. If your budget can stretch, the Salomon is a long-term investment in comfort and safety.

2. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Winter Hiking Boots

Comparing the NORTIV 8 boot to another model from the same brand highlights its specific use case. This alternative is a dedicated winter boot, featuring insulation designed to keep feet warm in snow and freezing temperatures. While it shares the waterproof construction, its primary focus is on thermal protection, making it heavier and less versatile for three-season hiking. If your outdoor activities are concentrated in the cold winter months and involve snow or very low temperatures, this insulated model is the logical choice. For general-purpose hiking from spring through autumn, the lighter, more agile JS19001M model we reviewed is the more appropriate option.

3. Mountain Warehouse McLeod Mens Hiking Boots

The Mountain Warehouse McLeod is a direct competitor in the budget-friendly hiking boot category. It offers a similar proposition of affordability and essential features. The McLeod often utilizes more mesh in its upper construction, which can offer a slight edge in breathability compared to the NORTIV 8’s more enclosed synthetic leather design. It also features EVA cushioning, which is very similar in performance to the NORTIV 8’s MD midsole. The choice between the two may come down to fit, style preference, and current pricing. The McLeod is a solid alternative for casual walkers who might prioritize breathability for warmer, drier days, while the NORTIV 8 has a slightly more robust, protective feel to its upper.

The Final Verdict: Is the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boot a Smart Buy?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots is one of qualified recommendation. There is no denying the incredible value on offer here. For a very modest price, you get a boot that is exceptionally comfortable right out of the box, lightweight enough for all-day wear, and provides reliable waterproofing for casual encounters with wet weather. For the weekend rambler, dog walker, or someone needing a sturdy boot for light outdoor work, the NORTIV 8 presents a compelling case and can be a brilliant purchase.

However, this recommendation comes with a crucial understanding of its limitations. This is not a boot built to last a lifetime. The consistent user feedback regarding the rapid wear of the sole and the potential for hardware failure cannot be ignored. The waterproofing, while effective initially, is a gamble in the long term. You are trading longevity for a low initial cost. If you are a frequent, high-mileage hiker or demand absolute reliability in harsh conditions, you would be better served by investing in a more premium brand. But if you understand the trade-offs and your needs align with its strengths, the NORTIV 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots are a budget-friendly option that delivers more comfort and initial performance than its price tag suggests.

Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API