Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots Review: A Tale of Initial Comfort and Eventual Disappointment

There’s a specific kind of misery that only a failed walking boot can deliver. It’s that damp, seeping cold that starts in your toes and slowly works its way into your spirit as you trudge through wet grass on a grey morning. I’ve been there. We’ve all been there. You invest in what you hope is a reliable pair of boots, picturing dry, comfortable feet on countless dog walks and weekend rambles, only to have them surrender to the elements or simply fall apart at the seams. This frustration is what sends us searching for the holy grail: a boot that is comfortable, genuinely waterproof, provides good grip, and doesn’t demand a second mortgage. It’s a tall order, especially in the budget-friendly end of the market, where promises of performance often dissolve faster than a poorly glued sole. It’s this very search that led us to put the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots through their paces, hoping to find a champion for the everyday adventurer.

What to Look For Before You Invest in a Pair of Men’s Walking Boots

A pair of men’s walking boots is more than just footwear; it’s a key solution for comfort, safety, and enjoyment in the great outdoors. They are your primary point of contact with the ground, responsible for protecting you from rugged terrain, keeping you dry during unexpected downpours, and supporting your feet and ankles to prevent injury over long distances. The main benefits are clear: superior traction prevents slips and falls, waterproof membranes keep your feet dry and healthy, and robust cushioning absorbs the impact that would otherwise punish your joints. Without a quality pair, a pleasant hike can quickly turn into a painful ordeal of blisters, wet socks, and aching limbs.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who regularly engages in outdoor activities like dog walking, trail hiking, or countryside rambles. They value comfort and protection but may be working within a specific budget. This category of boot is perfect for navigating muddy fields, rocky paths, and unpredictable British weather. However, they might not be suitable for those who are tackling serious mountaineering, multi-day alpine treks, or require highly technical footwear for extreme conditions. For those individuals, a more specialized, rigid boot with crampon compatibility would be a better, albeit more expensive, alternative. The casual user seeks a reliable all-rounder, not a specialist tool.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fit & Sizing: This is non-negotiable. A poor fit leads to blisters and discomfort. Look for a boot that offers enough room to wiggle your toes but securely locks your heel in place to prevent rubbing. Consider the socks you’ll be wearing and remember that feet can swell slightly during a long walk. Ankle-height boots like the Rivelin offer crucial support to help prevent twists and sprains on uneven ground.
• Waterproofing & Breathability: A boot that isn’t waterproof is of limited use for year-round walking. Look for terms like “waterproof membrane” or “fully waterproof construction.” Equally important is breathability; a boot that traps sweat will leave your feet just as damp as one that lets rain in. Synthetic inner linings are designed to wick moisture away from your foot, allowing vapour to escape while blocking liquid water from entering.
• Materials & Durability: This is often the biggest differentiator between price points. Full-grain leather is the gold standard for durability but requires maintenance and can be heavy. Synthetic materials, like the faux leather on the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots, offer a lighter, more affordable alternative that often requires no break-in period. However, the true test is in the construction—how the sole is attached to the upper and the quality of the materials themselves, which can vary dramatically.
• Traction & Support: The outsole is your connection to the trail. Look for deep, multi-directional lugs made from a durable rubber compound that provides grip on a variety of surfaces, from wet rock to slick mud. Internally, features like a midsole for cushioning and a shank (a stiff piece between the insole and outsole) for stability are critical. They absorb shock and reduce the load on your feet, making a huge difference on long or steep walks.

Considering these factors will help you move beyond marketing claims and choose a boot that truly meets the demands of your adventures.

While the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots is an excellent choice for some scenarios, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models and different styles of men’s footwear, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Key Features of the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots

Upon unboxing the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots, the initial impression was surprisingly positive. The brown, faux-leather finish gives them a classic, rugged look that belies their budget-friendly price point. They felt noticeably lighter in hand than many traditional leather boots we’ve tested, a definite plus for reducing fatigue on longer walks. The construction appeared solid at first glance, with no immediate signs of poor craftsmanship like glue residue or uneven stitching. The StormGrip rubber outsole looked the part, with an aggressive tread pattern that promised solid purchase on tricky surfaces. The speed lacing system, with its metal eyelets and hooks, felt smooth and allowed us to achieve a snug, secure fit quickly and easily. Slipping them on for the first time was a revelation; the cushioning around the ankle and underfoot was immediately apparent, suggesting a boot that, unlike its stiff leather counterparts, would require little to no break-in period. This out-of-the-box comfort is a major selling point and set our initial expectations quite high. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of these initial impressions.

From Puddle-Proof to Problematic: A Performance Breakdown

A walking boot’s true character isn’t revealed in the box, but out on the trail, mile after muddy mile. Our testing journey with the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots was a dramatic one, a story of a promising start that spiralled into a cautionary tale. We subjected these boots to the very conditions they were designed for: daily walks across damp fields, weekend hikes on wooded trails, and the relentless drizzle of a British autumn. What we discovered was a boot with a split personality—one that excels in the short term but fails spectacularly when subjected to regular, sustained use.

Initial Comfort and Fit: A Deceptive Honeymoon Period

From the very first step, the Rivelin boots impress. Where many walking boots demand a painful “break-in” period of stiff ankles and developing hotspots, these felt like old friends straight away. The cushioning from the concealed midsole is generous, effectively absorbing the shock of walking on hard-packed trails and pavement. This was a sentiment echoed by numerous users, with one noting they “felt amazing right out of the gate.” The ankle collar is well-padded, providing support without chafing or digging in, and the overall weight is low enough that they never feel clunky or cumbersome.

The speed lacing system is a standout feature in this price bracket. It allowed us to dial in a precise, secure fit in seconds, ensuring our heels were locked in place while leaving enough room in the toe box for comfort. This is crucial for preventing the kind of internal foot-slip that leads to blisters. For daily use, like a 3-4 mile dog walk, this immediate comfort is a massive advantage. You can put them on, lace them up quickly, and head out the door without a second thought. During this initial phase, which for us lasted about four to five weeks, the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots performed like a much more expensive product, delivering a comfortable, stable, and fatigue-free walking experience. It’s this initial performance that makes the subsequent failures all the more disappointing; the foundation for a great boot is clearly there.

Waterproofing and Breathability: The Rivelin’s Strongest, Yet Fleeting, Suit

The primary reason most of us buy walking boots is to keep our feet dry. On this front, the Rivelin boots initially passed with flying colours. We purposefully tramped through long, dew-soaked grass, stood in shallow streams, and walked for hours in steady rain. Through it all, our feet remained wonderfully, impressively dry. The waterproof construction does exactly what it says on the tin. One user, who had switched from old, leaky boots, was “pleasantly surprised” when their feet were “wonderfully dry” after their first wet walks. This confirmed our own findings perfectly.

The breathability, thanks to the synthetic inner lining, was also commendable. Even on more strenuous walks that generated a fair amount of heat and sweat, our socks were never overly damp from internal moisture. The boot manages to strike a good balance, letting water vapour out while preventing liquid water from getting in. We even tested them in light snow and found the insulation to be surprisingly effective, keeping our feet warm and comfortable. The waterproof technology is a feature that really sets it apart in the beginning. However, this stellar performance comes with a critical, time-sensitive caveat. The waterproofing is entirely dependent on the structural integrity of the boot. Once the materials begin to fail—and as we discovered, they do—that impenetrable barrier is breached, and the boot’s single greatest strength is lost in an instant.

The Elephant in the Room: Catastrophic Durability Failures

This is where the story turns. After approximately five to six weeks of regular use—nothing more strenuous than daily walks on mixed terrain—the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots began to self-destruct. The first sign of trouble was cosmetic, but alarming. The faux-leather outer material began to bubble and then flake off, particularly in areas that flex, like across the top of the foot. As one user documented with images, this deterioration is rapid, making the boots look “worse than my 18-month-old boots” in a matter of weeks.

Far more serious, however, was the structural failure. The glue or weld bonding the robust StormGrip rubber outsole to the boot’s upper began to give way. It started at the front toe rand, a common stress point, creating a gap that grew with every step. Once this separation starts, it’s a death sentence for the boot. It immediately destroys the waterproofing, allowing water to pour in from the front. We experienced this firsthand, going from perfectly dry feet one day to soaked socks the next after the front end gave way. This experience was not unique; it is the dominant theme in user feedback. Reports of soles coming away and the boot “falling apart” after anywhere from six weeks to five months are incredibly common. One user succinctly noted they “only lasted about 3 months,” while another saw a complete failure between December and March of the same winter. For a product from a brand with as much heritage as Peter Storm, this level of premature failure is shocking and unacceptable. It transforms what seems like a fantastic bargain into a false economy.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from other hikers and walkers reveals an overwhelming and consistent consensus about the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots. The narrative is almost always the same: a story of initial delight followed by profound disappointment. On the positive side, users almost universally praise the boots for their immediate comfort. Phrases like “perfectly comfortable” and “felt amazing right out of the gate” are common, highlighting the lack of a break-in period. Many are also initially impressed by the waterproofing, with one walker stating they were “pleasantly surprised when I first tried these boots during wet conditions, my feet were wonderfully dry.”

However, this positive sentiment is invariably eclipsed by reports of catastrophic durability issues. The pattern is undeniable. One user noted that after just five to six weeks, “the surface of the boot started to flake off.” Another experienced a complete peeling of the “leather coating” in under five months. The most critical and frequently cited issue is the separation of the sole from the upper. “The sole to upper glue/weld is coming apart after 5 months use,” states one review, adding, “Obviously they are now not waterproof.” Timelines for this failure are shockingly short, with reports ranging from six weeks to, at best, ten months of regular use. The sentiment is best captured by one user’s warning: “Just beware… these boots prove the adage ‘you get what you pay for’.”

Are There Better Boots for Your Buck? Exploring the Alternatives

Given the significant durability concerns with the Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots, it’s crucial to consider other options that may offer a better long-term investment. Depending on your specific needs—be it winter warmth, a lower-cut design, or a more lightweight feel—there are several strong contenders available.

1. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Winter Hiking Boots

If your primary concern is warmth and robust performance in colder, wetter conditions, the NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Winter Hiking Boots are an excellent alternative. These boots are specifically designed for winter use, often featuring a higher ankle cut and significantly more insulation than the Rivelin. They are built to handle snow and frigid temperatures while maintaining waterproof integrity. While they may be slightly heavier and less breathable in warmer weather, they represent a step up in rugged construction. For the walker who is out in all seasons and needs a boot that won’t flinch at frost or slush, the NORTIV 8 provides a more durable and weather-appropriate choice.

2. Karrimor Mens Waterproof Walking Shoes

For those who find the ankle-height design of a traditional boot to be restrictive or unnecessary, the Karrimor Mount Low Mens Waterproof Walking Shoes offer a fantastic solution. Karrimor is another well-established brand in the budget-friendly outdoor gear space, known for providing reliable performance. This model gives you the benefits of a waterproof membrane and a grippy sole but in a lighter, more flexible walking shoe format. It’s an ideal choice for less demanding trails, country parks, and daily walks where full ankle support isn’t a priority. They offer greater agility and are often more comfortable for all-day wear, making them a strong rival for those who don’t need a full-fledged boot.

3. Jack Walker Vent Waterproof Hiking Trainers

Prioritizing weight and agility above all else? The Jack Walker Vent Waterproof Hiking Trainers are designed for you. As the name suggests, this is a hybrid between a trainer and a hiking shoe, billing itself as “ultra lightweight.” This makes it perfect for fast-paced walking or for those who simply dislike the feeling of a heavy boot. Despite its low weight, it still packs in a waterproof lining and a capable sole for trekking. This would be the preferred choice for fair-weather hikers, long-distance walkers on well-maintained paths, or anyone looking for a versatile shoe that can handle a trail on Saturday and a trip into town on Sunday. It sacrifices some of the Rivelin’s rugged boot aesthetic for a more athletic profile and feel.

The Final Verdict: Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Peter Storm Rivelin Boots?

The Peter Storm Men’s Rivelin Waterproof Walking Boots are a product of stark contrasts. On one hand, they offer a level of out-of-the-box comfort and initial waterproof performance that is genuinely impressive for their price. For the first month, they feel like a true bargain, a boot that punches well above its weight. However, this promising start serves only to make the subsequent, rapid deterioration all the more frustrating. The overwhelming evidence, from our own testing and the consistent experience of other users, points to a fatal flaw in their construction and material choice. The faux leather peels and the sole separates from the upper with alarming speed under regular use.

Because of this, we cannot recommend these boots to anyone who plans on walking regularly, be it daily dog walks or weekly hikes. The value proposition collapses when a product needs replacing after only a few months. So, who could possibly buy them? The only conceivable user is someone who needs a pair of boots for a one-off event—a single muddy festival weekend, a short school camping trip, or to be kept in the back of the car for an absolute emergency. For that extremely limited use case, they might suffice. For everyone else, your money is far better invested in one of the more durable alternatives. The Rivelin boots are a lesson in false economy; if you’re ready to find a boot that will actually last, we recommend you check the latest price and availability of more reliable options online.

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