Posted on by Beckworth & Co.

Top 5 Outdoor & Waterproof Boots

Getting a great pair of waterproof boots can be very satisfying because it will probably stand the test of time, at least for many years. The problem is there are so many choices out there.

The basics of what you want in a good waterproof boot are durability and comfort, even when it's being soaked with water. You want it to be able to withstand good and bad weather alike when you are hiking in the rain, mud or dry terrain. Having boots that look great is an extra plus.

To prevent you from getting decision fatigue, we narrowed down your choices to 5 boots with good ratings and reviews and listed some of the top customer's compliments and complaints.

Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot

Compliments  Complaints
  • Large toe box with plenty of room
  • Customers tested well with water and they held up
  • Fits well for most customers
  • Excellent grip and traction
  • Great value and lightweight for a boot
  • Care is needed to maintain boots
  • Toe area doesn't hold up well to daily use
  • Squeaking noises
  • Synthetic leather creases too easily
  • Not breathable

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Columbia Men's Bugaboot Plus III Omni Cold-Weather Boot

Compliments Complaints
  • Extremely lightweight for a winter boot
  • Keeps feet warm and dry through rain or snow
  • Decreases the need for bulky insulation
  • Fits comfortably even with socks on
  • Excellent stitching and overall structure
  • Rigid/stiff once completely laced to the top
  • Hard inner sole
  • Fit is slightly narrow for some customers
  • Need to get a bigger size than indicated
  • Rubberized bottom part gets cold

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Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Compliments Complaints
  • Great traction up and downhill
  • Feet stays dry and warm even on heavy rain or snow
  • Excellent foot, arch and ankle support
  • Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
  • Thick and non-slip soles
  • More rigid and heavier than non-waterproof Merrells
  • Not very breathable
  • Feet sweats and overheat when worn on very hot days
  • Narrow in the toe box
  • Padding seemed a bit lacking

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KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Compliments Complaints
  • Wide toe box design
  • Lightweight and comfortable out the box
  • Lacing system allows for a wide variety of fits
  • While water proof, these shoes are breathable
  • Fully covered rubber toe cap protects the front end from wear and tear
  • Outsole deteriorates and detaches
  • Rubber sole on the side of the boot separates
  • Tends to get slippery on wet surfaces
  • Tight fitting for some customers
  • Chunks of tread are coming off around the edges

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Hi-Tec Men's Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Compliments Complaints
  • Padded soles provide excellent ankle and arch support
  • Wide toe room
  • Feet stays dry on wet ground
  • Great traction while climbing over slippery rocks or muddy trails
  • No blisters or discomfort
  • Size smaller than indicated - need to go with a 1/2 size larger 
  • Laces are a little too short even with pulling them tightly
  • Top metal lace loops bend with any stress
  • Laces start to shred because of the metal loops
  • Rigid sole layers

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