The Best Waterproof Hiking Boots, According to Outdoor Experts

Most Protective

• Pros: Very durable, designed for trekking and long hikes
• Cons: Heavy

If you’re taking on an especially long, difficult trail or embarking on a backpacking trip, the Salomon Quest 4 is the rugged boot you need. It has a range of tough features like aggressive lugs, a thick rubber outsole, a toe cap, and Gore-Tex membrane to protect you from rocks, uneven terrain, and the elements. And it provides structured support from the foot to the ankle, thanks to its snug shape and higher-than-average shaft. “It has lace eyelets located at the base of the ankle area, which helps keep the boot in place so that your ankle is always supported, which is great if your terrain is challenging,” says Will Hatton, founder of Broke Backpacker. And don’t worry about having to replace them after one hiking season: Compared to cheaper alternatives, the Quests are incredibly durable.

• Available sizes: US 5 to 11 | Available widths: medium | Heel-to-toe drop: 12 millimeters | Weight: 18.87 ounces | Lug height: 5 millimeters | Shaft height: 6.65 inches | Available colors: 3 options