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The 10 Best Walking Boots of 2025, Tested in the Rain, Snow, & Sunshine

Our expert-approved picks are comfortable and durable

By Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD
and Ravi Davda
Updated on August 29, 2025
Closeup of waterproof hiking boots standing in a puddle.

Verywell Fit

Whether you're walking your dog in the snow or running errands in the rain, a good pair of walking boots can help keep you comfortable while you get your steps in. The best walking boots are durable, lightweight, and offer good support, with high-traction outsoles to prevent slips and falls. When shopping for walking boots, consider your gait and foot type to ensure a comfortable fit.

To find the best walking boots, we spent over a month testing 22 pairs, walking and hiking on city streets, dirt paths, steep trails, and more. We also spoke with three experts—including a foot and ankle surgeon, an outdoor adventure guide, and a backpacking expert—for insights on which key features to look for in a quality pair of walking boots. We evaluated each pair for fit, support, durability, performance, waterproofing, and value, to find the top options on the market.

Top Picks

Best Women’s Overall:
Keen Revel IV Polar Boot at Amazon $190
Jump to Review
Best Men’s Overall:
Danner Arctic 600 Side-zip at Amazon $290
Jump to Review
Best Women’s Budget:
Ryka Brae Winter Boot at Amazon $77
Jump to Review
Best Men's Budget:
Nortiv 8 Insulated Snow Boot at Amazon $60
Jump to Review
Best for Hiking:
Oboz Ousel Mid Boot at Amazon $200
Jump to Review
Best for Casual Walks:
OrthoFeet Florence Boots at Amazon
Jump to Review
Best Waterproof:
Sorel Caribou Boot at Amazon $178
Jump to Review
Best Splurge:
Ugg Adirondack III Boot at Amazon $225
Jump to Review
Best for Warm Weather:
Merrell Waterproof Hiking Boots at Amazon
Jump to Review
Best for Cold Weather:
Baffin Chloe Boot at Amazon $195
Jump to Review

Best Women’s Overall

Keen Revel IV Polar Boot

Keen Womens Revel IV Polar Boot
Credit: REI
$190 at Amazon $190 $190 at Zappos View on REI
Pros

  • Supportive, waterproof, and comfortable

  • Stylish enough for casual wear

  • Great traction, even on slick rocks

Cons

  • Stiff on first few wears

  • Bulkier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12, Men's 7-15 | Materials: Waterproof leather, performance mesh upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 4 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for those who want versatile, waterproof boots that can be worn for walking or hiking in a variety of climates, including rain and snow.

Why We Love Them

Keen's Revel IV Polar Boots topped our list due to their exceptional quality, durability, versatility, and support, earning a perfect score in all key categories during the testing process. They kept our feet completely dry and warm in wet weather, even after walking through a large puddle, were comfortable, and offered great traction. We even wore them while walking down slick rocks and felt completely stable. 

We love that these boots are comfortable, fit true to size, and actually feel much lighter on our feet than we expected. They’re supportive and keep us stable and grounded when walking. Although they’re designed for outdoor use, they’re also stylish enough for casual wear, making them very versatile. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Keen.com.

Potential Flaws

  • All the support and traction come with a bit of stiffness, especially during the first few wears.
  • They are a bit bulky, but once you’re used to walking in them, they do feel relatively light compared to some other boots we tested.

Most Valuable Insight

“The traction is impeccable. They feel super grippy going down slick rock. They're perfect for most anything you'd want to do in colder weather. Plus, they're breathable and very comfortable.” —Tara M., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person pours water onto the Keen Women’s Revel IV Polar Boot
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The Keen Women’s Revel IV Polar Boot with water on it
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person pours water onto the Keen Women’s Revel IV Polar Boot
  • The Keen Women’s Revel IV Polar Boot with water on it

Best Men’s Overall

Danner Arctic 600 Side-zip

Danner 7" Arctic 600 Side-Zip 200G
Credit: Zappos
$290 at Amazon View on Danner.com $240 at Backcountry
Pros

  • Waterproof, keeping the feet warm and dry in wet conditions

  • Supportive, durable, and high-quality

  • Grippy on wet surfaces, including rock, mud, and grass

Cons

  • May be too warm for mild weather

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 7-14 (medium, wide), Women's 5-11 | Materials: Suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 13 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for people in colder climates who want a waterproof walking or hiking boot to keep their feet warm and dry. 

Why We Love Them

Danner's Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots are sturdy, comfortable, and well-made. They’re also incredibly functional. Upon first wear, we noticed how supportive they felt on our feet and ankles, and the grippy tread on the bottom kept us feeling confident on a variety of surfaces, including slick rock, wet grass, and mud. We also love that they keep our feet warm and dry in wet conditions. 

We’re very surprised at how easy these boots are to put on. While some winter boots can be difficult to slide on and lace up, these go on with ease, and the side zipper means you don’t have to untie or tie complicated laces with every wear. These boots are high-quality, durable, and make for comfortable hiking shoes, but they’re also great for everyday winter activities, such as taking your dog for a walk or going to the grocery store.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Backcountry, and Danner.

Potential Flaws

  • These are meant for cold weather. We found them to be too hot for a fall day, but they would be great on a cold winter day, especially in the snow. 
  • Because they’re super sturdy and designed for cold weather, these boots are heavier than other options on our list.

Most Valuable Insight

“The structure and materials look, feel, and function like a very premium product. They're sturdy and rugged, but still comfortable and absolutely well-made. The support is felt throughout the foot and ankle. The shoe has an orthotic bed that is uber comfortable and feels great on your feet.” —Marco Z., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person walks outside wearing the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person laces up the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boot
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person walks outside wearing the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots
  • A person laces up the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boot
  • The Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots

Best Women’s Budget

Ryka Brae Winter Boot

Macy's Ryka Women's Brae Winter Boot
Credit: Macy's
$77 at Amazon $100 $74 at Zappos
Pros

  • Comfortable, with no break-in period

  • Well-made and high-quality

  • Waterproof and highly durable

Cons

  • Limited ankle support

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, wide) | Materials: Water-repellent puffed fabric upper with microsuede overlay, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 4 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for individuals who want a budget-friendly walking boot for everyday wear in a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow. 

Why We Love Them

We love how comfortable, soft, and lightweight Ryka's Brae Winter Boots are, and that they require no break-in period. But we were most impressed with how waterproof they are. After running them under water for several minutes, there wasn’t even a bit of dampness left on the boot, and absolutely no water got inside.

Although this pair is more affordable than others on our list, the boots still feel durable, well-made, and look high-quality. They withstood a lot of walking and water exposure during our testing period, showing no signs of wear and tear. We also love that they come in a variety of colors and are more stylish than many traditional walking boots. Additionally, they’re available in both medium and wide widths, allowing you to find the perfect fit.

Potential Flaws

  • Because these boots are a little more flexible than traditional walking boots, they don’t provide as much ankle support as other options. 

Most Valuable Insight

“The boots look very high-quality and chic. They are also incredibly lightweight, and the materials feel very soft and nice to touch. I'm shocked at how completely waterproof these boots are. I basically held them under running water in my sink for a good few minutes, and not only was the paper towel I placed on the inside completely dry, but the outer fabric never felt wet and was completely dry within seconds of turning the water off.” —Damla H., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person wears Ryka Brae 2 Winter Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A pair of Ryka Brae 2 Winter Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears Ryka Brae 2 Winter Boots
  • A pair of Ryka Brae 2 Winter Boots

Best Men's Budget

Nortiv 8 Insulated Snow Boot

Amazon Nortiv 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boot
Credit: Amazon
$60 $54 at Amazon View on Walmart View on Nortiv8shoes.com
Pros

  • Easy to put on and take off

  • Waterproof, with great traction on wet surfaces

  • Good ankle support and stability

Cons

  • Not as breathable as other options

  • Limited arch support

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 6.5–15 (medium, wide) | Materials: Waterproof rubber shell, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 15 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for individuals who want a budget-friendly walking boot for snowy activities like shoveling snow, sledding, or walking on a snowy trail. 

Why We Love Them

For the price, you really can’t get any better than Nortive 8's Insulated Snow Boots. They’re easy to put on and take off, comfortable, warm, and sturdy. From the moment we tried them on, they cushioned both our ankles and feet, while also offering good ankle support and stability. 

They provide good traction, and we never feel unstable while walking on wet surfaces. They also stay dry in wet weather, even when we tested their waterproof abilities under running water. We appreciate that the laces remain tied throughout the day, which isn’t always the case with boots or shoes. 

Potential Flaws

  • These are specifically designed for cold weather and snow, and aren’t breathable enough to wear in warmer climates. 
  • They lack arch support, which may be a problem for someone with significant overpronation (when the ankle rolls too far downward and inward with each step).

Most Valuable Insight

“They’re attractive, warm, and they feel very comfortable walking in. They’re a good weight. The boots also feel very sturdy, and there's excellent support for my ankles.” —Michael H., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person wears Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boots outside
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A pair of Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The toe of the Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boot
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boots outside
  • A pair of Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boots
  • The toe of the Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boot

Best for Hiking

Oboz Ousel Mid Boot

Oboz Women's Ousel Mid Insulated Waterproof Boot
Credit: Oboz
$200 at Amazon View on Obozfootwear.com View on Campsaver.com
Pros

  • Well cushioned and supportive

  • Comfortable on a variety of terrain

  • Durable and built to last

Cons

  • Not as breathable as other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, wide) | Materials: Leather and recycled fabric upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 12.2 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for those who want walking boots for hiking in cold weather.

Why We Love Them

Oboz's Ousel Waterproof Boots are warm, well-cushioned, and supportive, making them ideal for cold-weather hiking and snowy conditions. They’re fully waterproof and keep our feet dry when walking through deep puddles and in the rain. We find them comfortable, even after miles of walking and wear, and they perform well on a variety of terrain, including grass, mud, uneven dirt trails, and slick rocks and concrete.

We also love the brand's commitment to the environment. Not only are these boots made from partially recycled materials, but the company also plants a tree for every pair sold. Plus, they're super high-quality, durable, and built to last.

Potential Flaws

  • They’re very warm, which is great for cold-weather hikes, but they’re not as breathable as other options, so we wouldn’t recommend them for warmer conditions.

Most Valuable Insight

“My feet felt very supported wearing these boots, providing strong arch and ankle support. I went on a 2-mile walk in them and felt they were just as comfortable as my sneakers. They resemble ice skates, and the above-the-ankle height provides excellent ankle support.” —Jackie C., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person wears the Oboz Ousel Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears the Oboz Ousel Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots in grass
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears the Oboz Ousel Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots
  • A person wears the Oboz Ousel Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots in grass

Best for Casual Walks

OrthoFeet Florence Boots

OrthoFeet Florence Boots
Credit: OrthoFeet
View on Amazon View on Zappos View on Orthofeet.com
Pros

  • Orthotic insole reduces heel pain and provides solid arch support

  • Easy to put on

  • Super cozy faux fur lining

Cons

  • May not be protective enough in deep snow

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide, extra extra-wide) | Materials: Leather upper, orthotic insole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 6 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for anyone who wants extra support, warmth, and comfort on casual walks in cold weather. 

Why We Love Them

From the moment we put on OrthoFeet's Florence Boots, they felt like a warm hug for our feet. The faux fur lining is super cozy, while the waterproof leather keeps our feet dry and warm. For a boot, they’re very lightweight yet still offer good support thanks to the orthotic insole, designed specifically to provide arch support and reduce heel pain while walking. 

The tread on these boots is strong enough to keep us steady on slightly wet roads and light trails. We love how easy they are to put on, as the two Velcro straps are simple to secure and stay tight during walks. Additionally, they're extremely stylish and available in several neutral color options.

Potential Flaws

  • These hit just above the ankle, which is great for casual walks in mild cold weather, but may not be protective enough for deep snow.

Most Valuable Insight

“I really enjoy how easy this boot is to put on. The straps are easy to adjust, and the foot opening is very wide. I also like that they provide insole adjustments. I feel supported while wearing them. I was able to walk in them and also drive in them. They have the right mix of support but aren't so stiff that it limits them, like some snow boots.” —Megan W., Verywell Fit product tester 

Best Waterproof

Sorel Caribou Boot

Sorel Women's Caribou Boot
Credit: Sorel
$178 at Amazon $200 $100 at Zappos $225 at Nordstrom
Pros

  • Incredibly durable

  • Waterproof and very warm

  • Good traction on various terrains

Cons

  • Bulkier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5–10, Men's 7-17 | Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): Roughly 4 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for anyone living in a snowy, cold climate who wants warm, waterproof boots for walking their dog, commuting to work, or running errands.

Why We Love Them

Sorel’s Caribou Waterproof Boot offers comfort, warmth, and style. We particularly love the cozy fuzzy top for both its warmth and appearance. They’re also incredibly durable. We compared a pair of boots from decades ago with a new pair, and they look practically identical. 

We wore these boots on light hikes, as well as on gravel, grass, concrete, and dirt, and loved the comfortable support and excellent traction they provided. These boots are completely waterproof—the water rolls right off of them, and they keep our feet and ankles dry in inclement weather.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Sorel.

Potential Flaws

  • The boots felt a little bulky and heavy, especially when worn inside, but that also makes them ideal for the harshest weather conditions.

Most Valuable Insight

“The boots feel extremely supportive and could fit an arch insert if that was a concern for anyone. I wore them for a full day at the office, and they were very comfortable when I walked up and down stairs and from sitting to standing positions. I never had to loosen the boots to relieve pressure while sitting. There is definitely a good amount of ankle support. Everything from the packaging to the initial impression of the boots feels high-quality and durable.” —Erin H., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person wears the Sorel Women's Caribou Waterproof Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Sorel Women's Caribou Waterproof Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears the Sorel Women's Caribou Waterproof Boots
  • Sorel Women's Caribou Waterproof Boots

Best Splurge

Ugg Adirondack III Boot

Ugg Adirondack III Boot
Credit: Nordstrom
$225 at Amazon View on Kickscrew.com View on Dillards.com
Pros

  • Comfortable, with excellent ankle support

  • Warm and cozy, even in very cold weather

  • Durable

Cons

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 6 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for individuals who want to invest in a high-quality, exceptionally comfortable, and durable waterproof boot for all-day wear in very cold weather.

Why We Love Them

Ugg's Adirondack III Boots are worth every penny. They’re made with high-quality, durable leather, and the construction of the boot is clearly top-notch. We love how cozy and warm our feet feel as soon as we put them on. We also appreciate how flexible they are, making them easy to walk in all day while still offering support so our feet don’t feel achy or tired. We previously broke our ankle, and prioritize walking boots with excellent ankle support, and these didn't disappoint.

They’re very versatile—you can wear them with the top rolled down and the fuzzy lining as an accent, or if you need a taller boot, you can lace them up higher. Because they’re so warm, they’re ideal for cold, snowy weather. We like wearing ours for long, chilly walks in the park and while running errands, since they keep us incredibly comfortable, warm, and provide excellent support.

Potential Flaws

  • At nearly two and a half pounds, the pair of boots are on the heavy side, but we didn’t feel like they were too heavy to walk in or too bulky to wear all day.

Most Valuable Insight

“These boots are seriously SO comfortable. I almost never find shoes that are comfortable enough to walk in for hours at a time from the first wear. I get blisters all the time, but these were super comfortable from the first time I put them on, and they're so warm and supportive.” —Elizabeth R., Verywell Fit product tester 

  • A person wears a pair of UGG Adirondack III Boots on a brick patio
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A hand holds up the UGG Adirondack III Boot in front of a gray wall
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears a pair of UGG Adirondack III Boots on a brick patio
  • A hand holds up the UGG Adirondack III Boot in front of a gray wall

Best for Warm Weather

Merrell Waterproof Hiking Boots

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
Credit: REI
View on Amazon $150 $105 at Zappos $150 at Nordstrom
Pros

  • Lightweight and incredibly supportive

  • Keep feet dry, even when submerged completely in water

  • Laces stay securely tied

Cons

  • Limited color options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5–12 (medium, wide), Men’s 7–16 (medium, wide) | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 11.5 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for walking or hiking in warmer climates, especially if you’re on rugged terrain.

Why We Love Them

We love how Merrell's Moab 3 Hiking Boots feel on our feet and the support they offer us on even the most challenging, uneven terrain. We feel completely stable and safe climbing up rocks and walking through mud, water, and over roots. They also keep our feet dry, even after completely submerging them in streams, and we were amazed to see the water simply roll off of them.

They’re also incredibly lightweight and can double as supportive walking boots on flat ground if that’s what you’re in the market for. They offer good arch and ankle support without being too heavy or bulky, and the laces stay securely tied. Plus, we wore them in both warm and cooler temperatures, and our feet stayed dry and comfortable, never feeling chilly or sweaty.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Merrell.

Potential Flaws

  • There’s not much we would change about this boot other than making it available in more colors.

Most Valuable Insight

“My first impression was that I liked how lightweight the boots are, given that they're also very durable and supportive. When I put them on, I loved how secure my ankles and feet felt. The boots offer a lot of stability and arch support, which made my feet feel very protected. My favorite things about these boots are the foolproof traction and complete waterproofness. They're really ready for everything.” —Lydia P., Verywell Fit product tester  

  • Person wearing Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots outside
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Feet wearing Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot with one heel lifted
    The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot has a rubber sole and 5-millimeter lugs for great traction. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Feet wearing Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot standing on stone
    The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots are durable with a solid construction. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person stepping on rocks wearing Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person wearing Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots outside
  • Feet wearing Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot with one heel lifted
  • Feet wearing Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot standing on stone
  • Person stepping on rocks wearing Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Best for Cold Weather

Baffin Chloe Boot

Backcountry Baffin Chloe Women’s Boot
Credit: Backcountry
$195 at Amazon $235 $195 at Zappos View on REI
Pros

  • Solid traction, even in rainy conditions

  • Well-cushioned, with great arch support

  • Roomy, adjustable calf

Cons

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 6–11 | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight (Pair): 4 pounds, 9.6 ounces | Waterproof: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for winter walking and commuting to and from a ski mountain or other winter activities.

Why We Love Them

Baffin's Chloe Boots are warm, comfortable, and well-cushioned. Despite their warmth, we love that we never overheat when wearing them, even in more fall-like weather. They offer not only good arch support but also great ankle support. They provide excellent traction, so you don’t have to worry about slipping in water, ice, or snow. They feel sturdy under our feet, even in slippery, rainy conditions.

They’re fully waterproof, and water repels right off of them, even when we ran them under water as a test. The faux fur collar is super stylish, and we felt comfortable wearing these boots while running errands and when out to dinner on a snowy day. We also love the wide, adjustable calf, which allows for a customized fit.

Potential Flaws

  • As with many tall snow boots, these are heavier than other options.

Most Valuable Insight

“The boots fit true to size, and are very comfortable. There's a lot of extra space around the calves, but it's easily adjustable with the string toggle, allowing you to make it as tight or as loose as you want. This is great if you prefer to wear thicker or thinner socks or pants underneath. These shoes feature great cushioning/padding on the soles and around the foot, along with a spacious toe box, making them extremely comfortable to wear.” —Sophie M., Verywell Fit product tester  

  • A person wears a pair of Baffin Chloe Women’s Boots outside
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A pair of Baffin Chloe Women’s Boots
    Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears a pair of Baffin Chloe Women’s Boots outside
  • A pair of Baffin Chloe Women’s Boots

Walking Boots We Also Tested

We tested 22 walking boots, but only 10 impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. Although we like some of the following boots' features, they ultimately didn't meet our rigorous testing requirements.

  • Columbia’s Women’s Bugaboot Celsius Plus Boot is sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof, but it feels too heavy on our feet for longer walks, so we chose not to include it on our final list of recommendations.
  • Oboz’s Bangtail Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots are durable and have good traction, but they felt too stiff and heavy on our feet to recommend.
  • Salomon’s Quest Winter Thinsulate Climasalomon Waterproof Boots are warm and supportive, but they’re tight around the ankles and very heavy and stiff, so we chose not to recommend them. 
The front laces on the Oboz Bangtail Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots

Verywell Fit

How to Choose a Pair of Walking Boots

  • Materials: Walking boots are typically made from a combination of materials, including leather, foam, rubber, polyester, nylon, suede, mesh, and more. Jason Ingamells, an outdoor instructional guide, recommends leather for hiking because it’s durable, water-resistant, and provides good support. For a more lightweight option, try walking boots made from polyester or mesh. Midsoles are typically made from foam, but pricier boots may feature additional layers to provide enhanced cushioning. Rubber outsoles provide grip and traction to keep you steady while walking on wet or muddy ground. 
  • Breathability: Breathability refers to how well the inside of your boot wicks sweat and moisture away from your feet while you walk. This is especially important in warmer weather to reduce the risk of blisters and prevent your feet from swelling excessively if they overheat. However, in colder weather, our experts recommend focusing on insulation over breathability to keep your feet warm. Walking boots with mesh uppers are often more breathable, allowing sweat to escape easily, compared to leather or suede boots. 
  • Weight: The materials used in a pair of walking boots can significantly impact their weight. Heavy leather boots may feel more sturdy and durable, but they can tire out your legs when you're walking long distances. Lighter mesh and fabric boots are easier to walk in, especially in warm weather, but may not last as long. Shank height (or the height of your boot) is another important factor—ankle boots will weigh less than mid-calf boots. Consider how often you’ll wear your boots and what type of routes you’ll be walking to decide how heavy your perfect pair should be.
  • Comfort: The best pair of boots will have a breathable upper, plush midsole cushioning, and a thick rubber outsole. It’s essential to try on your boots and walk around inside before committing to them to ensure they’re comfortable. When it comes to support, they should have enough arch support to stabilize your foot to help combat over- and under-pronation. A padded collar and tongue will also support your ankle. 
  • Traction: Better traction is what sets walking boots apart from sneakers and walking sandals. Walking boots have deep lugs, providing good grip on a range of surfaces in both dry and wet climates. Most boot manufacturers have lug height listed for each pair—the thicker the lugs, the better the traction.
Feet wearing Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot with one heel lifted
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot has a rubber sole and 5-millimeter lugs for great traction.

Verywell Fit

How We Tested the Walking Boots

To find the best walking boots, we tested 22 options at home in a variety of environments, terrains, and locations ranging from city walking to light trails and steeper, off-road conditions. When testing walking boots, we evaluate each option for the following key criteria.

  • Fit: When we first try on the boots and during our first few walks, we note if they run true to size or if we should size up or down. We also consider if the boots offer room for thick winter socks or hiking socks. Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon, recommends there be three-eighths of an inch between the end of the longest toe and the end of the boot. 
  • Support: As we walk in each boot, we notice how well our feet are supported, from our arches and heels to our ankles and lower legs. We also note if our feet feel tired or achy after a longer walk or hike.
  • Durability: During our testing period, we evaluate the quality of materials of each boot and note how well each pair holds up over time. Are there signs of wear and tear beyond what we expect?
  • Performance: To evaluate the performance of each boot, we consider its traction and how stable we feel, especially when walking in wet, slippery, or uneven conditions.
  • Waterproofing: To determine if a walking boot is truly waterproof, we not only walk in wet weather with each pair but also submerge them in water and let them sit for five minutes to see if any water seeps through to the inside of the boot, or if the material effectively repels it. Ingamells suggests looking for Gore-Tex lining, as it’s both water- and wind-resistant, keeping your feet dry and warm in inclement weather.
  • Value: When determining the value of each walking boot, we first consider how well these boots perform in all the aforementioned key categories. We then use that information to determine the value of a boot, taking into account both its performance and cost. The value score of walking boots indicates whether we believe the pair’s features are worth the cost. 
A person wears the Sorel Women's Caribou Waterproof Boots

Verywell Fit

Our Experts

We consulted with three experts to gain insight into what to look for in walking boots and key features to consider when shopping for this type of footwear. Although we select products independently, expert input influences our decisions.

  • Bruce Pinker, DPM, AACFAS, FAPWCA, DABPM, FACPM, podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon
  • Jason Ingamells, outdoor instructional guide and expedition medic
  • Mike Millerson, former U.S. Army Sergeant, survivalist, and expert in backpacking and hiking

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is there a difference between hiking and walking boots?

Yes, there are key differences between walking and hiking boots. Walking boots are typically lighter, more flexible, and slightly less supportive than hiking boots. Our experts say that hiking boots are designed to tackle rugged terrain, provide ankle support, and protect our feet from the elements. Having the right type of ankle support is also important for preventing injuries. Walking boots are best suited for flat terrain or light trails, whereas hiking boots are ideal for more uneven surfaces and greater elevation changes. 

Which are the best walking boots?

All of the boots on our list are designed for walking, so they’ll feel comfortable all day long. If you’re logging many miles on rough, rocky terrain, we’d recommend a pair of hiking boots like Oboz Ousel Waterproof Hiking Boot. We also love Keen’s Women’s Revel IV Polar Boots and Danner’s Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots, both of which are waterproof and highly comfortable in dry and wet weather conditions on various terrains. 

Is it better to walk in sneakers or walking boots?

Walking in sneakers is fine for shorter distances, especially if you’re going to be walking on pavement, because you don’t need all of the additional features you get in a pair of walking boots. However, for long distances over steep or muddy ground, we’d recommend wearing boots instead. Walking boots are more durable, often waterproof, feature high-traction outsoles, and typically provide protection for your toes and ankles. 

How should walking boots fit?

Getting the right fit for your walking boots is important. If they’re too tight, your toes may feel numb as you walk. Loose boots will be difficult to walk in and may put you at risk of injuring your ankles. If you’re between sizes, purchasing a half or full size up from your usual is generally a safe bet—you can always add your own insoles or wear thick socks to improve the fit.

How long should a good pair of walking boots last?

Generally, a good pair of walking boots should last anywhere between 300 and 1,000 miles, depending on their durability, the conditions in which they're worn, and the level of care and maintenance they receive.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD, is a writer for Verywell Fit, focusing on fitness and nutrition. She lives in the suburbs of Boston and has spent most of her life in wet, snowy, and cold climates, so she knows the importance of a quality boot that will keep your feet dry, offer support, and keep you stable. 

Additional reporting contributed by by Ravi Davda, CPT

As a certified personal trainer and writer for Verywell Fit, Ravi Davda, CPT, understands the importance of quality product recommendations. As a frequent traveler, he seeks walking boots that can withstand long days of sightseeing. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

Both authors reviewed our testing insights from our Lab to select our top picks.

Read more:
sarah anzlovar

By Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD
Sarah Anzolar, MS, RD, is a Verywell Fit writer, Registered Dietitian, recipe developer, food photographer, and brand consultant. She has tested and written about leggings, Pilates mats, and protein powders for the brand.

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