Best Waterproof Hiking Boots for Ireland: Your Top Picks for Every Adventure
Ireland’s rugged landscapes are a hiker’s paradise, with its rolling hills, mist-covered mountains, and coastal cliffs. But with its famously unpredictable weather, any hiking trip here requires reliable gear, particularly a sturdy pair of waterproof boots. Whether you’re tackling the Wicklow Way, ascending Croagh Patrick, or exploring the Cliffs of Moher, you’ll need hiking boots that are up to the challenge of both the terrain and the weather. Here’s a roundup of the best waterproof hiking boots for Ireland that combine durability, comfort, and protection from the elements.
- Salomon Quest 4 GTX
Best for: Long-distance hikes and rugged terrain
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® lining for maximum water resistance
Comfort: Advanced chassis technology for ankle support and stability
Durability: High-quality leather and synthetic materials
Weight: Lightweight design, considering its sturdy structure
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX is built for long treks on diverse terrain. Thanks to its GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, your feet will stay dry, whether you’re navigating Ireland’s boggy moorlands or misty coastal paths. The boot’s sturdy design ensures comfort and support during long hikes, making it perfect for demanding trails like the Kerry Way.
- Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Best for: Budget-friendly all-around boot
Key Features:
Waterproofing: M Select DRY Barrier for reliable water resistance
Comfort: EVA midsole and molded arch shank for foot support
Grip: Vibram® outsole for excellent traction
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a solid choice if you’re looking for a versatile, affordable hiking boot without compromising on waterproofing. Its Vibram sole offers fantastic traction, essential for navigating wet or rocky paths. The mid-ankle height provides decent support while still being flexible enough for lighter hikes, like a stroll through Glendalough.
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
Best for: Comfort and versatility
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® membrane
Comfort: Climate control footbed and cushioned midsole
Stability: Full-length stabilizer for uneven terrain
Weight: Lightweight for its category
One of the most popular hiking boots worldwide, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid excels in both comfort and waterproofing. Its GORE-TEX membrane ensures your feet stay dry even in heavy Irish rain, while the cushioned footbed makes it perfect for long days on the trail. Whether you’re doing a short hike in the Burren or tackling more rugged terrain in Connemara, the Lowa Renegade is a reliable companion.
- Scarpa Terra GTX
Best for: Hikers seeking a balance between style and performance
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® lining
Build: Full-grain leather upper for durability
Comfort: Breathable design and well-padded collar
Grip: Vibram® sole for solid traction
The Scarpa Terra GTX is perfect if you want a boot that performs well and looks good while doing it. Its stylish full-grain leather design is tough and durable, while the GORE-TEX lining keeps moisture out. This boot offers great breathability, ensuring your feet stay comfortable even on warmer days. The Vibram sole provides excellent traction, making it a good choice for the wet and rocky trails often found in Ireland.
- Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof
Best for: Casual hikers and those seeking comfort
Key Features:
Waterproofing: Omni-Tech™ waterproof technology
Durability: PU-coated leather for a durable finish
Comfort: Lightweight and cushioned EVA midsole
Grip: Omni-Grip™ rubber outsole for a strong grip
If you’re more of a casual hiker or prefer shorter day hikes, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof offers fantastic value. It’s lighter and less technical than some of the other boots on this list, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort or waterproofing. Its Omni-Tech waterproof technology will keep your feet dry, and its cushioned midsole ensures all-day comfort. This boot is perfect for easy hikes through Ireland’s beautiful national parks, like Killarney or Glenveagh.
- Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid
Best for: Wide feet and overall comfort
Key Features:
Waterproofing: KEEN.DRY membrane
Comfort: Generously wide toe box and contoured footbed
Grip: All-terrain outsole for great traction
Durability: Nubuck leather upper
The Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid is ideal for hikers with wider feet who don’t want to sacrifice comfort or performance. The boot’s KEEN.DRY membrane keeps water out, while the generously wide toe box allows for natural foot movement. The all-terrain outsole provides excellent grip on Ireland’s often slippery, muddy trails. This boot is well-suited for a range of hikes, from forest paths to the more challenging Mourne Mountains.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Hiking Boots for Ireland
- Waterproofing
Ireland is notorious for its wet weather, so waterproofing is essential. Look for boots with GORE-TEX membranes or proprietary waterproof technologies like KEEN.DRY or Columbia’s Omni-Tech to ensure your feet stay dry. - Comfort and Support
Irish trails can be rugged, so good ankle support and cushioning are key. If you’re doing longer hikes, prioritize boots with supportive footbeds and midsole cushioning to reduce fatigue. - Traction
With wet and often muddy conditions, you’ll need boots with excellent grip. Vibram soles are popular for providing strong traction, but each brand may offer its own version of a grippy outsole. This is crucial for staying stable on slick, rocky surfaces. - Durability
Choose a boot with sturdy construction—preferably a leather or a leather/synthetic combination. While Ireland’s landscape is beautiful, it can be harsh on your gear, so opt for materials that will last.
- La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
Best for: Technical hikers who need extra breathability
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® Surround technology
Breathability: Mesh inserts for enhanced airflow
Durability: Abrasion-resistant mesh and leather upper
Grip: Vibram Nano outsole for superior traction
La Sportiva is renowned for crafting high-performance hiking footwear, and the Nucleo High II GTX is no exception. What sets it apart is the GORE-TEX Surround technology, which offers 360-degree breathability while keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. This boot is designed for technical hikes, so if you’re planning to conquer some of Ireland’s more challenging trails like Carrauntoohil, you’ll appreciate the stability and grip this boot provides.
- The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX
Best for: Day hikes and lightweight hiking
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® membrane
Comfort: Lightweight and cushioned EVA midsole
Grip: Vibram® XS Trek outsole for multi-terrain grip
Support: CRADLE™ heel stability technology
For those who prefer lightweight hiking boots, The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX is a great option. It’s ideal for shorter, less technical hikes where comfort and flexibility are key. The GORE-TEX membrane ensures waterproof protection, and the CRADLE technology provides stability on uneven ground. This boot is perfect for day hikes along Ireland’s coastal trails, such as the Dingle Peninsula, where you need a light yet durable option.
- HOKA ONE ONE Kaha GTX
Best for: Ultra-cushioned support and long-distance hikes
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® membrane
Comfort: Signature HOKA cushioning for maximum comfort
Stability: Extended midsole for extra support
Grip: Vibram® Megagrip outsole for superior traction
If you’re planning long-distance hikes or multi-day treks, the HOKA ONE ONE Kaha GTX offers unbeatable cushioning. Known for their ultra-comfortable running shoes, HOKA brings the same level of comfort to these hiking boots. The oversized midsole provides shock absorption and comfort over long distances, while the GORE-TEX membrane keeps your feet dry. It’s an excellent choice for tackling Ireland’s more extended trails, such as the Beara Way or the Causeway Coast Way.
- Oboz Bridger Mid B-DRY
Best for: Durability and tough terrain
Key Features:
Waterproofing: Oboz B-DRY waterproof membrane
Durability: Nubuck leather upper for longevity
Support: TPU chassis and nylon shank for stability
Grip: Granite Peak outsole with deep lugs
Oboz is a brand known for crafting durable, rugged boots, and the Bridger Mid B-DRY is no exception. Its proprietary B-DRY waterproofing system is designed to keep water out while allowing sweat to escape, keeping your feet dry from the inside out. This boot also excels in tough terrain, thanks to its aggressive outsole and sturdy build. Whether you’re navigating the rocky trails of the Slieve League cliffs or hiking through the peat bogs of the Midlands, the Bridger Mid has the durability and grip to handle it all.
- Mammut Ducan High GTX
Best for: Lightweight trekking and mixed terrain
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort
Comfort: 3D knit and pre-shaped tongue for an ergonomic fit
Grip: Vibram® Flextron sole for versatile traction
Flexibility: Georganic 3D technology for natural foot movement
The Mammut Ducan High GTX is another fantastic lightweight option, combining waterproofing, flexibility, and comfort. Its GORE-TEX Performance Comfort technology ensures your feet stay dry without sacrificing breathability. The ergonomic design, including the pre-shaped tongue, offers a precise fit, making this boot perfect for varied terrain. Whether you’re traversing the rugged trails of the Galtee Mountains or enjoying a peaceful walk through Ireland’s countryside, this boot will keep you comfortable and dry.
- Vasque Breeze AT GTX
Best for: All-weather hiking and backpacking
Key Features:
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX® membrane
Durability: Nubuck leather and abrasion-resistant mesh upper
Comfort: Dual-density EVA footbed and molded midsole
Grip: Vibram® Contact Grip outsole with MegaGrip compound
The Vasque Breeze AT GTX is a boot designed for serious backpackers and all-weather hikers. Its robust construction makes it a great choice for those who need durability and waterproofing in one package. With a GORE-TEX lining and abrasion-resistant upper, the Breeze AT can handle Ireland’s roughest terrains while keeping your feet dry. Its Vibram MegaGrip outsole ensures excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, so whether you’re trekking through the forests of Killarney National Park or climbing the Mourne Mountains, this boot won’t let you down.
Additional Tips for Hiking in Ireland
Wear Wool Socks: Even with the best waterproof boots, moisture can sometimes find a way in or accumulate from sweat. Wearing moisture-wicking wool socks can help keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Use Gaiters: If you’re hiking in particularly wet or muddy conditions, consider using gaiters to prevent water and debris from entering your boots.
Break in Your Boots: Always break in your new boots before taking them on a serious hike. This will help prevent blisters and ensure your feet are comfortable during long treks.
Conclusion
The right pair of waterproof hiking boots can make all the difference when hiking in Ireland, where wet weather is almost a guarantee. Whether you’re a casual hiker exploring Ireland’s stunning landscapes or an experienced trekker taking on its toughest peaks, this guide offers options to suit every need. From the ultra-lightweight and cushioned designs of HOKA ONE ONE Kaha GTX to the rugged durability of Oboz Bridger Mid, each boot listed here provides essential waterproofing, comfort, and traction to handle Ireland’s ever-changing weather and terrain.
No matter where your Irish adventure takes you, investing in a high-quality pair of waterproof hiking boots will ensure that you’re ready for anything—from spontaneous rain showers to rocky ascents. Happy trails!