Best Waterproof Hiking Boots for Ireland: Stay Dry on Every Trail

Ireland is known for its stunning green landscapes, rolling hills, and breathtaking coastlines. It’s a paradise for hikers! But as beautiful as Ireland is, the weather can be unpredictable, often changing from sunshine to rain within minutes. That’s why having a good pair of waterproof hiking boots is essential for anyone planning to explore Ireland’s great outdoors. In this article, we’ll take you through some of the best waterproof hiking boots for Ireland, what to look for when choosing a pair, and tips to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the weather.

We’ll make this easy to read and understand, breaking it down into sections, and using bullet points and tables where it helps. So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, you’ll find all the information you need here.

Why Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Boots in Ireland?

If you plan to hike in Ireland, you must be prepared for wet and muddy conditions. Ireland gets plenty of rain, and trails often pass through streams, muddy paths, and boggy terrain. Here’s why waterproof hiking boots are essential:

• Weather: The Irish weather is famously unpredictable. Even if it starts sunny, you can expect rain at any time.
• Wet Trails: Most hiking paths are not paved, which means you’ll be walking through mud, streams, and puddles.
• Safety and Comfort: Keeping your feet dry means fewer blisters and less discomfort, which is crucial for enjoying a day out in nature.

What to Look for in Waterproof Hiking Boots

Before diving into the best options, let’s take a look at what features you should consider when buying a pair of waterproof hiking boots for Irish conditions:

1. Waterproof Membrane

Look for boots with a waterproof membrane, like Gore-Tex or similar. This will help keep water out while still allowing your feet to breathe.

2. Good Traction

Ireland’s trails can be slippery, especially in wet weather. Boots with good grip and solid outsoles are essential to keep you from slipping.

3. Ankle Support

If you plan on hiking in rocky or uneven areas, you’ll want boots that provide solid ankle support. This helps prevent injuries.

4. Comfort and Fit

Comfort is key! Make sure to find boots that fit well and provide good cushioning. You’ll be wearing them for long hours, so they need to be comfortable right from the start.

5. Durability

You want boots that will last for many hikes. Durable materials like leather or tough synthetic fabrics are ideal for long-lasting performance.

Top Waterproof Hiking Boots for Ireland

Now that we know what to look for, let’s go through some of the best waterproof hiking boots that are perfect for Ireland’s rainy and muddy conditions.

1. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

Price Range:$230

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is a popular choice among hikers. These boots offer excellent comfort, stability, and waterproofing, making them perfect for the challenging conditions found on Irish trails.

Key Features:

• Waterproof Membrane: Gore-Tex keeps your feet dry even in heavy rain.
• Great Traction: The Contagrip outsole provides a good grip on slippery surfaces.
• Comfort: Comes with excellent cushioning, making long hikes more comfortable.

Pros:

• Very comfortable for long hikes.
• Great ankle support.
• Excellent waterproofing.

Cons:

• On the pricier side.
• Heavier than some other boots.

Feature	Details
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex
Weight	640g (per boot)
Ankle Support	High
Traction	Excellent

2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

Price Range: $94.99–$122.48

The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof is an excellent choice if you want a reliable boot without spending a fortune. It’s comfortable, waterproof, and provides good traction, which is everything you need for a day out on the trails.

Key Features:

• M Select DRY: The waterproof membrane keeps water out while letting moisture escape.
• Comfortable Fit: The cushioned footbed and supportive arch make it comfortable for long hikes.
• Good Grip: The Vibram sole provides excellent grip, even on muddy trails.

Pros:

• Affordable.
• Comfortable straight out of the box.
• Good waterproofing.

Cons:

• Not as much ankle support as some other boots.
• Less durable compared to more expensive options.

Feature	Details
Waterproofing	M Select DRY
Weight	500g (per boot)
Ankle Support	Moderate
Traction	Good

3. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II

Price Range: $100–$150

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on waterproofing, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is a great choice. These boots are lightweight and perfect for shorter hikes or easier trails.

Key Features:

• Waterproof Construction: Uses Omni-Tech waterproofing to keep water out.
• Lightweight: These boots are light, which means less fatigue during your hikes.
• Affordable: Great for those on a budget who still want a quality hiking boot.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to wear.
• Affordable.
• Good waterproofing for the price.

Cons:

• Not suitable for more challenging hikes.
• Limited ankle support.

Feature	Details
Waterproofing	Omni-Tech
Weight	450g (per boot)
Ankle Support	Low
Traction	Moderate

4. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Price Range: $240

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is another top pick for hiking in wet conditions. These boots offer fantastic comfort, durability, and support, which makes them ideal for those planning on tackling some of Ireland’s tougher trails.

Key Features:

• Gore-Tex Waterproofing: Keeps your feet dry without making them too sweaty.
• Durable Construction: Made from high-quality leather, these boots are built to last.
• Great Support: Offers excellent ankle and arch support, making it perfect for uneven terrain.

Pros:

• It is very comfortable, even for long hikes.
• Great ankle support.
• High durability.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• Requires a break-in period.

Feature	Details
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex
Weight	550g (per boot)
Ankle Support	High
Traction	Excellent

5. KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid

Price Range:$150

The KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid is known for its wide fit and comfort. It’s perfect for those who need a little more room for their toes. The waterproofing is reliable, and they provide great support, making them a popular choice for hikes in Ireland.

Key Features:

• KEEN.DRY Waterproofing: Keeps your feet dry while providing breathability.
• Wide Toe Box: Great for those who need extra space.
• Stability: Offers good stability on rocky trails.

Pros:

• Comfortable fit, especially for wide feet.
• Good waterproofing and support.
• Excellent traction.

Cons:

• Bulkier design.
• Slightly heavier than similar models.

Feature	Details
Waterproofing	KEEN.DRY
Weight	520g (per boot)
Ankle Support	Moderate
Traction	Good

Comparison Table: Best Waterproof Hiking Boots for Ireland

Boot Name	Price Range	Waterproofing	Weight (per boot)	Ankle Support	Traction
Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX	$230	Gore-Tex	640g	High	Excellent
Merrell Moab 2 Mid	$94.99–$122.48	M Select DRY	500g	Moderate	Good
Columbia Newton Ridge II	$100–$150	Omni-Tech	450g	Low	Moderate
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid	$240	Gore-Tex	550g	High	Excellent
KEEN Targhee III Mid	$150	KEEN.DRY	520g	Moderate	Good

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on retailer and location.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hiking Boots

Choosing the right hiking boots can make a huge difference in your hiking experience, especially in Ireland where wet conditions are common. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Know Your Size

• Make sure you have enough room for your toes to move, but not so much that your foot slides around. Try on boots with hiking socks to get the right fit.
• Remember that feet can swell during long hikes, so consider this when choosing your size.

2. Break Them In

• Don’t head out on a long hike with brand-new boots. Wear them around the house or on short walks to break them in and prevent blisters.

3. Consider the Weight

• Lightweight boots are great for comfort but may lack the support needed for tougher trails. If you’re planning to tackle steep or rocky paths, opt for a more supportive boot, even if it’s a bit heavier.

4. Waterproofing vs. Breathability

• Waterproofing is essential for Irish hikes, but you also need your feet to breathe. Look for boots that offer a balance, with materials like Gore-Tex or KEEN.DRY that allows moisture to escape.

Tips for Hiking in Ireland

• Always Check the Weather: Irish weather is unpredictable. Make sure to check the forecast and be prepared for rain.
• Layer Up: Wear layers of clothing that can be easily added or removed based on the weather.
• Wear Gaiters: If the trails are especially muddy, consider wearing gaiters to keep mud and water from entering your boots.
• Bring Extra Socks: Wet feet can be uncomfortable and lead to blisters. Pack extra socks to change into if your feet get wet.

Conclusion: Pick the Right Boots for Your Adventure

Hiking in Ireland is an incredible experience, with its lush landscapes, rolling hills, and scenic views. However, staying comfortable and dry is key to enjoying your hikes to the fullest. A good pair of waterproof hiking boots can make all the difference, whether you’re tackling the trails of Wicklow or exploring the rugged coastline of Donegal.

In this guide, we covered some of the best waterproof hiking boots for Irish trails. From the high-performing Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX to the budget-friendly Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II, there’s a boot for every type of hiker. Remember to consider the features that matter most to you, like ankle support, weight, and fit, and you’ll be set for a fantastic hiking adventure in Ireland.

So, which hiking boots are your favorite? If you’ve used any of these boots or have another pair you love, let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear about your hiking experiences and what gear works best for you.