Stay Dry and Stylish: North Face Waterproof Hiking Shoes

You want footwear that keeps your feet dry, cushions long miles, and still looks good on and off the trail. Choosing the right waterproof hiking shoe matters because wet, cold, or poorly supported feet can cut your day short and make hiking uncomfortable.

These North Face options balance waterproof protection, traction, and lasting comfort, so you can focus on the route instead of your feet. Below you’ll find clear options that match different needs and budgets so you can pick the pair that fits how you hike.

Top Picks

How We Picked These Shoes

You want shoes that protect your feet and let you move confidently. We prioritized: waterproofing (Gore‑Tex, DryVent and construction that blocks moisture), traction (rubber outsoles and lug patterns that clear mud), comfort (midsole cushioning, roomy toe box and arch support), durability (leather/ripstop uppers and robust outsole materials), fit consistency (true-to-size or noted sizing guidance), and value (price vs expected lifespan).

We also considered intended use — day hikes, fastpacking, technical trails, or kids’ everyday wear — so each pick matches a clear need.

You get a hiking shoe that still feels at home off-trail. The Ultra 112 WP mixes ripstop and leather uppers with a DryVent waterproof membrane, a cushioned EVA midsole and a SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole with aggressive 5 mm lugs. That means it handles wet days, gravel paths and longer walks without making your feet ache. It’s solid enough for full hiking days but clean enough in black or neutral tones to wear around town or on a commute.

If you want one pair that can cover weekend hikes, rainy commutes and travel days, this is a dependable pick — just consider sizing advice from other buyers when you order.

What People Say

You’ll find most buyers praise the comfort and sturdiness — many note the shoes stay supportive on long days and handle wet conditions well. People also point to the strong grip and durable materials as highlights. A recurring theme is to check sizing (some go a half size up) and a few users mention the shoes can feel bulky or, rarely, let moisture in after heavy use.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Situational Benefits

Versatility

You can treat this as a go-to outdoor shoe that transitions to casual everyday wear. It’s built for trails but neat enough for weekend errands or travel days when you want one reliable pair.

Durability

The mix of ripstop, leather and multilayer overlays feels built to last. Customers often report long wear life and that the outsole holds up well over repeated use.

Comfort

The EVA midsole with a reinforced shank and heel cradle gives stable cushioning, and the padded, molded collar keeps the fit secure for long hikes. Some people note a break-in period and a firmer feel compared with soft-soled trainers.

Water Resistance

DryVent provides solid water resistance for rainy days and puddles, though it isn’t marketed as Gore‑Tex-level waterproofing — a few users have reported occasional moisture after heavy, prolonged exposure.

Indoor/Outdoor Use

Great outdoors and perfectly usable around town; they can feel a bit bulky indoors compared with sneakers, but that trade-off comes with added protection and grip.

Key Benefits

• Reliable water resistance from DryVent membrane
• Durable ripstop, leather and multilayer overlays
• Stable EVA midsole with reinforced shank and heel cradle
• Good traction thanks to SURFACE CTRL outsole and 5 mm lugs
• Padded collar and molded support for long-wear comfort

Current Price: $149.00

Rating: 4.4 (total: 250+)

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You get a hiking shoe that’s clearly built for the trail but won’t look out of place after you leave it. The Hedgehog Gore‑Tex pairs a Gore‑Tex 3L bootie with a leather/mesh upper, a cushioned EVA midsole and a Vibram XS Trek outsole so your feet stay dry, supported and grippy on mixed terrain. That combination makes it great for day hikes, damp weekend treks and even rainy commutes when you don’t want soaked socks.

If you want a single pair that handles muddy switchbacks, wet roots and longer walks without fuss, this is an easy shoe to recommend — just keep the sizing notes in mind if you’re between sizes.

What People Say

Most buyers highlight comfort and waterproofing as the product’s strongest points, noting the Gore‑Tex lining and cushioned midsole make for long, dry days on the trail. People also praise the outsole grip and overall build quality, while a few mention fit quirks — some say the shoe runs a bit large or isn’t ideal for very wide feet.

Overall the consensus is that it’s a reliable, long-lasting choice for day hikes and damp conditions.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Situational Benefits

Versatility

This is a versatile pick you can rely on for weekend hikes, wet-weather walks and casual travel. It leans more trail-ready than a sneaker but still looks fine around town.

Durability

The leather overlays and sturdy construction feel made to last, and buyers commonly report the outsole and upper hold up through repeated use and rougher conditions.

Comfort

The molded EVA midsole, padded collar and supportive heel cradle deliver comfortable cushioning for day hikes. Some users note a short break-in period and that the fit can be firm at first.

Water Resistance

Gore‑Tex 3L provides strong waterproofing for rain and shallow water crossings, keeping feet dry during most wet-weather outings; very deep or prolonged immersion could still let water in given the shoe’s low cut.

Indoor/Outdoor Use

Good for outdoor adventures and practical for everyday wear; they’re a bit chunkier than lightweight trainers but the trade-off is protection and grip when you need it.

Key Benefits

• Gore‑Tex 3L bootie keeps feet dry in wet conditions
• Durable leather and mesh upper for breathability and protection
• Molded EVA midsole with TPU heel cradle and midfoot shank for stability
• Vibram XS Trek outsole offers dependable traction on varied terrain
• Trail-ready build that still works for everyday wear

Current Price: $185.00

Rating: 4.6 (total: 59+)

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You get a boot that’s built for trail use but won’t look out of place around town. The Hedgehog 3 pairs a ripstop leather and spacer mesh upper with a DryVent waterproof membrane, added EVA cushioning under the forefoot and a SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole for traction. That combo keeps your feet drier and more supported on wet paths, gravel or city puddles, so it’s great for rainy commutes, weekend hikes and travel days when you want one reliable pair. If you like a sturdy, protective shoe for mixed conditions, these are a solid pick — just be mindful of the fit if you’re between sizes or have wider feet.

What People Say

You’ll find most buyers like the combination of waterproofing and comfort — people note the DryVent lining and the cushioned EVA midsole make long walks and wet conditions easier to handle. Reviewers also mention the outsole’s traction and the boot’s solid construction, while a number of users recommend sizing up or swapping the insole if you prefer extra room or a softer feel.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Situational Benefits

Versatility

These boots are versatile enough for weekend hikes, wet-weather walks and everyday wear; they lean more trail-oriented than a sneaker but still look neat enough for casual city use.

Durability

The ripstop leather overlays and sturdy construction feel built to last, and many users report good longevity with regular outdoor use.

Comfort

The EVA midsole and added forefoot cushioning deliver comfortable support for long days, though some people find the insole a bit firm at first and opt to break them in or add a softer insert.

Water Resistance

DryVent waterproofing handles rainy weather and shallow water crossings well, keeping feet dry during most wet outings — very deep or prolonged immersion may still let water in.

Indoor/Outdoor Use

Good for outdoor adventures and practical for everyday wear; the boot’s protection and grip make it a better choice than lightweight trainers when conditions are messy.

Key Benefits

• DryVent membrane keeps water out so your socks stay dry
• Ripstop leather and spacer mesh upper for abrasion resistance and breathability
• Extra 5 mm forefoot cushioning and 8 mm heel-toe offset for a balanced stride
• SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole delivers dependable grip on varied terrain
• Multilayered overlays protect toes and forefoot on rough trails

Current Price: $99.99

Rating: 4.4 (total: 116+)

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You get a shoe that’s tuned for moving fast on uneven ground but still looks tidy enough for town. The VECTIV Fastpack Mid pairs a rockered, high-rebound EVA midsole and 3D TPU footplate with a breathable, abrasion-resistant upper and a DryVent waterproof membrane. That combo gives you forward propulsion on climbs, enough cushioning for long days, and a waterproof barrier when you cross wet sections. Use them for rainy commutes, day hikes where you want speed and protection, or travel when you want one pair that handles muddy trails and cafes equally well.

If you like lightweight support and confident traction without a heavy boot feel, these are worth trying — just check fit if you’re between sizes.

What People Say

Most buyers highlight how comfortable the shoe feels from the first walks and praise the combination of cushioning and support thanks to the rockered midsole and VECTIV plate. People also mention reliable waterproofing and good traction on mixed terrain, while a few suggest checking sizing if you’re on the fence about fit or prefer extra room.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Situational Benefits

Versatility

These sit between a lightweight trail runner and a mid-height hiking boot, so you can use them for quick day hikes, rainy commutes, and travel where you want one reliable pair. They lean trail-first but won’t look out of place in casual settings.

Durability

The abrasion-resistant mesh, no-sew mudguards and SURFACE CTRL outsole feel built to handle regular trail use; the construction suggests they’ll hold up well if you use them often on varied terrain.

Comfort

The rockered, high-rebound EVA midsole and padded collar give a springy, supported ride that’s comfortable for long days. Some people prefer a break-in period or a different insole if they want a softer feel underfoot.

Water Resistance

The DryVent membrane provides dependable waterproofing for puddles, wet grass and stream edges — good for most wet-weather outings short of full, prolonged submersion.

Indoor/Outdoor Use

Good for outdoor adventures and practical for everyday wear; the mid-height and protective features make these better than simple trainers when the weather or terrain gets messy.

Key Benefits

• VECTIV tech (3D TPU footplate + rockered EVA) for stability and forward propulsion
• DryVent waterproof membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions
• Abrasion-resistant performance mesh upper for breathability and durability
• SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole with 4 mm lugs for confident traction
• Padded collar, gusseted tongue and molded TPU toe cap for comfort and protection

Current Price: $115.50

Rating: 4.8 (total: 8+)

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You get a trail-ready shoe that’s built to keep you moving when the path gets messy but still looks tidy enough for weekend errands. The VECTIV Fastpack Lite pairs a rocker-shaped, high-rebound EVA midsole and 3D TPU plate with a breathable ripstop upper and a DryVent waterproof membrane.

That combo gives you springy cushioning, a bit of forward drive on climbs, and a reliable barrier against puddles and wet grass. Use them for damp day hikes, soggy commutes, or travel when you want one pair that handles trails and cafés with equal ease.

If you want a lightweight, protective option for mixed-surface days, these are a practical choice—just double-check sizing if you fall between sizes.

What People Say

Customers commonly praise the balance of cushioning and responsiveness from the VECTIV midsole and the sense of protection from the molded toe cap and reinforced heel. People also note reliable waterproofing for wet trails and good traction on varied surfaces, while a handful mention fit and sizing can be hit-or-miss and suggest checking your size before you buy.

Overall Sentiment: Mixed

Situational Benefits

Versatility

These sit between a lightweight trail runner and a rugged hiking shoe, so you can use them for everything from damp day hikes and wet-weather commutes to travel where you want one pair that works on trails and around town.

Durability

The ripstop upper with TPU reinforcements, molded toe cap and rubber outsole give a solid sense of durability for regular trail use; expect they’ll hold up well for seasons of mixed hiking and daily wear.

Comfort

You’ll notice a springy, supportive ride from the high-rebound EVA midsole and padded collar that’s comfortable for long outings, though some people prefer a short break-in or a different insole for a softer feel.

Water Resistance

DryVent waterproofing keeps out rain, puddles and wet undergrowth for most wet-weather outings — it’s reliable for soggy trails but not meant for prolonged submersion.

Indoor/Outdoor Use

Functional enough for trail use and casual-looking enough for everyday wear, these work well when you want a single pair that handles messy conditions without feeling out of place indoors.

Key Benefits

• VECTIV tech (3D TPU plate + rockered EVA) for energy return and stability
• DryVent waterproof membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions
• Durable rubber outsole with 4 mm lugs for dependable traction
• Molded TPU toe cap and reinforced heel for protection and stability
• Breathable ripstop upper with TPU reinforcements for lightweight durability

Current Price: $145.00

Rating: 3.4 (total: 5+)

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You get a kids’ hiking shoe that actually does the job when it rains while still looking tidy enough for school or weekend outings. The Teen Fastpack Hiker WP pairs a DryVent waterproof membrane with a PU-coated leather rand and a cushioned, slightly rockered single-density EVA midsole, so your junior explorer stays comfortable and protected on puddly trails and wet playgrounds.

The upper uses recycled polyester, and the non-marking rubber outsole gives decent traction for light trail use, commutes and travel. If you want a dependable, waterproof shoe for everyday adventures and short hikes, these are an easy, practical choice—just keep an eye on fit and any early wear.

What People Say

You’ll see a lot of parents appreciate how reliably waterproof these shoes are and how comfortable kids find the cushioned midsole and soft collar. People also often mention the sturdy outsole and recycled materials as positives; a smaller group notes occasional stitching or pull-tab issues and that the shoes can feel a bit heavy for very active kids.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Situational Benefits

Versatility

These shoes bridge everyday wear and light trail use — you can rely on them for school days, rainy commutes, playground time and short family hikes. They’re not a heavy-duty mountaineering boot, but they’re a solid all-rounder when you want one pair that handles wet weather and varied surfaces.

Durability

The PU-coated leather rand and rubber outsole give a reassuring level of toughness for regular kid use, though a minority of buyers report stitching or pull-tab failures after months of wear, so occasional early issues can happen.

Comfort

You’ll notice a cushioned, slightly rockered EVA midsole, plus a super-soft collar and die-cut EVA sockliner that make them comfortable for school days and outings. Some kids find them a touch heavier than pure sneakers, so expect a short break-in for very active wearers.

Water Resistance

The DryVent waterproof membrane reliably blocks rain, puddles and wet grass for everyday wet-weather use; it’s solid for splashes and short wet sections but not for prolonged submersion.

Indoor/Outdoor Use

Non-marking outsoles and a clean, unassuming look mean these work well from classroom floors to muddy trailheads, so you don’t need a separate shoe for light outdoor play and indoor activities.

Key Benefits

• DryVent waterproof membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions
• PU-coated leather rand adds abrasion resistance around the toe and sides
• Lightweight recycled polyester upper and linings for a lower environmental footprint
• Single-density EVA midsole and die-cut EVA sockliner for cushioned support
• Non-marking, trail-capable rubber outsole for grip on mixed surfaces

Current Price: $79.00

Rating: 4 (total: 67+)

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FAQ

Are These Shoes Truly Waterproof?

You can expect strong water protection, but how waterproof they are depends on the specific North Face model and how you use them. The Ultra 112 and similar North Face hiking shoes feature a factory-applied waterproof membrane and treated leather that keep you dry on wet trails, light rain, and puddles; however, they aren’t designed for full submersion or prolonged soaking.

If you need the most robust barrier against water intrusion, consider a Gore‑Tex model (for example the Hedgehog Gore‑Tex) which typically offers more reliable long‑term waterproofing than standard waterproof membranes. For everyday wet-weather hiking you’ll find the Ultra 112 does a great job of keeping your feet dry while remaining breathable.

How Should I Choose The Right Size And Fit?

You should try to get the best sized fit for your intended use: buy your normal shoe size to start, but consider a half size up if you plan to wear thick wool socks, hike downhill frequently, or have a wider forefoot. Many North Face hiking shoes fit true to size, though some users report models can run slightly small or narrow. Make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space at the toe with you standing; the heel should be secure without painful pinching. If you’re buying online, check the seller’s return policy and exchanges so you can test them on a short walk and swap sizes if needed.

What Are The Best Ways To Maintain Waterproofing And Extend Durability?

You’ll get the longest life and best waterproof performance by cleaning and treating the shoes regularly. After dirty hikes, rinse off mud and grit with cool water, gently wipe the leather upper with a damp cloth, and let them air dry away from direct heat.

Use a leather cleaner and a suitable waterproofing spray or wax approved for ripstop leather to renew the water repellency when water stops beading. Avoid machine washing and don’t dry them on a radiator.

Replace insoles if they compress and trim or retie long laces to avoid wear. With moderate use and proper care you can expect many months to years of service; note the Ultra 112 is priced at $149.00, so maintaining them can preserve that value and comfort over time.

What Shoppers Prefer

You usually choose between the Ultra 112 WP, Hedgehog Gore-Tex, and Hedgehog 3 Waterproof based on how much waterproof protection you need, how light and breathable you want the shoe to be, and the terrain you’ll tackle. If you prioritize maximum Gore‑Tex defense for wet, technical trails you lean toward the Hedgehog Gore‑Tex; if you want a lighter, more responsive shoe for faster or longer outings you’ll favor the Ultra 112 WP, while the Hedgehog 3 Waterproof is the dependable, comfortable middle ground for everyday hiking.

Wrapping Up

Your ideal North Face waterproof shoe depends on how and where you hike. If you need long-lasting construction and all-day comfort, choose Ultra 112.

If maximum waterproofing is your top priority, Hedgehog Gore is the reliable choice. For strong ankle support and a stable feel choose Hedgehog 3, while Vectiv models are best if you want responsive, fast-hike performance.

For kids who need waterproof everyday footwear, the Fastpack Kid balances protection and price. Use the categories above to match a shoe to how you hike, and pay attention to sizing notes so you get a fit that keeps your feet comfortable on every mile.

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