Hey everyone, quick question. I always thought that the waterproof coating was what made hiking boots more breathable, but now I’m not so sure. I used to wear a pair of Merrells with a waterproof membrane, and they were always hot, so I figured non-waterproof would be cooler. I recently picked up some Oboz Sawtooth low hikers without the waterproofing, and they’re still pretty warm. What gives? Did I miss something?
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It’s more about the materials and how they’re constructed rather than just the waterproofing. Look for something with a lot of mesh or fabric panels. That usually helps with breathability.
I’ve had the same problem before. I realized that a lot of it comes down to the type of socks you’re wearing, too. Try switching to lighter, moisture-wicking socks and see if that helps. Also, the insole can make a difference; some trap more heat than others.
It’s not just the waterproofing. The material of the shoe plays a huge role. I tried a pair of Salomon X Ultra with Gore-Tex once, and they were surprisingly breathable. Maybe look into something like that next time?
Where Can I find these…
I think it’s all about the ventilation design. Some shoes, even non-waterproof ones, don’t have enough vents or mesh, so they still end up being hot. I’ve switched to trail runners for most hikes now because they breathe way better. Check these Salomon Speedcross 6.
Yeah, I had the same experience with some Keen Targhees. I thought going non-waterproof would solve the heat issue, but nope! Turns out the breathability really comes from the shoe’s design and materials, not just whether it’s waterproof or not.
Ah, I know what you mean. I once got some non-waterproof boots thinking they’d be cooler, but they weren’t. The way they’re built makes a difference. If there’s a lot of leather or heavy material, they’re going to be hot regardless. Look for lightweight fabrics instead.