Waterproof vs Non-Waterproof Men's Hiking Shoes

Waterproof or Not? Start with Your Trail Conditions

The first question when choosing a hiking shoe is often whether you need waterproofing. A waterproof hiking shoe can keep your feet dry in wet grass, puddles, and light rain, but it also tends to be less breathable and can feel warmer on dry, sunny trails. Non-waterproof options offer better airflow and dry faster after a stream crossing, but they won't keep moisture out when the trail is consistently wet.

The right choice depends on the terrain you hike most often. For muddy or rainy conditions, a waterproof shoe is a practical choice. For dry, well-drained trails or hot weather, a non-waterproof shoe may be more comfortable.

Two Men's Hiking Shoes: Waterproof vs. Breathable

Here are two men's hiking footwear options from KEEN that represent each approach. The Men's Hightrail Waterproof Hiking Shoe is built for wet conditions, while the Men's UNEEK Trekker Sneaker prioritizes ventilation and on-grid versatility.

• KEEN Hightrail Waterproof Hiking Shoe: Designed as a fast-and-light hiker with rugged support and waterproof protection. It blends athletic performance with outdoor durability, making it a strong choice for wet trails and unpredictable weather.
• KEEN UNEEK Trekker Sneaker: Built for on-grid wearability and off-grid performance. It uses durable, ethically sourced leather and an open construction that breathes well. This shoe is not waterproof, but it dries quickly and suits mixed use from city streets to dry trails.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Men's Hightrail Waterproof Hiking Shoe | Forest Night/Dark Olive: Fast & light meets rugged & supportive. Experience a blend of athletic performance and outdoor durability, with traction and waterproof protection for any trail. This confirms the Hightrail is a waterproof hiking shoe designed for wet and uneven terrain, offering both speed and stability.

  

• Men's UNEEK Trekker Sneaker | Safari/Mediterranea: On-grid wearability. Off-grid performance. UNEEK adaptability is ready for everywhere with retro sneaker style in durable, ethically sourced leather. The UNEEK Trekker is not waterproof; its strength is breathability and style for mixed environments. It's a good choice when you don't need full waterproofing.

  

Fit and Sizing: Both Offer Regular Width

Both the Hightrail Waterproof and UNEEK Trekker are available in sizes 7 through 13 in Regular width. If you have a wide foot, you'll want to check the specific width options for each model. The supplied evidence shows only Regular width for both, so if you need a wider fit, confirm availability before ordering.

How to Decide

Choose the KEEN Hightrail Waterproof Hiking Shoe if you regularly hike on wet, muddy, or rocky trails where keeping your feet dry is a priority. Its waterproof protection and supportive build make it a reliable partner for variable conditions.

Choose the KEEN UNEEK Trekker if your hikes are mostly on dry, well-drained paths or if you want a shoe that transitions easily from trail to town. Its breathable leather construction and quick-drying nature suit warm-weather adventures and casual wear.

Neither shoe is a universal solution. The trade-off is simple: waterproofing adds security in wet conditions but reduces airflow. Breathability adds comfort in dry conditions but won't keep water out.