I remember a hike years ago that was nearly ruined before it even began. I was wearing a pair of stiff, unforgiving boots that I was still trying to “break in” after a month of ownership. Every upward step sent a shockwave through my heels, and every descent jammed my toes into a hard, unyielding wall. By the time we reached the summit, I wasn’t enjoying the view; I was just calculating how much pain the return trip would inflict. It’s a common story for anyone who loves the outdoors. We search for that holy grail: a boot that offers the rugged protection of a traditional hiker with the out-of-the-box comfort of a favorite sneaker. The market is flooded with options, but finding one that truly delivers on both promises without costing a fortune is a challenge that can leave you with sore feet and a lighter wallet.
- Waterproof
- Memory Foam
What to Consider Before Buying Hiking Boots
A hiking boot is more than just an item of footwear; it’s a key piece of equipment that serves as your foundation on any terrain. It’s the critical interface between your body and the unpredictable ground beneath. A good boot provides essential ankle support to prevent twists on uneven paths, a protective barrier against sharp rocks and gnarly roots, and a waterproof shield to keep your feet dry and comfortable through morning dew, unexpected downpours, or stream crossings. The benefits extend beyond mere comfort; the right pair of boots can prevent blisters, reduce fatigue on long treks, and provide the confident traction needed to navigate slippery or steep sections of a trail safely.
The ideal customer for a boot like the Skechers Relment-Pelmo is the day-hiker, the weekend adventurer, or the individual who needs a reliable, comfortable, and waterproof shoe for yard work, walking the dog in inclement weather, or casual outdoor activities. They prioritize immediate comfort and versatility over extreme, expedition-grade durability. Conversely, this type of boot might not be suitable for those who are serious backpackers carrying heavy loads over multiple days, as they may require a stiffer sole and more robust ankle support. Likewise, individuals in demanding trade jobs or those tackling extreme alpine conditions should look for specialized footwear with features like safety toes, shank plates, or crampon compatibility.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fit & Sizing: This is the most critical factor. Your boot should have enough room to wiggle your toes, but your heel should remain locked in place to prevent blisters. Consider the socks you’ll wear and whether your feet swell during long walks. Options like “Wide” fittings, as offered in the model we’re reviewing, are a godsend for many people who find standard boots too constrictive.
- Traction & Support: Examine the outsole. Deep, aggressive lugs (the tread patterns on the bottom) are designed to grip dirt, mud, and rock. The midsole provides cushioning and absorbs shock, while the boot’s height—in this case, ankle-high—offers a balance of support and mobility suitable for most light-to-moderate trails.
- Materials & Durability: The upper material dictates the boot’s breathability, water resistance, and break-in period. Suede, like that on the Relment-Pelmo, offers a good mix of flexibility and durability for the price. However, pay close attention to the quality of the hardware, such as the lace eyelets and hooks, as this is a common point of failure on many boots.
- Waterproofing & Breathability: Most waterproof boots use a membrane liner to keep water out while allowing sweat to escape. This is perfect for wet climates or dewy mornings but can feel warm in hot, dry environments. Consider your typical hiking conditions to decide how important this feature is for your long-term comfort.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot stands out in several areas, particularly comfort and fit. You can explore its detailed specifications and see the available sizes here.
While the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot is an excellent choice for a specific user, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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Unboxing the Pelmo: First Steps and Initial Impressions
Opening the box, the first thing we noticed about the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot was its surprising lightness. For an ankle-high boot with a seemingly robust build, it doesn’t have the brick-like heft of many of its competitors. The Khaki suede upper has a classic, unassuming look that wouldn’t seem out of place on a town path or during a casual outing. Running a hand over the material, the suede feels soft, and the stitching appears neat and tidy upon initial inspection. But the real “Skechers” moment happens when you slide your foot inside. The much-touted Memory Foam insole immediately greets your foot with a plush, cushioned embrace. It feels less like a rugged hiking boot and more like a high-top sneaker, promising instant comfort with no break-in period. The “Relaxed Fit” is immediately apparent in the toe box of our 11 Wide model, offering ample room for toes to splay naturally. While the overall first impression is one of supreme comfort, we did eye the metal lace hooks with a degree of skepticism—a point of interest we were keen to test.
What We Like
- Exceptional out-of-the-box comfort thanks to the Memory Foam insole.
- Genuinely roomy “Relaxed Fit,” especially in the wide sizing.
- Impressive traction on a variety of surfaces like dirt, gravel, and rock.
- Effective waterproof construction for rain, puddles, and wet conditions.
What We Didn’t Like
- Significant and widely reported durability issues with the lace eyelets and hooks breaking.
- Concerns over long-term build quality, including sole separation and stitching failure.
Putting the Pelmo to the Test: A Deep Dive into Performance
A boot can feel great out of the box, but its true character is only revealed after miles of real-world use. We put the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot through a series of tests, from urban walks and yard work to genuine trail hiking, to see where it shines and where it falls short. Our findings paint a picture of a boot with a split personality: one of incredible comfort but questionable resilience.
The Signature Skechers Comfort: A Cloud for Your Feet?
Let’s be clear: the primary reason to consider this boot is for its comfort. Skechers built its empire on this promise, and the Relment-Pelmo is a testament to that legacy. The moment you put them on, the Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole molds to the shape of your foot, providing a customized cushioning that feels supportive yet forgiving. We spent a full day running errands on hard pavement, followed by several hours of heavy yard work, a scenario that often leaves our feet aching in stiffer boots. With the Pelmo, foot fatigue was noticeably reduced. The “Relaxed Fit” design is not just a marketing term; it provides a generous amount of space in the toe box, preventing the pinching and rubbing that can lead to blisters. This was confirmed by one user who praised the boot for providing “all-day comfort while doing heavy outdoor brushhog-work,” noting it offered more support than his previous big-name boots. Another 66-year-old user, who walks up to seven miles a day, stated these boots make his daily activity “easier and possible.” For those seeking immediate, sneaker-like comfort for long days on their feet, the Skechers Relment-Pelmo delivers in a way few traditional hiking boots can.
On the Trail: Grip, Support, and Real-World Traction
Comfort is one thing, but a hiking boot must perform on the trail. To test its mettle, we took the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot to a local state park with trails that feature a mix of hard-packed dirt, loose gravel, and steep, rocky inclines. Looking at the outsole, the lug pattern seems moderately aggressive but not overly so. We were curious how it would handle. On the trail, we were pleasantly surprised. The synthetic rubber sole provided confident grip across all surfaces. Ascending a rocky slope, the boots held firm, and on descents covered in loose sand and gravel, we experienced minimal sliding. Our findings mirror those of a hiker who tested them for 75 miles in the Arizona mountains, who was initially unsure about the grip but ultimately rated it a “5/5” for its performance on similar terrain. The ankle-high design provides adequate support for day hiking on moderate trails, preventing minor ankle rolls. However, the boot’s overall flexibility means it wouldn’t be our first choice for multi-day backpacking trips with a heavy pack, where a stiffer shank and more rigid support are necessary.
The Achilles’ Heel: A Critical Look at Durability and Hardware
Here we arrive at the boot’s most significant and alarming issue. While the comfort is exceptional, the long-term durability is a major gamble, specifically concerning the lacing hardware. During our testing period, the lace hooks held up, but an overwhelming number of user accounts point to a critical design flaw. We found dozens of reports of the metal lace eyelets and hooks simply breaking or pulling out of the suede upper, rendering the boots useless. One user reported a hook breaking “one week after I bought them.” Another, who barely wore the boots, stated an eyelet came loose, making them “completely worthless.” This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a recurring theme. We saw reports of second pairs failing in the same way as the first, and users having to resort to super glue to reattach the hardware. Beyond the hooks, other durability concerns were raised, including soles starting to separate and stitching failing within a year of light use. One long-time Skechers loyalist noted a decline in quality, stating his pair “started wearing out at the toe within one month.” This pattern of hardware and construction failure is the single biggest drawback of the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot and something any potential buyer must seriously consider.
Weathering the Storm: How Waterproof is “Waterproof”?
The “Waterproof” claim is a key selling feature, so we put it to the test. We wore the boots on a rainy day, intentionally splashing through deep puddles and walking through tall, dew-soaked grass for over an hour. The seam-sealed waterproof design performed admirably. Our feet remained completely dry and comfortable, with no leakage detected. This makes the boot an excellent choice for drizzly climates, muddy trails, or any situation where you’re likely to encounter moderate amounts of water from above or below. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations of this type of waterproofing. As one user aptly noted, while the boots are waterproof, they became “completely water-logged when I stepped into knee-high water.” This is expected; they are not rubber waders. The waterproof membrane is designed to handle rain and puddles, not full submersion. Additionally, the waterproofing can limit breathability. We found them comfortable in cool to moderate temperatures, but they could feel warm on a hot day. One reviewer also pointed out that they weren’t particularly warm in winter snow, suggesting two layers of socks would be necessary for cold-weather use.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across hundreds of reviews, a clear and consistent narrative emerges for the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot. The praise is almost universal when it comes to comfort. Users frequently use words like “outstanding,” “comfortable,” and “lightness” to describe their initial experience. One person, whose son works in a wet dish room, raved about the fit and the “outstanding” memory foam. This sentiment is the foundation of the boot’s appeal.
However, this praise is often followed by a significant “but.” The most damning and frequently cited complaint revolves around the poor quality of the lacing hardware. One user summed it up perfectly: “Extremely comfortable boot, a complete shame that the lace holder on top snapped off.” This experience is echoed repeatedly, with customers stating, “the shoe lace holder brakes,” and “one of the shoelace eyelet hooks popped off” after only a few months. This flaw appears to be a systemic issue, turning what could be a five-star boot into a source of major disappointment for many who invested in it for daily or frequent use.
How Does the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot Compare to the Alternatives?
No product exists in a vacuum. To understand its true value, we need to see how the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot stacks up against some popular competitors in the same category. Each offers a different blend of comfort, durability, and style for different types of users.
1. XPETI TERRA Mid Hiking Boot
- WATERPROOF -- The men waterproof hiking boots are made of Abrasion resistance Kevlon fabric upper. XPETI-Dry Membrane waterproof and moisture-wicking mesh...
- SUPPORT -- Resilient internal “Y shape” nylon shank provides torsional stability for a secure ride.
The XPETI TERRA presents a more aggressive, modern aesthetic compared to the classic look of the Skechers boot. It’s geared towards hikers who want a more technical-looking boot with enhanced protection. The XPETI often features a more robust toe cap and a Hydroshield waterproof membrane, making it a solid choice for more rugged trails where rock scuffs are common. While generally comfortable, it typically has a firmer feel than the plush memory foam of the Skechers. A user might prefer the XPETI TERRA if they are willing to trade a small amount of initial, sneaker-like softness for what is often perceived as a more durable and protective overall construction for more demanding day hikes.
2. Oakley LT Assault 2 Boot
The Oakley LT Assault 2 occupies a different niche altogether. As a tactical boot, its design priorities are extreme light weight and breathability. Made with synthetic materials and a focus on agility, it’s built for moving fast. It forgoes a waterproof membrane in favor of drainage ports, meaning it will get wet but will also dry very quickly. The fit is more athletic and snug compared to the Skechers’ “Relaxed Fit.” Someone would choose the Oakley LT Assault 2 if their primary concerns are speed and performance in hot, dry climates, or if they need a boot for training or rucking where weight is the number one enemy. It is not the choice for waterproof protection or plush, all-day cushioning.
3. Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof Boots
- Upper made with waterproof premium Timberland leather and mesh fabric
- Rustproof speed lace hardware with lace hooks at top
The Timberland Chocorua is a direct and classic competitor. Coming from a brand with a legendary reputation for durable boots, it offers a more traditional hiking experience. It typically features a premium full-grain leather upper and a robust, anti-fatigue footbed. While very comfortable after a brief break-in period, it lacks the immediate “wow” factor of the Skechers’ memory foam. However, its build quality and hardware are generally considered more reliable for long-term use. A hiker would opt for the Timberland Chocorua if they value proven durability and brand reputation over instant, out-of-the-box softness, and are looking for a long-term investment for years of hiking.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot?
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot is clear but conditional. This boot is an outstanding choice for a specific user: someone who prioritizes immediate, uncompromising comfort for casual, light-duty use. If you’re looking for a waterproof boot for walking the dog, light yard work, running errands in the rain, or occasional day hikes on well-maintained trails, the cloud-like Memory Foam and roomy fit are simply hard to beat. It provides the functional benefits of a boot with the feel of your most comfortable pair of sneakers.
However, we cannot recommend this boot for anyone whose primary need is long-term durability or who plans to use it for frequent, demanding activities. The overwhelming evidence of failing lace hardware presents a significant risk of premature failure that undermines the boot’s other excellent qualities. It’s a comfortable shoe that wears like a boot, but it unfortunately suffers from the durability of a shoe, not a boot. If you understand and accept that trade-off, you’ll be treated to one of the most comfortable pairs of footwear you can buy.
If you’ve decided the Skechers Relment-Pelmo Waterproof Boot is the right fit for your comfort-focused needs, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API