Skechers Men’s Selmen-Enago Hiking Shoe Review – Waterproof Comfort Tested 8 Weeks

Racing against time to find waterproof hiking shoes for an upcoming Adirondack trip, the Skechers Selmen-Enago promised exactly what I needed. Mike here, and after burning through two pairs of “waterproof” boots that leaked within weeks, I was frustrated but desperate. That’s why I spent 8 weeks putting these through every soggy test I could imagine. Here’s whether they actually deliver on those bold waterproof claims.

Technical Specifications

• 💰 Price: $70-85 ()
• ⚖️ Weight: 18.2 oz (men’s size 9) – notably heavy
• 🧪 Midsole material: Air-Cooled Memory Foam
• 👟 Upper material: Waterproof leather, suede, synthetic mesh
• 🥾 Category: Light hiking/outdoor casual
• 🎯 Best for: Day hikes, wet conditions, wide feet
• ⏱️ Testing period: 8 weeks, 47 hours wear time, 73 miles mixed terrain
• 📐 Fit style: Relaxed Fit (runs wider than standard)

Design, Build Quality & Real-World Performance

Upper Construction & First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Selmen-Enago feels substantial – almost clunky at first touch. The upper combines waterproof-treated leather panels with synthetic overlays and mesh sections in what Skechers calls their “rugged outdoor style.” The chocolate brown colorway looks more sophisticated than I expected from a sub-$85 hiking shoe, though it definitely skews toward the chunky work boot aesthetic rather than sleek trail runner.

The construction quality impressed me initially. Stitching appears solid throughout, and the toe cap shows reinforcement where you’d expect wear. However, my optimism took a hit when I noticed the chemical smell several other users mentioned – it’s definitely there and took about a week of airing out before it became tolerable.

The Relaxed Fit Reality Check

Here’s where Skechers gets it right for wide-footed hikers like me. At 180 lbs with genuinely wide feet, I’ve struggled with traditional hiking boots that squeeze the life out of my feet. The Relaxed Fit lives up to its name – my usual size 10 provided plenty of toe room without feeling sloppy. The extra width distribution works particularly well through the midfoot and heel.

But there’s a trade-off. That generous fit means less precision control on technical terrain. If you’re planning serious mountain scrambling or need that locked-down race-car feel, look elsewhere. This is comfort-first engineering for casual hikers and those who prioritize all-day wearability over performance precision.

Memory Foam Cushioning Experience

The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole delivers exactly what Skechers promises – immediate step-in comfort that molds to your foot shape. During my first 3-hour trail session at Bear Mountain, the cushioning felt supportive and responsive. However, I noticed the foam compresses significantly under load, and after 6+ hour days, my feet definitely felt the firmness of the midsole beneath.

The “air-cooled” marketing claim is questionable. These shoes run hot, especially during warmer weather. The waterproof treatment clearly compromises breathability, and I found myself with sweaty feet even on moderate 60-degree days. Pack moisture-wicking socks if you’re planning extended wear.

On-the-Trail Performance

Traction & Stability Analysis

The rubber outsole provides solid grip on most hiking surfaces. During my testing through Harriman State Park’s varied terrain – from smooth rock faces to muddy creek crossings – the tread pattern held up well. The lugs aren’t as aggressive as dedicated hiking boots, but they’re adequate for day hiking and light backpacking.

Where these shoes excel is wet conditions. I deliberately tested them through puddles, wet grass, and muddy trail sections. The grip remains reliable even when soaked, which gives confidence during unpredictable weather hiking.

The Stiffness Challenge

Here’s the biggest adjustment period – these shoes are stiff. Not just firm, but genuinely rigid through the sole and upper. My first 5-mile hike resulted in hot spots along both arches and some discomfort across the toe box. Multiple users reported similar break-in challenges, and I understand why.

The stiffness serves a purpose for stability and protection, but it takes genuine commitment to work through. I spent 2 weeks wearing them for daily errands and short walks before attempting longer hikes. Even after 8 weeks, they’re noticeably less flexible than most modern hiking footwear.

Performance in Various Hiking Conditions

Wet Weather Excellence

This is where the Selmen-Enago truly shines. The waterproof treatment works as advertised – I’ve stood in 2-3 inch puddles for extended periods with completely dry feet. During a particularly soggy October hike through wet leaves and muddy trail sections, my feet stayed dry while my hiking partner’s “water-resistant” boots soaked through.

The waterproofing extends well up the sides, providing protection during creek crossings and unexpected water encounters. After 8 weeks of testing, including deliberately walking through streams, the waterproof barrier remains intact.

Temperature Range Limitations

These shoes work best in cooler conditions (45-65°F). The combination of waterproof treatment and substantial construction creates a heat retention issue. During summer testing above 75°F, my feet became uncomfortably warm within 2 hours of moderate hiking.

Conversely, they performed well during near-freezing conditions, providing adequate insulation without bulk. The memory foam doesn’t seem to lose much cushioning in cold weather, which is a plus for shoulder season hiking.

Does Skechers Deliver on Their Promises?

Marketing Claims vs Reality

Skechers promises “confident comfort and rugged outdoor style” – let’s break this down:

Waterproof Performance: ✅ Delivered. Genuinely waterproof in real-world conditions.

Memory Foam Comfort: ⚠️ Partially delivered. Comfortable initially, but compresses over time and runs hot.

Relaxed Fit: ✅ Delivered. Actually accommodates wide feet well.

Rugged Style: ✅ Delivered. Looks substantial and outdoorsy.

Hiking Performance: ⚠️ Limited. Good for casual hiking, not technical terrain.

The Durability Concern

Here’s the elephant in the room – sole separation issues. Multiple users reported the toe area separating from the upper within 3-6 months. During my testing, I noticed slight lifting at the toe seam after 6 weeks of regular use. While not completely separated, it’s concerning for long-term durability.

This appears to be a design flaw in how the sole attaches to the upper, particularly in the high-flex toe area. For a hiking shoe, this is a significant reliability concern that buyers should consider.

My Overall Assessment

Performance Scoring Breakdown

What Other Hikers Are Saying

The user feedback reveals a clear pattern – people either love these shoes for their waterproof reliability and wide-foot comfort, or they’re frustrated by durability issues and the break-in period. Long-term users (1+ years) generally rate them positively, while short-term users often struggle with the initial stiffness.

Spanish-speaking customers consistently praise the comfort (“Cómodos”) and quality (“buena calidad”), while noting they’re quite firm initially. Several users mentioned buying multiple pairs, which suggests satisfaction once you get past the adjustment period.

Final Verdict

The Good and The Bad

Who Should Buy the Skechers Selmen-Enago?

These shoes work best for recreational hikers who prioritize waterproof reliability and wide-foot comfort over lightweight performance. If you’re tired of wet feet during unpredictable weather hikes and have the patience for a proper break-in period, the Selmen-Enago delivers solid value.

Perfect for casual weekend hikers, dog walkers in wet conditions, and anyone needing waterproof outdoor footwear for work or daily activities. The wide fit makes them particularly valuable for hikers who struggle with traditional narrow hiking boots.

Better Options for Specific Needs

• For lighter weight: Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof ($90-110)
• For immediate comfort: Keen Targhee III Waterproof ($100-130)
• For serious hiking: Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX ($130-150)
• For budget without waterproofing: Merrell Alverstone ($60-75)

Final Recommendation

The Skechers Selmen-Enago earns a cautious recommendation with important caveats. If you need genuinely waterproof hiking shoes for under $85 and have wide feet, they’re worth considering – but only if you’re prepared for the break-in period and understand the durability concerns.

At this price point, they offer legitimate waterproof performance that competes with shoes costing 50% more. However, the sole separation issues are concerning enough that I’d recommend having a backup plan for serious hiking trips.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes really keep feet dry?

Yes, the waterproof performance is genuinely impressive. I’ve tested them through puddles, wet grass, and stream crossings with consistently dry feet. However, they’re not breathable, so expect sweaty feet during warm weather or intense activity.

How do they fit compared to regular Skechers?

The Relaxed Fit runs wider and slightly longer than standard Skechers. Most users find their normal Skechers size works well, but those with narrow feet might want to size down half a size or add insoles for a more secure fit.

Are they suitable for serious hiking?

Limited. They work well for day hikes on established trails but lack the performance features needed for technical terrain or multi-day backpacking. The weight and stiffness also make them less suitable for long-distance hiking.

How long is the break-in period?

Expect 2-3 weeks of regular wear before they become truly comfortable. The stiffness requires genuine patience – don’t plan any major hikes during the first few weeks of ownership.

What about the sole separation issue?

Multiple users reported toe area separation within 3-6 months. While not universal, it’s common enough to be concerning. Inspect the toe regularly and consider this a potential 6-12 month shoe rather than a long-term investment.

Are there better alternatives in this price range?

For pure waterproof performance under $85, these are competitive. However, if you can spend $90-110, the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof offers better durability and comfort. For non-waterproof options, the Merrell Alverstone provides similar comfort at $60-75.

Can I use these for work boots?

Many users successfully use them for construction, landscaping, and outdoor work where waterproof protection is valued over safety features. However, they lack steel toes or other safety certifications if required for your workplace.

Do they work in snow and ice?

The waterproofing helps in wet snow conditions, but the sole lacks aggressive lugs for ice traction. They’re adequate for light snow hiking but not suitable for winter mountaineering or icy conditions without additional traction devices.

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Comprehensive Scoring Summary