Black Hiking Boots

A proper hiking boot. Black. Vibram sole. Waterproof.

The 553 Black is the same boot as the Firtree and Tundra — waterproof nubuck leather upper, 4-layer TOPAZ membrane, 2-layer Vibram outsole. Black finish: cleaner and more versatile across urban and outdoor contexts. NATO-certified Samelin construction, Estonia.

Why these boots

• Waterproof nubuck leather upper — tough, breathable, weather-resistant
• 2-layer Vibram outsole — proven grip on wet rock, mud, and loose terrain
• 4-layer TOPAZ waterproof membrane — keeps feet dry without trapping moisture
• Anatomical insole — antibacterial and washable
• Made by Samelin, Estonia — same NATO-certified factory as Norwegian M77 military boots
• NATO AQAP 2110 / ISO 9001 certified
• EU 36–48

Built for real outdoor use

Designed for Nordic climate — rain, mud, wet forest, cold. The black finish also handles mixed city and trail use better than the coloured variants.

• Hiking and trekking in varied terrain
• Wet forest and trail conditions
• Nordic outdoor activities
• Cold-weather outdoor work
• Urban outdoor crossover

Construction details

Upper: Waterproof genuine nubuck leather Outsole: 2-layer Vibram sole Lining: 4-layer TOPAZ waterproof breathable membrane Insole: Anatomical, antibacterial, washable Weight: 1.5 kg (size 41) Standards: NATO AQAP 2110 / ISO 9001 Origin: Tartu, Estonia

Fit and sizing

These boots run large. Size down one full size. If you normally wear a 41, order a 40.

Available in EU 36–48.

FAQ

How does the black compare to Firtree and Tundra? Same boot, different leather colour. Black is the most versatile — works for both trail and everyday use. Firtree is forest green, Tundra is a lighter tan. Choose based on preference; construction is identical.

What is the TOPAZ membrane? A 4-layer waterproof breathable lining — blocks liquid water from outside while allowing moisture vapour to escape. Feet stay dry from rain and sweat.

What does the Vibram sole add? Vibram is the benchmark for hiking outsoles. The 2-layer construction gives reliable grip on wet rock, mud, and loose terrain.

How do these compare to the M77 for hiking? The 553 is purpose-built for hiking — Vibram sole, waterproof membrane, nubuck upper. The M77 is a military combat boot that handles hiking well but isn't designed specifically for trail use. For dedicated hiking, the 553 is the better choice.

Do these need breaking in? Some. The nubuck leather softens with wear. Most people find them comfortable within a few days of regular use.

Order with confidence

• Made by Samelin — NATO-certified manufacturer, Estonia
• Ships to EU in 3–7 working days
• Free shipping available — check if you qualify at checkout
• 30-day returns on unused, unworn items
• Questions? hello@whatshoes.co