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Xtratuf Legacy 15″ Women’s Rain Boot Review

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side view of xtratuf legacy boot folded down to show liner

Bottom Line

The Xtratuf Legacy 15” boots have been our choice rain boot for years, whether for farm work or cold-weather rafting expeditions. They initially gained a reputation in the commercial fishing industry but are just as functional off the boat. 

Their tall height, triple-dipped construction of neoprene and latex rubber, offers exceptional waterproofing. The snug-fitting calf and sturdy sole keep feet dry in the wettest conditions. 

While primarily designed for work, the Legacy 15s also serve as a stylish option for casual outings if you like the mountain girlie look. They feature fun nautical-themed liners and are available in black, grey, or brown colors. 

These boots are also certified for resistance to electrical currents, acid chemicals, and viral penetration, making them versatile workhorses. 

The chevron tread provides excellent traction; however, the soles can clog with mud and debris. While not highly insulated, they are ideal for mild to cold conditions, and adding boot liners can boost warmth in winter. 

Overall, the Xtratuf Legacy 15s provide unbeatable protection and long-lasting durability, which is why they are at the top of our recommendations for the best women’s rain boots.

How We Tested

We wore these boots while mucking horse stalls, on riverside hikes, and shoveling light snow to see how they performed in different weather conditions. For over two months in the depths of Idaho winter, we put the Legacy 15” to the test. We targeted waterproofness and durability to compare to the rest of our favorite rain boots.

Quick Specs

stock image of 15 inch xtratuf waterproof rain boots

XTRATUF Women’s Legacy 15″

Best Rain Boot Overall

CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0

Price: $165

Weight (Pair): 4 lb.

Height: 15 in

Material: Latex Neoprene, Rubber, Nylon

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Chemical & viral resistant
  • Extremely waterproof
  • Comfortabel for all day wear
  • No-skid traction

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Price
  • Oily ouf of the box
  • Sizing in the calf issues
The CleverHiker Editor's Pick Badge Logo with a rain boot picture in the middle
woman walking in some fresh snow in xtratuf work boots
These boots work in a variety of conditions and terrain. – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

Water Resistance

Made from hand-layered neoprene and latex rubber, then triple-dipped in rubber to seal everything off – the Xtratuf Legacy 15” boots offer superior waterproof protection. The 15-inch shaft provides added coverage, making it perfect for wading through water while maintaining comfort around the knees. 

Their snug-fitting calf ensures a secure seal, keeping feet dry even in the wettest conditions. Designed for extreme durability, the boots feature a reinforced ankle and heel, which adds flexibility and strength at critical stress points. With a 14.75-inch boot opening, they provide a balanced fit—not too tight, yet secure enough to prevent water from seeping in. 

The only drawback to being so waterproof is that any moisture that makes its way into the boot takes a long time to evaporate. 

For all-weather protection, the Xtratuf Legacy boots earn top marks for their exceptional waterproofing capabilities, making them an excellent choice for anyone needing durable, watertight footwear.

fresh pair of oily xtratuf's on the floor
Water can’t even come close to an Xtratuf. – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

Comfort

The Xtratuf’s thick sole and women-specific design offer strong support without adding excessive weight. Our feet stay comfortable even after hours of use, which is no surprise since many of our friends who commercially fish put in insane hours in these kicks.

The flexible neoprene shaft allows for natural movement, while the roomy foot box comfortably fits thicker socks. Though there’s slight heel slippage, the soft neoprene prevents rubbing, so we’ve never had any blistering or chafing. The tighter shaft circumference keeps the boots fitting close and prevents the “floppy” noise that other tall boots can produce.

Even though this boot would be crowned Alaska’s state boot if there were such an accolade, they are not insulated, which often catches buyers off guard. For wearing them in colder weather, Xtratuf offers Bama Sokket liners and felt insoles to boost warmth. 

The Legacy 15” boots are easy to put on and take off, even when muddy, and offer reliable performance for various outdoor activities, though it’s recommended to size up for half sizes.

a person jumping in the air in xtratuf legacy boots
These are incredibly comfortable boots. – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

Durability

Designed for rugged outdoor work, the Xtratuf Legacy 15” boots offer exceptional durability that’s proven to stand the test of time. 

Having relied on this brand for several seasons, we tested a fresh pair for this review and found them as sturdy as ever. Their hand-layered construction reinforces key areas, and the triple-dip rubber finish eliminates potential weak spots, ensuring long-lasting performance. The thick rubber outsole provides excellent traction and support, making these boots ideal for hiking or working on uneven surfaces. 

With a simple, snag-free design, they hold up remarkably well against harsh conditions like water, snow, sand, and even cactus patches (whoops). After multiple seasons of use, our old pair still performs well, with only minor cosmetic wear.

front view of the xtratuf legacy boot with a hen in the background
Should we have seen how they hold up to a chicken peck? – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

Traction

With a deep (0.5cm) chevron tread pattern, the Legacy 15” boots excel at providing solid traction across a variety of terrains. Whether tackling wet, grassy inclines, muddy fields, or flat surfaces, these boots offer reliable stability and a firm grip. They’re particularly effective on slippery, wet ground, making them great for farm work or boat use. 

However, their performance is less impressive on icy or snowy surfaces, as well as slimy river rocks. Despite these limitations, they remain dependable in environments designed for rugged work, such as those faced by Alaskan fishermen. 

Featuring a ½-inch heel and slip-resistant rubber sole, the boots offer solid footing, even on uneven surfaces. One drawback, though, is that their deep tread can collect small pebbles, requiring occasional cleaning with a stick.

While not perfect for all conditions, the Legacy 15” boots shine in terms of traction and overall stability. If you really want these to be your winter boots, add some micro-spikes and you’ll be invincible in snow and ice.

Looking up at the tread of the Xtratuf Legacy 15" rain boot. The outsole is pink.
Deep, varied tread on these boots provides excellent traction. – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

Features

The hand-layered construction reinforces key stress points, ensuring flexibility and strength for long-lasting performance. 

Because they’re made from ozone-resistant latex neoprene, they are softer and more pliable than standard rubber. We feel pretty darn nimble in these for being fully waterproof and tall. The pliable rubber also allows you to wear them tall for full coverage, or folded down for a more casual look.

Designed with a women’s fit, they feature a slip-resistant, non-marking outsole that delivers superior traction on wet surfaces. In addition to being acid and viral-penetration-resistant, Xtratuf also offers the option of steel-toe, insulated, wide-calf, and advanced traction versions. 

Exclusive collaborations with the Salmon Sisters and other nautical liner prints add a unique touch to the design, making these boots both reliable and versatile for various outdoor tasks.

view of one foot inside an xtratuf boot with the shaft folded down
Xtratuf’s come in a variety of styles, inner linings, and outer colors. – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

Should You Buy the Xtratuf Legacy Rain Boots?

If you require a reliable waterproof boot for tough jobs or critical gear, like for a fishing trip, the Xtratuf Legacy 15” is a solid investment. While the high price tag may deter casual users, the performance in wet, chilly, and muddy conditions is unmatched.

For those seeking occasional rain protection, there are more budget-friendly options available. However, if you’re relying on these boots for daily work or need dependable waterproof comfort in harsh conditions, the Legacy 15” boots deliver top-tier protection.

a person in a red rock canyon wearing xtratuf rain boots
there isn’t a place or a trip we don’t bring our xtratuf’s. They always seem to have a use case. – photo credit: abigail taylor (cleverhiker.com)

What Other Women’s Rain Boots Should You Consider?

Read below for similar options to Xtratuf’s. For a complete review of the rest of our favorites, head to our guide to the best rain boots for women.

Hunter Original Short Review: The Hunter Original Short rain boots and Xtratuf Legacy 15” both provide reliable waterproof protection, but differ in height and purpose. The Hunter boots are shorter and more stylish, ideal for casual use and light outdoor work.

Bogs Neo-Classic Tall Review: The Bogs Neo-Classic Tall offer reliable waterproofing and insulation, making them ideal for colder conditions. Unlike the Xtratuf Legacy 15” boots, which excel in flexibility and rugged durability, the Neo-Classic is designed for comfort and warmth, with added cushioning and a softer feel. These boots are perfect for chilly, wet environments.

Sloggers Rain and Garden Review: The Sloggers Rain and Garden Boots are lightweight, wallet-friendly, and designed for casual outdoor tasks like gardening or running errands. Made from flexible, waterproof resin, they offer comfort and protection for mild wet weather.