Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boot Review

Bottom Line

The Ruffwear Grip Trex are the quintessential dog hiking boots, thanks to their amazing durability and fantastic tread. We have used these boots on a variety of trips and appreciate that they can last hundreds of miles before wearing out, making them reliable and increasing their overall value. The Vibram sole and raised tread pattern result in a boot that can maintain grip on steep surfaces for scrambling. 

One thing to note is that sizing is very important with these boots. Between the rubber sole design and the single attachment point, rubbing may occur if the boot is too big. Likewise, dedicated sock liners can be used to protect the dew claw. 

We wish that these boots dried a bit faster, but we have found that they do a good job keeping sharp objects out. Overall, there is a reason these boots are so popular. We have found them to be reliable over the course of several thru-hikes – something that can be hard to find. This is why they rank so high in our guide to the best dog boots.

How We Tested

We have been using the Ruffwear Grip Trex for years now and they have accompanied us on several thru-hikes, including the Pinhoti and Idaho Centennial Trails. In total we have thru-hiked over 1,000 miles with these boots in tow. Our gear testing dogs consist of two different German Shepherd Dogs of different ages as well as a 12 pound Border Terrier.

FIT

The Ruffwear Grip Trex boots are fairly simplistic for a rubber soled boot, relying heavily on proper measurements to achieve the best fit. We ranked each pair in our lineup by assigning points for adjustability features and the importance of fit. The Grip Trex boots received points for its single velcro closure, brand-specific boot liners, and sizing that accommodates small, medium, and large size dogs. 

Compared to other rubber soled boots, the single velcro closure is a bit simplistic. This means it is extra important to purchase the correct size as minimal adjustments can be made. We have a pair of Grip Trex boots that are too large for the intended dog, and they cause rubbing at the heels and therefore change how she walks. 

We do appreciate that there are small dog sizing options but would love to see more options available for larger dogs. The Ruffwear specific socks can improve fit by making it easier to slide the boot on. They also wick moisture and help prevent rubbing around the dew claw.

DURABILITY

One of our favorite features of the Ruffwear Grip Trex is how durable the Vibram rubber sole is. We have put hundreds of miles on these boots while thru-hiking with our gear tester’s old German Shepherd Dog. She used one pair while hiking the Pinhoti Trail and then used it again on the Idaho Centennial Trail (ICT). The ICT in particular is hot, dry, and rocky, particularly along the Salmon River. Overall, this pair of Ruffwear dog boots lasted over 1,000 miles of intermittent use! 

The boots hold up well to wear and tear from harsh trail conditions, so they can effectively protect the feet. We found that when these boots do start to wear out, the first place to wear out is the top of the toes. The spot just above where the rubber soles transition to fabric receives a lot of abuse from the act of walking. That said, this is much longer than many of the other boots in our lineup. We would highly recommend the Grip Trex boots to anyone looking to purchase a pair of dog boots that will last.

TRACTION

The Vibram rubber sole and grid -like “x” pattern on the bottom of the Ruffwear Grip Trek boots provide excellent traction in a variety of terrain. During side-by-side testing we placed these boots on our traction measuring device. We filled one of the Grip Trek boots with coins to give it some weight and placed it on a flat rock at the end of a lever arm. We raised the arm slowly until the boot slid and then measured that angle to compare it to the other boots in our lineup. At the conclusion of testing we found that the Grip Trex boots tied for the top performer. 

In the field we have never experienced any issues with our dogs slipping or sliding in the Ruffwear Grip Trex. While hiking the Pinhoti Trail, our tester used these boots to protect a tender spot that had formed on the back metacarpal pads of one dog. Even with rain, slick leaves, damp rocks, and some snow, the dog in question never had to slow down or correct for a slip. These boots are one of our first choices for situations where good traction is paramount.

BREATHABILITY

The Ruffwear Grip Trex has slightly below average breathability due to how the rubber sole holds the moisture. To compare the breathability of various boots, we dunked one of each model in some water and then attached them to a hanger to dry. Although the Grip Trex boots have a breathable mesh upper, they took a fairly long time to dry in the test – certainly longer than full rubber or full fabric boots. In our observations, the fabric on rubber sole boots do not breathe as well in general. The Grip Trex boots did dry faster than some of the other rubber soled boots, so that is a pro at least.

In our experience using these on the trail, they tend to dry much better in dry and sunny conditions, which is standard for most boots. They can stay damp for some time, particularly compared to lighter, more breathable fabrics both dog and non-dog specific.

PROTECTION

The better the fit of the Ruffwear Grip Trex boots, the more difficult they are to put on. Tighter fitting boots are generally preferable for rubber soled dog boots because any extra space can lead to rubbing. However, because the opening of the Grip Trex is the same size and width as the inside of the boot, it is harder to put them on if fitted properly. When we timed how long it takes to put on one of these boots, it took about 26 seconds. That puts the Grip Trex boots in the bottom half of boots for ease of use performance. In the field, we found that boots that are slightly larger slip on faster than tight-fitting boots. The dew claw can also get in the way. Once the dog’s foot is inside of the boot, it is easy enough to tighten the velcro strap since there is only one closure. Using the Ruffwear Bark’n Boot dog socks may help the foot to slide into the boot easier.

EASE OF USE

The better the fit of the Ruffwear Grip Trex boots, the more difficult they are to put on. Tighter fitting boots are generally preferable for rubber soled dog boots because any extra space can lead to rubbing. However, because the opening of the Grip Trex is the same size and width as the inside of the boot, it is harder to put them on if fitted properly. When we timed how long it takes to put on one of these boots, it took about 26 seconds. That puts the Grip Trex boots in the bottom half of boots for ease of use performance. In the field, we found that boots that are slightly larger slip on faster than tight-fitting boots. The dew claw can also get in the way. Once the dog’s foot is inside of the boot, it is easy enough to tighten the velcro strap since there is only one closure. Using the Ruffwear Bark’n Boot dog socks may help the foot to slide into the boot easier.

Should You Buy the Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog boots?

The Ruffwear Grip Trex is a hiking-specific dog boot with good traction and durability. That makes these boots ideal for hiking and backpacking on dry trails of varying quality. The Grip Trex can be used for day to day foot protection, but they are a bit expensive and heavy duty for the average user. They do not perform very well in powder: it is easy for snow to get inside the boot which can potentially lead to irritation. Overall, though, this is one of the best dog boots we tested and reviewed.

What Other Dog Boots Should You Consider?

If Ruffwear Grip Trex doesn’t quite match what your dog needs, see our full list of recommended dog boots, including these alternatives:

Kurgo Blaze: The Kurgo Blaze boots share similar traction and protection as the Ruffwear Grip Trex. However, they take longer to put on due to more straps and the shape of the boot. 

Wagwear WagWellies Mojave: We love that the Mojave boots are completely rubber yet perforated for ventilation and slotted to keep the dew claw from becoming sore. 

Expawlorer Anti-slip Dog Shoes: The Expawlorer boots make an excellent budget buy for a rubber soled boot. They provide good protection and decent durability. Just be sure to size up a little bit – the boots run small.