Best Walking Shoes for Rainy Weather
- By Tim Ashdown
We tested over 20 products; the best walking shoes for rainy weather are the KEEN Terradora 2 (women) and the New Balance M1300 V1 (men).
As someone who grew up in the UK, I know the importance of waterproof footwear. It doesn’t matter if I’m searching for my next walking boot or tennis shoe. I always have to consider how it’ll cope in the rain.
The tester for this article is a fellow UwK resident. They looked for shoes that are waterproof, comfortable, and as breathable as possible. We also looked for shoes that keep your feet supported and safe.
The best shoes we tested were the KEEN Terradora 2 (women) and the New Balance M1300 V1 (men). Both pairs are lightweight and comfortable. They keep your feet dry and offer great traction on wet surfaces. They’re some of the most versatile shoes we tested. They can handle everything from wet roads and paths to forest tracks and slick mountain trails.
Having said that, other shoes are more suited to specific situations. For example, the XTRATUF boots on our list are great for deep puddles that would overwhelm our top picks. The Clarks models handle snow and ice well; perfect for frosty winter days. Their nubuck leather upper is surprisingly durable.
To determine which is the best waterproof walking shoe for you, you’ll need to consider a couple of things. We list features to look for in the buyer’s guide. Keep reading to find your perfect shoes for walking in the rain.
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Table of Contents
Best Walking Shoes for Rainy Weather (Men)
99/100
Our Score
New Balance Men's 1300
New Balance Men's 1300
Why this product?
Features a soft but supportive footbed, easy-to-clean leather upper, and waterproof membrane. Grips well on any terrain and will keep your feet warm and dry.
99/100
Our Score
The New Balance M1300 V1 walking shoes are a crossover of a sneaker and boot. They’re lightweight and comfortable like a sneaker… With the stability, waterproofing and support of a high-end hiking boot.
The upper combines tough, durable leather and a waterproof membrane. The first keeps your feet warm, the second – dry. The tongue is sewn into the upper to prevent water and debris from getting in. The only way to get water into the shoe is to step into ankle-deep water. There’s a protective layer around the outer edge of the sneakers. This is easy to clean and protects the leather from unnecessary wear. It also protects the shoe from mud, snow and water much like a rubber galosh would. It’s highest at the heel, where protection is most needed.
An aggressive, multidirectional tread pattern means these shoes provide plenty of grip. The thick, wide sole and deep treads means you won’t sink in mud or snow. It’s also handy for walking through deep puddles.
The shoe was one of the more comfortable ones we tested for the article. The dual-density EVA footbed is soft and comfortable, but supportive. The tongue and ankle collar are well-cushioned. The toe box is roomy, with just enough space to wiggle your toes.
The nylon stability shank, found between the midsole and outsole, is another comfort feature. It creates a stable base for your feet, especially around the heel area. It’s made of nylon and not metal, so it offers plenty of flexibility. We could move our feet and toes freely when walking in these, which isn’t always the case with waterproof shoes.
Con: The downside to these shoes is their thin insole. It’s a lot less cushioned than we like to see. Fortunately, it’s easy to replace with an orthotic sole for a more comfortable walking shoe.
Tip: We recommend you get a set of thicker, more cushioned insoles before tackling a long hike. If you hike regularly, consider the trail walking version of the shoe.
Pros
- Soft, comfy and supportive footbed
- Good grip, even in mud or snow
- Durable leather and a waterproof membrane will keep your feet warm and dry
- Lightweight
Cons
- The insole is thin and lacks cushioning
Best Walking Shoes for Rainy Weather (Women)
100/100
Our Score
KEEN Women's Terradora 2
KEEN Women's Terradora 2
Why this product?
An improved version of Terradora sneaker. Keeps the dirt and smell away and offers excellent traction in any conditions.
100/100
Our Score
The Terradora 2 is the updated version of KEEN’s popular Terradora sneaker. The latter was a top shoe for rainy weather. The new and improved version is our women’s walking shoe for rainy weather.
The upper combines leather and waterproof mesh. It keeps the water out but is also highly breathable, which surprised us. Inside it is a KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane that offers further water protection. This is a truly waterproof shoe; it’s not just water-resistant.
Also inside is the proprietary Eco Anti-Odor technology. This tech uses probiotics to break down the molecules that cause foot and shoe odors. Combined with the breathable mesh, this keeps your shoes from getting wet and smelly.
Mud and dirt are easy to clean from the mesh, which is unusual for walking shoes. More often than not, mud gets stuck in mesh panels and can be a challenge to remove. This is not the case here; mud comes clean off this fabric.
You need to be careful when wearing these shoes in rough terrain. Although they’re relatively robust, the mesh sections can snag and tear on sharp rocks or sticks. This can make the shoe losel its waterproofing. If you’re going for a mountain hike or a forest hike, consider another pair. This is more walking-slash-travel shoe.
The construction of these Terradoras is robust. Most panels are double stitched and the overall build quality is high.
The outsole is made using KEEN’s own KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber. With its multidirectional lugs, this rubber compound delivers high traction grip whenever you need it. When testing these in-store, we noticed they offer much more traction than standard sneakers.
Our favourite part of these reliable, waterproof shoes, is the array of colour options. None of which are obnoxiously bright as some hiking sneakers tend to be.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Easy-to-clean
- Feature anti-odour treatment
- Excellent grip
- Come in a range of colours
Cons
- Not for rough terrain (the upper might tear on sharp rocks or sticks)
Best Slip-On Waterproof Shoes (Men)
100/100
Our Score
Merrell Men's Jungle Moc 2.0
Merrell Men's Jungle Moc 2.0
Why this product?
Suede leather and pigskin lining makes these extra comfortable, durable, and lightweight. They are well-cushioned and easy to slip on and off.
100/100
Our Score
The best men’s slip-on shoe for walking in the rain is the Merrell Jungle Moc 2.0.
Made from 100% suede leather, these comfortable shoes keep your feet protected from the cold and rain. They have a pigskin lining which makes them even more comfortable on your feet. Pigskin is known for being durable, spongey, breathable and lightweight. We found it soft and pleasant to the touch, a definite upgrade from synthetic lining materials.
Inside the shoe is a Kinetic Fit insole made for movement. Walking in this slip-on feels like walking in a well-cushioned running shoe. We could see ourselves walking for hours without getting tired with these. It helps that the shoe uses a rubber Vibram outsole, which gives the shoe even more bounce and cushioning.
The outsole isn’t just comfortable, though; it’s also slip-resistant. It has an aggressive tread and multidirectional lug pattern. It’s durable and offers increased traction on wet or dry surfaces. We tested it in-store and found it wouldn’t slip or slide on the floor, even when wet.
Be careful when using these shoes in muddy areas though. The tread pattern isn’t very deep. It quickly clogs with mud, which reduces its effectiveness.
The Jungle Moc by Merrell is easy to slip on and off. There’s a robust pull tab on the heel to help if required. Once on, the shoes feel very secure and support your feet well. We definitely didn’t expect a slip-on shoe to fit this snug.
The low cut design of these shoes means that water can sometimes get in around your ankle. Aside from this one weakness, they are very well waterproofed.
Because they’re made of suede, you should clean these shoes regularly. Suede will degrade over time if it’s not looked after correctly. This can cause the shoes to lose their waterproof properties.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Soft and comfortable
- Easy to slip on and off
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons
- The tread pattern is prone to clogging (with mud, for instance)
- Water can easily get inside due to the low cut design
- Need regular and proper cleaning
Best Slip-On Waterproof Shoes (Women)
99/100
Our Score
Merrell Women's Jungle Moc
Merrell Women's Jungle Moc
Why this product?
An excellent waterproof sneaker that is soft, comfy, breathable. Easy to put on and remove after a long walk.
99/100
Our Score
During our tests, we found best waterproof slip-on shoe for women was the same as the men’s. It’s waterproof, breathable, comfortable and well-insulated. If it had laces, it’d likely be our overall #1 choice. Excellent waterproof sneaker.
The pigskin suede upper is soft and breathable. It dries quickly, and is coated in a probiotic anti-odour treatment. This literally “eats” the bacteria that lead to smelly feet, eliminating foot and shoe odour.
The Ortholite footbed is contoured for comfort and support. There’s a dual-density EVA midsole and a separate air cushion in the heel. These deliver great impact protection, insulation and comfort. We’ve never felt anything like it in a slip-on.
The rubber outsole is tough and slip-resistant. This lets the shoe retain grip on rugged terrain. Just be aware the tread pattern isn’t deep. It fills up with dirt easily and loses its grip when in deep mud.
These shoes are quick to put on and remove thanks to the pull tab on the heel. Their main downside is their low cut, which lets water enter around the ankle. You may want to avoid these if you’re walking out in a severe downpour.
When using suede shoes, there’s a couple of things you can do to extend their life. Ensure they are allowed to dry before putting them away. Clean them regularly. And make sure to take care of suede properly using our guide. This way, your shoes will remain in great condition for many years.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- Comfortable
- Dry quickly
- Feature anti-door treatment
Cons
- The low cut design lets water enter around the ankle
- Need regular and proper cleaning
- The tread pattern is prone to clogging with mud
Best Shoes for Hiking in the Rain (Men)
99/100
Our Score
KEEN Men's Targhee 3
KEEN Men's Targhee 3
Why this product?
Waterproof and extremely breathable, the KEEN Targhee 3 offer superb stability in any terrain. Molds to your feet over time and stays in place thanks to a special lacing system.
99/100
Our Score
The best men’s waterproof hiking shoe we’ve tried is the Men’s Targhee 3 by KEEN.
It’s made using KEEN’s proprietary KEEN.DRY technology. This waterproof membrane has thousands of microscopic holes. It fits around the interior of the shoe, ventilating your whole foot while keeping water out.
As a result, this KEEN doesn’t get hot and steamy like most waterproof shoes. And even if you do sweat a little, it’s coated with a natural, pesticide-free odour treatment called Anti-Odour. This breaks down the odour causing bacteria in sweat, leaving your shoes smell-free.
The rubber outsoles have a strong tread pattern and multidirectional lugs. These offer top-level grip on a range of surfaces. They retain traction on rocks, slippery tree roots and concrete paths. Unlike the shoe pairs above, it holds up well in deep mud as well.
The interior metatomical footbed is double density EVA foam. It provides excellent support. It’s comfortable, cushioned and hugs the natural shape of your foot. It’s also supposed to mold to your foot over time, which consumer reviews confirm.
There’s a rigid support shank running through the midsole and outsole of the Targhee 3. It prevents the shoe from flexing too much over rough terrain and offers increased stability. It also reduces sensory feedback from the ground you’re walking over.
Running around the heel is a special strap that is unheard of on most waterproof walking shoes. It’s known as the TPU capture system. This is almost an extension of the laces that prevents the boots from moving around on your feet.
To get the most of the TPU system, thread the standard laces through the webbing loop near the top of the tongue. When you tighten the laces, the webbing tightens around your heel and holds the boots securely in place. It creates an incredibly stable base for your feet.
Pros
- Don’t get hot and steamy like most waterproof shoes
- Feature anti-odour treatment
- Retain traction on rough terrains
- Comfortable and cushioned footbed molds to your feet with time
- Don’t move around your feet
Cons
- None
Best Shoes for Hiking in the Rain (Women)
97/100
Our Score
KEEN Women's Targhee 3
KEEN Women's Targhee 3
Why this product?
Offers a better fit than alternatives adapted from men’s models. Has excellent grip and outstanding stability on all surfaces.
97/100
Our Score
KEEN have done it again. This time their Women’s Targhee 3 is our favourite waterproof walking shoe for women. It’s not necessarily a cute walking shoe… But it sure is functional.
It uses the same KEEN.DRY membrane as the men’s version. This keeps you dry while still allowing your feet to breathe. There’s also a moisture-wicking lining which prevents sweat from sticking to your feet all day.
The internal lining is treated with a naturally occurring anti-odour coating. This prevents odour producing bacteria from building up and creating bad smells. It does this by literally “eating” molecules and bacteria that cause foul smells, which we thought was cool.
The shoes are based on a female-specific foot form. They’ve been built with the shape of a woman’s foot in mind. This means they offer better fit, stability and support than women’s boots adapted from men’s models.
A deep tread and multidirectional pattern deliver high-end traction on a variety of surfaces. The outsole is rugged enough that sharp rocks or slippery tree roots pose no problems.
As with the men’s version of the Targhee 3, there is a stability shank running along the length of this shoe. It gives added stability, especially over rough terrain where rigidity is important. The downside is that it does reduce your feel from the ground, which you may not want.
The women’s shoe also has the same TPU heel capture system as the men’s. Once firmly laced up, this is one of the most stable shoes we’ve ever seen. Our testers even tried pretend-rolling their ankles in these, but the shoe wouldn’t let them.
One con with this shoe is that it requires some breaking in. We recommend wearing them 2-4 hours before going on your first hike.
Pros
- Keep the feet dry while allowing them to breathe
- Feature anti-odour treatment
- Great fit, stability, and shape for women
- Excellent grip
- Outstanding stability thanks to the TPU heel capture system
Cons
- Reduce your feel from the ground
- Need some time to break in
Most Comfortable Walking Shoe (Men)
95/100
Our Score
Clarks Men's Shoda
Clarks Men's Shoda
Why this product?
This model has exceptional breathability and waterproof qualities. Its removable footbed offers great heel and arch support. A thick rubber sole significantly softens impact from hard surfaces.
95/100
Our Score
Clarks are known for class and comfort. The Men’s Shoda Sneaker is no exception. It’s the most comfortable waterproof sneaker we’ve tested.
The nubuck leather construction is soft, flexible, breathable and waterproof. It keeps your feet warm and dry without them overheating or feeling constricted. It features double-stitching, a reinforced toe section and an extra-thick heel for durability.
The lining is soft textile, with extra padding around the ankle collar. Inside the shoe is a removable ortholite footbed. This is well cushioned, offering great heel and arch support. It also protects your joints from the impact of walking along hard surfaces.
The shoes have a thick rubber sole. It’s ideal for walking across wet ground but lacks sufficient tread to safely tackle more challenging terrain. These shoes are ideal for use around town or along well-groomed footpaths. The rubber has a little bounce to it, softening impact from hard surfaces like concrete.
All in all, this is clearly the most comfortable waterproof shoe we tested. It has only two cons.
First, the Shoda waterproof sneakers have a low cut ankle. This is a downside because it allows water to splash up and enter the shoe relatively easily. The ankle collar does prevent some of the water from getting in, but may not be enough for heavy rain.
Second, as with all nubuck leather shoes, they’re prone to staining. Ensure you dry them out if they get wet and clean them regularly. If you don’t do this, they will still retain their comfort and waterproofness. But the classy, dress shoe look will be ruined.
Pros
- Breathable and waterproof nubuck leather keeps the feet warm and dry
- Well-cushioned and supportive footbed
- Ideal for use in town or well-groomed surfaces
- The most comfortable waterproof shoe on the list
Cons
- Not great for countryside and challenging terrain
- The low cut ankle lets water in
- Nubuck requires proper cleaning regularly
Most Comfortable Walking Shoe (Women)
97/100
Our Score
Clarks Women's Wave Go
Clarks Women's Wave Go
Why this product?
This nubuck leather shoe looks great both in the city and on the trail. It’s supportive and well-cushioned thanks to a special WAVEWALK outsole.
97/100
Our Score
The most comfortable waterproof walking shoe we found for women was the Wave Go from Clarks.
Made using a soft nubuck leather, these are some of the most stylish walking shoes available. The leather is waterproof, insulating and breathable. These shoes are a great choice if you’re on your feet all day at work. Or if you want to hike some casual trail miles at the weekend.
The interior lining is soft with a velvety feel. Both the ankle collar and tongue are padded to protect your feet from rubbing. The footbed is cushioned and offers a lot of support. This protects your joints from the impact of walking. It can also defend against foot issues, like plantar fasciitis.
The curved WAVEWALK outsole makes every step more efficient. As you place your heel on the floor, the shape of the shoe helps you rock you forward ready for the next step. This is especially beneficial when walking on long flat surfaces.
The rubber tread pattern is less aggressive than many walking shoes. It provides less grip over rough, rocky terrain. But it’s still excellent on smoother surfaces.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Stylish
- Well-cushioned and supportive
- Prevent foot issues like plantar fasciitis
- Make it easier to walk on flat surfaces thanks to WAVEWALK outsole
Cons
- Not for rough, rocky terrain
- Nubuck needs proper cleaning
Best Waterproof Hiking Boot (Men)
97/100
Our Score
Timberland Men's Chocorua Trail
Timberland Men's Chocorua Trail
Why this product?
100% waterproof leather and Timberland’s proprietary membrane makes these highly waterproof. They deliver good traction, including in mud or snow.
97/100
Our Score
Timberland’s Chocorua Trail Boots are the best waterproof hiking boots for men we found.
They’re made from a combination of 100% waterproof leather and Timberland’s own TimberDry membrane. These materials stop water from getting to your feet but still allow them to breathe. They’re also warm, especially when worn with thick socks. This makes this a good winter boot in mild conditions.
The mid-shoe and toe section are made from a single piece of leather. There’s no seam for water to seep through this waterproof boot. As well as this, the tongue is fully sewn in to prevent water or debris from entering the shoe.
The waterproofness of the leather can fade over time. Treat the outer surface with a waterproof spray from time to time to elongate their life.
The rubber outsole is thick – up to an inch at the heel. This means you can easily walk through puddles, mud and snow. It also has deep tread which delivers reliable traction, even in the worst conditions.
Something our testers liked about the sole is its impact absorption. We tried running, walking and jumping in these. Every time, the thick rubber sole absorbed a lot of the impact. Combined with the cushioned tongue and the soft mesh, this makes for a very comfortable shoe.
Laces are often an afterthought when it comes to hiking footwear. But not with these Timberlands. They’re some of the most robust we’ve ever seen. Once tightened, the boots offer incredible support from your toes, to your ankles.
Pros
- No chance for water to get in thanks to a unique design
- Good for winter
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Great traction in any conditions
- Outstanding impact absorption thanks to a thick rubber sole
- Excellent lacing system ensures great support
Cons
- The leather may require re-waterproofing over time
Best Waterproof Hiking Boot (Women)
97/100
Our Score
Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail
Timberland Women's Chocorua Trail
Why this product?
Made for women’s feet. Can also withstand deep mud or snow. Has an energy-saving sole design that saves your energy as you walk.
97/100
Our Score
We couldn’t find a better waterproof hiking boot for women than the Timberland Chocorua Trail.
It’s almost exactly the same as the men’s version but made for women’s feet. This makes it different from many women’s boots, which are just smaller copies of men’s shoes.
The leather and TimberDry membrane prevent water from entering the boot. At the same time, they allow your feet to breathe. The boots are made from just a few large cuts of leather, reducing the number of seams that water can penetrate. This isn’t a full-fledged pair of snow boots, but it can handle light to mild snow.
The rubber outsole has a deep tread structure. It’s actually a little thicker than the men’s version, so is great for deep mud or snow. It also features special lugs which are great for shock absorption. They reduce the impact of each footstep but also return some of the energy into your next step.
Likewise, the anti-fatigue footbed contributes to this bounce-back effect. Walking in these requires less energy than in your regular hiking boots. It’s also easy on the feet thanks to all the cushioning.
The rugged laces are looped through rustproof metal eyes. They tighten easily and create a very stable base for your feet and ankles.
Combined with a thick walking sock, these are some of the most comfortable hiking boots we’ve ever tested.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Great fit
- Breathable
- Can handle mild snow and deep mud
- Save your energy during hiking
- Well-cushioned and very comfortable
- Easy lacing system keeps the boots in place
Cons
- The leather may require re-waterproofing over time
Best Rain Boots for Walking (Men)
95/100
Our Score
XTRATUF Performance Series 6" Men's
XTRATUF Performance Series 6" Men's
Why this product?
Keeps your feet dry and comfy. Has good traction. Easy to remove and store thanks to a pull tab that also doubles as a hanger. Odor-resistant.
95/100
Our Score
We couldn’t find a better rain boot than the rubber ankle boot from XTRATUF.
These work in the same way as traditional Wellingtons. But with some significant improvements.
The rubber construction is 100% waterproof. It has a neoprene frame that allows the boots to flex as you’re wearing them. The interior lining is made using XpressCool technology that allows your feet to breathe. It’s treated with a special solution to prevent the build-up of bacteria and bad smells.
These boots have a slip-resistant rubber outsole. It provides unparalleled traction on smooth, flat surfaces. However, the tread pattern is very thin so does not offer much grip on mud or in thick snow.
These shoes have a pull tab on the front and back of the ankle cuff. It makes pulling them on really quick and easy. When not in use, you can use this tab to hang the shoes up out of the way.
XTRATUF shoes are known for being a bit on the small side. Order half a size up to ensure you get a good fit. If you plan on wearing thick socks, order a whole size up.
Pros
- Flexible
- Waterproof
- Good traction on smooth, flat surfaces
- Breathable
- Feature anti-odour treatment
- Easy to put on and off
Cons
- Lack grip on challenging surfaces like mud or snow
- Run small
Best Rain Boots for Walking (Women)
95/100
Our Score
XTRATUF Performance Series 6" Women's
XTRATUF Performance Series 6" Women's
Why this product?
These rain boots offer excellent traction on smooth surfaces and are easy to slip on and off. They let your feet breathe and keep you comfortable through hours of walking.
95/100
Our Score
Just as before, the best women’s rain boots we tried were the Rubber Ankle Boots from XTRATUF.
Acting much like a rubber Chelsea boot, these shoes are easy to slip on and off. They grip your feet well and the flat insole provides great stability. The rubber sole has a little give to it, and is comfortable to wear for hours at a time.
They’re 100% waterproof and have the same XpressCool lining as the men’s version. This protects the boots against bacteria, fungus and other odour causing microorganisms.
These waterproof boots are designed with deep sea fishing in mind. They’re flexible and provide amazing traction on the smooth surface of a boat’s deck.
However, the tread is very shallow so does not offer much grip on muddy or rocky terrain.
They’re a great choice for warm wet days. Or for use on a boat. But they don’t make good cold weather winter shoes. Especially if you are likely to encounter ice.
XTRATUF recommend choosing a half size up when ordering these boots. They run a little small. If you plan on wearing thick socks with them, consider ordering a whole size up.
Pros
- Flexible
- Waterproof
- Great stability on smooth surfaces
- Breathable
- Feature anti-odour treatment
- Easy to put on and off
Cons
- Lack grip on challenging terrain
- Run small
Best Speed Walking & Running Shoe for Rainy Weather (Men)
98/100
Our Score
Men's Terrex Agravic TR
Men's Terrex Agravic TR
Why this product?
This waterproof running shoe is ideal for wet and muddy trails. It’ll cool your feet and protect you from rocks and sticks.
98/100
Our Score
For men’s wet weather running shoes, we could find no better choice than the Adidas Terrex Gore-Tex Trail Runner. It has the look of a classic Adidas running shoe. At the same time, it’s waterproof and suitable for wet, rainy conditions.
This trail running shoe features a ventilated mesh upper that cools and ventilates your feet. Inside the mesh is a Gore-Tex membrane that stops water from getting to your feet. Together, they create a shoe that’s both breathable and waterproof.
They use the classic Adidas Boost ultra-responsive midsole. This EVA framework supports the foot and provides excellent bounce back. You get energy return from each step which makes long runs much easier.
There are welded reinforced panels around all sides of this shoe. They keep the mesh and stitching protected. Preventing anything snagging on rocks, roots or sticks. They’re also easy to clean and add another layer of waterproofing.
The outsole is made using Continental rubber. It provides excellent traction in all conditions. It’s also moderately soft, reducing striking impact as you run.
The tread pattern is hyper-aggressive. It’s well suited to use on wet muddy trails but can wear quickly if used a lot on paths or roads.
Pros
- Good for wet muddy trails
- Gore-Tex waterproof
- Breathable
- Save your energy thanks to the bounce-back effect
- Easy-to-clean
- Can handle rocks, roots or sticks
Cons
- The tread pattern can wear quickly if used on roads
Best Speed Walking & Running Shoe for Rainy Weather (Women)
99/100
Our Score
Merrell Women's Moab 2
Merrell Women's Moab 2
Why this product?
This waterproof shoe offers exceptional traction. It protects your joints by absorbing the impact of running. Is warm and dry but breathable.
99/100
Our Score
For women, the best speed walking/running shoe we tried was the Merrel Women’s Moab Walking Shoe. This shoe follows the same design as the world-famous Merrell Moab boots. As a result, it has many of the same waterproofing and comfort features.
First is the suede and mesh upper. The suede is tough and durable, the mesh – soft and breathable. These outer layers are lined with the M Select Dry membrane. The three materials together create a warm, breathable and waterproof shoe.
The FIT.ECO and EVA footbed is contoured to swaddle your foot. It offers extra arch support and the heel has a strategically placed air cushion. This absorbs the impacts created by running to protect your joints.
The Vibram sole is visually striking and provides incredible traction in the wet. It doesn’t matter if you’re running along a tarmac road or through a forest. The traction is second to none.
These shoes are great for short runs in the rain or longer runs in changeable conditions. The grip and stability they provide are more than enough. No matter where you choose to run.
Pros
- Warm and comfortable
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- Arch and heel support
- Outstanding traction and stability in any conditions
Cons
- Suede requires proper cleaning
5 Features To Look For In A Shoe For Rainy Weather
1. Non-slip Sole
It will come as no surprise that when it rains, surfaces get slippery. To ensure you’re safe walking in the rain, choose shoes with a non-slip sole.
Usually made of rubber, a good non-slip outsole will deliver excellent traction and keep you stable. Non-slip soles also tend to be waterproof. A must if you’re walking in the rain.
Keep an eye out for soles with deep grooves or multi-directional lugs. We love these because they have strong grip and elevate you above the water underfoot.
2. Waterproof Upper
When walking in the rain, it’s often the upper section of your shoes that lets you down. To make sure your feet stay warm and dry, having shoes with a waterproof upper is important. This will stop water from penetrating the top of your shoes.
Waterproof shoes often have extra seams and are sewn in a different way to regular footwear. The tongue of these shoes is usually sewn into place. It offers more protection from water but can make them feel a little tighter.
3. Easy to Clean
When walking in the rain, mud and puddles are inescapable. Over time, this dirt can ruin your walking shoes. To prolong the life of your shoes, you want something that’s easy to clean.
When rain hasn’t fallen for a while, oil and other chemicals can build up along roads or footpaths. When it finally rains, this collects on top of the water and ends up all over your shoes. If you don’t clean your shoes regularly, it’s very easy to walk these chemicals around your house.
4. Stability
As well as making hard surfaces slippery, water can change soft surfaces too. Mud, earth and sand all become more unsteady when wet. To ensure you don’t trip or fall, you want shoes that provide as much stability as possible.
A secure, well balanced walking shoe will give you greater confidence when walking over difficult terrain. Since they sit tight on the feet, they also give good sensory feedback from the ground. They let you feel what is going on beneath your feet and react to it effectively. This is another reason to look for shoes with stability features.
People who walk, stand, and work on concrete should pay extra attention to stability when shopping for footwear. Make sure to go for shoes that provide excellent support and that are slip-proof on all surfaces.
5. Comfort
Waterproof shoes are no use if they’re not comfortable. Look for shoes with good interior cushioning. But make sure they are wide enough for your feet. This can prevent rubbing and blisters.
A rubber sole will provide great traction but also help keep you comfortable. It can absorb the impact of each footfall and prevent injury to your joints and muscles.
Having a comfortable pair of shoes prevents foot pain. They also reduce the chance of circulation issues and allow you to be more active. In turn, this increases your fitness and wellbeing.
For the most comfortable fit, ensure that your foot is not being squashed within the shoe. Also, make sure that the shoes are not forcing your foot into an unnatural position.
5 Reasons You Need Special Waterproof Shoes For Rainy Weather
1. To Keep You Comfortable
Let’s face it. Wet shoes are uncomfortable and unpleasant. Waterproof shoes will stay dry, preventing a bit of water from ruining your walk.
Waterproof shoes are usually warm, too. To keep water out, they are made of less breathable materials. It means they retain heat better than dry weather shoes. This makes them handy for cold conditions.
2. For Hygiene
Not only is having wet shoes uncomfortable. It’s also unhygienic.
Wet shoes create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow and multiply. This can quickly lead to bad odours and various unpleasant conditions.
The most common of these is athlete’s foot: a fungal infection. It can cause your feet to itch and burn. Skin will often become dry and flaky as well.
Athlete’s foot thrives in wet, moist environments. Keeping your feet dry with waterproof shoes minimizes the condition and helps prevent it.
In worst-case scenarios, bad hygiene caused by wet feet can be life-threatening. Pathogens survive longer on wet surfaces; wet skin is weaker than dry skin. If the pathogens can get into your body through a scratch, cut or graze, you risk getting a blood infection.
For all these reasons, it really is best to get special waterproof shoes for rainy weather.
If you’re already dealing with Athlete’s foot, immediately consult a healthcare professional. In the meantime, you can treat the condition with an Epsom salt bath.
3. Safety Against Skin Damage
Having wet shoes for prolonged periods can weaken your skin. Wet skin is softer and more prone to injury. Blisters, tears and cracks in your feet are all much more likely if you are walking in wet shoes.
Once already damaged, the skin on your feet can take a long time to heal. Especially if it gets wet again.
Preventing foot injury is the number one reason we recommend wearing waterproof shoes for walking. Having to stop a long walk early because your feet aren’t up to it is not a fun experience.
4. Foot Health
Keeping your feet warm, dry and clean is the surest way to stop conditions such as frostbite and trench foot.
It may seem extreme but these afflictions are easily preventable by using waterproof shoes.
Prolonged exposure to dirty, wet conditions can cause trench foot within just a few hours. Frostbite can occur within less than an hour.
If you’re walking in cold, wet conditions, waterproof shoes are incredibly important. They keep you safe from fungus but also from more severe conditions.
5. Stability
When shoes get wet, they offer less internal grip. This means your feet can slide around inside the shoe.
Having your feet move around reduces your stability. If you’re already walking over slippery wet terrain, you want your shoes to provide as much stability as possible.
Waterproof shoes offer more internal grip and more ground feel. Especially when walking in wet conditions.
Conclusion
Through the course of our research and testing, we fell in love with the New Balance 1300 V1’s for men and the KEEN Terradora 2’s for women.
Both of these shoes offer excellent grip on wet surfaces. They’re comfortable to wear on long hikes and deliver excellent stability. Even on slippery, rugged terrain these shoes performed great.
They’re versatile too. Most waterproof shoes stand out but these do not. With their casual look, you could wear these to the pub or around town without drawing any attention.
To buy any of the shoes on this page, consider using the links above. When you do, we make a small no commission at no cost to you. Thank you for reading!
