Spring and summer are full of amazing outdoor memories — many of which can be attributed to the shoes on your feet. Whether you’re making the trek to your favorite neighborhood eatery, or you’re headed into the wilderness for a weekend getaway, one of the most underappreciated items in your wardrobe might just be your boots, sneakers, or sandals. But when inclement weather decides to show its ugly face, what’s the first thing that comes to your attention? That’s right, it’s your soaked-through socks.
For those of us who have been victimized by a sudden downpour, slight drizzle, or obnoxious spill, it’s a lesson that we’ve learned the hard way. Luckily, there’s a way to ensure that you’ll never have to worry about soaked-through shoes again: the waterproof boot. In today’s market, there are more manufacturers to choose from than ever. Once you’ve got a style, trait, or type in mind, it’s easy to find the water-resistant offering that’ll fit your preferences. This is doubly true for the heritage boot genre, which is the most likely to offer waterproof, weather-ready examples to wearers. Below, we introduce a handful of favorites that have helped to turn even the bleakest rainy days around and send them packing.
Native Fitzsimmons Treklite Ripstop
We’re starting our weather-weary list with the Native Fitzsimmons. It’s difficult to find a boot that’s more capable than this one at the sub $70 price point, but thanks to the brand’s affordable manufacturing practices, you’ll be able to partake in pleasantries like ripstop nylon, Scotchgard Defender water repellency, and PU backing, without having to spend a ridiculous amount of money to get there. Since the Fitzsimmons is both reliable and stylish, it’s the perfect boot for those who are looking to strike a balance between a wearable urban stomper, and a trail-savvy wilderness silhouette. Tack on some soft microfleece lining, a two-part outsole, and a compression-molded EVA midsole, and you’ve got one of the most affordable, weatherized footwear essentials on the market today.
Sperry Top-Sider Men’s Avenue Duck
As the last of our sub $100 offerings, the Sperry Top-Sider Men’s Avenue Duck is an attractive, reliable offering that pulls heavy inspiration from L.L.Bean’s timeless rainy-day model. Each example is fully seam-sealed and features a stain and water-resistant leather that promotes comfortable wear during long commutes. Pair that with a fully-lined shaft, a memory-foam footbed, and thermal lining, and this quintessential Duck boot checks all the boxes for those who are looking to confront everything from a moderate drizzle to a full-fledged downpour.
Tretorn Gill
Tretorn has a knack for the creation of contemporary footwear, and the Gill is no exception. Not only does this boot deviate from the traditional silhouette and shape of a waterproof rain shoe to provide wearers with more urban appeal, but it’s also equally as stunning when used as a traditional, everyday shoe. Its mid-top design is accented by the brand’s unique lace-up rubber/coated canvas construction, an EcoOrtholite high-performance internal sock, and an ultra-grippy outsole catered toward use in both wet and dry environments. If you’re looking for a pair of boots that you can swap out for your traditional mid/high-tops on a rainy day, we think that the Gill is the ultimate compromise.
Timberland 6” Waterproof
Timberland is a juggernaut within the boot industry, especially when it comes to heritage-inspired examples. The 6” Waterproof, for instance, adopts the brand’s flagship design and gives it a bit more gumption for those days where moisture control is key. These stylish offerings feature an outdoor silhouette that’s seam-sealed, padded, and durable, standing up to even the most stubborn liquids for guaranteed waterproofing. Of course, it also holds true to the brand’s timeless style, incorporating a substantial premium leather upper, classic boot laces fashioned from 100% recycled nylon, and rustproof hardware that’ll help you to weather the storm for years after purchase.
Hunter Refined Slim-Fit Chelsea
It’s often difficult to find modernized renditions of tried and true classics. That’s especially true when it comes to the Chelsea boot – – a stylish, fashionable example that’s regularly included in many formal wardrobes. An utterance of the name doesn’t inspire feelings of wet-weather credibility, especially when faced with inclement downpours; but, thanks to Hunter’s Refined Slim-Fit Chelsea, that’s all about to change. This urban silhouette features a new, tailored shape that’s been handcrafted from natural rubber and vulcanized for unprecedented protection from the rain. All the trappings of a traditional Chelsea boot are still here, however. Elasticated gussets/goring, a nylon pull tab, and a stylish, black silhouette round out the Refined Slim-Fit for wearers who want to retain their stylish sensibilities during those gloomy days.
Dr. Martens 1460
Like L.L.Bean and Timberland, Dr. Martens is a mainstay within the boot space. While their offerings are far more urban, the expertise that they’ve garnered over the years isn’t squandered. Instead, boots like the waterproof 1460 provide capable respite from the masses of stylish leather examples within their catalog, bridging the gap between fashion and functionality. The introduction of the waterproof 1460 model came almost 60 years after the icon’s first manufacturing run, but that doesn’t stop it from capturing all of the unique intricacies of the original. A twin heat-sealed welt joins with the boot’s air-cushioned sole, breathable DryWair bootie, and oiled leather material to stand up against harsh spills, puddles, and rain. But what about the aesthetic pleasantries of Dr. Martens’ legendary boots? Don’t worry; the shoe’s DMS tread pattern, yellow stitching, and two-tone sidewall are still instantly recognizable.
Blundstone Stout Chelsea
Blundstone’s Stout Chelsea is yet another formidable, weatherized offering that takes on the style icon’s unique silhouette. While it’s not as modern as Hunter’s Slim-Fit, it still boasts a lean profile, square toe, and a dressy appearance, overall. The Stout is obviously chained to the historic lineage of the original, but that isn’t a knock against its water-deterrent capabilities. It features a premium brown leather construction, brown, elasticated goring, and a TPU outsole for positive traction on a variety of surfaces, wet or dry. To augment its classic presence, an SPS Max Comfort system has been included (to provide increased shock absorption), while the boot’s cushioned midsole promises a more comfortable fit.
Danner Mountain 600 Insulated
Danner is a prominent inclusion that finds its way into almost every boot-focused list that we write, but that’s not because we’re biased. If you’ve been around footwear for any amount of time, it’s likely that you’ve heard of the brand’s lauded models. Their heritage-inspired silhouettes are second to none, and that’s no different for the Mountain 600 Insulated — a performance heritage hiker that’s been treated with the brand’s “Danner Dry” technology. To amplify the boot’s outdoor presence, Danner teamed up with prominent outsole provider, Vibram, to create the quintessential piece of trail-savvy footwear, incorporating a tried-and-true SPE midsole, and Nisqually traction for more dependable trekking. A full-grain leather upper pairs with the 600’s Primaloft insulation, superior cushioning, and lightweight materials to round out the wet/dry wonder, which acts as an introductory model to Danner’s Performance footwear lineup.
Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX
Arc’teryx is most notable for its outerwear, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t create a pair of great outdoor boots. The Acrux TR GTX is a testament to that fact, thanks to its technical orientation, SuperFabric upper, and increased support, making it a great option for hikers/trekkers who travel long distances. To give the Acrux its own unique traits, Arc’teryx has incorporated an interesting micro-plated system, allowing the boot to remain inherently flexible, abrasion-resistant, and light. This, paired with a proven GORE-TEX insert, helps to provide ample mobility in even the most dastardly conditions.
Red Wing Classic Moc
Like Danner, Red Wing is an iconic name within the boot space. Hailing from Minnesota, the brand has crafted more durable footwear offerings than we can count, and out of them, the Classic Moc is certainly one of its most regarded. While the boot has taken on different roles over the years, it’s stayed true to Red Wing’s original design, incorporating heritage-inspired traits, up-and-coming materials, and an exceptional outdoor design that’s allowed the brand to adapt and overcome throughout the generations. The most recent iteration of the boot arrives as a capable moc toe, adopting Puritan triple stitching and a reinforced storm welt for unprecedented water resistance. If you’re looking for an iconic piece of footwear that’ll take on the flooded trail with ease, but can still adapt to the urban environment, the Red Wing Classic Moc is for you.
Filson Uplander
Filson’s Uplander boot was built to take on the PNW’s forested regions, so you can bet that it’s got some form of waterproofing. To battle the rugged, wet environment, each boot adopts a heavyweight, full-grain leather, a foot-conforming cork insole, and a grippy Vibram outsole for traction on moist surfaces. Like others on this list, it features fully-sealed seams, staving off water from its exterior before it penetrates to the layers below. As a result, your feet are guaranteed to stay dry, warm, and comfortable. Once the boots start to fall apart, you’ll be able to re-sole them, thanks to the Uplander’s included Goodyear welt. If that’s not an attractive long-term investment, we don’t know what is.
Trickers Burford Plain Derby
Trickers’ Burford Plain Derby is a marked return to our waterproof style offerings. This contemporary classic features a clean, unassuming design, paying homage to the Derbys of generations past. However, this unique model also features a bellows tongue, which can be folded and attached to provide a watertight seal between the elements and the tops of your feet. To ensure that you’re protected on all fronts, the Burford also incorporates an additional storm welt, providing ample resistance between the shoe’s sole and upper. Stylish, minimalist footwear has never been so prepared to take on a slight drizzle.
Grenson Vincent
Grenson’s Vincent is a great-looking Veldt style that pays homage to the original Veldtschoen boot, which was used by Afrikaner soldiers during the Boer War. The return to form calls upon a technical upper that eliminates the gap between the boot’s sole and upper material, resulting in a watertight seal. Pair that with Grenson’s premium black Reindeer leather, a grippy, and durable commando sole, and a distinctive hatch-grain that gives the boot is own unique aesthetic, and you can see why Grenson is one of today’s most prominent footwear providers.
Viberg Country
Viberg’s boots are always among our favorites on every list that we write. The Country, for example, is a handsome recreation of the traditional British hunting boot, giving it an edge on its competition in terms of cleanliness and reputable style. While it’s been built to take on the brush, it’s also well-versed in terms of water-resistant protection, thanks to its 360-degree vamp and interlocking eye stay. A premium leather exterior pairs with the boot’s stitch down construction, classic round-toe, and grippy Ridgeway outsole.
Church’s Worthing
Church’s rounds out our list with the Worthing — a fashionable, formal boot that features a unique buckle fastening at its opening. A more utilitarian play on the traditional Chelsea, this iconic piece brings a durable, and dependable 103 last, rounded toe-box, and thick double-sole to the forefront for stylish wearers. It also incorporates a gunmetal buckle, polished binder, and an incorporated storm welt for increased rain protection. This, paired with Church’s revered internal lining, handwritten accents, and crest, provide boot lovers with a subtle style piece that can be worn during some of the city’s most depressing drizzles.
The 12 Best Waterproof Sneakers For Men
If you’re looking for something a bit more casual and/or athletically-oriented, you can still gain access to superb weatherproofing. Find the perfect pair of shoes for that pursuit on our list of the best waterproof sneakers.
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FAQs
Which waterproof shoes are best? ›
- Best Overall Waterproof Shoes For Men: Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX. ...
- Best Waterproof Walking Shoes For Men: Allbirds Men's Wool Runner Mizzles. ...
- Best Waterproof Running Shoes For Men: On Running Cloudflyer Waterproof. ...
- Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes For Men: The North Face VECTIV Exploris Mid FUTURELIGHT Boots.
A Gore-Tex shoe or boot is completely waterproof as high as the Gore membrane reaches up the shaft. Thanks to the distinct liner material used with the membrane, you can clearly see how high up the membrane is. All Gore-Tex membrane seams are sealed with special tools, making for a 100% waterproof joint.
What does GTX mean in boots? ›GTX refers to Gore-Tex, a waterproof membrane to help your feet to stay dry and comfortable on rainy day runs.
What are water boots called? ›While usually called
Here you'll find waterproof walking boots from trusted brands such as Scarpa, Berghaus, LOWA and more, with a selection to choose from in both leather and synthetic styles.
Which shoes to wear in rain men? ›- Bata. CROCS. asian. Aqualite. ZFC ZOYA. AJANTA.
- Beige. Black. Blue. Brown. Burgundy. Copper.
- 30% or more. 40% or more. 50% or more. 60% or more. 70% or more.
There are four main types of shoes for wet weather: rain boots, hiking boots, hiking shoes, and running sneakers. Certain styles are designed to be tough and rugged with fully waterproof features, while others are more water-resistant so they can provide extra stretch and breathability.
Are waterproof shoes good for rain? ›A waterproof shoe also does a much better job of protecting against splashes when compared to open mesh footwear. The occasional submersion in a flowing stream will not make the feet wet.
Why are my waterproof boots wet inside? ›The answer is very, very simple. When you are walking through the snow the surface of the boots will be below freezing. Under these conditions, some of the sweat from your feet – and your feet DO sweat, will condense inside the boot. It can't get out, and it will collect there.
What's the difference between GORE-TEX and waterproof? ›While the Gore-Tex membrane belongs to the “waterproof” category and is therefore perfectly suited for extreme weather conditions, Gore-Tex-Infinium belongs to the “water-repellent” category. It is therefore very much suitable for everyday use, while Gore-Tex is more suitable for everyday use and everything beyond.
How do I make GORE-TEX boots waterproof again? ›
How to restore the GORE-TEX DWR (durable water repellency) - YouTube
What does B mean for boots? ›Foot Width:
Boots are typically available in 6 widths: B (extra narrow), C (narrow), D (regular), E (wide), EE (extra wide), and EEE (triple wide).
Why I Don't Use Gore-Tex Footwear - YouTube
What does G TX mean? ›What is GTX? GTX stands for Giga Texel Shader eXtreme and is a variant under the brand GeForce owned by Nvidia. They were first introduced in 2008 with series 200, codenamed Tesla. The first product in this series was GTX 260 and more expensive GTX 280.
Do rain boots go over shoes? ›So if you have a pair of slip-ons that go over your shoes and halfway up your calf, you're wearing rain boots. If you are wearing a pair that just barely covers your shoes, you're looking at
One of the main benefits and reasons people purchase rubber boots is because they are completely waterproof and provide the ultimate protection for your feet in wet or flooded environments.
What are long rubber boots called? ›Galoshes, also known as dickersons, gumshoes, rubbers, or overshoes, are a type of rubber boot that is slipped over shoes to keep them from getting muddy or wet. In the United States, the word galoshes may be used interchangeably with boot, especially a rubberized boot.
Should you spray waterproof boots? ›I do not recommend spray-on waterproofing for boots because it wears off quickly and the chemicals tend to detract from the durability of leather or nylon. Also avoid waterproofing agents like mink oil—while it will work, it weakens the leather and makes is softer and less supportive.
What's the difference between water resistant and waterproof boots? ›waterproof boots, there are a few important distinctions to make. The main difference between water resistant and waterproof material is that the latter is unaffected by water, whereas the former merely resists moisture. A lot of times, the work boot is made out of water resistant material.
Can you use wd40 to waterproof boots? ›Pro-Tip: To add extra water resistance to leather work boots, apply a coating of WD-40 Specialist® Silicone and keep your boots dry in rain, snow, and moderately wet conditions.
What do men wear in the rain? ›
What do you wear in rainy weather? A waterproof jacket is the first priority. Waterproof shoes, or galoshes for whatever shoes you own now, are the second most important item. You can find great looking rain jackets at RAINS.
Which shoe material is best for rainy season? ›Which shoe material is best for rain? Leather shoes with a rubber sole, faux leather boots, plastic boots, or synthetic material work best during the wet seasons. These usually allow air circulation, protection against water, flexibility, and better traction indoors and outdoors.
What are rain wear shoes called? ›Originally only called Wellingtons, the nickname “gumboots” comes from the natural rubber - or “gum rubber” - that rain boots are made from.
What boot material is waterproof? ›Materials. These days, there's virtually no limit to the material used in waterproof shoes. Almost any material can be modified for water resistance. However, you'll find that waterproof footwear is often made from rubber, neoprene, vinyl, nylon, or polyurethane.
Does waterproof mean snow proof? ›The waterproof membrane allows moisture and perspiration to escape but prevents water and snow from seeping through. The waterproof lining is necessary and covers a large area above the soles, which is what makes them so snowproof.
Are leather shoes waterproof? ›Real leather is porous and because of that, it cannot be 100% waterproof. Instead, think of leather as water-resistant. While your shoes or handbag will fare well while quickly stepping into the rain to get to your car, this isn't the same as submerging leather.
Do waterproof boots get hot? ›Indeed, Suzie, waterproof boots are hotter than non-waterproof boots. In some conditions, they'll be much hotter. After all, when it's 100 degrees out, would you rather wear a light, breathable nylon shirt or a waterproof parka, even a so-called waterproof-breathable one?
Do waterproof boots work in snow? ›A water-resistant boot is going to be fine if a few snowflakes or a couple small drops of water fall on it, but will be damaged by prolonged exposure to extremely damp conditions. Winter boots are usually warm, but they're generally not temperature rated or meant to keep the chill out over extended periods of time.
Is Gore-Tex boots waterproof? ›First of all, Gore-Tex is a completely waterproof barrier that blocks liquid water from passing through. So unless the Gore-Tex membrane has been punctured or damaged (see third point below), it will block water from entering the boot.
How do I choose aqua shoes? ›When choosing a water shoe, you want a shoe that drains water fast and has high breathability. You don't want a shoe that retains water for long after you leave the water. A shoe with good breathability may offer efficient air circulation to your feet, helping them dry faster.
Why do people wear water shoes? ›
Water shoes are flexible and made with mesh material for enhanced breathability, which helps keep feet cool. This also allows for improved water flow when submerged and better drainage when out of the water. They also provide insulation, keeping feet warm in cold water.
Do Crocs count as water shoes? ›Crocs can be used as water shoes. However, Crocs may not be as stable, secure, or tight enough for fast-moving bodies of water and longer water crossings. Crocs can be used as water shoes if the hike includes smaller streams and fewer water crossings.
Does Nike make water shoes? ›Nike Air Zoom AO sneakers
When it comes to water sports (or just a casual hike) best to be prepared. These Nike kicks come kitted out with thick rubber soles for maximum grip on rocks, dirt, boat decks, and wherever else your journeys take you.
Water shoes are fine for some applications, but when you have sand and grit and dirt constantly rubbing between wet shoes and your feet you're going to get blisters and irritation. So, the first thing you should invest in is a pair of neoprene socks.
What size water shoes should I get? ›For sizing, think about the intended use of the shoe as well as the water temperatures you want to use them in. In general, go up about 1 full size if you want to be able to fit thick neoprene socks (4-5 mm), or multiple socks underneath a drysuit sock. In general, it's better to size up and be a bit too warm.
Can you walk in water shoes? ›Since these shoes fit like an athletic sneaker, they are comfortable for trail hiking, walking around the mall and many day-to-day uses that athletic shoes are used for. In short, water shoes are the most versatile footwear available for individuals who participate in active water sports.
How long do water shoes last? ›How long do water shoes last? A good quality pair of water shoes could last you from 8 to 12 months, especially if you care for them properly. If you don't wear them frequently, you could get up to 5 years of wear out of them.
What's another name for water shoes? ›Aqua socks and water shoes are pieces of clothing made up mostly of cotton, which protect your feet when they come in contact with water. These different types of socks are also called swimming socks, wading socks, or surf boots.
Can I wear water shoes everyday? ›Similar to Crocs, water shoes are pretty versatile and you can even wear them while lounging around the house. "Today, the water shoe has moved away from its original functionality and is being incorporated into everyday life activities — even those that require no contact with water at all," Cross said.
Can I wear Crocs in Ocean? ›They are made from rubber and are water-resistant. They are very comfortable and easy to wash after getting off the beach. There are many different types of shoes you can wear on the beach, and Crocs is one. Some people choose to wear them without socks, while others prefer to wear socks.
Can I shower in Crocs? ›
Nearly 1,000 reviewers describe these classic Crocs as “perfect.” “Crocs really are perfect, they are great in the shower,” one writes, adding “I don't have to worry about slipping, especially when I use hair conditioner or body wash that is slippery, and I can wash my crocs at the same time I wash me.” One deployed ...
What is a water sock? ›Aqua socks protect your feet from rocks, pebbles and hot sand, while also keeping them insulated in cold water. They're the perfect accessory for aquatic activities such as kayaking, water skiing, windsurfing and more. You can even wear them for a run on the beach or a river hike as well as while gardening or fishing.
Should you wear water shoes in the ocean? ›Most water shoes cover the entire foot and have thick soles. These features are essential for protecting your feet from hot surfaces and sharp objects, such as rocks and shells. A quality ocean shoe is essential when treading through ocean floors with unpredictable water and rocky terrain.
Are Nike aqua socks water shoes? ›For the tender-toed tyke: Nike Aqua Sock
The Nike Aqua Sock is a water shoe that is lightweight and easy to slip on, yet they don't come sliding off during play.