The ultimate guide to waterproof shoes: Stay dry, stylish and prepared for any weather

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There’s a well-known piece of advice that you should never cheap out on the things that separate you from the ground, specifically your mattress, your tires and your shoes. Whether you're trekking through rugged trails, navigating city streets in a downpour, or simply seeking comfort and protection from the elements, the right pair of waterproof shoes or boots can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of waterproof footwear, exploring the technologies, materials, styles, and top brands that define this essential category.

Buy Waterproof Hiking Boots at REI

Designed for rugged terrain and extended outdoor excursions, waterproof hiking boots typically feature durable construction, ample ankle support, and aggressive traction for traction on various surfaces.

Pros: Hiking boots offer a waterproof solution for a variety of environments and seasons, more so than their trail runner counterparts.

Cons: In more recent years a large number of hikers (this author included) have moved away from traditional hiking boots to trail-running shoes, which are much lighter and allow you to move quicker and require zero break-in time. 

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX hiking boots pictured above combine Gore-Tex waterproofing with a supportive midsole and rugged outsole for all-terrain performance.

Buy Waterproof Trail Running Shoes at REI

Ideal for runners who tackle muddy trails and wet conditions, waterproof trail running shoes offer lightweight agility, waterproof protection, and grippy outsoles for enhanced traction on uneven terrain.

Pros: Options like the Raptor II GTX listed above and the Hoka Speedgoat GTX are comfortable right out of the box and are lighter weight than every other type on this list.

Cons: While waterproofing does a great job of keeping water out, if you end up crossing a stream or snowbank that’s a little higher than you thought and water gets in them over the top, it also will do a good job of keeping the water in, so you may want to opt for a non-waterproof option, which has a better chance of drying