The 20 Best Waterproof Shoes for Men and Women (2024)

If you’re hitting winter hiking trails or simply walking around in the rain, a pair of waterproof shoes will help to keep your feet nice and dry in all conditions.

Winter hikes through shallow streams or runs through mud and puddles require shoes that can repel water while retaining comfort.

Things To Consider With Waterproof Shoes

Not all waterproof shoes offer the same level of protection. Consider the following before you buy:

Water Resistance

While plenty of boots and shoes claim to keep your feet dry in all weather, there are actually very few that do it successfully. Genuine waterproof shoes feature many components that help keep the water out while ensuring that your feet can breathe.

Waterproof membranes in the lining combined with super-durable seams will help to repel water while you walk. Some will even offer a layer of protection should your feet become fully submerged for an instant.

Suede, leather, and some synthetic materials help slow the ingress of water, and bellowed tongues and close-fitting ankles can also help keep moisture at bay.

Hot Tip: For enhanced durability, look for shoes that offer high-quality rubber soles, leather or suede uppers, and tough seam-welded construction. Additionally, you can consider waterproof shoe covers.

Style and Design

The upper parts of your walking shoes should be made from treated leather, synthetic fabric, or a combination of both if you want them to remain fully waterproof.

You should also look for shoes that come with extra material on the tongue to keep water and debris out, as well as higher protection around the ankle.

Outsoles

Water can easily sneak in through the soles of your shoes. If soles aren’t made from the right material, they can also be slippery when wet.

Waterproof shoes usually have thick, vulcanized rubber soles, but unlike the ones you find on regular sneakers, they offer deep lugs for increased traction.

The depth and pattern of the lugs directly affect how well your shoes will perform in wet and muddy conditions. Most often, these types of soles are made using Vibram.

Maintenance

Waterproof shoes last for longer if they are well taken care of. Depending on the material used in the uppers and the exact design, your waterproof shoes may need to be waxed, polished, or even serviced if the waterproof protection starts to give way.

Comfort

Some waterproof shoes can be heavy to walk around in, while others can make your feet feel sweaty. The shoes you choose should have a proper fit to avoid the risk of blisters.

Bottom Line: Waterproof shoes need to be a little on the snug side to keep the water out, but they should never be so tight that they cramp your toes. Find well-fitting waterproof shoes that feel light on your feet for a more comfortable experience every time you wear them.

The 10 Best Waterproof Shoes for Men

1. Boots Great for Slippery Conditions

Columbia Men’s Redmond V2 Waterproof Hiking Boot

Offering exceptional waterproofing and unbelievable comfort, these awesome hiking shoes are lightweight enough to be worn all day long.

With a suede, leather, and mesh upper, these shoes repel water while remaining breathable on the inside. The cushioned insoles help to absorb impact on the move.

With a patented Omni-Grip traction system, you can enjoy a sure-footed feel with every step. The dual-zone winter tread pattern will keep you upright and stable, even in icy conditions.

Available in sizes 5.5 to 17 and in a selection of colors, these are an awesome pair of men’s waterproof hiking boots that are comfortable enough to wear in all conditions.

What We Like

• Performs as well on the sidewalks as they do on the trails

What We Don’t Like

• Fairly narrow

2. Waterproof Shoes That Can Be Worn Right Out of the Box

Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

These outstanding waterproof hiking shoes are made from suede leather with a mesh liner that helps to keep the water out.

Comfortable enough to wear right out of the box, these shoes feature the Merrell M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA-contoured footbed with a zonal arch and heel support. They offer enhanced impact control and improved energy dispersion.

With bellows and a closed-cell foam tongue, these hiking shoes are designed to keep moisture and debris away from your feet. The Vibram TC5+ sole with a 5-millimeter lug depth offers incredible traction to keep you stable and upright, even in wet and slippery conditions.

What We Like

• Super comfy and incredibly waterproof

What We Don’t Like

• A little small, so size up

Hot Tip: If boots would be better for your hiking exploits, check out our guides to the best waterproof boots and best hiking boots and shoes for men women.

3. Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Low-impact Adventures

KEEN Men’s Targhee III Waterproof Leather Hiking Shoe

Rugged yet surprisingly lightweight, these hiking boots feature the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long.

With an all-terrain rubber sole, you can be sure of a high-traction grip, even in wet conditions. The torsion stability system offers increased stability on uneven surfaces.

With an ergonomically designed dual-density EVA footbed, these boots provide excellent arch support. The carefully selected leather uppers are designed to stay scuff-free no matter how hard you work them.

What We Like

• Great fit

What We Don’t Like

• Better suited to light use

4. Harsh Condition Insulated Shoes

KEEN Men’s Brixen Low Waterproof Insulated Shoe

These easy-to-wear waterproof shoes are perfect for use both at home and on the road. Offering incredible protection against the harshest of conditions, these shoes feature a 200-gram, wool-felt lining for super soft and comfortable insulation on the go.

The thermal heat shield lining and the waterproof nubuck uppers combine to produce a comfortable pair of waterproof shoes. With an EVA midsole and shellback heel support, they offer ergonomic comfort on both city streets and rugged trails.

With an ultra-grippy, dual-climate outsole that hardens in cold weather, you can be sure of incredible stability, even on slippery terrain.

What We Like

• Super easy to slip on and off

What We Don’t Like

• As is often the case with Merrell shoes, these run a little small

5. Waterproof Slip-on for Casual Comfort

Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Waterproof Slip-On Shoe

These low-maintenance slip-on shoes are comfortable to wear and incredibly supportive of your feet. An excellent after-sport casual shoe, they are great for wearing all year round. Featuring the patented Merell M Select technology, they offer a high level of grip even on slippery terrain.

Offering targeted support, these shoes help reduce stress on your foot with every step you take, and the specially designed seals help keep your feet dry without making them feel sweaty.

With a molded EVA foot frame, you can enjoy enhanced shock absorption and stability, and the durable outer sole offers the traction you need to keep you upright in the rain.

What We Like

• Excellent walking shoes

What We Don’t Like

• They feel quite stiff at first

Hot Tip: Venturing into wet territory? Check out the best waterproof pants and waterproof jackets for men and women, as well as guides to the best waterproof gloves and waterproof backpacks.

6. Waterproof Shoe for Everyday Wear

Rockport Men’s Storm Surge Waterproof Sneaker

Designed to look super stylish while still feeling incredibly comfortable, these excellent waterproof walking shoes are just as suitable for work as for more formal occasions.

With a classy, low-cut, oxford silhouette, the uppers are waterproofed to offer many years of wear, and the smooth matte finish gives them a versatile look that can be worn with anything.

The EVA footbed conforms to the shape of the foot for increased comfort, and the Hydro-Shield drainage system with a seam-sealed, waterproof insole is designed to keep feet dry in wet weather.

The TPR outsole is durable and grippy, even in wet conditions, and with increased shock absorption, these awesome shoes can reduce the feeling of fatigue in your legs and feet.

What We Like

• Rugged, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• They get scuffed up quite easily

7. Waterproof Sneakers for Wet-weather Runs

The North Face Men’s Ultra 109 Waterproof Trail Shoe Trail Shoe

These super cool-looking hybrid sneakers are designed to excel in all kinds of conditions. With a waterproof DryVent membrane and a durable ultrATAC outsole with a robust toe cap, they offer incredible protection for your feet on any terrain.

The PU-coated leather mudguard and performance mesh will keep the water out, and the eco-friendly OrthoLite footbed will keep your feet cool and dry on the go.

Made from recycled rubber and waste foam, this high-performance footwear has a lower impact on the environment, and the ESS mid-foot shank and forefoot snake plate provide a high level of traction on all kinds of terrain.

What We Like

• Really comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• Not as waterproof as other shoes

8. Superb Trail-running Shoes for Men

Columbia Men’s Pivot Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Offering nimble performance across all terrain, these walking shoes have increased cushioning underfoot to help absorb the knocks and bumps of uneven terrain. They’re a responsive trail runner that offers high-performance waterproof protection.

The signature Omni-Grip traction rubber outsoles are versatile enough to work on the sidewalk and in the backcountry without flinching along the way.

Agile and suitable for use all year round, these awesome shoes are made with the highest attention to detail, and the durable materials will ensure that they last for many seasons to come.

What We Like

• Slick and practical

What We Don’t Like

• Very narrow fit

9. All-terrain, High-traction Waterproof Hiking Shoes

The North Face Men’s Ultra 111 Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Designed to be worn in all types of weather, these brilliant sneakers feature a waterproof DryVent membrane that will keep your feet warm and dry in the harshest conditions.

With an eco-friendly OrthoLite Hybrid footbed, your feet will stay comfortable and sweat-free, and the PU-coated leather mudguard with performance mesh will keep them feeling dry.

Perfect for use out on the trails, these sneakers have an all-terrain traction sole that will keep you upright even in rugged and slippery conditions, and the ghillie lacing system will help to keep your feet locked in and well-supported, even in the rain.

What We Like

• Generously-sized, all-around, all-weather shoe

What We Don’t Like

• They run a little big, so consider half a size down

10. Best Shoe for High-performance Athletes in Any Weather

Columbia Men’s Vitesse Fasttrack Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Lightweight but built to last, these waterproof performance shoes are an excellent pair of multi-sport shoes for all occasions.

Featuring Omni-Tech waterproof technology, these shoes will keep your feet nice and dry without retaining sweat, and the EVA midsole offers incredible cushioning and comfortable support.

The durable mesh provides an exceptional fit around the foot, and the gusseted tongue is there to keep dirt and debris out, no matter how hard you work them.

What We Like

• Comfortable and easy to wear

What We Don’t Like

• They run a little big across the toes

The 10 Best Waterproof Shoes for Women

1. Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Impromptu Adventures

Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

As comfortable, supportive, and waterproof as hiking shoes come, these are a truly awesome pair of all-weather walkers.

Made from soft suede and supple leather, the mesh liner helps to keep your feet well-ventilated without letting the water in. The M Select DRY seals ensure excellent waterproofing in all conditions, and the closed-cell foam leather tongue keeps debris away from your feet.

Perfect for use on wet and dry trails, the Vibram TC5+ sole offers incredible traction and the FIT.ECO+ blended EVA-contoured sole absorbs energy and supports your arch and heel for a weightless, super-comfortable feel all day long.

What We Like

• You can wear them right out of the box

What We Don’t Like

• They are a little narrow

2. Supportive Waterproof Sneakers

Dansko Women’s Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker

These attractive waterproof sneakers come in a variety of colors and are comfortable enough to wear all day.

These shoes feature the patented Dansko natural arch with a removable, triple-density EVA footbed for natural-feeling support with soft, supple, and stain-resistant nubuck leather uppers.

Underneath, the durable rubber outsole is slip-resistant, making these shoes suitable for use on both wet and dry surfaces. Awarded the American Podiatric Seal of Acceptance, these awesome, all-weather sneakers are designed to promote good foot health.

What We Like

• True to size, sweat- and odor-resistant, and really comfy

What We Don’t Like

• The colors are a bit dull in real life

3. High-performance Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Technical Trails

KEEN Women’s Targhee 2 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Featuring a waterproof membrane to keep vapor out without letting water in, these super high-performance walking shoes are an excellent choice for use in extreme weather.

The KEEN all-terrain rubber sole offers incredible grip and traction, even in slippery conditions, and the non-removable EVA footbed with added arch support makes lighter work of longer journeys.

Featuring an external stability shank, your feet will stay well-supported in these shoes, even on rough terrain, and the cushioned collar helps to prevent rubbing as you walk.

What We Like

• Plenty of room for wider feet

What We Don’t Like

• A little heavier than some competitors

4. 3-Season Waterproof Walking Shoes

Columbia Women’s Redmond V2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

These versatile, 3-season walking shoes feature an advanced Omni-Tech seam-sealed membrane bootie construction that offers incredible waterproof protection.

With an additional lightweight midsole, they are comfortable to wear and provide a high-energy return, while the non-marking rubber outsole offers an increased amount of grip on all types of terrain.

With useful features, including top metal rivets for easy lacing, a reinforced heel and toe, as well as an extended outsole toe overwrap, these shoes are rugged, hardwearing, and built to last.

What We Like

• The leather upper is soft and flexible

What We Don’t Like

• The arch sits a little flat

5. Indoor-friendly Waterproof Shoes for Everyday Wear

Columbia Women’s Crestwood Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Featuring advanced traction on the indoor-friendly Omni-Grip soles, these walking shoes provide sure-footed traction across a wide variety of terrain.

The air-permeable design helps to keep your feet well-ventilated and odor-free and is also adept at keeping the water out in wet conditions.

With a Techlite midsole, you can enjoy a high-energy return, superior and super-comfy cushioning, and all-day comfort. The leather and fabric uppers are designed to repel dirt and stains to look as good as new for many adventures to come.

What We Like

• Lightweight and easy to wear

What We Don’t Like

• A little tight across the toes

6. Hiking Shoe Excellent for Muddy Treks

KEEN Explore Waterproof Hiking Shoe

With a super-reliable waterproof membrane, these awesome walking shoes let the vapors out without letting water in.

The KEEN all-terrain rubber sole offers an incredible high-traction grip, even in wet and muddy areas. The external shank offers lightweight support and improved mobility and torsion control on uneven surfaces.

On the inside, the removable, dual-density polyurethane footbeds with arch support offer long-lasting comfort, and the cushioned heel grip helps to prevent pain and blisters on the go.

Available in a choice of colors, these are super-comfortable walking shoes that can easily handle most weather conditions.

What We Like

• Excellent choice for hiking and backpacking

What We Don’t Like

• They feel quite stiff at first

7. Hiking Shoes That Grip Rocky Roads

KEEN Women’s Terradora 2 Waterproof Low Height Hiking Shoe

Featuring KEEN’s patented KonnectFit heel-capture system, these shoes are designed to perfectly fit the female foot and offer a comfortable locked-in feel for a more precise fit.

The breathable membrane will keep your feet nice and dry without feeling hot and sweaty, and the all-terrain rubber outsole with 4-millimeter, multi-directional lugs is super grippy when you need it.

The breathable mesh lining is a nice touch, and the EVA footbed with arch support promises incredible comfort on all types of terrain.

The built-in stability shank lets you enjoy incredible stability on rocky roads, and coming in a choice of eye-catching colors, these are an awesome pair of all-weather hiking shoes.

What We Like

• Super supportive, even on rough terrain

What We Don’t Like

• The toe box is a little narrow

8. Stress-reducing Hiking Shoe

Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Super cool to look at and incredibly comfortable to wear, these shoes are low maintenance and perfect for everyday wear.

Featuring a waterproof membrane, these hiking shoes help to keep your feet feeling well-ventilated on the move, while the reinforced seams and the bellows tongue keeps out debris and water for a more satisfying hike.

The EVA contoured footbed provides an incredible amount of cushioning where you need it the most, and the targeted heel cushioning helps to reduce stress on your foot with every step you take.

With high-traction outsoles, these shoes are good and grippy. Available in a selection of colors, these are an easy top-wear option for lighter hikes and long walks.

What We Like

• Suitable for all types of terrain

What We Don’t Like

• A narrow-toe box, which seems to be a fairly common complaint with women’s walking shoes

9. Lightweight, GORE-TEX Walkers

Vasque Women’s Breeze Lt Low GTX GORE-TEX Waterproof Breathable Hiking Shoe

Stylish and lightweight, these shoes feature a GORE-TEX waterproof membrane that helps to block moisture from creeping in from the outside, while preventing odors by allowing any moisture on the inside to evaporate.

With a microfiber mesh and synthetic upper, these walkers promise to offer all-day breathability, and the dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole ensures a high rebound for improved comfort.

The streamlined design sits neatly on the foot for a comfortable and easy ride, and the Vibram Megagrip outsole offers sure-footed stability on all types of terrain.

What We Like

• Incredible protection without feeling heavy underfoot

What We Don’t Like

• The arch design may not suit everybody

10. Hiking Shoes for Style-conscious Adventurers

Columbia Women’s IVO Trail Waterproof Hiking Shoe

With retro styling and a super-intuitive feel, these cross-running shoes offer an impressive energy return, while the all-terrain design ensures an excellent grip in all conditions.

The waterproof bootie construction paired with textile suede overlays will ensure that your feet stay dry without getting sweaty, and the Techlite insole offers incredible comfort at every turn.

The high-traction rubber outsole lets you move effortlessly from trail to sidewalk without flinching, and available in a selection of supercool colorways, these are an awesome pair of shoes that can be used to walk, run, or hike, even in the rain.

What We Like

• Trendy good looks

What We Don’t Like

• They are really narrow

Final Thoughts

Waterproof shoes are an absolute must-have for anyone who won’t let a little bit of rain cancel their plans. With so many different styles and types available, you can easily find a super-rugged pair for more challenging adventures or something a little more low-key for hardcore excursions.

Whichever pair you choose, make sure that they are able to keep the water out while still allowing your feet to breathe along the way.