The desire to commune with nature can turn into a disaster if your feet get wet. Buying the best waterproof shoes could mean getting a style upgrade while still increasing your versatility on the trail, and this can extend to your weekends. Since numerous products are designed for this category, finding the perfect fit can get confusing.
We have carefully selected a list of the best waterproof shoes for men and women to get you started. When you are in the market for new kicks for trekking, it helps to consider how you plan to use them, the style you are comfortable with, the materials used and the underfoot's design. These factors are key to ensuring you buy the right shoes.
5 Best Waterproof Shoes
1. VESSI
Vessi offers one of the best waterproof walking shoes thanks to their style, versatility and comfort. You can get this footwear, for men or women, to use during a rain shower or go on outdoor adventures and fit in as your casual day-wear.
Whether you enjoy a weekend stroll through nature, going to work, or exercising, the Vessi brand has you covered with their fully waterproof shoes. You do not need rain boots, thanks to the direct knit integration manufacturing process that keeps your feet dry when encountering snow, mud or slush. Amazingly, the knit is also breathable, making the footwear comfortable.
Get the best waterproof sneakers that are much lighter while providing durable kicks for your long walks. Plus, the Vessi brand exclusively uses plant-based raw materials for shoe manufacturing.
2. Salomon X Ultra 3 Low GTX Walking Shoes
Men:
- Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Whether you are hitting the trails or looking for a solid work shoe, these extra durable, waterproof hiking shoes are designed for maximum traction on all terrains
- A Better Way Down: Designed with Descent Control Technology, the X Ultra 3 GORE-TEX hiking shoe efficiently tackles technical hikes and really shines during tough descents, even in wet conditions
- Adventure Awaits: Whether you love a local day hike or hitting the trails for a multi-day adventure, Salomon makes innovative hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to help you go...
- Time To Play: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or...
- Since 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own
Women:
- Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Whether you are hitting the trails or looking for a solid work shoe, these extra durable, waterproof hiking shoes are specifically designed for women and offer maximum...
- A Better Way Down: Designed with Descent Control Technology, the X Ultra 3 Gore Tex hiking shoe efficiently tackles technical hikes and really shines during tough descents, even in wet conditions
- Adventure Awaits: Whether you love a local day hike or hitting the trails for a multi-day adventure, Salomon makes innovative hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to help you go...
- Time To Play: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or...
- Since 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own
If you are thinking of going on technical hikes, the Salomon X Ultra 3 is a suitable choice. The waterproof shoes are packed full of features like Control Technology for comfortable descents, a mesh upper that prevents debris from being trapped and an EVA foam for the EnergyCell midsole for absorbing shock. Plus, the mudguard at the base means you can rest assured that you will not slide on the trail.
The Gore-Tex waterproof membrane is designed to keep your feet dry by preventing water from entering the shoes from the top, even when subjected to pressure. As for comfort, the OrthoLite sock liner is breathable and gives you a firm foothold when combined with the lacing system.
3. Merrell Women's Moab and Merrell Men's Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Men:
- Leather, Mesh Upper
- Vibram TC5 Outsole
- Nylon Arch Shank
- Merrell Air Cushion
- EVA for Stability ; 5 millimeter lug depth
Women:
- Waterproof membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape
- Pigskin leather and mesh upper
- Traditional lace closure
- Bellows tongue keeps out debris
- Protective toe cap
If you want waterproof shoes that do not require you to break them in from the box, the Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoes will deliver! For starters, the product features M-Select Dry technology for sealing out the water while allowing moisture to get out of the interior. The result is that you can keep your feet dry and breathing during long treks.
Their Vibram technology in the rubber sole offers quality performance in stabilizing, gripping and durability. Additionally, the air cushion in the insole enhances your comfort by targeting your heel to ease the stress to your foot. Plus, the waterproof shoes are made with sustainability in mind.
4. Keen-Targhee 3 Low Height
Men:
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in
- TRACTION: KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; Non marking rubber outsoles leaves no trace or imprints when walking indoors
- SUPPORT: External Support Shank delivers balance on uneven surfaces; Contoured heel provides next level stability
- FIT: Low profile upper for comfort and mobility with padded tongue and collar; Iconic KEEN Original Fit gives generous space for toes to spread out
- COMFORT: Removable metatomical footbed design provides excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of the foot
Women:
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane will keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet terrains; The Targhee 3 Waterproof shoe has a leather mud shield for resilient durability in all...
- TRACTION: KEEN ALL -TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high-traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; Along with 4 mm multi-directional lugs for superior traction
- FIT and DESIGN: Built on a women-specific foot form; Crafted with a dual density EVA midsole for support comfort and to help reduce the overall weight of the shoe; Crafted with Eco Anti-Odor for...
- SUPPORT and COMFORT: External stability shank offers lightweight support for improved mobility and torsion control on uneven surfaces; Built with an injected TPU heel-capture system for stability
- CARE TIPS: We carefully selected leather uppers designed to last; To treat day to day wear and tear, especially on lighter color leathers, we reco mmend using a leather cleaner and conditioner, found...
The waterproof leather of the Keen-Targhee 3 Low Height Hiking Shoe still provides breathable qualities for allowing moisture to escape while it keeps your feet dry. The rubber outsole has a non-marking feature when walking indoors but delivers incredible traction when wadding through a muddy trail.
As for stability, the waterproof shoes have an External Support Shank to help you out when hiking through uneven surfaces. Since the footbed contours with your foot, the shoe fits comfortably. Plus, it protects your ankle with extra padding as the durable product delivers long-lasting service.
5. La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoe
Men:
- Durable abrasion resistant mesh upper provides protection while Nano Cell 2.0 structure provides maximum breathability
- Nano Cell 2.0 Technology works with Gore-Tex Surround aeration channels within the footbed and midsole
- STB control system inegrates Gore-Tex Surround ventilation outlets and provides a comfortable, snug fitting, and stable boot
- Vibram XS Trek with Impact Brake System sole provides traction and grip
Women:
- Durable abrasion resistant mesh upper provides protection while Nano Cell 2.0 structure provides maximum breathability
- Nano Cell 2.0 Technology works with Gore-Tex Surround aeration channels within the footbed and midsole
- STB control system inegrates Gore-Tex Surround ventilation outlets and provides a comfortable, snug fitting, and stable boot
- Vibram XS Trek with Impact Brake System sole provides traction and grip
Nothing short of inclement weather conditions will stop you from taking a walk with the La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoe. Wet feet are not a concern thanks to the Nano Cell 2.0 technology combined with the Gore-Text Surround for structure and creating breathing channels. Plus, its mesh upper is designed to resist damage from abrasions.
The EVA midsole of the waterproof shoes is durable and provides cushioning against shock. Also, the Vibram outsole utilizes an Impact Break System for better traction while you traverse different terrains.
Key Considerations to Make When Buying Waterproof Shoes
a). Use
Manufacturers make footwear for different use cases such as casual wear, boat shoes, trail shoes, running shoes, dress shoes, walking shoes and hiking boots. Figuring out your intended use helps narrow down the options available since it is not enough to look for the best waterproof boots.
If you are planning outdoor adventures, you need to figure out the terrain, weather conditions, load you will carry and duration of your walks. After all, these factors will determine whether you will get the best waterproof shoes for your needs.
Terrain and Weather Conditions
It would help if you considered the topography of where you live or are planning to walk, whether steep or gradual inclines. Some waterproof walking shoes are designed for mountainous terrains and feature better traction, support and protection. Other stylish shoes are made for well-kept trails where comfort is more of a priority than supporting your feet or protecting them.
If you will be doing plenty of uphill climbs, it is best to look for footwear with a rugged tread for the rubber outsole to grip the trail well. It helps if you find those with a long shaft supporting your foot during the difficult treks. Plus, the best waterproof walking shoes should keep your feet dry if inclement weather is rampant or the trails are wet or soggy.
If heavy rain is a common occurrence in the area you live or want to visit, it is essential to find completely waterproof shoes. On the other hand, light rain or sunny conditions require breathable footwear that also guarantees dry feet.
Weight Carried and Duration of Walk
You need to find the best waterproof walking shoes with enough cushioning if you take long walks or carry heavy loads. Stiffer footwear provides your feet with ample support to prevent them from buckling under the weight or extended treks. Unless backpacking is on your to-do list, you can even buy waterproof sneakers for more comfort during long walks.
b). Style of the Waterproof Shoe
- Hiking Boots can either come as high-top or mid-cut variations. Ideally, a higher cut is better at offering ankle support, stability and protection while taking long walks or carrying a heavy backpack. If you are dealing with snowy conditions or mountainous topographies, you can look for a heavy-duty hiking boot.
- Trail running shoes are like an everyday sneaker that is designed for communing with mother nature. The footwear is more lightweight and comfortable than a hiking boot, making it much easier to run in. On the downside, a good pair of trail running shoes will not last as long as typical walking boots.
- Hiking shoes are much like mountaineering boots, but they are much lighter and low at the ankles. The low cut gives them more flexibility and makes them excellent for short outdoor adventures. Plus, they offer sufficient protection and comfort if your trail is rugged and you are hauling some extra weight.
- Minimalist or barefoot walking shoes keep your feet covered like socks, but with the added advantage of some protection from the bare ground. This footwear has no arch support since it is designed to increase flexibility, minimize the heel-to-toe drop, reduce the stack height and weight while allowing your feet to move as naturally as possible. If you want to feel the trail, these are the footwear for you.
- Approach shoes are the best bet for trails that are rocky and feature plenty of climbing. The rubber sole is super sticky to increase traction. Additionally, the adjustable lacing system ensures your feet are comfortable for different climbing situations.
c). Materials Used
- Warm conditions demand that you allow your feet to breathe to avoid sweating. The breathable mesh lets air flow in and out, but you will not get a shoe that offers waterproofing features. Still, the synthetic material used in making the footwear dries quickly.
- Leather is one of the most durable materials used for boots. In most cases, the rubber sole will wear out much sooner than the shoe's upper. It is not surprising that hikers and mountaineers prefer this waterproof and supportive material.
- Synthetic leather, polyester and nylon are popular with shoe manufacturers because they are cheaper to make, lightweight, and dry quickly. These qualities make them suitable for a wide range of uses, and when done right, the waterproof shoe can also be quite durable.
d). Underfoot Construction
- The insole of your waterproof shoes can either be pliable or firm for more versatility and support, respectively. On the other hand, some brands offer ventilation or a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry. Ideally, it would help if you found shoes with removable footbeds for washing or replacing.
- Midsoles give footwear their structure by finding an equilibrium between rigidity and flexibility. The PU and EVA midsole combination offers support and shock absorbent features.
- Some shoes feature shanks, made from either plastic or metal, between the outsole and midsole layers. As a general rule, longer shanks mean firmer boots.
- Outsoles rely on rubber compounds for creating different shoes for varied conditions. Soft variations provide versatility, while sticky ones offer better traction. Additionally, a more aggressive pattern with deeper treads is preferred in other footwear meant for hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Waterproof Shoes
1. How to know if a shoe is waterproof?
Ideally, waterproof shoes are made from a combination of rubber and PVC materials for their sole and synthetic leather or neoprene for their upper. The upper layer is a non-porous membrane that keeps moisture from penetrating inside the shoe. Plus, it would be best to look out for Gore-Tex as it is the material of choice when you want to buy a waterproof shoe.
2. Is weather resistant the same as waterproof?
Weather-resistant shoes are not as effective at moisture protection as dedicated waterproof footwear. The former can prevent liquids from seeping into the shoe when it is raining or if your foot gets submerged in water. Moreover, a water-resistant shoe is ideal for light rainy days, but waterproof shoes are your best bet if you anticipate drenching conditions.
