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We Researched and Tested the 10 Best Waterproof Sneakers to Keep Your Feet Dry

Our top picks are comfortable and versatile, rain or shine

By
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Luff
Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.
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Updated on May 02, 2024
Reviewed
Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.
by
Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI
Michele Stanten

Michele Stanten is a walking coach, certified group fitness instructor, and running coach. She is the author of Walk Off Weight and The Walking Solution.

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Best waterproof sneakers displayed on stone slabs

Verywell Fit / Alex Huang

Lighter and usually more comfortable than boots, the best waterproof sneakers are a smart option for keeping your feet dry in wet weather—whether for trail running, beach strolls, or rainy-day errands. When shopping, prioritize waterproof over water-resistant options since waterproof materials provide superior protection against water penetration, even in extreme conditions, says podiatrist Gretchen A. Lawrence, DPM. And for extra traction on wet, slick surfaces, opt for sneakers with rubber outsoles and grippy treads.

To find the best waterproof sneakers, we first spoke with a podiatrist and professional trail runner to better understand which key features every pair should have. Then, we researched dozens of options from the most popular, trusted footwear brands. Finally, we tested four expert-approved waterproof sneakers over a one-month period, walking or running a minimum of three times per week. When testing sneakers, we pay attention to their fit, stability, responsiveness, comfort, and value, in addition to their level of waterproofing.

Pros
  • Comfortable fit

  • Made with recycled materials

  • Hands-free lacing system

Cons
  • Doesn’t come in wide widths

With a comfortable fit, versatile design, and effective waterproofing, On Cloud 5’s Waterproof Shoes are our top overall pick. The shoes’ waterproof membrane keeps out water, but the mesh upper is still breathable, so you don’t have to worry about sweat-soaked socks. A durable rubber outsole offers plenty of traction for further protection in wet conditions. And unlike some waterproof shoes that feel stiff and bulky, we love that this pair is flexible and works for active or casual wear.

The shoes feature a plush, foam sole that definitely earns their “cloud” name, providing a cushioned landing and support through the midfoot. Plus, the tongue is padded for even more comfort.

On Cloud 5’s sneakers don’t come in wide widths, but they do feature a spacious toe box. The hands-free speed-lacing system and pull tabs on the back make getting them on and off easy. We also like that the shoes are made with recycled materials and have reflective elements for running in low-light conditions.

Key Specs:
Material:
Recycled polyester, textile, and synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Slip-on | Sizes: 7 to 14 | Cushioning: Soft and supportive

Pros
  • Good traction

  • Breathable

  • Reinforced toe

Cons
  • Not enough cushioning for some

Equipped to repel water and provide stability in wet conditions, New Balance’s Arishi trail running shoes earn our other top overall spot. They’re constructed with breathable, waterproof fabric that protects feet from wind and water. The rugged, grippy tread on the outsole provides reliable traction on all types of surfaces, while the reinforced toe helps protect feet from roots, rocks, and debris. 

Despite all of these features, the shoe is flexible, which helps prevent foot fatigue after hours of wear. When testing, we found these shoes to be super lightweight, which is unusual for waterproof trail running shoes. We found them super comfortable and responsive, right out of the box—no break-in period required.

The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning leaves a bit to be desired, though, as we found the shoe sacrifices cushioning for its lightweight construction. But we think it's worth it for the feather-light feel and lack of bulkiness. However, if you're looking for a shoe with more cushioning, this isn't the right pair for you.

We like the no-sew construction upper, which offers a sleek fit and prevents irritation. Although it’s a waterproof trail running shoe, the Arishi also works well on slick pavement. Plus, it comes in various color combinations so you can find one that fits your style.

Key Specs:
Material:
Textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Cushioning: Medium

Pros
  • Antibacterial insoles

  • Comfortable fit

  • Stylish design

Cons
  • Doesn’t come in half or wide sizes

  • Not the most stylish shoes

Swap your rain boots for these modern kicks that are completely waterproof, despite their lightweight look and feel. The shoe’s patented knit material has built-in waterproofing—not a coating—so the protection lasts the lifespan of the shoe. When testing these shoes, we found they fit like a glove and provided a secure enough fit for a long day of travel.

With a slip-on style, these vegan shoes are a convenient, comfy choice for casual wear. We love that the shoe’s molded insoles contour to the shape of your foot, plus they feature an odor-resistant layer to keep your feet feeling and smelling fresh. But they don’t come in half or wide sizes, so it might be tough to find the right fit for wider feet.

These shoes keep our feet feeling light, even after completing our 10,000 daily step goal, but still feel supportive. We like that you can customize the fit even further by tightening or loosening the laces, despite the slip-on design. While this isn't the most stylish shoe, we think it more than makes up for it with its convenient design and great comfort.

Key Specs:
Material:
Knit upper | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Cushioning: Lightweight and firm

Pros
  • Wide range of colors

  • Good traction

  • Wide toe box

Cons
  • May run small for some

Waterproof sneakers tend to be heavier and stiffer compared to regular pairs, which isn’t ideal for running. But the Saucony Peregrine 12 GTX offers a lightweight feel, even with its superior construction. It’s designed to keep out the elements, so you’ll be ready for anything on your run. The upper also features pliable overlays that provide further protection against bad weather. When testing this shoe, we particularly liked the fact that the upper is very breathable and comfortable, while still offering optimal protection.

The cushioning feels soft yet supportive, providing comfort and good shock absorption on all types of surfaces. Despite the ample cushioning, the shoes still feel responsive, and allow you to feel grounded enough to maintain good balance.

A grippy rubber outsole helps you keep your footing in wet conditions and dig into soft terrain. We like that the shoe also has a wide toe box, which creates more stability and helps prevent blisters. However, they tend to run small, so you may want to go up a half size.

Key Specs:
Material:
Textile upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Soft and supportive

Bonus Favorites

Although we didn’t test the following waterproof sneakers, we still think they’re worthwhile options to consider. They have many of the same key features that we love about the pairs we’ve tried ourselves.

Pros
  • Breathable

  • Good traction

  • Durable

Cons
  • May run narrow for some

High-quality waterproof sneakers can be expensive. For those on a budget, we recommend Columbia’s Vitesse Fasttrack sneakers, which are built to last. They feature a waterproof, seam-sealed membrane that creates a barrier against the elements, so your feet stay dry and comfortable. The shoes’ durable mesh upper allows for good breathability, plus exceptional fit and support.

The Vitesse is also comfortable enough to wear all day long, thanks to an EVA foam midsole that’s lightweight and responsive. And we like that the versatile rubber outsole offers reliable support and traction, whether you’re trekking in the woods or hitting the pavement. The fit runs a bit narrow, but they do come in wide sizes if you need some extra room in the toe box.

Key Specs:
Material:
Synthetic leather and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber sole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 7 to 15 | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive

Pros
  • Good shock absorption

  • Made with recycled materials

  • Reflective elements

Cons
  • May run narrow for some

If you’re searching for a well-cushioned waterproof sneaker that’s still lightweight, we recommend Asics’ Cumulus 23. The shoe’s mesh upper defends against the elements, keeping your feet dry and warm in wet, slushy, or snowy conditions. But we like that it’s still flexible, so the shoe doesn’t feel too stiff.

The Cumulus 23 also has a grippy outsole, so you can run confidently on wet surfaces. And the foam midsole offers springy support, along with gel pods in the forefoot and rearfoot that provide excellent shock absorption. While the shoe does have a wide toe box, it doesn’t come in wide sizes, so it may run narrow for some.

These shoes also feature reflective elements, for walking your dog or running at night.

Key Specs:
Material:
Mesh upper, foam midsole, gel cushioning | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Soft and supportive

Pros
  • Good arch and ankle support

  • Reinforced toe

  • Extra heel cushioning

Cons
  • Not as lightweight as other options

For hikers who need to be ready for all kinds of weather, we recommend Merrell’s Moab 2 GTX shoes. This pair will keep your feet dry no matter what conditions you encounter. Designed with a suede and mesh upper, we like that they’re built to keep water out, but also let moisture escape to prevent overheating.

The slip-resistant outsoles are made from thick rubber, for great traction, grip, and durability. A contoured, foam footbed supports your arches and heels, so your feet won’t get fatigued on long trails. And extra cushioning in the heel helps with shock absorption and provides extra stability on uneven terrain. 

Note that this pair isn’t as light as others on our list, weighing in at just over 16 ounces. But this shoe is still lighter compared to many proper hiking boots.

Key Specs:
Material:
Suede and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 16.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Soft and supportive

Pros
  • Good traction

  • Pockets to tuck laces away

  • Good shock absorption

Cons
  • Too technical for everyday wear

Tough and durable, we recommend Salomon’s Speedcross 5 for trail runs in wet conditions on moderate or technical trails. The upper membrane effectively blocks water and wind, while anti-debris mesh keeps out dirt and rocks. And we like that the shoes are still breathable, allowing moisture to evaporate so you stay comfortable while you run.

With deep lugs on the outsole, the Speedcross 5 offers reliable stability and traction in even the soggiest and muddiest conditions. The shoe’s cushioned insole contours to the shape of your foot for extra comfort and support on trails, while the laces allow for a secure, precise fit with just a pull of a toggle. They’re a bit pricier than traditional running shoes, but their versatility and performance are worth the extra cost.

Key Specs:
Material:
Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 14 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 7 to 14 | Cushioning: Medium

Pros
  • Sleek, athletic design

  • Good support

  • Good traction

Cons
  • May be too narrow for some

  • Expensive

For golfers who may get caught in a storm on the course, we recommend these ECCO Golf shoes. They’re constructed with waterproof leather, offering the perfect balance of functionality, comfort, and style. Although they provide reliable protection from rain, they’re also breathable, so your feet won’t overheat. 

We love the shoe’s foam insoles, which provide cushioned comfort and support for all 18 holes. They’re also removable, so they’re easy to clean or replace with your own custom orthotics. While these golf shoes provide excellent traction on the course, the outsole is fairly low-profile, so you can easily walk in them when you’re headed to the clubhouse. 

But the fit may be too narrow for some wearers, since the toe box isn’t as wide as others on our list, and the price point is high.

Key Specs:
Material:
Leather and textile upper, foam midsole, synthetic outsole | Weight: 11 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11.5 | Cushioning: Medium

Pros
  • Good traction

  • Made with recycled materials

  • Good for both roads and trails

Cons
  • Only one color option

If you’re worried about slushy or snowy conditions putting your running schedule on hold, we recommend Adidas’ Terrex Soulstride sneakers. Advanced waterproofing in the upper seals out moisture, while the raised side walls offer added stability. The sturdy rubber outsole has small lugs that are grippy enough for rocky trails, but still not too deep that you can’t run comfortably on pavement. 

We like the hybrid design, which is ideal for providing secure footing in unpredictable winter conditions. Meanwhile, you’ll run in comfort, thanks to a full-length EVA foam midsole. The pillow-like heel cushioning provides reliable shock absorption. 

These sneakers only come in one basic color combination. But they’re made with high-performance recycled materials, so you can feel good while wearing them.

Key Specs:
Material:
Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Cushioning: Medium

What to Look For When Shopping For Waterproof Sneakers

  • Fit: When purchasing waterproof sneakers, getting the right fit is crucial—especially if you’re going to be running or hiking in them. A well-fitting shoe can be the determining factor in the prevention of injury, Lawrence says. Your sneakers shouldn’t be so tight that there isn’t room for your toes to move, and they shouldn’t be so loose that your feet are sliding or slipping out of the shoe. You should also consider how you’ll use the sneakers: Choose a snug and structured fit for distance running and a roomy and comfy fit for daily wear, says David Kilgore, professional trail runner and On Running athlete.
  • Materials: Mesh and fabric are some of the most popular waterproofing materials for sneakers since they keep out water and wind but are also breathable. Waterproof leather, suede, and synthetic leather are also commonly used because they’re durable and easy to clean. Rubber or PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is often used to create the soles of waterproof sneakers since they’re flexible and sturdy.
  • Traction: A rubber outsole with excellent traction will help keep you steady while walking or running on slippery surfaces (but not necessarily ice—choose shoes for walking on ice for frozen ground). Look for sneakers with a raised pattern on the outsole for a good grip. If you’re going to be trail running or hiking, you’ll want sneakers with deep lugs to handle wet or rocky surfaces and loose gravel.
  • Breathability: While waterproof sneakers will never be as breathable as ones that are made of well-ventilated, lightweight material, they should still offer some degree of breathability. For instance, sneakers with mesh uppers will keep out water, but will also allow heat and sweat to escape. Look for a pair that feels comfortable and cool to wear, even after a long day.
  • Cushioning: Whether you’re running on trails or sightseeing in a new city, you’ll want comfortable sneakers. Look for cushioning in the forefoot, heels, and collar since those areas are where you’ll want comfort or shock absorption. Foam and gel are popular types of cushioning in many waterproof sneakers.

How We Selected and Tested the Waterproof Sneakers

To choose the best waterproof sneakers, we first asked Lawrence and Kilgore which features they think every pair should have. Then, we researched dozens of sneakers from the top, trusted brands. We considered style, comfort, breathability, support, and traction. We also looked at the price, fit, and materials to ensure each pair of sneakers was fully waterproof. We then tested some of our top picks at home over a one-month period. When testing sneakers, we pay particular attention to the following key attributes:

  • Fit: When we first put on our waterproof sneakers, we note how they fit. Does the shoe's arch support align correctly with our foot's arch? Do our feet feel snug enough in the shoes that they don't slide around without being overly constricted? Does the heel fit securely, preventing any rubbing that might lead to blisters?
  • Stability: When walking or running in our waterproof sneakers, we note whether they provide sufficient stability. Do the shoes help limit excessive and unwanted foot movement, like overpronation or supination? Shoes receive high scores for this attribute if they help us maintain proper foot alignment.
  • Responsiveness: We evaluate the responsiveness of each shoe by noting whether it effectively propels us into our next stride. We note how springy the shoe feels when we push off on walks and runs, and whether the shoe helps us quickly transition from one stride to the next.
  • Comfort: When testing sneakers, we pay particular attention to how comfortable we feel in each pair; do the shoes offer adequate arch support for our foot type? Is the toe box wide and deep, allowing our toes to splay comfortably without feeling constricted? We also note whether we experience any blistering or chafing while wearing the shoes.
  • Waterproofing: To test whether each pair is truly waterproof, we wear them for multiple walks and/or runs in rainy or wet conditions. At the end of our workout session, we note whether any water made its way into the shoes and whether our socks or feet feel wet due to anything other than sweat.
  • Value: To determine the value of each waterproof shoe, we don't check its price until we've finished evaluating it for all other attributes. Then, we determine whether its price is worth the features and value it brings to the table and how it compares to other products we're testing.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage while researching and reporting this story. Their invaluable insights helped us understand when users should opt for waterproof sneakers and the key features to consider or avoid while shopping for them. We choose products independently, but input from experts influences our decisions. 

  • Gretchen A. Lawrence, DPM, a podiatrist in Shelby, North Carolina
  • David Kilgore, a professional trail runner and On Running athlete

Frequently Asked Questions

Are leather sneakers waterproof?

Leather is very durable and will keep out water, so it’s commonly used in many pairs of waterproof sneakers. However, leather is porous and can absorb water if the shoes get completely saturated. For further protection, you can coat them with a waterproofing spray every few weeks.

How do you make sneakers waterproof?

To add additional waterproof protection to a pair of sneakers you already own, you can spray them with a silicone or acrylic spray that’s specifically made for waterproofing shoes. 

Can you wear waterproof sneakers in the snow?

Yes, waterproof sneakers will provide a barrier between your feet and ice or slush and can be a good option if you need to walk in the snow. Wearing them with warm socks can help to protect your extremities from the elements and things like frostbite and chilblains—cold-induced injuries that can lead to amputations and gangrene, Lawrence says.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. To exercise in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for shoes and replacing them regularly.

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