We Tested the Best Waterproof Sneakers—These Pairs Actually Kept Our Feet Dry (2024)

• Our Picks

• How We Selected and Tested

• What to Look For

• FAQs

• Why Trust Verywell Fit

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}

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}

For fitness walking in all types of weather, we recommend Brooks’ Ghost 14 GTX running shoes. They offer all the cushioning and support of the regular Ghost running shoe, plus a waterproof membrane that prevents rain, slush, and snow from getting in.

Even with the added protection, the shoe’s upper is flexible and offers a generous fit, with plenty of room in the toe box. The full-length midsole provides soft comfort and good shock absorption, to help take the pressure off your joints. And we love that it’s removable, in case you have your own insoles or orthotics—like insoles for flat feet—you’d like to use instead.

The shoe isn’t as breathable as the regular Ghost running shoe, but it’s a good choice for a quality walking shoe for walking in the rain or on the beach. Just note that it's not as breathable as other options on our list, so it may not be the best pick for warmer-weather walks.

^{Key Specs:
Material: Waterproof textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Medium, high-energizing}

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}

We recommend the versatile Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Gore-Tex shoe for runners who go back and forth between roads and trails (and who don’t let bad weather stop them from running). These shoes felt so comfortable from the first moment we laced them up to the last stride of our 8-mile run. Running in these shoes feels like running in slippers—but slippers that keep feet locked in, stable, and protected from the elements.

The waterproof membrane and built-in gaiter at the collar prevent water or debris from getting in. Plus, the shoe’s full-length, dense foam midsole feels springy and responsive, whether you’re running on pavement or a dirt trail.And we love the cloud-like cushioning that kept us going throughout tough runs.

The short, grippy lugs on the outsole can handle wet conditions and technical terrain, but can also easily transition to road running. We do wish the lugs were slightly deeper for even better traction, but we still feel confident recommending these shoes for light to moderate trails or slick pavement.

We like that the extra traction at the toe and heel enhances the shoe’s overall stability and traction, especially for uphill and downhill running. Despite all its technical features, this shoe isn’t bulky or stiff, and it boasts a sleek, attractive style.

^{Key Specs:
Material: Foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: High}

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}

Hoka shoes are well-known for their ample cushioning, which provides a high level of comfort and responsiveness. The brand’s Challenger ATR 6 GTX offers trail runners the same cloud-like feel, with added protection. The shoes will keep your feet dry, but we like that they’re also breathable—ideal for taking on rough terrain.

With a sturdy midsole and a rugged outsole, the Challenger can transition between trails and pavement. Its hybrid design and superior traction can handle uneven or wet surfaces with ease, keeping you stable and secure. Meanwhile, the front of the shoe is layered with rubber for even more durability.

Although the shoe doesn’t come in wide widths, it has a spacious toe box that allows the toes to splay for better balance and protection from blisters.

^{Key Specs:
Material: Textile and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: High}

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}

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}

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}

If you need a stylish, comfortable work sneaker that’s just as functional in wet weather, we recommendthese sneakers from Sorel. Not only are they easy to pair with almost any outfit, but they’re also completely waterproof. Plus, we love that they have grippy traction, so you stay sure-footed and stable on slick surfaces.

The shoe’s generously cushioned footbed provides all-day comfort and support, while padding around the collar and tongue adds to the plush feel. Although the lacing system allows for a custom-like fit, they’re still easy to slip on and off, which comes in handy at airport security.

The one downside of the shoes’ effective waterproofing is that they’re not very breathable, so your feet may get hot in warm conditions. Also, these shoes don’t have as much blister protection as other pairs on our list.

^{Key Specs:
Material: Leather and synthetic upper, synthetic outsole | Weight: 12 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Medium}

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}

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}

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}

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are leather sneakers waterproof?

  Leather is very durable and will keep out water, so it’s a common material used in many pairs of waterproof sneakers, like ECCO’s Golf S-Three Gore-Tex Shoes. 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 some 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.

  You should first clean your sneakers thoroughly and make sure they’re dry. In a well-ventilated area, hold the waterproofing spray about 10 inches from the shoes and spray the shoes liberally. Let them dry overnight and repeat the process every two to three months, or after the sneakers have been exposed to water.
  

• 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. “Waterproof shoes and warm socks can help to protect our extremities from the elements and things like frostbite and chilblains—cold-induced injuries that can lead to amputations and gangrene,” Dr. Lawrence says. However, you should limit your time outside in extreme weather, since the feet and other extremities are vulnerable to cold-weather injuries, even with good protection.
  

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