The best waterproof shoes for travelers

Few things can ruin a trip faster than soggy socks and wet feet. If there’s a chance you’ll encounter gloomy skies on your vacation, it may be worth packing a pair of waterproof shoes.

When shopping for the best waterproof shoes, look for durable materials, versatile styles, and comfort. With those qualities in mind, we found that the unisex Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Boots are a good fit for most travelers. They’re warm, durable, and easy to slip on. Additionally, the classic Chelsea boot-style can go from sightseeing to dinner.

If you prefer something sportier or more rugged, read on. We spoke to hiking guides, travel journalists, and even a podiatrist for their expert tips. From hiking boots that can tear across muddy trails to city sneakers made for puddles, here are all our top picks.

When shopping for waterproof shoes for travel, look for specially engineered materials like Gore-Tex and Dyma-tex. Coatings like Durable Water Repellent, or DWR, can also be effective, but make sure the finish is free of harmful perfluorinated compounds or PFCs. Seamed seals and minimal stitching help too. Most importantly, the best waterproof shoes will have excellent traction to prevent slipping on slick surfaces. Look for deep treads or outsoles made with technical materials, such as Vibram or Durabrasion. Read on for all the details about our top picks.

Best waterproof shoes overall: Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Boots

Why we like it: They’re pricey, but these unisex Blundstone’s are beloved for their versatility, durability, and comfort, making them a good investment, even if you don’t travel much. A removable sheepskin footbed and cozy Thinsulate thermal lining keep feet warm, while latex seams help block water.

The Chelsea boot style and grippy shock-absorbing Vibram outsoles make these a great choice for diverse itineraries like strolling city streets or easy nature trails. One reviewer says they were “comfortable for miles of walking” through the Arctic Circle. You can even wear them through the airport. Good-sized tabs on both the front and the back make pulling them on a breeze.

Keep in mind: Like other Chelsea boots, the shaft goes up a little past the ankle, so if you’re looking for waterproof shoes to wear in deep snow, these won’t be the best option.

Product details: Materials: Waterproof leather, rubber soles, sheepskin footbed, elastic, latex | Sizes: 6-11 (women), 4-14 (men) | Weight: N/A

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Best waterproof hiking shoes: Hoka Kaha 2 GTX (women’s) (men’s)

Why we like it: “Lightweight, breathable trail shoes with good grip are my personal preference,” says Krista Williams, head hiking guide for Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat in British Columbia. The Hoka Kaha 2 has a Gore-Tex membrane to help ensure impermeability to water, yet it’s breathable, a winning combo for any hiker—especially those logging double-digit miles. They also have exceptional grip, thanks to the Vibram sole.

At less than a pound each, these cushioned hikers help relieve fatigue, contributing to an all-around comfortable experience on the trail. The fun color combos help them stand apart from the typical brown and gray hiking boots you normally see everywhere.

Keep in mind: A few reviewers say these shoes have a narrow fit. If you can’t try these on in a store, you may want to order a pair in your size and another a half size larger to compare. 

Product details: Materials: Waterproof leather, Gore-Tex, Vibram sole, recycled polyester | Sizes: 5-11 (women), 7-15 (men) | Weight: 15.6 oz.

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Best waterproof running shoes: New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 GTX (women’s) (men’s)

Why we like it: With water-blocking Gore-Tex fabric and grooved rubber soles, these running sneakers easily transition from rainy sidewalks to muddy trails. They’re lightweight and comfortable, plus they come with reflective details for better visibility—especially appreciated for cloudy days. We also like that they come in a wide range of sizes, including half and extra wide.

Keep in mind: The brand notes that this style runs small.

Product details: Materials: Gore-Tex, rubber soles, foam | Sizes: 5.5-12 (women), 7-15 (men) | Weight: 9 oz.

Best waterproof shoes for men: Vessi Men’s Weekend Chelsea Boot

Why we like it: This lightweight sneaker-like boot is a stylish alternative to traditional wellies. The stretchy mesh upper is made of vegan materials and molds to your foot, helping to reduce chafing. Good-size tabs on the front and back make getting the boots on quick and easy. The rubber soles have lots of insets and grooves designed for tacky traction in slick conditions. They also pair well with almost any outfit, so travelers can pack one less pair of shoes.

Keep in mind: These shoes do not come in half or wide sizes, so travelers may need to go up one full size.

Product details: Materials: Dyma-tex waterproofing, rubber sole, vegan knit | Sizes: 6-13 (men) | Weight: 10.6 oz.

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Best waterproof shoes for women: Sorel Ona Ave Waterproof Chelsea Boot

Why we like it: Sorels are a go-to for many travelers—myself included. Los Angeles-based travel journalist Chelsee Lowe appreciates their light weight, good looks, and robust treads. This Chelsea boot model blends style and function in a compact package that can take you from trekking around a big city in the rain to dinner after. “I love that these boots are functional and cute,” says Lowe. “I even explored Zion in them and my feet stayed secure, dry, and ache-free.”

The leather upper is waterproof and made with sealed seams. We love the extra thick platform style and stacked heel, which help provide extra protection in case you step into a puddle. With five colorways, including a suede option, the Ona Ave pairs with plenty of travel outfits.

Keep in mind: Some reviewers say this style runs small. Order a half or whole size larger if you have wide feet or plan to wear these boots with thick socks.

Product details: Materials: Leather EVA sock liner, rubber sole | Sizes: 5-12 | Weight: 20.6 oz.

Best waterproof walking shoes: Hoka Clifton 9 GTX (women’s) (men’s)

Why we like it: For travelers with itineraries that include walking more than 10,000 steps per day, it’s hard to beat the Clifton 9 GTX’s breathability, comfortable cushioning, and lightweight construction. Designed with a Gore-Tex coating and Durabrasion rubber outsole, this shoe is practically built for sightseeing in the rain.

Like the non-waterproof version, this model has the rocker-style sole that reduces the work your foot needs to do, helping to alleviate foot fatigue. It can also benefit conditions like plantar fasciitis.

Keep in mind: While this is an excellent walking shoe, some say it’s not ideal for rougher terrain. If you’re looking for a waterproof shoe that can take you up muddy trails, you may want to try the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX.

Product details: Materials: Recycled polyester, Gore-Tex, Durabrasion rubber sole | Sizes: 5-12 (women), 7-16 (men) | Weight: 8.3 oz. (women), 9.6 oz. (men)

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Best waterproof tennis shoes: On Cloud 5 Waterproof Shoes (women’s) (men’s)

Why we like it: The waterproof version of this popular model may feel slightly more rigid, but we think it’s a small price to pay for a lightweight, cushioned pair of tennis shoes that makes walking around in wet conditions a joy.

Like other models, this one has the brand’s signature CloudTec pods, but with additional traction, plus reflective accents for increased visibility on cloudy days. We like the antimicrobial insole and the quick-lace system, which eliminates the chances of dealing with loose laces. However, each pair comes with a set of traditional laces too.

Keep in mind: This sneaker is designed to block water, but reviewers note they’re not the most breathable.

Product details: Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane, waterproof membrane | Sizes: 5-11 (women), 7-14 (men) | Weight: 8 oz.

Best waterproof trail running shoes: Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX (women’s) (men’s)

Why we like it: Hiking guide Krista Williams loves this pair of Salomons for their durability. “Living in an area where I often encounter rain, waterproof shoes are essential,” she says. This model is made with a breathable Gore-Tex membrane and the brand’s signature rubber outsole, which features deep-set lugs designed to stick to surfaces and shed mud quickly for maximum traction while running.

Despite the hefty sole, the Speedcross 6 GTX is surprisingly lightweight at under 10 ounces in the women’s version. It’s also available in half sizes—important for finding the right fit for tackling muddy terrain.

Keep in mind: The deep shark lugs are ideal for running in muddy conditions, but may feel almost too sticky on sidewalks.

Product details: Materials: Mesh, ripstop fabric, rubber sole, Gore-Tex membrane | Sizes: 5-11 (women), 7-14 (men) | Weight: 9.2 oz. (women), 11.6 oz. (men)

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How to shop for waterproof shoes

Comfort

No matter what type of shoe you’re looking for, comfort is king. Waterproofing won’t matter much if you’re uncomfortable or in pain. Look for breathable fabrics to help prevent sweating and chafing. Cushioned midsoles and rocker styles can help alleviate fatigue after miles of walking. It’s best to test drive a new pair of waterproof shoes before you travel.

Waterproofing materials and details

When shopping for the best waterproof shoes, look for materials such as Gore-Tex or Dyma-tex. Both are made to repel water while staying breathable. Leather can resist water but read through the product description to make sure the leather shoes you’re considering are waterproof. You can also apply creams or sprays to help leather and suede resist water better.

Michelle Castiello, a board-certified podiatrist at New York-based Scarsdale Medical Group/White Plains Hospital Physician Associates, advises looking for shoes with fewer seams and stitches, as well as a “full bellows tongue that goes up to the top of the boot, which can make shoes more water-resistant,” she says.

Tread

This is a crucial feature if you’re planning to walk in wet, muddy conditions. The best waterproof shoes should have robust traction via deep-set lugs or grooves. Vibram and Durabrasion, like the outsoles on the Hoka Clifton 9 GTX, are good examples of top-notch materials for grip. Varied tread designs can be especially effective too.

Shaft height

Shaft height plays an important role in waterproof shoes and boots, but it can depend on where you’re traveling to and your itinerary. “When there’s snow on the ground, you want to have a shoe that is a little higher so it covers your ankles in case the snow is deep, and you want to look for some grip so you don’t slip on ice,” says Denver-based filmmaker Juliana Broste, who often travels to environments with extreme weather.

For general travel in wet conditions, Chelsea boots or high-top styles, like our all-around favorite the Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Boots or the Vessi Men’s Weekend Chelsea Boot, may help provide extra protection from rain.

Versatility

Look for waterproof shoes that can pull double-duty and are versatile enough in style to transition from sightseeing to dinner. In many cases, a pair of neutral-colored sneakers or Chelsea boots can fit the bill.

“I look for something that will keep my feet warm and stylish because I can only take one or two pairs of shoes when I’m traveling,” says Los Angeles, California-based family travel writer Chanin Victor. “Whatever I bring needs to go with several outfits and look good with everything.”

Frequently asked questions

Are waterproof shoes actually waterproof?

“Some shoes are truly waterproof, but many are only water-resistant,” says Castiello. “The main difference between the two is that waterproof materials are completely impenetrable by water, while water-resistant shoes will repel light precipitation but will not prevent seep through.”

For a dry walking experience, look for waterproof shoes that utilize special materials like Gore-Tex and Dyma-Tex or coatings like PFC-free DWR that are engineered to repel water. Sealed seams are also important for preventing water from seeping through. Many waterproof shoes use special seam sealing tape for extra durability.

What shoes are best for rain?

“When it comes to choosing shoes for rainy weather, you’ll want something that combines both waterproofing and good traction to prevent slipping,” says Castiello. While shoe style (rain boots, sneakers, hiking boots, etc.) depends on your activities and destination, the best shoes for rain should be made with materials like Gore-Tex, Dyma-tex, or waterproofed leather or suede.

Sealed seams and fewer stitches, plus thick rubber soles can help block water, especially if you accidentally step into puddles. An outsole with deep lugs and lots of grooves can help provide traction on rain-slicked surfaces.

What is Dyma-tex material?

Dyma-tex is a high-tech waterproof knit material made from polyurethane developed for Vessi brand shoes. It’s not a coating; the waterproof elements are integrated into the knit material itself.