We’ve held lasting grudges against all the “waterproof shoes” that have let us down over the years. The ones that are advertised as “waterproof” until you misjudge a puddle and end up squishing around in your wet shoe and sock for the rest of the afternoon.
For this list, we set out to review and rank actually waterproof sneakers and boots for both men and women. We understand that “shoes” are a broad term, and can mean different things to different people. Sometimes it’s boots, sometimes it’s sneakers, and for some it’s flip-flops. For the purposes of these reviews, we’re looking at casual/athletic waterproof shoes for everyday, active outdoor use, including travel and hiking. So in ranking the best waterproof sneakers, here’s what matters:
- Waterproof Capability: they hold off water up to the collar of the shoe. This is the puddle test. It’s tough to give this an IP rating, as no shoe is going to handle submersion due to the opening at the top, but it’s very important the fabric itself, seams, and design of the shoe keep water out, even when the upper stretches during movement. Your typical GORE-TEX shoe features a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane, but the seams themselves are usually stitched, creating pinholes that let water in. This is why GORE-TEX shoes are rarely fully waterproof, so it’s better to go with a shoe made of waterproof textile that has very few seams in the upper.
- Fit: ever walk a mile in rubber boots? Make sure the waterproof shoes you choose are comfortable and flexible enough to enhance your activity, not prevent you from doing things due to bulkiness, weight, and rigidity.
- Durability & Materials: We’ve come across waterproof shoes that work great for the first few weeks, yet mysteriously lose their waterproof capability after they’re broken in. This is because seams stretch, membranes crack and tear, and the upper starts to pull away from the midsole/sole. It’s important to choose a waterproof shoe that’s designed to withstand active use.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking
There’s been many renditions of the Salomon X Ultra, and now in the 4th season, these are a staple amongst many hikers, trail runners, and adventure travelers.
There’s both a sneaker and boot version. Both are lined with Gore-Tex for waterproof capabilities, and feature rugged TPU overlays and rip-resistant material for protection.
- Waterproof
- Salomon Speed Lacing System
- Comfy midsole and collar
- Rugged build for protection against rocks and obstacles
- Comes in low, mid, and high versions, in both women’s and men’s versions
- Some say the Speed Lacing System doesn’t have the correct overlap at side seams and can dig in
- On the heavy side (13.8oz / 390g)
Breakwater Supply Halocline Waterproof Shoe
The Halocline features 100% waterproof protection, easy adjustability, and a sleek design. It’s a first of its kind as it features a one-piece wraparound neoprene upper, which safeguards it against water seeping in from any stitched seams. These are a versatile, all-purpose shoe that is good both in the summer, and the winter, as the neoprene upper provides some insulation as well..
- Waterproof neoprene upper with TPU overlays for protection
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant, grippy rubber sole
- Comfortable
- Slip-on construction with 360-degree bungee for adjustability
- Simple, sleek design with reflective elements
Vessi Everyday Classic
Starting with a Kickstarter that raised over $1 million, Vessi has since launched a line of waterproof footwear incorporating their Dyma-Tex waterproof membrane. These everyday sneakers are a tried-and-tested model that remains popular season after season.
- Casual, everyday design
- Proven waterproof capability
- Lightweight
- Comfortable one-piece knit upper keeps out rocks and dirt
- Good value at $135 USD
- Offered in both Men’s and Women’s
- In-depth reviews claim the waterproofing wears off over time
- Knit construction is prone to stain
- Outsole not for rugged terrain
adidas Terrex Swift GTX R2 Hiking Sneaker (Men’s)
A popular hiking sneaker from adidas that benefits from a GORE-TEX membrane, ripstop upper, rubber toecap, and large nubuck overlays that keep the upper relatively waterproof. A single cinch-cord, lugs for grip through mud and rocky terrain, and subdued, dark colorways make this shoe a great all-around’er for the outdoors. They generally run in the $100-$140 USD range, depending on season.
- Good waterproof protection
- Deep lugs for grip
- Sneaker-like design
- Complaints about heel slippage
- Upper materials attract mud and dirt
- Sole wears out quickly
Merrell Bravada Women’s Waterproof Sneaker
The Bravada is a popular Women’s shoe with a waterproof membrane. Designed primarily for trail running, it features a rock plate and deep lugs for mud and trails. The upper is half knit, half stitched synthetic layers, and the beefy paracord lace is a nice touch. Priced at $130 USD.
- Built for rugged trail use
- Comfortable
- More water-resistant than waterproof
8000Kicks Explorer V2 Hemp Waterproof Shoes
A unisex shoe made from natural hemp fibers. Very lightweight (less than 10oz per shoe) with waterproof protection by way of a water repellent coating. These fit like a sneaker, with the sole/midsole being one-piece foam, though this limits grip on off-road surfaces. This is a unisex shoe, and reviews say it fits very small, so do your research before choosing your size. Priced at $129 USD at time of publish.
- Very lightweight (10oz per shoe)
- Innovative, sustainable plant-based construction
- Poor grip
- More water-resistant than waterproof
- Sizing is tricky
On Cloud 5 Waterproof Sneakers
These running sneakers from On feature a ripstop quarter, mesh waterproof upper with TPU overlays and a thicker textile for extra support versus their non-waterproof running shoes. Priced at $180 USD at time of publish.
- Tried-and-tested On cushion and comfort
- Reliable waterproof protection
- Reflective detailing
- Many color options
- High pricetag ($180 USD)
- Low cut silhouette and tongue reduce waterproof protection higher up the foot
HUMTTO Men’s All-Terrain Waterproof Hiking Shoes
It’s easy to laugh at these as a knock-off Chinese brand, even down to the rip-off fake GORE-TEX diamond logo by the top eyelet, but hear us out: this is a decent shoe at an incredible $57 USD pricetag. They’re clearly “inspired” by the adidas Terrex that’s also on this list, and have a low/mid silhouette, with deep lugs for trails and mud. Reviews are general positive on the waterproof protection of the shoe, and they feature a HUMMTO-TEX (because of course) waterproof membrane, rugged TPU overlays, and a tight-weave textile upper for comfort.
- Waterproof membrane and TPU overlays for protection
- Rugged outsole
- Low/mid-cut to keep upper foot protected
- Durable upper resists wear
- Affordable pricetag ($57 USD)
- Off-brand knockoff
Muck Boot Outscape Slip-On Low
The Muck Boot Outscape is a flexible low-cut garden/hiking shoe with a comfortable foam midsole. Muck Boot put a lot of effort into adding a flexible waterproof layer over the entire upper. The result is hit-or-miss. While many customers love the original Muck Boot for its durability, the knock on them is their heaviness and rigidity. The Outscape solves both issues, but the upper is prone to cracking, resulting in leaks for water to enter. A great shoe for light walking and hiking, but you may want to look elsewhere if your needs are more rugged.
- Athletic silhouette
- Foam midsole for comfort
- Slip-on design keeps out dirt and water
- Fully waterproof
- Upper is prone to cracking
TENGTA Unisex Waterproof Garden Shoes Womens Rain Boots Mens Car Wash Footwear
These budget waterproof garden sneakers provide extra protection with the full rubber overlay on the upper. While this provides added protection, it does add weight. There’s no published weight on these, but they’re on the heavy side, meaning they’re great for working near water or out in the yard, but not great for long distances.
- Fully waterproof neoprene/rubber construction
- Rugged outsole
- Mid-cut silhouette keeps out dirt
- Durable upper
- Budget price at $40 USD
- Heavy
- No foam midsole
BAXINIER Waterproof Garden Shoes Mens Lightweight Low Short Rain Footwear Outdoor Neoprene Rubber Boots
A waterproof garden and light walking shoe. The BAXINIER is 100% waterproof thanks to the neoprene upper and chunky rubber outsole. A budget choice at $37 USD.
- 100% waterproof neoprene upper
- Rugged outsole
- Mid-cut silhouette for keeping out mud and water
- Budget price at $37 USD
- No foam midsole
- Very basic design
