
There’s nothing worse than going for a jog or a walk while it’s raining and enduring soaking wet socks and waterlogged feet. Luckily for you, water-resistant and waterproof sneakers do exist, and they make appealing options for those of us who spend a lot of time outdoors (or in damp situations).
But what’s the difference between a shoe that’s water-repellant and fully waterproof? Well, the difference lies in the specific construction. A water-repellant shoe typically has an outer coating that prevents water from penetrating. A waterproof shoe is made with a special fabric that has multiple layers to keep water from seeping through to your feet.
Water-repellant shoes are often coated with a natural quartz barrier to keep them stain- and water-resistant. Waterproof shoes are often made with Gore-Tex, a fabric that still allows them to be breathable (i.e., not sweaty while keeping your feet dry).
Below, we rounded up 6 water-friendly shoes that have glowing reviews from people who’ve worn them in the rain or wet environments.
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Promising review: "Hooked for life as long as I’m wearing white sneakers. Actually full on stepped in a mud puddle post rain storm, everything rinsed off as if it never happened. It was awesome." — Kristin K.
Promising review: "I was worried these would be too warm here in New Orleans, but we get so much rain that I needed the water resistant model. Turns out even this "warm" version is still more breathable than regular tennis shoes." — Nicholas S.
Promising review: "Fit and size was just what I ordered. Super easy to wear. Wore them for a few constantly rainy days in NYC and I couldn’t believe how incredible they were! They never felt damp and they still look nice and clean. I couldn’t stop talking about how amazing they were in the rain. Also, I like that they look good with jeans, leggings, even pants. Would call them “vacation fashionable.” Will wear on rainy days at home and always take with me on vacation." — Laura
Promising review: "Love this shoe, more like a boot in how sturdy they feel. The waterproofing rocks. I have pronation issues and this shoe holds my foot straight with no pain. I got the white/grey ones which get very dirty gardening but I can brush/wash them off and they still look great. I've worn 574's for years and these are the best ones yet. They feel so light yet so strong. I bought the last pair in my size and I'm so glad I was able to get them! All in all wonderful shoes." — Steven1111
Promising review: "This is my 2nd review (the 1st was on a day when it was not raining. It was raining today, and I wore them to walk to work. I am wearing a 10 Wide, and they are VERY comfortable! Since they are made of Gore Tex and it is a rubbery and flexible material, maybe that is why - because they bend with the foot. They kept my foot completely dry while walking in the rain. They were excellent for walking on the uneven brick sidewalks at some spots, so I can see why hikers like them for uneven terrain, and why they are classified as trail sneakers. I love the colors too!" — Tara T
Promising review: "I'm a dog groomer and I'm on my feet all day. I wanted to find shoes that were waterproof and comfortable and these are it! No more wet sore feet at the end of the day! And I can easily rinse off hair or anything else that gets on them during the day with no worries that it will leak through to my feet. They are definitely worth the price and I will be buying another pair to wear in my leisure time because I love them that much." — Ashley J.