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<p>When it comes to waterproof walking shoes, I’m looking for options that are <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g46039252/best-arch-support-shoes/” target=”_blank”>comfortable and cushiony</a>. Sometimes, I walk about 10 miles a day, and my footwear needs to be up for the trek. Waterproof styles have to keep the rain out without overheating my feet. It’s all about balance, baby. </p><p>Some waterproof shoes are meant for more rigorous activities, like hiking, whereas others will get the job done for you even if you’re just a runner or walker, like me. Now that it’s winter, a good waterproof shoe that <em>really </em>keeps the water out is more imperative than ever. <em></em>The shoes I swear by—and the ones you’re about to, too—are all right here.</p>” data-next-head/>
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Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.
best versatile waterproof walking shoe
Hoka Clifton 9 GTX
Pros
- Has 360-degree reflectivity
- Traction pods prevent slipping
Cons
- Buyers report the shoes aren’t as sturdy as expected
If you know Hokas, you surely love Hokas. This is a style our editors wear no matter the season or weather, because the beloved Clifton 9 GTX is, at the end of the day, up for absolutely anything. This style has an updated Gore-Tex membrane, traction suitable for all conditions, and a closed mesh construction that won’t let any water in. Plus, rain or shine, you’re in good hands—the reflective pieces on this shoe ensure you can walk along safely and dry.
| Colors | Dazzling Blue/Evening Sky, Black |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 7-16 |
| Materials | Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon |
best sustainable waterproof walking shoe
On Cloud 5 Waterproof
Pros
- Upper made from 100% recycled materials
- Speed lacing system for efficiency
Cons
- 8mm heel drop isn’t great for those who need extra arch support
It’s no secret that On has some of the most universally beloved sneakers of the decade, and the Cloud series is ranked on top. To our editors, the Cloud 5 Waterproof is one not to miss; it has all the bells and whistles you love from the Cloud 5, including lightweight foam soles, a sustainable, recycled upper, and molded heels, along with the bonus benefit of a waterproof membrane to protect your feet against wet weather.
| Colors | Black, Olive, White, Navy |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 7-14 |
| Materials | Recycled Polyester |
best classic waterproof walking shoe
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
Pros
- Buyers love the cushioning
- All-terrain compound on the outsole is great for wet conditions
Cons
- Runs slightly narrow
Nike is the brand that needs no introduction, but its waterproof walking shoes certainly deserve one. Designed for trail running but suitable for walking, too, these are tough, durable, and incredibly lightweight. The design employs a waterproof Gore-Tex upper that our editors find to be breathable and flexible, plus a foam midsole that’s responsive and cushiony.
| Colors | 7 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6-15 |
| Materials | ReactX Foam, Textiles |
best cozy waterproof walking shoe
Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles
Pros
- Traction combats slippery surfaces
- Water-repellent finish prevents shoes from being soggy
Cons
- Some buyers report they’re too hot
For really cold and wet days, turn to Allbirds. The brand makes a pair of wool sneakers—yeah, you read that right—that are cozy, warm, water-repellent, and honestly, a lot more sleek and stylish than the sneakers you probably already own. With its minimalist, versatile look, this is the perfect water-repellent shoe for commuting to work.
| Colors | 7 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8-14 |
| Materials | ZQ Merino Wool |
best urban waterproof walking shoe
Hoka Transport GTX
Designed specifically for city commuters, Hoka’s Transport GTX is well worth the money—especially if you, like me, live in a city where rain is all too frequent. This sneaker takes on the weather with ease, thanks to a lightweight, sugarcane EVA midsole, quick-toggle laces for jetting out the door, and a water-repellent Gore-Tex membrane.
| Colors | 6 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 7-15 |
| Materials | Recycled Polyester |
How To Choose Waterproof Shoes
All right, you’ve seen the options, but what do you need to know before taking the next step? Here are a few things to consider when deciding which pair of shoes is perfect for you.
Lacing: It may seem like a small detail, but different lacing systems can make all the difference in whether or not a pair of shoes works for you—especially in the rain, because what’s worse than fiddling with a limp, soggy shoelace that’s become untied? A quick-toggle or easy-lace system is ideal, especially if you find yourself often on the go.
Materials: Gore-Tex is great at keeping water out, so keep an eye out for the options with this fabric (which four out of five picks on this list do). Allbirds’ merino wool option is sleek and spectacular, but keep in mind that it’s water-repellent, so water will still bead on the outside, but not make it into your foot.
How We Tested
Our editors are based in New York City, and do you know what happens in New York City? It rains (a lot), and we walk (a lot). Putting every shoe on this list to the test isn’t only a matter of recommending the best options to you—although we take that very seriously—it’s a matter of finding the best picks for us, too. We’ve tested and tried all these shoes and more, but these are the ones we actually wear and will vouch for on a rainy day.
Why You Can Trust Esquire
We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s roundups is carefully chosen by our fashion and e-commerce teams.
When it comes to waterproof walking shoes, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting styles that we’ve personally tried, tested, and loved, along with options that the rest of our fashionable colleagues here at Esquire endorse for their own use. We’ve had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these waterproof walking shoes are the ones that are simply the best.
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