Top 18 Best Waterproof Shoes Reviews in 2021

It is unpleasant to resist soggy shoes on rainy days, especially during your long journey. Therefore, waterproof shoes are born to help you get rid of this problem. This footwear is the priority choice of modern users.

Most waterproof shoes are versatile in use. They can perform well as daily waterproof sneakers embracing your feet or as reliable waterproof boots with the all-terrain grip for your heading downhill journey.

Whether you’re searching for daily used waterproof shoes or hiking shoes, the 18 best waterproof shoes ranging in designs and styles on my reviews will definitely meet your demands.

Why You Need Waterproof Shoes?

Of course, there’s no need for you to spend extra money on a pair of waterproof shoes for your journey to areas prone to scorching hot weather.

However, if you’re headed for damp, muddy, or snowy terrain, a pair of waterproof shoes is the ideal outfit for your feet, aside from a necessary waterproof backpack to keep your gear 100% dry. Your travel would be more enjoyable. Feel free to conquer new distances.

If you are a hike enthusiastic, don’t miss this footwear, especially if you intend to hike through puddles. Waterproof shoes will not only keep your feet dry and comfortable with excellent waterproofness and breathability but also provide superior grip through varying surfaces.

Besides, this footwear is also being preferred by sports athletes, thanks to its lightweight, perspiration-resistant material and the aggressive grip it provides to better support your feet during any of your courses.

What if you’re a regular user? I do not recommend you bring them along all year round. However, during cold, wet, and snowy months, these shoes with the waterproof lining will keep your feet warm and dry, no one wants their feet to get freezing after a rainstorm.

What Are the Best Waterproof Shoes?

Waterproof shoes vary in multiple designs with different levels of waterproofness. To protect your feet with the best waterproof outfit, let’s take a look at this shortlist below for some of the best waterproof shoes currently available on the market.

• Best Overall: Timberland Men’s White Ledge
  “100% full-grain leather, rubber sole, seam-sealed waterproof construction, rustproof speed lace hardware, stylish padded collar, perfect hiking boots, as well as casual shoes.”
• Best Budget: ALEADER Men’s Aqua Shoes
  “Slip-on, rubber-sole, lightweight, feature superior breathability with the hydrophobic engineered mesh upper, exceptional traction on the slippery surface.”
• Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes: Salomon X Ultra 3
  “100% synthetic, rubber sole, lightweight, embrace your foot comfortably with the thick foam cushioning, more intense grip.”
• Best Waterproof Golf Shoes: Ecco Men’s Cage Sport
  “100% synthetic and textile, synthetic sole, weather and perspiration-resistant, dirt-repellent for easy cleaning, hybrid outsole design for excellent grip, best for on-course use.”
• Best for Work: Dunham Men’s Cloud Low Oxford
  “100% leather, synthetic sole, nylon shank, foam footbed, available in extended sizes, best for daily use.”
• Best for Walking: Bogs Men’s Urban Walker
  “Slip-on, 100% rubber, rubber sole, offer ideal grip and comfort for your dog walking.”
• Best for Running: Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D
  “100% synthetic, rubber sole, offer 3D advanced chassis, aggressive grip, and incredible fit, perfect for any type of terrain.”
• Best for Travel: KEEN Men’s Targhee II
  “100% waterproof leather, rubber sole, breathable membrane, added traction grip with the lug outsole, improved mobility, cushioned collar and mesh lining for comfort.”
• Best for Men: Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II
  “Made from leather and suede, rubber sole, 1.5 high heel, feature the lightweight and durable midsole, advanced traction, and superior cushioning.”
• Best for Women: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus
  “Rubber sole, feature the Omni-grip, advanced traction, Techlite lightweight and thick cushioning midsole, breathable mesh textile, hook, and loop closure system.”
• Best Lightweight: Under Armour Women’s Micro G
  “Leather and textile, synthetic sole, extremely lightweight due to the UA smart weave upper, the integrated lacing system for a snug fit, feature GORE-TEX construction.”
• Best Waterproof Tennis Shoes: New Balance Men’s Minimus
  “Synthetic and microfiber leather, rubber sole, ultralight support and fit, REVLite midsole offers a lightweight ride, NDurance rubber outsole, and Ortholite insole for durability.”
• Best Waterproof Trail Shoes: Merrell Men’s Moab 2
  “100% suede leather, synthetic sole, the M Select DRY seals and closed-cell foam tongue for increased water-repellent performance, added comfort with the Merrell air cushion.”
• Best Stylish: Dunham Men’s Cloud Mid-Cut
  “Full-grain leather, synthetic sole, multicolor upper, adjustable circumference, ankle support with the mid-cut collar, aggressive tread on the outsole for better support on tricky terrain.”
• Best for Kids: Native Jefferson
  “Made in the USA, slip-on, rubber sole, lightweight, durable, odor-free, shock-absorbent, easy to clean with hand, designed for toddlers and kids.”

Comparison of Top 18 Best Waterproof Shoes 2021

A mountain of waterproof shoes might cause you trouble to pick out the most satisfying one. Therefore, my comparison table below covering some main criteria of those 18 best waterproof shoes will be a good reference source for you.

Top 18 Best Waterproof Shoes in 2021 Reviews

If the shortlist above is not comprehensive enough for you, let’s scroll down to scan through my detailed reviews of the 18 best waterproof shoes on the market now.

1. Timberland Men’s White Ledge

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

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Being said to be a breakthrough and creativity for waterproof equipment thanks to the luxurious, intelligent, and modern design, Timberland Men’s White Ledge is no doubt becoming the best waterproof shoes in the world.

Being made with 100% Leather makes the shoe look luxurious and fashionable. A Rubber sole combined with Shaft measures approximately 4.75″ from the arch; this shoes will provide you with maximum durability, water-resistance and comfort.

Besides, the Timberland White Ledge is suitable for everyone, including men, women, kids, and older people, because of its trail-ready performance and style, various colors available, and become an excellent choice for anyone who spends lots of time in nature.

2. ALEADER Men’s Aqua Shoes

(Best Budget)

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I can be sure that you’re getting a whole lot of bang for your buck if you intend to buy this ALEADER Men’s Aqua Shoe because the price is too low for comfort and durability it brings.

This shoe will be a perfect addition to your waterproof shoe collection. Thank the various and beautiful colors and breathable and durable air mesh upper that enables your foot to breathe and dry despite all the weather.

Moreover, the unique design with an open mesh on the upper and hole on the sole, comfort sock liner, and Solyte midsole also provides superior breathability, extreme lightweight, durability, and stability in slippery conditions.

3. Salomon X Ultra 3 Men’s

(Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes)

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If you are a genetic person who loves hiking and adventurous journeys with many challenges, the Salomon X Ultra 3 Men’s will be your ideal companion because of the two different types of rubber that are strategically used on the sole.

Furthermore, the 100% Synthetic material with the reinforced top arm of the sensitive surrounded by foam cushioning that supplies your foot with maximum comfort and an optimal fit also brings this shoe a lot of plus points.

A particular patterned area on the heel helps to stabilize and 2-year limited warranty that ensures durability and gives you more control when you are on challenging terrain.

See Also: Top 17 Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes

4. Ecco Men’s Cage Sport

(Best Waterproof Golf Shoes)

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Being designed with eight Champ Slim-Lok spikes on the sole that help to increase stability on the pitch and minimize slipperily, the Ecco Men’s Cage Sport Waterproof Shoes are becoming an ideal choice for someone who loves golf.

With a single web and textile combination uppers made from 100% Synthetic and Textile, this shoe will have the ability to endure all kinds of weather and provide you with extra waterproof.

Moreover, the outsole design follows the muscle definition and the foot’s shape that will make you feel comfortable and protect your foot when playing golf. Dirt-repellent and easy-to-clean are also the strong points of the Ecco Cage Sport.

See Also: Top 16 Best Waterproof Golf Shoes

5. Dunham Men’s Cloud Low Oxford

(Best for Work)

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When it comes down to a rainy day, besides waterproof gloves to keep your hands dry, you need a similar outfit for your feet to get ready for work too. The Dunham Cloud Low Oxford shoe is the best selection because of its wellness design and excellent waterproofness.

This shoe is adjustable to fit a variety of feet and provides all-day comfort thanks to 100% Leather surrounding and modern rubber sole.

Moreover, being waterproof shoes, the Dunham Cloud Low Oxford will ensure to keep your feet dry and warm every time despite all kinds of weather and in all conditions.

6. Bogs Men’s Urban Walker

(Best for Walking)

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If you are bored with shoelaces and are looking for something new and unique, the Bogs Men’s Urban Walker Waterproof Shoes will be the right choice for you thanks to their unique design like a loafer.

Unlike other shoes, the Bogs Urban Walker is made from 100% rubber with the heel measuring approximately 1.5′ that will allow you to take off the beaten path when walking, remain stable and avoid falling.

Besides, this shoe also provides four-way stretch inner bootie, and the platform measures approximately 0.5 inches to offer grip and protection.

7. Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D

(Best for Running)

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Coming from one of the most famous shoe brands on the market, the Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D is highly appreciated because of its high-quality materials and modern design.

This shoe comes with a combination of carbon rubber covering the Contagrip traction outsole and a full-length injection-molded EVA for reliable cushioning that provides maximum durability, stability, and comfort.

Moreover, curved supportive upper overlays along with a thick mesh that supplies breathability and the removable orthoLite footbed also ensure the sturdy construction gives the Salomon Xa Pro 3D many plus points.

See Also: Top 16 Best Waterproof Running Shoes

8. KEEN Men’s Targhee II

(Best for Travel)

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With a simple but dynamic, the youthful design belongs with high-quality waterproof Nubuck Leather and eye-catching colors, the KEEN Men’s Targhee ll Shoes will be the top choice for people who love traveling and challenging.

This shoe will impress you with its External stability shank that provides extra comfort, the cushioned collar to increase the softness, and the Mesh lining that offers air and makes your shoe breathable in warmer environments.

Furthermore, the Non-marking rubber outsoles that ensure the durability and stability comes along with the dual-density midsole, and leather uppers also make the KEEN Targhee II highly appreciated and allow you to enjoy your experient trip.

9. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II

(Best for Men)

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The Newton Ridge Plus II is made of PU coated leather and mesh uppers with waterproof, the durable midsole for long-lasting comfort. The Rubber sole with heel measures approximately 1.5″ to provide stability and lightweight.

Besides, this shoe also impresses you with its versatile style that is very suitable for men, and the durable mesh tongue for breathability comes along with a lace-up closure for an adjustable and protects your foot.

The lightweight and weather-resistant are also plus points of the Newton Ridge Plus II and help the men overcome the most rugged terrain and enjoy the fun of the trip.

10. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus

(Best for Women)

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If you are looking for shoes that are waterproof but fashionable and appropriate to women, the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus will be a smart choice for you thanks to its energetic but feminine design.

This shoe is built with leather and mesh that are waterproof, and has superior cushioning along with an advanced traction rubber sole for maximum comfort and enhance slip-resistant.

Besides, the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus also ensures stable footing on any surface such as ice or sand, thanks to its high-quality rubber sole that is incredibly lightweight and weather-resistant. The contrasting color combinations are also a plus point of this shoe.

11. Under Armour Women’s Micro G

(Best Lightweight)

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Looking for a pair of waterproof sport shoes ensuring ultimate lightweight support on the course? Don’t miss the Under Armour Women’s Micro G.

Featuring the Clarino microfiber leather, the synthetic sole as well as the UA smart weave upper, this shoe will provide you with ideal traction and ultimate support to make you feel light as air while still ensuring maximum stability on every golf course.

The outsole is integrated with the Gore-Tex waterproof barrier, so you will be at ease to pass any muddy puddles while playing. The Gore-Tex construction also features a breathable environment for your feet to comfortably rest in.

12. New Balance Men’s Minimus

(Best Waterproof Tennis Shoes)

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The New Balance Men’s Minimus features the spikeless rubber sole, which ensures long-lasting capacity and makes it perfect footwear for both tennis and golf playing.

The REVLite midsole forms the thick but still lightweight cushioning to provide you with ideal responsiveness. The Fantom Fit sew-free upper ensures ultralight support while the Ortholite insole will play as a comfortable, breathable layer to wick away moisture from sweats.

This waterproof shoe with minimal running technology will provide a snug fit and a neutral feel for your excellent performance on the course.

13. Merrell Men’s Moab 2

(Best Waterproof Trail Shoes)

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Walking on rocky, icy and wet trails will be like on the pavement with this sturdy Merrell Men’s Moab 2. It provides great tractions to withstand rugged terrains. Ready to hit any sorts of trails now.

Any puddles or muds on your trails? You will be at ease to pass them with this full waterproof leather shoe now.

Besides, the thick but lightweight cushioning will provide you with incredible comfort on your trails. The Merrell Moab 2 is super robust, built to survive years of wear. Especially, you will be surprised at how warm it will keep your feet while wearing during freezing cold days.

14. Dunham Men’s Cloud Mid-Cut

(Best Stylish)

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You don’t need to look further for stylish hiking boots anymore, the Dunham Men’s Cloud Mid-Cut will come in handy to satisfy any hike enthusiast.

Being man-made from high-end full-grain leather and designed with the multicolor upper, this stylish and sturdy shoe will give confidence for your walks on any sorts of terrain. The strong laces will provide a snug fit for your feet to get ready to hit the trails.

Every step of yours will be more stable with the aggressive tread on the outsole and be light as air with the ideal arch support from the mid-cut collar.

You can use the Dunham Cloud as day-to-day waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry or as hike boots to withstand all-weather conditions and conquer new distance with you.

15. Native Jefferson

(Best for Kids)

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You kids will get attracted to the lively, colorful outfits of the Native Jefferson waterproof shoe. Whether they are toddlers, little kids, or big kids, this shoe is also available in full range sizes of them with unlimited options of colors.

Despite being made of foam, the shoe contains no unpleasant smell thanks to the odor-resistant and even shock-absorbent technologies, which are integrated into its materials.

Breathable holes on its surfaces make it dry super fast and eliminate moistures from sweats. You don’t need to wear socks before putting the Native Jefferson on. Actually, this shoe is water-friendly. You would feel super comfortable and cozy wearing it during summertime.

16. Kwong Wah Men’s Hiking Shoe

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The Kwong Wah stands out as sturdy and 100% waterproof hiking shoe with great support for any hike enthusiast.

Strong tread on the outsole offers excellent grip for your hiking trails. This shoe is born to survive due to being made of lightweight and durable suede leather. The mesh lining also features breathability to prevent your feet from getting wet from sweats.

Besides, the Kwong Wah provides plenty of room, especially on the protective toe area.

17. Oka-B Taylor Women’s

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Women who have references in products with the eco-friendly and minimal design will surely love the Oka-B Taylor. This shoe is crafted in the USA, from recyclable Anti-Microbial synthetics with the very casual outfit of multiple trendy colors.

Besides, the shoe offers great comfort and flexibility while wearing thanks to the ergonomic footbed and soothing massaging beads. The outsole features the Microplast technology to provide excellent friction to keep you grip to the floor.

Moreover, cleaning the Oka-B Taylor is easy-breezy with damp cloth only.

18. Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Ii

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Active women don’t want to miss the Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine li. If you’re headed for a hike, consider this super comfortable and sturdy waterproof sneaker.

The Aegis Antimicrobial construction will offer a breathable and hygiene environment to keep your feet always fresh, preventing bacteria, grit, and grime. Meanwhile, the Custom Vibram outsole will provide an adequate grip to keep your feet balanced even on rugged terrains.

Besides, this 100% leather and textile shoe offers born-to-last capacity, ensures to provide you with stable strides for years.

Choosing the Best Waterproof Shoes – Buying Guide

There is no doubt that waterproof shoes are essential for carefree walks on any of your terrains. However, to pick out a reliable, high-quality pair of waterproof shoes, you will need to consider thoroughly some key factors below.

Material

There is a range of materials that are either naturally waterproof or can be made watertight to make waterproof shoes. The 3 most commonly used materials are leather, rubber, and synthetics. So what are their pros and cons?

As for leather, this high-end material is naturally waterproof. For better waterproofing performance, leather is treated with a waterproof coating before being crafted into shoes. Leather shoes are more robust, more durable, but a bit heavier, stiffer compared to other shoes.

Besides, due to leather’s permeable nature, leather shoes can only repel moisture to a degree.

Meanwhile, rubber shoes will provide you with 100% waterproof protection. Feel free to soak them up underwater. However, rubber shoes are considered to be a bit stiff and not very stylish in design.

Regarding synthetic shoes, (the most typical synthetics is Gore-Tex), aside from being waterproof, they are breathable thanks to the micro-porous structure. They are super lightweight and provide better water-repellent protection than leather.

However, because multiple chemicals are added to create this material, synthetic shoes might contain unpleasant odor.

Different Types of Waterproof Shoes

First, waterproof shoes vary in gender: for men and women. There’s nothing much different in design aside from the size. Men’s shoes are often wider. Most waterproof shoes feature unisex design, which appeals to both men and women.

Sneakers, sports shoes or hiking boots,…etc, all of them can be designed specially to be waterproof shoes. That which type of waterproof shoes suits you depends on your purpose of using them.

Waterproof sneakers, with their stylish designs and adequate waterproofness, will provide you with comfort. They will embrace and protect your feet from getting drenched for your carefree walk under the downpour.

Waterproof hiking boots are vital if you navigate a puddle during your hike. They will keep your feet bone dry while providing advanced traction to take you on any rugged terrain.

Waterproof Shoes vs. Water Resistant

You might wonder whether waterproof shoes or water-resistant shoes will suit you the most. Now I will point out some of their main differences so you could utilize them to have a better purchase.

Waterproof shoes are crafted from waterproof materials to make your shoes like duck-backs. The most commonly used waterproof materials are leather, synthetics, and rubber. Some manufacturers choose to cover them with a waterproof coating to increase their waterproofness.

Wearing waterproof shoes means that your feet will be kept dry through puddles or wet mud during cold, wet, or snowy days. You can even submerge your waterproof shoes underwater. Your shoes will resist water penetration and soak up no water, even for quite a long time.

However, waterproof shoes are usually complained about due to their stiffness. Some products ensure to provide the best combination of waterproofness and comfort. But a light feeling of stiffness while wearing them is unavoidable.

Water-resistant shoes are briefly described as “dry for a while” It means they only perform waterproofness to a certain degree. Do not expect them to keep your feet stay dry if you leave them submerged underwater for too long. They might only survive a drizzle and perhaps a quick submersion.

However, these water-resistant shoes are softer and more breathable compared to waterproof shoes. Therefore, if it’s not during wet, damp, cold and snowy days, I highly recommend you put on these shoes to enjoy greater comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some most commonly asked questions about waterproof shoes you may want to know.

What Are Waterproof Shoes?

Waterproof items are becoming more and more popular, including waterproof shoes. Firstly, waterproof boots are understood in the simple way that they do not absorb water regardless of the situation, and always keep your foot dry and warm.

Waterproof shoes are often made of rubber or synthetics, such as neoprene or polyurethane, to enhance waterproof functions, ensure durability, and help your feet stay dry.

What Shoe Material Is Waterproof?

Waterproof boots are usually made with rubber, vinyl, neoprene, polyurethane, or nylon. Rubber or Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials are often used to manufacture the soles of waterproof shoes and to create overshoes.

Moreover, Rubber materials that are durable, sturdy, and water-resistant also protect your shoes against water and enable you to enjoy indoors comfortably and outdoors activities.

Are Waterproof Shoes Hot?

To be honest, waterproof shoes are a bit hotter than other non-waterproof shoes, and in some conditions, they are much warmer because of their particular design.

To be designed not allowing water or moisture and insects to pass through them, these waterproof shoes are designed to hold tightly around your ankles and sometimes make you feel hot in the summer.

But don’t worry, nowadays, some shoe brands are using waterproof-breathable fabric like Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry and reduce heat but enhance waterproof.

Are Waterproof Shoes Slip Resistant?

Almost waterproof shoes are slip-resistant because of the rubber material that is the best slip-resistant attribute. If you want to test your shoes, pour some soapy water or oil on a slippery surface, and check whether if it is slip-resistant.

Choosing slip-resistant shoes is very important because they will help you stand stably and reduce accidents or falling cases because of slip surfaces or water.

How Do You Know If a Shoe Is Waterproof?

There are many tips for you to recognize whether your shoes are waterproof or not. The first thing to do to know if your climbing shoes are waterproof is to look at the shoe’s tongue.

For waterproof shoes, this tongue is designed to connect with the shoe body to ensure water will not penetrate through this gap into the shoe. If the tongue is designed to be loose from top to bottom, make sure the shoes you are using are not equipped with waterproof features.

Another way to check the waterproof capability of a shoe is to use clean water to bounce the shoe.

My Top Picks

A pair of high quality waterproof shoes with expert craftsmanship is what every modern user desires to own. These waterproof shoes will not only embrace your feet through challenging terrain but also excellently protect them from water penetration under wet conditions.

If you are searching for the best waterproof shoes overall, I highly recommend the Timberland White Ledge both as rugged hiking shoes and comfortable casual shoes. Besides, it is cost-effective to head for ALEADER Aqua Shoes for their high quality.

Other waterproof shoes in the list also offer particular outstanding points to better satisfy customers of specific demands, such as Ecco Cage Sport as an excellent waterproof outfit for golf lovers’ feet or Native Jefferson, which are best for kids.

Lastly, I hope my review is a helpful source of reference for you to pick out your most satisfactory pair of waterproof shoes. Any questions on my reviews, please leave your comment below. If possible, press button share on Facebook and Twitter. Thanks for reading!