The 11 Best Rain Boots For Walking Of 2023

A downpour can really dampen your day, regardless of whether you’re out for a leisurely hike or a hard workout. Thankfully, waterproof rain boots can keep you safe, dry and comfortable on a walk in the rain.

“Always dress for the weather, and that starts with your footwear,” Kaitlin Humphreys, CPT, Portland, Oregon trainer, says. “The purpose of exercise is to be able to enjoy it and stay active…so if your feet get wet at the start, you won’t be able to get the most out of your workout!”

Reviewed & Approved

The high-quality GORE-TEX Women’s Maine Hunting Shoes are our top choice for women for their insulation, great traction, and light weight. The knee-high Muck Boots Company Wetland Rubber Hunting Boots offer similar high-quality features for men.

When choosing a pair of rain boots for walking, it’s important that they protect against the elements with warm insulation and traction in mud or snow. They should be breathable, comfortable, and supportive for your feet, as well as slip on and off with ease. We researched rain boots for walking based on their height and weight, comfort and insulation, support, water protection, durability, and traction.

Here are the best rain boots for walking on the market.

The high quality and customizability of these boots make them our best women’s overall pick. A respected bootmaker, L.L. Bean used premium waterproof leather to craft these hand-stitched USA-made boots. Rising to calf height, this pair uses a lace closure with reinforced metal eyelets to create an easy on-and-off customized fit, regardless of calf size. Molding to the curvature of your lower leg, the leather-duck boot hybrid features a flexible sole for comfort with a steel midsole shank for lateral and arch support.

Best Women’s Overall

GORE-TEX Women’s Maine Hunting Shoes

Customized fit
High quality
Warm but breathable
Limited colors
No half sizes
Expensive

A great all-weather option, GORE-TEX liner locks water while 200-gram Thinsulate insulates feet, all without compromising the boot’s breathability. Its rubber outsole has grippy forefoot traction and a stable heel to handle snow, ice, or slick mud.

There are no half sizes, so our experts recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes or wish to account for thicker socks for chilly days.

Price at time of publication: $259

Heavy-duty enough for industrial outdoor work, but light and comfortable for daily treks, these boots by The Original Muck Boot Company are our best men’s overall pick. The nearly knee-high rain boots are truly waterproof, even when fully submerged in water. The stretchy, 5-millimeter waterproof neoprene upper—which pulls on and off easily over any calf type—insulates but can also be rolled down if legs get too warm. The inside of the boot features a breathable mesh lining that helps wick away sweat. And we like that the boots protect your feet from the cold in temperatures ranging from -20 to 50 degrees.The reinforced rubber outer protects your ankles when you’re walking in rougher and more unpredictable terrain. We also like that the boots feature an EVA midsole for flexible cushioning, a stub-preventing toe bumper, and grippy, deep lugged traction.

Best Men’s Overall

Muck Boots Company Men’s Wetland Rubber Hunting Boots

Lightweight
Great traction
Warm but breathable
Lacks sturdy midsole support

One trade-off to the Wetland’s comfy, flexible sole is less midsole support which may not be ideal for walkers looking for more stability. But you can always insert your own orthotic insole for added support if you need it. Overall, we love how lightweight this pick is for such a tall, fully waterproof boot—especially compared to competitors.

Price at time of publication: $180

For their affordable price, these classicly-cut Chelsea rain boots are truly stylish. An awesome commuter bootie, we like that they aren’t clunky or chunky and go with just about anything, from tights to trousers. Their durable, rubber heel and forefoot are sturdy with grooved treads to keep you standing upright, and the textile lining, roomy, padded footbed, and EVA foam midsole keep you comfortable as you hit the ground running.

Best Women’s Budget

Asgard Chelsea Ankle Women’s Waterproof Rain Boots

Many color options
Lightweight
Pack well for travel
Liner tends to bunch
Lack arch support

The waterproof matte rubber is a breeze to clean, and the pull tag makes for easy on-and-off when changing into office shoes. Unfortunately, these boots aren’t insulated for cold weather, so they may not be the best option for very cold days. And if you have high arches, you may want to consider adding a supportive orthotic.

Stacked style and overall comfort points make this budget-friendly pair a win for both your wallet and wardrobe.

Price at time of publication: $50

These rubber boots by Servus are the perfect, affordable pair for throwing on for rain, outdoor chores like gardening, or light fishing days. The boots are tall enough for tromping in high grass and sturdy enough for traversing debris in the woods or shallow streams. We particularly like this option because they’re more flexible than your typical budget rain boot—boasting a scalloped shaft edge that flexes as you move. The contoured front of the boots would make them great for tasks that might give a lot of front splash, like mowing or hosing off a car.

Best Men’s Budget

Servus CT Economy Rubber Work Boots

Sturdy
Made in the USA
Flexible comfort
Not as breathable as other options
Not very supportive

The boot’s Trac 10 outsole and heel treads dig into mud, snow, and dirt, and are very stable and sturdy for a boot of this price range. We especially like the back toe, which helps you easily take them off in a pinch.

Although these boots are made of fully waterproof, durable rubber, they’re not insulated, and the foot box and calf area is very roomy, even when sized appropriately, so layer up if heading out in the snow. Our experts also recommend that you opt for your own orthotic instead of the included “foot form” insole if you’re planning to wear these for hours on your feet.

Price at time of publication: $26

A fantastic all-terrain, all-occasion boot, Blundstones have become a household name with hip outdoorsy individuals. With a tradition of excellent craftsmanship, Australian maker Blundstone updated their iconic staple to this thermal version that’s just as reliable and versatile—making it our best overall unisex pick. From farm to city, the Blundstone Thermals are a solid, waterproof boot that can withstand rugged outdoor conditions, protect against external elements, but clean up nicely for a dressy-casual outing.

Best Unisex

Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boot

Highly protective
Great for all terrains and weather
Durable
A bit heavy
Expensive

Fully waterproof up to the elastic, all the seams of these beautiful leather boots are sealed. Apart from water protection, these can also withstand heat, making them a great option for casual bike riding or other sweat-inducing outings. We love a Chelsea boot with a pull tab (in this case two) which makes it easier to slip on and off. Thanks to its stitched construction, this is a highly repairable boot with some major longevity potential.

Steel shanks underfoot make these a bit heavy, but the extra protection and stability are well worth it. We like that the midsole and outsole absorb shock well and that the traction can tackle almost any surface.

Furry shearling footbeds add an extra dose of luxe comfort and warmth to these lightly insulated boots and can be removed for warmer days. While the Thermals take a minute to break in and are on the pricier side, we think the investment of patience and money is more than worth it for the years of wear ahead.

Price at time of publication: $240

Elevated on a 1-inch platform and 2-inch block heel, these boots are fully waterproof and the most stylish way to walk in the rain. Although we do not recommend these heeled boots for very long walks, they’re good for short commutes or an outing in the rain. Just be mindful that the fanned-out heel drop might take a bit of getting used to.

Best Splurge

Chloé Betty Rubber Rain Boot

Socially and eco conscious brand
Fully waterproof
Sturdy
Not as breathable as other options
Expensive
Runs small

With few, but classic, colors (our favorite is the burgundy) these boots do run a tad small, but they break in well after a bit of wear. The PVC upper is lined for comfort but doesn’t breathe as well as other options—so we wouldn’t recommend it for rainy summer days. The impressive rubber sole provides some nice shock absorption, and the lugs are equipped for rough terrain. The sturdy heel is a bit heavy on this fashion-forward shoe, but that does make them quite durable.

Chloe is the first luxury brand to achieve the rigorously demanding B Corp certification. This certification is meant to make fashion brands more accountable for the social and ecological impacts they might have on people and the environment. So if you didn’t have it already, there you go: another reason to treat yourself to a little splurge (and feel good about it)!

Price at time of publication: $525

Versatile for work, dress, or play, these classic Hunter boots have been around for generations to field every splish or splash you get into. The over-the-calf, nearly knee-high tall rain boot has a 16-inch staff and is our favorite tall boot pick.

Best Tall

HUNTER Women’s Original Tall Rain Boot

Many color and pattern options
Keeps legs and pants dry
Versatile
Not for wide calves
Not as breathable as other options

Handcrafted from durable, waterproof, and certified-vegan rubber, the pair is backed by a 2-year warranty and comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes.

While these are a roomy pair in the foot, the 15-inch calf opening might not accommodate wider legs. The flexible rubber is comfortable, but not quite supportive enough for hours of walking—through an orthotic would boost its long-term wearability. We like that the inch-high heel lifts you out of sludge, and the treaded rubber sole has great traction for pavement and mud.

Polyester lining aids in moisture-wicking, but naturally, the rubber prevents much breathability. They are sure to keep legs and pants dry and protected in a downpour, but this is not an insulated boot. If venturing out in colder temperatures, we recommend opting for a different pair.

Price at time of publication: $138

We recommend these popular, short rain boots to petite people with shorter legs—but they’re also great for walkers who prefer a shorter boot. Versatile and trendy, these hip-looking Chelseas withstand the wear and tear of daily commutes and are comfortable enough to wear all day long. Owners hold on to these go-to booties for multiple years and wear them with anything from dresses to joggers.

Best Short

Everlane The Rain Boot

Great traction
Durable
Great for daily wear
A bit heavy
Runs large

We like that these boots are durable, affordable, and come in four crowd-pleasing neutral colors that go with almost anything. The Rain Boot’s soft, flexible rubber construction is chafe-free and easy to clean. Plus, the pull tabs and elastic closure are time savers for when you want to slip these on in a hurry. While they are a tad bit heavy, they don’t feel clunky and have excellent traction.

They are great for wet, slushy weather and snow, but you definitely need a thick sock for insulation on particularly freezing days. Designed to accommodate thicker socks, the boots run slightly large, so if you plan to wear them with everyday socks, size down.

Price at time of publication: $85

Come rain or shine, these Sorel booties will have you just as the name suggests: Out ‘n About. This classic duck boot feels anything but stale in its third generation, thanks to updated and improved features and fresh style. In fact, there are so many trendy colors, patterns, and textures that you’ll find one to fit any style. Even better, the boot actually performs as well as it looks.

Best All-Weather

Sorel Out ’n About™ III Classic Duck Boot

Thick heel for traction and lift
Quick laces
Offers lots of stability
Not great for off-road terrain

Hitting right above the ankle on most, these fully waterproof boots incorporate suede leather, ballistic canvas, felt, and other water-resistant materials to keep rain out. While these booties aren’t insulated, they are surprisingly warm and breathe well thanks to the combination of natural and synthetic textiles. We love the easy, customizable laces and heel pull tab for a quick on-and-off.

This version’s waterproof vulcanized rubber bottom shell, with cushy EVA footbed and PU midsole, absorbs shock nicely. And we feel confident in the thick outsole’s traction ability to excel on wet pavement, making this best-seller a perfect commuter boot to take you safely from point A to B.

Price at time of publication: $140

Available in an array of colors and a variety of sizes, this pair of rain-proof hiking boots are so versatile they can weather any storm. A supportive ankle boot built for backpacking technical terrain, the firm but comfortable Renegade GTX keeps you dry and warm as you travel off-road.

Best For Hiking

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot

Breathable waterproof upper
Sturdy and stable
Comfortable
Runs slightly narrow
Expensive

The lightly insulated, moisture-repellent leather upper breathes especially well for a fully waterproof boot, thanks to the GORE-TEX lining. This, along with the “Climate Control” perforated footbed which releases heat and perspiration on long hikes, is why we recommend the shoe for treks that turn from cold to wet to warm, even in a single day.The renownedly adaptable Vibram outsoles of the Renegade GTX are a bit heavy but grippy and sturdy to handle diverse terrains, like rock and trees. They have a comfy soft ankle collar, molded midsole for cushion, nylon shank for protective underfoot support, and quick lace-up with adjustable speed hooks.

Price at time of publication: $245

If you prefer or require a tall boot that’s not so snug, we recommend these fashionable rain boots by Jileon. With a more inclusive calf circumference, the boot maker’s line of adjustable wellies complements either 15-18 inch or 16-23 inch calf sizes at a comfortable, easy to slip on and off mid-height. A wider foot and ankle and padded insoles mean ample and comfortable room in the footbed.

Best For Wide Calves

Jileon Mid-calf Rain Boots

Customized fit
30-day free return policy
Wider foot and ankle
Limited colors

Durable, 100-percent waterproof rubber and a treaded outsole make these boots protective and safety-forward for whatever trip or rain date you have planned. Walkers should note that the lightly-lined rain boots may be better suited for summer walks than cold-weather treks.

Price at time of publication: $70

How We Selected

To make our list of the best rain boots, our team spent hours researching dozens of retail brands on the market to see how they performed in key areas including height, weight, and fit for comfort and support, protective and technical features like material insulation and traction, item care, and overall durability and value. We consulted experts in the field of podiatry and outdoor sports to get the best advice for choosing safe, quality, footwear for walking in rainy conditions, and cited academic journals and scientific findings to support these claims.

Final Verdict

Whether you’re walking on the streets or on a trail, L.L. Bean’s Main Hunting Shoes (view at L.L. Bean) will keep your feet comfortable and dry for hours on end. Made with premium waterproof leather, they’re insulated and breathable—making them our top pick for both warmer days and days when the weather takes a chilly turn. The lace-up design also ensures you won’t get any rain in the top of your boots.

Since some rain boots go through version updates and new studies on foot health and shoe technology are done over time, we will continue to keep an eye on the market and research to update our recommendations as things change.

What to Look for in Rain Boots

Height and Weight

When the wrong boot height meets high waters, it can mean the perfect storm for cold, drenched limbs and feet. If the rain is heavy or you anticipate yourself in deep waters, head out with tall boots to protect against splashes, muck, and even wind gusts.On the other hand, it can be an exhausting leg workout to lug along in heavy clompers. Bulky boots can be also hazardous in some scenarios but can provide some stability in others. When selecting the best rain boots for you, consider where you will be wearing them the most. You may want a taller boot if you plan on going off-road, in a high-grassy area, or crossing streams, while a shorter, lighter boot may be all you need for a rainy urban commute.

Take note of the weight of your boots and ensure the materials resist and shed moisture to maintain all-day comfort. At the end of the day, a short or tall boot can both be smart, protective, and even fashionable choices, but carefully consider the weather, weight, and your day’s journey before you make your pick.

Activity, Comfort, and Support

When selecting rain boots, you will need ones that are well-designed to fit comfortably with a supportive midsole, cushion, and for the activity at hand. If you will be spending many hours walking in the boots, ensure they have a good heel-to-toe roll. Likewise, long durations of activity in wet conditions will require a boot that is breathable, in addition to locking out moisture.

If you will be out in cold temperatures or snow, you will want rain boots with insulation for warmth (more on this below).

Insulation and Protection

When it’s raining heavily, it’s important to keep your feet warm and dry. Many rain boots are unlined or are meant to have a roomy fit so that they can slip on and off easily and accommodate pant layers or thick socks. For unlined boots, it’s important to adjust to fluctuating temperatures and double down on frigid days with warm, breathable socks—such as merino wool.

Alternatively, you may choose a rain boot with a layer of built-in insulation, such as fleece, wool, neoprene, or Thinsulate, like in snow boots. When gauging insulation, note the GSM (grams per square meter) of the lining and/or temperature rating to ensure the shoe meets your needs. The higher the GSM weight, the heavier the insulation.

Additionally, it goes without saying that when it’s raining (or it’s pouring), it is imperative to select a pair of rain boots with waterproof technology like GORE-TEX lining, or water-resistant outer materials like rubber or treated leather at a height that will prevent water entry. After all, dry feet are warm feet!

Traction

To stay afoot as surfaces get slippery, you’ll need good traction. Rain boots with deep, cleat-like “lugs,” are great for snow and mud while shallower treads with softer rubbers are best for sticking to paved and slick stone surfaces. For a versatile pair that can tackle diverse terrains, consider boots with medium-sticky rubber outsoles, like Vibram soles.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Certified personal trainer Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, has spent a fair amount of years living and commuting in rainy climates. For this shopping guide, she spent hours researching dozens of the latest and best rain boots available, prioritizing those that provide comfort, protection, traction, value, and style for whatever activity is at hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and why should you wear rain boots?
Opting for rain boots over just any old trainer or boot will not only be way more comfortable but also is safer for foot health. “Because they are waterproof versus other shoes that are absorbable, they do not allow for the accumulation of moisture," Jacqueline Prevete, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, New York-based podiatrist, says. “If your feet are exposed to a damp environment for long periods of time, infection, as well as blistering and breaking of the skin, can occur as a result," she adds. Conversely, you should reserve wearing rain footwear only when needed. “Weather-proof shoes or boots are going to be the best for you if it is actively raining or if you are running, walking, or exercising in an environment where it has recently rained or snowed,” Humphreys says. “Waterproof shoes or boots are going to be less breathable than standard shoes for exercise, so it is best if you only wear them if your feet might get wet.”
Do you wear socks with rain boots?
“Always wear socks!” Humphreys says. “Socks are going to help keep your shoes fresh, clean and prevent your feet from blisters or other discomforts.” She and Prevete say wool or synthetic socks are the way to go when actively wearing a boot in the rain. “They help wick moisture away from your feet and keep your skin A LOT drier and more comfortable,” Humphreys says.If your socks get wet, however, it’s best to change them as soon as possible. “It’s best to not allow for water and/or damp shoes and socks to remain in contact with the skin, and in fact, it’s better if they are removed promptly to allow for drying," Prevete says.
Can you wear rain boots in the snow?
Some rain boots can be worn in the snow if they have sufficient winter safety specs to protect your feet. Insufficient insulation and waterproofing can put your feet at risk of frostbite. “While rain boots in the snow are okay in terms of resisting moisture, what may be compromised is the insulation that snow boots provide,” says Prevete.Boots need to be properly insulated for the temperature outside and lock out moisture to keep your tootsies toasty and protected. When it starts to sleet or snow, be sure to wear a boot with enough insulation, as well as traction for the terrain. Rain boots will need to have deep lugs and outsole surface grip for ice and snowpack to be worn in the snow.
How to clean rain boots
Most rain boots have easy-to-wipe exteriors that a soft scrub brush or cloth can handle. When things get super muddy, hose these off outside or in a sink, removing large debris first to protect drains and avoid getting water in the interior, then air dry.Textile uppers can also be cleaned by wiping or brushing, but avoid drenching them in water, then air dry. For leather, use a soft cloth or use a special leather oil or cleanser and take proper care to follow the manufacturer’s directions to preserve the longevity of the boots.“Like any other shoe, rain boots wear out, so be cognizant of how often you wear them and replace them when worn,” Prevete says. “Also, with more wear and tear, the boots can be less effective in resisting moisture," she adds.

Opting for rain boots over just any old trainer or boot will not only be way more comfortable but also is safer for foot health. “Because they are waterproof versus other shoes that are absorbable, they do not allow for the accumulation of moisture," Jacqueline Prevete, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, New York-based podiatrist, says. “If your feet are exposed to a damp environment for long periods of time, infection, as well as blistering and breaking of the skin, can occur as a result," she adds.

“Always wear socks!” Humphreys says. “Socks are going to help keep your shoes fresh, clean and prevent your feet from blisters or other discomforts.” She and Prevete say wool or synthetic socks are the way to go when actively wearing a boot in the rain. “They help wick moisture away from your feet and keep your skin A LOT drier and more comfortable,” Humphreys says.

Some rain boots can be worn in the snow if they have sufficient winter safety specs to protect your feet. Insufficient insulation and waterproofing can put your feet at risk of frostbite. “While rain boots in the snow are okay in terms of resisting moisture, what may be compromised is the insulation that snow boots provide,” says Prevete.

Most rain boots have easy-to-wipe exteriors that a soft scrub brush or cloth can handle. When things get super muddy, hose these off outside or in a sink, removing large debris first to protect drains and avoid getting water in the interior, then air dry.

How We Selected#

What to Look for in Rain Boots#

Height and Weight#

Activity, Comfort, and Support#

Insulation and Protection#

Traction#

Why Trust Verywell Fit#