Best Waterproof Running Shoes (2023)

FAQs

Best Waterproof Running Shoes? ›

You're running in cold and damp (not really wet) conditions: Waterproof trail runners will shield your feet from moisture when your shoes touch wet brush and grass. They will also keep your feet warmer in cold weather.

You're running in cold and damp (not really wet) conditions: Waterproof trail runners will shield your feet from moisture when your shoes touch wet brush and grass. They will also keep your feet warmer in cold weather.

This article has been updated with current models for September 2023. The Asics Cumulus 24 GTX, Brooks Ghost 14 GTX, Brooks Cascadia 16 GTX, and the Saucony Excursion TR15 GTX have been replaced with their updated versions. The Asics GT-1000 12 GTX and Hoka Clifton 9 GTX are new additions.

Gore-Tex is the most well-known and reputable waterproofing technology, and many brands, like Nike and Brooks, will incorporate Gore-Tex membranes into their shoe models because they are both breathable and waterproof. (Look for shoe models that have GTX or Gore-Tex in the name.)

A very simple plastic bag would be capable of keeping your foot dry, a bit like a welly boot, however what makes Gore Tex special is the breathability. By allowing water vapour from sweat to escape the shoe, footwear can be worn for longer periods and for sports or hiking for example, with relative comfort.

Both trail and hiking shoes have the potential to be equally comfortable over long days of walking. For shorter walks, carrying lighter loads and where speed is important, trail running shoes offer a balance of cushion and flex.

Trail shoes have evolved from road shoes as a way to better adapt to the trail environment. For instance, while road shoes feature relatively flat outsoles for increased speed and traction on smooth surfaces, trail running shoes feature lugged outsoles to increase grip on loose, uneven, and slippery terrain.

These provide varying degrees of waterproof reliability but none offer the unique properties of GORE-TEX. You may get 100% protection with a standard vinyl waterproof, but with GORE-TEX you get something that is much more geared towards practicality and an active lifestyle.

Look no further than the HOKA waterproof collection! Our selection of GORE-TEX hiking boots, shoes, and running shoes are designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter what the conditions.

The modern version of Gore-Tex is waterproof, of course– but it's also breathable, durable, and lighter than ever.

What shoes to wear in heavy rain? ›

Rain doesn't mean a lack of style, and chunky soles or platforms are a good way to keep up with the weather. To stay dry and avoid slipping, bring out your leather shoes with soles that grip the ground: boots, ankle boots or sneakers.

Water shoes are better than wearing generic shoes in the water because they're specifically designed to stay light in the water, provide good traction against slippery surfaces, drain quickly once and dry fast so they don't cause blisters or develop an odor as you continue on your hike or beach day.

The eVent membrane does not have such a status in the outdoor world, but it is commonly considered one of the best alternatives to the Gore-Tex, as it excels over it, especially in terms of breathability. In terms of other properties, both are on the same level.

Gore-Tex clothing/ footwear can degrade in time

As this DWR treatment wears off, water can infiltrate the outer layer of the garment, while the buildup of sweat and grime from the inside can clog the pores of the membrane.

Gore-tex will stay wet for days. Especially if it's rainy and you will be crossing streams, your feet are going to get wet. The issue then becomes what will dry out faster. I use well vented shoes in wet conditions.

Once you're out running in the rain, you can feel confident that if it's incessantly heavy precipitation, or you accidentally stick your foot in a deceptively deep puddle, your feet will remain warm and dry (even more so if you pair the socks with waterproof trainers).

Your normal running shoes would likely work just fine. But if you're talking trails that climb and descend, or have loose rocks, tree roots, twists and turns, well, then you need shoes with better traction, stability, and protection which is exactly what trail shoes are designed to provide.

You should generally replace your running shoes every 300–500 miles.

It's best to avoid wearing your trail running shoes on the road, since the hard pavement can wear away the soft rubber outsoles. Plus, a pair of trail running shoes won't provide as much shock absorption as your road running shoes.