To find the best Rain Boots for walking, we began by speaking with experts—including podiatrists, foot and ankle surgeons, a certified fitness trainer, and an outdoor gear specialist—for advice on what key features to look for . Then, we tested 55 expert-approved rain boots from top, trusted brands. Wearing each pair in drizzles, downpours, and wet weather, we evaluate based on fit, durability, performance, waterproofing, and value. Another reason to trust us? An ACE-certified fitness instructor and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board reviewed this article for accuracy and how to find comfortable, durable rainboots for walking.
A downpour can really dampen your day, whether you're out for a leisurely hike or a long-distance trek . Thankfully, waterproof rain boots can keep you dry, safe, and comfortable on a walk in wet weather. The best rain boots for walking protect against the elements with waterproofing, durable construction, warm insulation , and grippy traction in mud or snow. They should feel breathable, comfortable, and supportive for your feet, and slip on and off with ease.
What to Look For
Best Women's Overall
Bogs Sweetpea Tall Rain Boot
Zappos
View On Amazon
View On Zappos
$90
View On REI
$63
Our Ratings
Pros
Fully waterproof
Grippy traction
Easy to slip on and off
Cons
Doesn't come in half sizes
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Rubber upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 10 inches | Weight (Pair): 4 pounds | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for light hikes, wet sports fields, rainy commutes, and (much) more.
Why We Love Them
Bogs’ Sweetpea Tall Rain Boots are a sleek and functional option well suited for everything from light hikes to rainy commutes. We tested these boots in heavy Vermont flooding, braving downpours and puddles during errands and traversing wet sports fields. Impressively, our feet remained completely dry in these watertight boots, and we didn’t notice any moisture inside the boots after encountering wet weather.
The odor-fighting interior effectively wicks way and evaporates sweat, preventing the uncomfortable swampy feeling often associated with rubber boots. And discreet pull tabs and a generous shaft circumference make these easy to take on and off (and also a great option if you have wide calves). Lightly lined, this pair offers a comfortable cushion and decent warmth for mild temperatures. Plus, the textured rubber outsole delivers substantial traction that keeps us from slipping on element-inflicted surfaces.
The supportive nylon shank in the footbed enhances stability, giving this pair a more secure feel compared to standard rain boots. And if you prefer to shop sustainably, you’ll appreciate the natural and recycled rubber and algae-infused footbeds. We also appreciate the durability of the thick yet lightweight materials, which proved resilient throughout testing.
Potential Flaws
“I've worn these boots in very heavy downpours and walked through puddles and my feet never got wet, nor did I notice any moisture on the insides of the boots.” —Carolyn Malcoun, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Carolyn Malcoun
Best Men's Overall
Carhartt 6in Waterproof Wedge Work Boot
Amazon
View On Amazon
$170
View On Zappos
$170
View On Dick's
Our Ratings
Pros
Versatile style
Keeps feet dry and warm
Breathable
Cons
No pull tab
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7 to 15 | Materials: Leather upper, polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 6 inches | Weight (Pair): 4 pounds | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for men who need a versatile boot for outdoor work, light hikes, and casual nights out in wet weather.
Why We Love Them
Most of the shoes we tested feature a rubber upper, providing that classic rain boot style. But Carhartt’s Waterproof Wedge Boots are constructed with a durable leather upper that not only looks sleek but also proved completely waterproof during our wet-weather walks. And while leather tends to lack breathability, these shoes effectively locked out moisture without causing our feet to become overly hot and sweaty.
Throughout testing, we regularly wore these comfortable boots during rainy commutes to work, frequently testing the limits of their waterproofing and well-cushioned midsoles on long, 10-hour days. The thick, wedge-style outsole lifts ever so slightly, keeping our feet above gutter puddles. We felt confident in the boot’s slip-resistant traction as we navigated deep puddles and traversed wet pavement, grass, and hard flooring.
Overall, the boots’ style and performance make them an ideal, versatile option to safely take you from point A to point B, even to dinner afterward. We also love that these come in various neutral shades so you can dress them up or down as you please.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Clay Halton
Verywell Fit / Clay Halton
Verywell Fit / Clay Halton
Verywell Fit / Clay Halton
Verywell Fit / Clay Halton
Best Women's Hiking Boot
Hi-Tec Altitude VI I WP Hiking Boots
Hi-Tec
View On Amazon
$60
View On Hi-tec.com
Our Ratings
Pros
Extremely comfortable
Grippy traction
Keep feet dry and warm
Cons
May be too wide for narrow feet
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 5 inches | Weight (Pair): Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for hiking, outdoor work, and navigating storms.
Why We Love Them
When trail conditions get wet, you need a hiking shoe with a protective upper and grippy outsole—like Hi-Tec’s Women’s Altitude VI I WP Hiking Boots. The water-repellent leather upper ensures dry feet, and the durable rubber outsole prevents slips and slides. Plus, the microfleece membrane kept our feet warm (but not sweaty) in colder conditions.
While designed for tackling technical terrain, this supportive ankle boot was put to the test on trails and the rainy New York City streets. As the weather shifted from sun to heavy rain, we were impressed by the boot's protection and traction—even in deep water and on slick hardwood surfaces. We also appreciate how the contoured arch support and heel cradle provide a supportive fit, while the thick foam midsoles absorb impact for hours of comfy walking.
Potential Flaws
“I wore these outside in a pretty big storm and was impressed with how dry the shoes and my feet stayed. After splashing around in some shallower puddles, I went and found one that completely submerged the shoe up to the edge of the laces. I stood there for some time waiting to see if the water would eventually seep through—it never did!” —Alexandra Dwy, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Alexandra Dwy
Verywell Fit / Alexandra Dwy
Travel + Leisure / Alexandra Dwy
Verywell Fit / Alexandra Dwy
Verywell Fit / Alexandra Dwy
Best Men's Hiking Boot
Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Amazon
View On Amazon
$100
View On Zappos
$100
View On Walmart
Our Ratings
Pros
Extremely comfortable
Versatile style
Durable
Cons
Logos and sporty look aren’t for everyone
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7 to 15 | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 4.75 inches | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for hikers and workers who want a protective waterproof boot for on and off the trail and job site.
Why We Love Them
Timberland White Ledge Waterproof Hiking Boots are built tough with versatility to tackle the rainiest hikes, work days, and commutes. Crafted from responsibly sourced, waterproof leather and rustproof speed lace hook hardware, these boots are rugged and sturdy (without feeling bulky) to weather any storm. They also proved comfortable and supportive enough for everyday wear.
During testing, we noticed that the grippy traction worked equally effectively on pavement, grass, sand, and mud. The cushioned foam midsole, flexible arch shank, and thick rubber outsole work together to absorb impact on hard surfaces. Constructed with sealed seams and a gusseted tongue, there’s no chance of water entry. The soft, recycled fabric linking also breathes well, preventing sweaty feet.
Potential Flaws
“I would recommend these as a hiking boot or as everyday footwear. I have a difficult time finding comfortable footwear and these are exceptional.” —Steven Schrimpf, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Steven Schrimpf
Verywell Fit / Steven Schrimpf
Best Budget
Asgard Chelsea Ankle Waterproof Rain Boots
Amazon
View On Amazon
$33
Our Ratings
Pros
Many color options
Easy to slip on and off
Lightweight and packable
Cons
Lack arch support
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Materials: Rubber upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 5.5 inches | Weight (Pair): 1 pound | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a sleek, classic rain boot that’s comfortable for walking short to moderate distances.
Why We Love Them
Asgard Chelsea Ankle Waterproof Rain Boots combine style and function at a budget-friendly price. They are one of the lightest shoes on our list, so they don’t feel clunky and pack well for travel. And with a sleek style and a variety of color options, you can wear them for just about anything (we wore them to work, on walks in the rain, and even to a muddy pumpkin patch). Importantly, our feet remained completely dry during every wet-weather adventure.
These boots are equipped with a textured, durable rubber outsole that keeps us sure-footed on slippery surfaces. They also feel well-cushioned, never once aggravating one tester’s plantar fasciitis. Thanks to the convenient pull tab and elastic entry, slipping these boots on and off is a breeze. The classic style, cushioned comfort, and overall versatility make this budget-friendly pair a win for both your wallet and wardrobe.
Potential Flaws
“I wore them in the rain, walked through many puddles, and traversed through gutters full of flowing water, and my feet stayed dry.” —Diana Weesner, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Diana Weesner
Verywell Fit / Diana Weesner
Verywell Fit / Diana Weesner
Verywell Fit / Diana Weesner
Best Traction
Bogs Holly Lace Leather Boots
Bogs
View On REI
$170
View On Bogsfootwear.com
View On Dsw.com
Our Ratings
Pros
Stylish yet functional
Sustainably made
Dry quickly
Cons
Slightly heavy
Less breathable than others
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Leather outsole, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 6.5 inches | Weight (Pair): 4 pounds, 13 ounces | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a versatile boot with exceptional traction for climbing slick stairs, descending gravel trails, and more.
Why We Love Them
Come rain or sleet, Bogs’ Holly Lace Leather Boots keep you safe and sure-footed on all terrains. These fashion-forward boots not only make a stylish statement for a night out in the rain but also prove practical for outdoor activities in wet weather. The dense and durable rubber outsole delivers grippy traction on wet pavements, trails, and grass. Made with sustainably made, ethically sourced, well-cushioned midsoles, the boots are also supremely supple for comfy all-day wear.
Beyond their impressive traction, these rain boots are (importantly) completely watertight. We repeatedly submerged them in ankle-deep water to find that our feet remained warm and dry. Along with waterproofing, the high-quality leather upper stands up against dirt and debris. Plus, the moisture-wicking, anti-odor lining—made from recycled materials—proves highly effective, especially if you have particularly sweaty feet.
Potential Flaws
“These boots repel water better than any boot I have owned. I wore them in the rain, stepped in ankle-deep puddles, and even stood at the edge of a small lake—my feet stayed dry the entire time.” —Kristin Cleveland, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Kristin Cleveland
Verywell Fit / Kristin Cleveland
Verywell Fit / Kristin Cleveland
Verywell Fit / Kristin Cleveland
Most Stylish
Hunter Short Rain Boot
DSW
View On Amazon
View On Zappos
$170
View On Footlocker.com
Our Ratings
Pros
Stylish yet functional
Customizable fit
Easy to slip on and off
Cons
No insulation
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11 | Materials: Rubber upper, recycled polyester midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 10.5 inches | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 11 ounces | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for everyday, casual wear—especially if you prefer the classic rain boot style.
Why We Love Them
Step out confidently into the pouring rain with the timeless Hunter Original Short Rain Boots. Boasting a 10.5-inch shaft that keeps pant legs dry, these are perfect for walking the dog, running errands, or commuting to the office. The adjustable buckles ensure a customized fit and easy on-and-off wear. Handcrafted from durable, waterproof, and vegan-certified rubber, these boots are grippy and sturdy.
In testing, we appreciated the moisture-wicking lining that kept our sweaty feet dry. And despite their light cushioning, these shoes remain comfortable for all-day wear. We also love the inch-high heel that elevates you above slush, and the treaded rubber outsole provides excellent traction. Backed by a two-year warranty, this lightweight yet durable pair comes in various colors, patterns, and finishes, making them a versatile and long-lasting investment.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Frances Crouter
Verywell Fit / Frances Crouter
Verywell Fit / Frances Crouter
Best Insulated
Lands' End Sherpa Fleece Lined Duck Boots
Lands End
View On Landsend.com
$110
Our Ratings
Pros
Fully waterproof
Grippy traction
Customizable fit
Cons
Tongue is stiff at first
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Rubber upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 6 inches | Weight (Pair): 3 pounds | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They’re For
Best for wet and cold days when you need extra warmth for running errands, commuting, and casual walks.
Why We Love Them
Conquer freezing rain, hail, and snow with Lands' End’s Insulated Sherpa Fleece-Lined Duck Boots. We wore them around the chilly, drizzly streets of Seattle to confirm that they offer waterproofing and warmth. Thanks to the sherpa fleece-covered shaft and footbed, as well as added insulation, these boots provide warmth down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Durable and easy to wipe clean, the shoes maintained their original quality during wet and cold conditions throughout testing. The rubber upper locks out all moisture, while the textured outsole keeps you sure-footed. A leather pull tab and adjustable laces also make these easy to slip in and out of. Plus, the slightly raised heel adds support and stability when walking on wet pavement, slick grass, and more.
Potential Flaws
Best for Wide Feet
L.L.Bean Bean Boots
View On Zappos
$100
View On L.L.Bean
$100
Our Ratings
Pros
Easy to slip on and off
Triple-stitched leather for durability
Grippy traction
Cons
Sizing can be tricky
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Leather and rubber upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 6 inches | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 2 ounces | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for rain, mud, and other wet climates and conditions, whether you’re trudging through chores outdoors or checking off your errand list.
Why We Love Them
If you have wide feet, look for shoes with a wide toe box, like L.L.Bean’s Women’s Bean Boots. They are specifically oversized to accommodate thick winter socks, so there’s ample room for wide or swollen feet. The lace-up style not only ensures a secure fit but also allows for customizable adjustments. And convenient heel tabs also make slipping them on and off a breeze.
Beyond comfort, hand-crafted duck-style boots stand out for their durability. Triple-stitched for longevity, they also come with a one-year guarantee. We wore these boots daily around town and during rainy hikes in the woods of Arkansas, finding that they deliver effective waterproofing, reliable traction, and hours of comfort. They’re also easy to clean for when you (inevitably) encounter off-road dirt and debris.
Potential Flaws
“I loved the fit. I have tried other brands of this type of shoe but they were never wide enough even in the wide sizes—these are.” —Megan Wood, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Elise Wojczyk Wang
Verywell Fit / Elise Wojczyk Wang
Verywell Fit / Elise Wojczyk Wang
Verywell Fit / Elise Wojczyk Wang
Best Color Options
Merry People Bobbi Rain Boot
Merry People
View On Merrypeople.com
$130
Our Ratings
Pros
Easy to slip on and off
Unisex, for men and women
Supportive cushioning
Cons
Insoles easily pop out when removing
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 4 to 11 | Materials: Rubber upper, midsole, and outsole | Shaft Height: Not listed | Weight (Pair): 2 pounds, 14 ounces | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for a stylish, yet functional, addition to your wet-weather wardrobe.
Why We Love Them
Want to add a splash of color to brighten dreary days? We love Merry People’s Bobbi Rain Boot, a classic Chelsea-style boot that comes in 17 unisex colors. Function takes no back seat to fashion with this pair because they locked out all moisture as we walked through the rainy streets of New York City (purposefully stepping in puddles and wet foliage). And the durable, textured rubber outsole kept us sure-footed on super-slick city sidewalks.
Made with a lightly cushioned midsole and arch support in mind, these shoes are comfy enough to wear all day—so much so that we even reached for them on dry days. Thanks to the stretchy lining and dual pull tabs, we found them easy to pull on and take off. We also appreciated that, despite wearing thick winter socks, our feet never felt overly sweaty or hot throughout testing.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Alisha Prakash
Verywell Fit / Alisha Prakash
Most Comfortable
On Waterproof Hiking Boots
REI
View On Zappos
$220
View On REI
$154
View On Dick's
$220
Our Ratings
Pros
Equipped for rugged environments
Supportive cushioning
Breathable
Cons
Sporty look isn’t for everyone
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Mesh and recycled polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: Not listed | Weight (Pair): 1 pound, 12.5 ounces | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for long-lasting comfort and reliable traction during hikes, commutes, sporting events, sightseeing, and more.
Why We Love Them
On’s Cloudrock 2 Waterproof Boots provided all-day comfort when put to the test on the bustling, rainy streets of New York City. The midsole offers ample cushioning and shock absorption (like with many of our favorite On Running shoes). The rocker shape, ankle support, and sole shanks encourage speedy, safe strides—which we found invaluable on the slick city streets.
Designed for hiking, these lightweight shoes also feature a protective toe cap, grippy traction, and lateral stability that keep your feet safe in rain or snow. During testing, we purposefully walked through puddles to find that these boots passed our wet test, effectively locking out moisture. While protective, the mesh upper is super breathable, preventing our feet from overheating. We also appreciate the speed hook laces, which are easy to customize and adjust, even when wearing warm gloves on cold days.
Potential Flaws
“I purposefully would walk into puddles to give them a test, and they passed. I could see them being awesome shoes for heavy rain days and even snow.” —Cassie Basford, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Cassie Basford
Verywell Fit / Cassie Basford
Verywell Fit / Cassie Basford
Best Chelsea Boot
Sam Edelman Laguna Waterproof Chelsea Boot
Amazon
View On Amazon
$170
View On Zappos
$100
View On Nordstrom
$68
Our Ratings
Pros
Stylish yet functional
Front and back heel tabs
Supportive cushioning
Cons
Feel a bit stiff at first
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 14 | Materials: Leather upper, synthetic midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 5.75 inches | Weight (Pair): Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a stylish and functional Chelsea boot for casual, daily wear in wet weather.
Why We Love Them
For a fashionable slip-on boot that checks both boxes of style and function, we love Sam Edelman’s Laguna Waterproof Chelsea Boot. We tested this pair against some major puddles and our feet remained completely dry. And over time, after many splashes and rainfall, the durable leather upper held up. We also appreciate the deeply lugged outsoles, which lend plenty of non-slip grip to muddy passes, slippery pavement, and slick hardwood floors.
In testing, we noticed that the boots felt lightweight, with a sturdy and supportive fit. They also feature handy front and back pull tabs, as well as stretchy elastic gores, that make them easy to slip on and off. From rich black to soft ivory, this super stylish pair comes in plenty of color options to match your aesthetic.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Best Breathable
Vessi Weekend Waterproof Chelsea Boot
Vessi
View On Vessi.com
$160
Our Ratings
Pros
Front and back heel tabs
Ultra-comfy
Versatile for wet and dry conditions
Cons
No half sizes
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11 | Materials: Knit textile upper, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: Not listed | Weight (Pair): Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best if you live in warm, wet weather or have particularly sweaty feet.
Why We Love Them
Rain boots can get downright stuffy (and stinky), since waterproofing materials tend to be thick. That’s why we love Vessi’s Weekend Chelsea Boots, a slipper-like street-style shoe that combines breathability and protective features. They feature a temperature-regulating, all-weather knit upper that promotes airflow without letting in any rain. We even stepped into a creek (in the pouring rain), and these proved completely watertight.
During testing, we also wore these shoes in dry conditions because they’re so comfy. The lightweight feel and well-cushioned midsole let us stand for hours at a time—whether it’s a long work day, running errands, or walking the dog. And in both wet and dry conditions, the grippy rubber outsole kept us sure-footed and steady. Plus, front and back pull tabs make these easy to slip on and off.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Ben Anderson
Verywell Fit / Ben Anderson
Verywell Fit / Ben Anderson
Best Tall
Xtratuf x Salmon Sisters Legacy Boot
Amazon
View On Amazon
$128
View On Zappos
$109
View On REI
$155
Our Ratings
Pros
Fully waterproof
Supportive cushioning
Durable
Cons
Slightly heavy
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Rubber upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Shaft Height: 15 inches | Weight (Pair): 5 pounds, 4.8 ounces | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best if you need a tall rain boot for heavy rain, deep puddles, or sloppy mud.
Why We Love Them
Xtratuf’s Salmon Sisters Legacy Boots are one of the most protective boots we tested—thanks to their acid- and chemical-resistant, durable construction that protects beyond water. These make a great choice for wet weather as well as messy conditions (think job sites and muddy hikes), since the knee-height shaft protects your full lower leg from splashes, mud, murk, and more. And when you’re wading through low waters, we love that you can roll down the shaft to let your legs breathe.
Built with a woman-specific heel and toe counter for a comfortable and secure fit, we liked that the boots are well-cushioned and offer arch support. After wearing them on several rainy days, we found that the thick rubber soles are ultra-non-slip—even on the slipperiest surfaces. Beyond waterproofing and protection, these boots feature fun fabric lining that adds a stylish flair.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
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