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The best men's waterproof shoes you can buy
The best waterproof sneakers
The best waterproof high-tops
Despite being labeled as a boot, the SeaVees Mariners look and fit more like sneakers, which makes them easier to style compared to a true rain boot.
But, don't let the casual aesthetic fool you into thinking they're not capable of withstanding water. The shoes feature a waterproof suede upper, sealed seams, gusseted tongues, and raised rubber foxing around the perimeter to keep water out.
The high-top design is casual and timeless, similar to that of a pair of Vans or Converse. With that said, the SeaVees Mariners Boot is definitely not the most interesting shoe choice if you're looking for something that's trendy or unique.
I've worn my SeaVees Mariners quite a few times in torrential downpours and made it to and from work with dry feet. The shoes have a decent amount of cushioning for comfort, but my personal pair is pretty snug. I ordered my true size, so I would recommend going a half-size up. Learn more about the SeaVees Mariners Boot in my full review. — Amir Ismael
Pros: classic design elements, can be worn when it's not raining
Cons: Runs small (go a half size up), not unique if you're looking for a trendy style
Read our review of the SeaVees Mariners BootThe best waterproof hiking shoes
To be completely honest, I had never tried or even considered wearing Columbia footwear until the SH/FT OutDry Mid was released — and that's not a knock to the brand.
Columbia is known for its rugged outdoor gear, so as someone who isn't regularly trekking through the wilderness or climbing up a mountain, it just wasn't on my radar. The Columbia SH/FT OutDry Mid, however, was created to appeal to people like myself who desire footwear that's a bit more stylish and versatile.
The shoe features a 100% waterproof stretch-knit upper with full-grain leather overlays (both materials are surprisingly thick and durable), the brand's own high-energy-return SH/FT cushioning technology on the midsoles, and rugged rubber outsoles.
Collectively, all of the performance features make for a solid hiking shoe, whether you're going on a casual stroll in the woods or more of a serious outdoorsman. The soles have plenty of traction that can handle everything from basic dirt trails to rocky or wet terrain.
With a sock-like sneaker fit and plenty of cool colors available, you can wear these in urban environments — far away from any outdoor trail — and not look out of place. You can style these the same way you would runners from a traditional sportswear brand. Read my full review on the Columbia SH/FT OutDry Mid to learn more. — Amir Ismael
Pros: Sneaker-like design and comfort, good colorways available, suitable for backcountry trails and city streets, heavy-duty material
Cons: no solid colorways available
Read our review of the Columbia SH/FT OutDry MidThe best waterproof boot
As L.L. Bean's standout product, the classic 8-inch Bean Boot is regarded by the brand as the "original antidote to wet feet." It made our list for just that reason. Acting as a rain boot without looking like one, the Bean Boot can be worn easily with jeans, chinos, joggers, and everything in between.
In terms of utility, it has been and always will be a rough-weather staple. The boot features a high-traction rubber bottom, a protective rubber lower with sealed seams, a leather upper shaft, metal eyelets, and durable laces. You can wear these on a rainy day in the spring and fall — and with a thick pair of warm socks, they're also suitable for cold and snowy winters.
L.L. Bean has been hand-making these for the last 108 years, so sometimes it can be hard for the brand to keep up with demand. If you're interested in a pair don't wait until the height of winter to buy them — they'll likely be on backorder. — Amir Ismael
Pros: Time-tested design, multi-seasonal, periodically include in the brand's sales, plenty of styles and colors
Cons: Regularly sells out during peak seasons (fall and winter)
The best waterproof running shoes
If you're planning on adventuring in the great outdoors this summer, you'll definitely want a pair of On Running shoes in your closet. The Swiss-based performance brand has engineered three different shoes designed for all conditions — and yes, that includes summer thunderstorms.
The Cloud, Cloudflyer, and Cloudventure all have full waterproof protection for a range of running environments. Whether you plan on being outside in the city or on an unkempt trail, these shoes have you covered. Thanks to the brand's signature Cloudtec treads, you'll have a firm grip on any surface, and won't run the risk of slipping. Plus, the unique outsole is designed to absorb impact and offer a firm takeoff.
If you're planning on doing a lot of running up and down mountains, the Cloudventure is a worthy companion. Thanks to the 11 individual pods on the shoe's sole that stretch upon impact, you'll offset the strain of running downhill, and, hopefully, give your knees a much-needed break. Plus, the fact that you can run through water means that you can travel with abandon.
All of On Running's shoes are extremely breathable but have managed to maintain their watertight elements. Like Vessi, the waterproof aspect of these shoes doesn't come from a coating, but rather the specially engineered membrane. Not only does the shoe keep water out, it also keeps your feet safe from wind and other elements, resulting in a more comfortable experience. — Lulu Chang
Pros: Waterproof, great for running in both urban and rural environments, lightweight, unique technical design
Cons: Very limited colors
The best waterproof loafers
Who says rain shoes can't be fashion statements? Certainly not SWIMS, the company behind the waterproof loafer. The company first came to fame for its rubber galoshes but has since found better ways to keep rainwater (and water in general) away from your shoes.
Chief among them is the company's now-iconic loafers. Appropriate for the office and the outdoors, SWIMS loafers are constructed with natural rubber and TPU, which means that they are, in fact, waterproof.
SWIMS loafers are extremely breathable, encouraging ventilation and dryness thanks to their specially designed fabric that is meant to allow sweat to dry while simultaneously keeping water out. Moreover, thanks to the outsole's fabricated treads, you'll have great grip and traction even on the slickest of surfaces. While you probably won't need to machine wash your SWIMS (you could just take a sponge and dab away any dirt), these shoes are fabricated with materials that can be laundered at up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, SWIMS shoes feature a special drainage system, so that even if you do step in a puddle, water will be guided out and away with haste.
But SWIMS doesn't stop at functionality — rather, the company's loafers are also some of the most fun we've seen. Not only are they available in a wide range of styles, but there are also multiple color options. These aren't your standard-issue brown leather loafers. You could get your SWIMS in shades of aqua, orange, or anything in between.
Of course, if you're looking for a more standard waterproof shoe, you could also go with SWIMS' classic galoshes or rain boots. Those will get the job done, too, but the loafers may just help you stand out a bit more. — Lulu Chang
Pros: Stylish and unique aesthetic, machine washable, breathable, lightweight
Cons: Relatively expensive for loafers (rain boots are a bit less expensive)
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