If you’re someone who enjoys walking, running, or simply getting about regardless of the weather, a reliable pair of waterproof trainers can be a game-changer. In the UK, where drizzle and downpours are more common than not, finding a pair that keeps your feet dry without compromising comfort or style is essential. But with so many on the market claiming to be waterproof, how do you know which ones really deliver?
We’ve tested a wide range of waterproof trainers across different activities, styles, and budgets to help you find the perfect pair. Below, you’ll find our picks of the best waterproof trainers you can buy right now, along with key things to consider before making your choice.
Best waterproof trainers
Are waterproof trainers actually waterproof?
This is a question we hear a lot, and the short answer is: it depends. Not all shoes labelled as ‘waterproof’ are created equal. Some are only water-resistant, meaning they’ll hold off light splashes or drizzle but will eventually let moisture in. Truly waterproof trainers are designed to prevent water from entering even in heavier rain or when stepping through puddles.
To find out more, I spoke to John Jennings, Footwear Buyer at Cotswold Outdoor and Runners Need, who has answered more questions for us, below.
"Waterproof trainers keep your feet completely dry in rainy or wet conditions, thanks to membranes and special coating which block water – if there’s no membrane, there’s no waterproofing. They're perfect for hiking in the rain or walking through shallow water," he explains.
"On the other hand, water-resistant trainers repel water to some extent but aren't fully waterproof. They're treated to resist light rain or dampness, making them good for everyday use in mildly wet weather. Choosing between them depends on whether you need full protection from water or just a bit of resistance for occasional showers."
How waterproof shoes actually are depends on the materials used and how they're made. Look for fully sealed seams, waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX, and tightly woven outer fabrics. Shoes sold as having a water-repellent coating might offer short-term protection but will eventually soak through in prolonged wet conditions.
It’s also worth noting that the top of the shoe, particularly around the ankle, is a vulnerable spot. Water can still get in through the opening during heavy rain or if you step into deep puddles. Not to mention that if you are out and about in wet weather, the rest of you needs to stay dry too! That’s why pairing waterproof trainers with the best waterproof jacket will help you stay dry, or you could invest in a dryrobe.
What are the best waterproof trainers?
The best waterproof trainers for you will depend on what you want to wear them for. Are you looking for something stylish for everyday wear, or will you need a rugged trail shoe for off-road hiking?
Will you be running in them, so you need something lightweight, or do you need extra cushioning and support to enable you to walk long-distances.
Generally speaking, GORE-TEX trainers tend to perform exceptionally well in wet weather. Brands like Nike and Adidas offer GORE-TEX versions of their most popular shoes, such as the Nike Pegasus Trail 4, and brands such as Mountain Warehouse will offer a range of waterproof footwear with different amounts of grip and support.
Ultimately, the best waterproof trainer is one that fits your needs, feels comfortable from the first wear, and holds up against the elements without compromising on performance or style.
How to choose the best waterproof trainers for you
Investing in a pair of the best waterproof trainers can be a real lifesaver for active people who love being outdoors no matter the weather. Whether you're pounding the pavements, hitting muddy trails, or just trying to stay dry on the school run, a good waterproof trainer gives you the freedom to move comfortably no matter the weather.
Remember to match the trainer to your activity, look out for trusted materials like GORE-TEX, and check customer reviews if you’re buying online. And when in doubt, test them out. Even the most high-tech trainer won’t do its job if it doesn’t fit well or suit your needs.
How we tested
To help you make an informed decision, we put each pair of trainers through its paces in wet conditions. That meant wearing them in the rain, walking through puddles, and using them across a variety of terrains such as pavements, trails, and footpaths.
We paid close attention to how comfortable each shoe felt, how quickly it dried after getting wet, and how well it handled slippery surfaces. Breathability, fit, and overall design were also part of our testing. Since waterproof trainers are often used in all-day wear, we made sure to factor in how they performed during longer outings and whether they caused any rubbing or discomfort.
Finally, we looked at value for money. Some premium models are packed with tech, but budget-friendly versions can still deliver excellent performance if chosen wisely.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Browse our list of tested waterproof trainers above to get started, and check out our Q&A with footwear expert, John Jennings, below.
The best waterproof trainers we've tested
The Brooks Women’s Cascadia 18 GTX is our top choice for all-weather trainers, offering a perfect balance of comfort, durability and eco-conscious design. Our tester said, “I love these trainers—I didn’t think they could actually be completely waterproof, but they are.”
Featuring GORE-TEX technology they offer breathable protection from the elements while staying impressively light on the foot. “They’re really lightweight, which made them great for running, and I wore them for many trail runs both when it was raining and when the ground was wet and muddy. They kept my feet really dry, even splashing through loads of puddles.”
The Cascadia 18 GTX is built for trail running, with enhanced overlays in high-wear areas for added durability, extra cushioning, and an integrated rock plate for stability on uneven ground.
We also love that the TrailTack rubber outsole is made from 25% recycled materials and the shoe as a whole is CarbonNeutral certified, made using recycled materials equivalent to nine plastic bottles.
Fit-wise, our tester noted, “They do come up very wide, so I wore two pairs of socks and had to lace them tightly, but they stayed snug on my foot then, and I didn’t have any blisters or rubbing.” While they are on the pricier side, she added, “They’re well worth the investment if, like me, you enjoy all-weather trail running.”
Pros
- Totally warerproof
- Lightweight
- Excellent grip
Cons
- Come up very wide
Stylish, supportive, and surprisingly robust, the Mountain Warehouse Path Waterproof Walking Shoes proved a hit from the first outing. “I love the modern navy and pink design,” said our tester, “and the dark colour means they won’t show the dirt easily.”
With no break-in time needed, our tester said she had “no blisters, nothing," and that these shoes felt “bouncy but sturdy” straight away.
Thanks to the IsoDry waterproof membrane, cushioned footbed and high-traction outsole, they handled everything from slippery pavements to rugged Wiltshire hills. “The terrain was rocky, muddy, and full of hills, but the well-gripped soles did their job,” she told us.
Even in a torrential downpour, they came through: “I was sceptical, but my feet remained toasty warm and dry throughout.” She also found the breathability lived up to the hype, saying: “my feet did indeed feel fresh after a long walk.”
Perfect for both countryside rambles and everyday use, she summed them up as “bang on the money” for anyone after a sturdy, comfortable, mid-range walking shoe.
Read our full review of the Path waterproof walking shoes
Pros
- Fully waterproof
- Great value for money
- Fit true to size
Cons
- No arch asupport - worth noting if you have high arches.
The Keen Leiki Waterproof Hiking Shoe made a great first impression with our tester saying “they instantly felt comfortable." She put them through their paces on a four-mile dog walk straight out of the box, and had no issues with rubbing or blisters.
With a contoured fit, supportive arch and lightweight cushioning, these shoes handled rutted fields, muddy tracks, and wet stiles with ease. “There was no issue with slipping, and my ankles felt as supported as when I’m wearing a boot,” she told us.
The KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane proved its worth too: “My feet sank into mud… but they remained perfectly dry.” She was also impressed with the flat, easy-to-tie laces because “they stayed done up without any loosening” and also with the shoe’s build quality: “They have not become loose with wear… they’re as sound as the first day of wearing.”
Beyond performance, the eco-friendly credentials sealed the deal: “No harmful chemicals, ethically sourced, and made using recycled and agricultural waste. These values have elevated them as a brand for me.”
The Keen Leiki come in a range of colours and while we wouldn't opt for the pale blue due to them getting dirty easily, the black ones we tested were a great choice.
Pros
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
- Comfortable
- Good price point compared to similar shoes from other brands
Cons
- Pale blue colour would get dirty easily but other colours are available
Designed for moderate trails and packed with eco-conscious features, like being made from recycled materials, we put the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX shoes to the test on long hikes around Pembrokeshire, and they passed with flying colours.
“I didn't get any blisters whatsoever,” said our tester, who wore the boot version of these shoes due to stock availability, “and I didn't need hiking socks either, just one pair of regular socks.”
With a GORE-TEX membrane and Vibram TC5+ outsole, they offered impressive waterproofing and grip. “I crossed a stream in them and my toes stayed totally dry,” she told us, adding that the traction “felt really safe and sturdy” on both steep descents and sharp climbs.
The fit was a win, too, especially for wider feet: “They were neither too tight nor too loose.” Though she’d opt for a darker colour next time as "the pale peach got dirty very quickly." She also praised the shoe’s comfort, construction, and quality, saying, “Overall, I was really pleased with these. They're expensive, but the quality is undeniable.”
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Great grip on steep descents or shap inclines
- Completelty waterproof
Cons
- Expensive - though worth the price tag due to quality
- Pale colour got dirty quickly, but darker options are available
The Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Shoe bridges the gap between sturdy boot and lightweight trainer, and our tester, a 73-year-old novice rambler, was impressed by its performance straight out of the box. “They felt supportive yet not restrictive, and I had no aches or pains even after a 5-mile walk over concrete, grass, mud and rocky terrain.”
Designed with KEEN.DRY waterproof technology, the Targhee IV stood up to serious puddle testing. “Water rolled off the fabric and didn’t penetrate at all—my socks stayed completely dry, even with water covering the top of the shoe.”
With a roomy toe box, stability shank and deep-lugged KEEN.RUGGED outsole, it offered confident grip and protection, while the air-injected midsole and padded collar provided plush comfort. The eco-conscious design includes recycled materials and glue-free construction for long-lasting durability. “They’re bold, comfortable, and exceeded my expectations—no breaking in needed.”
While the price may feel steep for occasional walkers, our tester felt serious hikers would find great value in their long-term comfort and performance.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Great cushioning
- Good for wide feet
Cons
- High price point
- Small choice of colours
Waterproof trainers FAQ's with John Jennings from Cotswold Outdoor and Runners Need
Is GORE-TEX 100% waterproof?
GORE-TEX technology is a waterproof, breathable membrane which has microscopic pores that are smaller than water droplets but larger than moisture vapour molecules, this allows sweat to escape while preventing water from entering, keeping feet dry and comfortable.
GORE-TEX is considered waterproof under outdoor conditions such as rain and puddles. However, prolonged exposure to heavy rain or immersion in water may eventually penetrate the material. Therefore, it’s important to read the care labels to ensure your shoes are looked after properly for their best efficiency.
How to clean waterproof trainers
To clean waterproof trainers, including those with GORE-TEX, start by brushing off any dirt with a soft brush or cloth. Hand wash them with mild detergent and lukewarm water, make sure to avoid using harsh cleaners and bleach.
Once cleaned, rinse thoroughly and let them air dry at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat. If you notice that water has stopped beading on the surface, consider reapplying a waterproofing treatment. This routine helps maintain their waterproofing and overall durability, ensuring they remain effective in wet conditions. Always follow specific care instructions from the manufacturer for the best results.
What trainers to wear in the rain?
When the rain comes in, it’s tempting to reach for boots, but a good pair of waterproof trainers can offer a much lighter and more versatile solution. The best rainy-day trainers will have the following features:
Waterproof membrane: Whether it’s GORE-TEX or something else, this keeps water out while allowing your feet to breathe.
Grippy sole: Wet pavements and slippery surfaces call for a well-designed outsole with plenty of traction.
Quick-drying lining: If your shoes do get damp inside, fast-drying materials will make a big difference in comfort.
Secure fit: Wet weather often means more unstable footing, so you want a trainer that holds your foot firmly in place without pinching.
Look for models marketed specifically for wet weather running, hiking or all-weather walking. Trail shoes often make great rain-friendly trainers, as they’re typically built with tougher outsoles and better protection against water.
If your daily routine involves a lot of city walking, consider waterproof trainers that combine street style with technical performance. These will keep your feet dry on the commute while still looking smart enough for the office or a casual outing.
John Jennings is the Footwear Buyer at Cotswold Outdoorand Runners Need.
Becky Fuller is a senior digital writer for Yours.co.uk. She is also a fully qualified personal trainer and strength coach, specialising in fitness and wellbeing for over 50s. Prior to joining Yours, Becky was a fitness writer for Saga, and a freelance entertainment and theatre journalist. Becky is passionate about helping people to move well and discover the many benefits of strength training.