We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
All it takes is one surprise rainstorm to completely ruin your day (or your shoes). Nowadays, you can never be too careful about the shoes you're wearing, but no one wants to be out in a clunky pair of rain boots all day, which is where waterproof boots come in. Lightweight and casual, most of these styles will slip under the radar, looking inconspicuous while providing protection against the elements.
But shopping for boots is hard enough, let alone a pair that's actually waterproof. Luckily, we've worked with specialized equipment and consumer testers to find waterproof and water-resistant options that perform well, look good and feel comfortable.
Our top picks:
1
2
3
Best Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Cougar Shani Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Read more
4
Most Popular Waterproof Boots
Merry People Bobbi Rain Boot
Read more
5
Best Waterproof Work Boots
Timberland 6-Inch Waterproof Boot
Read more
6
7
8
9
Best Waterproof Boots for Narrow Feet
SOREL Brex Chelsea Boot
Read more
10
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we've evaluated all kinds of boots, from supportive hiking boots and durable winter boots to everyday rain boots and stylish boots (including plus-size options). To find the best waterproof boots, we tested 17 different popular styles in the Lab. We use our Rain Tester plus standardized testing methods and send pairs to consumer testers of various foot shapes and shoe sizes. After copious hours of Lab work and data analysis, here are our picks for the best waterproof boots.
1
Best Value Waterproof Boots
Asgard Waterproof Chelsea Boots
1
Best Value Waterproof Boots
Asgard Waterproof Chelsea Boots
A best-selling style on Amazon, these boots come with the backing of more than 23,000 reviews and an average 4.4-star rating. They have a simple Chelsea boot silhouette that's versatile enough to pair with a range of outfits. Online users especially like how easy they are to slip on and off, thanks to the elasticized sides and convenient pull tab. Many do note that the thin sole doesn't offer much cushioning but suggest using an orthotic insole for better support.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): Not listed | Material: Rubber
2
Best Waterproof Rain Boots
Hunter Original Short Rain Boot
2
Best Waterproof Rain Boots
Hunter Original Short Rain Boot
Now 11% Off
Hunter boots are a classic staple on rainy days, but, according to several editors, the original tall version can feel heavy and bulky. This shorter silhouette offers excellent waterproof protection without weighing you down. Testers gave it high scores for its comfort and noted it felt more flexible than the standard knee-high style, but some found that their feet ran warm in 70-degree weather. For a different look, the brand offers them with a glossy finish. Note that the buckle on this style is for show, but Hunter has an adjustable-width version.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.55 lbs | Material: Rubber
3
Best Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Cougar Shani Waterproof Chelsea Boots
3
Best Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Cougar Shani Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Now 38% Off
Chunky shoes, including lug-sole boots and loafers, have soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a trendy staple. This pair from Cougar checks all the boxes for a stylish yet comfortable boot and has built-in insulation and fleece for cold, wet weather. One tester shared, "They're not too heavy or clunky but still feel substantial enough for colder weather." They earned a perfect score after several minutes in our rain tester. Just note that testers between sizes found these ran a bit large.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.20 lbs | Material: Leather, insulation, fleece, rubber
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
4
Most Popular Waterproof Boots
Merry People Bobbi Rain Boot
4
Most Popular Waterproof Boots
Merry People Bobbi Rain Boot
Offered in a variety of colors, these rubber boots have taken the world by storm, earning tens of thousands of reviews from a global audience. While rain boots can sometimes feel like a chore to wear indoors, this pair received high praise for its comfort. In fact, one tester commented, "I really like how flexible the sole is; it makes it so easy to walk naturally." Plus, when she first tried them on, she didn't feel the urge to immediately change back into her sneakers but noted they still felt a bit clunky.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.25 lbs | Material: Rubber, neoprene
5
Best Waterproof Work Boots
Timberland 6-Inch Waterproof Boot
5
Best Waterproof Work Boots
Timberland 6-Inch Waterproof Boot
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this iconic lace-up boot has a long history. Originally intended for work, its popularity soared in the 90s as the boots became associated with hip-hop culture. Since then, they've become a fashion staple, especially as streetwear. Some of our editors have worn the pair for years through rain and snow, highlighting the excellent traction and insulation in cold, rainy weather. Note that it has a partially attached tongue, so there's a chance rain can still sneak into this otherwise waterproof shoe.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.40 lbs | Material: Leather, insulation, rubber
6
Best Trendy Waterproof Boot
Everlane The Rain Boot
6
Best Trendy Waterproof Boot
Everlane The Rain Boot
Level up your Chelsea-style rain boot with a lug sole for an on-trend look with everyday comfort. This pair is designed for all-day wear, featuring a roomy toe box to accommodate thick, cushioned socks and a cushioned insole. One tester shared, "They fit really well without feeling bulky and looked stylish. And my feet didn’t tire after wearing them for hours." The caveat is that one of several testers noticed some scuffs on her boots after a few days of wear.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.37 lbs | Material: Rubber
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
When walking in heavy rains or flash floods, tall, knee-high waterproof boots are essential, and this pair from Kamik was the best we've tested. In fact, one tester called them "the most supportive rain boots I've ever tried," and highlighted the notable arch support in the insole. On top of that, the boots felt lighter than similar styles we tested and had a snug, fitted shaft. This may be a downside for those with wider calves, but it did prevent water from seeping in, according to our testers.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.45 lbs | Material: Rubber
8
Best Waterproof Ankle Boots
Bogs Sweetpea Boot
8
Best Waterproof Ankle Boots
Bogs Sweetpea Boot
Now 17% Off
On days with light rain, you don't really need heavy-duty waterproof boots. Luckily, this pair is both light and protective, allowing you to breeze through shallow puddles and drizzling rain without the fear of wet socks. Testers appreciated how easy they were to slip on and off and the inconspicuous, casual look for wearing on damp days. We found they fit true to size, although some testers noted they felt a bit narrow compared to similar styles.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 0.80 lbs | Material: Rubber
9
Best Waterproof Boots for Narrow Feet
SOREL Brex Chelsea Boot
9
Best Waterproof Boots for Narrow Feet
SOREL Brex Chelsea Boot
With a height-boosting, chunky platform, these Chelsea boots have a contemporary look that's sure to turn heads on the street. They fared well in Lab tests, earning high scores and proving waterproof after a few minutes in our rain tester. Testers loved the stylish appearance of this pair but found them stiff and narrow when first trying them on. One told us that wearing them with thin socks made them feel much more comfortable. For extra height, Sorel also offers a similar heeled style.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.20 lbs | Material: Leather, rubber
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Even if you don't have wide feet, a shoe with a too-narrow toe box can feel uncomfortable after a long day, especially if you wear a thick pair of winter socks. Xtratuf's Deck Boots were a favorite amongst testers with wider feet. One highlighted how comfortable they felt and said, "Most [boots] I have worn in the past have been snug but these have a good amount of room in the toe box." Plus, they also have a slip-resistant sole and come in a wide range of colors and prints.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 1.00 lbs | Material: Rubber
Blundstone's boots are known for their long-lasting, durable nature and have soared in popularity in recent years because of their understated practicality. This particular style is fully waterproof and designed for cold weather. To help keep your feet warm, the shoe has a shearling-lined footbed with added insulation. The caveat is that some testers found the footbed limited their sock options, fitting snugly around their feet despite the wide toe box. But none could stop talking about how comfortable and high-quality the boots felt.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 0.90 lbs | Material: Leather, insulation, shearling, rubber
12
Best Suede Water-Resistant Boots
Hush Puppies Women's Amelia Lace Boot
12
Best Suede Water-Resistant Boots
Hush Puppies Women's Amelia Lace Boot
Earning high praise from several testers, these lace-up boots are structured yet lightweight and, most importantly, comfortable. They're made with the brand's easy-to-clean and water-resistant WorryFree Suede (which we've extensively tested in the Textiles Lab). One tester even noted that "they look good as new after being out in the rain." On top of that, they're lined with cozy fleece and have a cloud-like cushioned footbed. Testers also shared that they were comfortable straight out of the box but wished they offered more stability.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 0.70 lbs | Material: Suede, fleece, rubber
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
13
Best Waterproof Hiking Boots
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots
13
Best Waterproof Hiking Boots
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots
Now 42% Off
If you hike in rainy conditions or wet areas, waterproof hiking boots are a must, and this pair from Columbia is one of the best. Beyond their excellent traction, they offer much-needed protection and stability, making them great for experienced hikers and beginners alike. One tester shared, "I hiked through so many muddy trails with 2-inch puddles and even slipped in a stream [in these boots] and my feet always stayed dry." Another tester described them as "forgiving" and noted that they "meld with the movement of [her] foot."
Weight (per size 8 shoe): 0.90 lbs | Material: Leather, textiles, rubber
Rothy's various shoes are crafted with recycled polyester and 3D-knit, cutting out the excess material waste common to shoe-making. Beyond their sustainability, the knit shoes are a game-changing innovation within the footwear industry and have skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade. Boots are typically known for a structured silhouette, but the brand's ankle boots provide flexibility and comfort, stretching when needed without sacrificing style. This pair is made with a water-resistant finish, for extra reassurance on days with sudden rain. The boots come in an ankle and knee-high height.
Weight (per size 8 shoe): Not listed | Material: Water-resistant textiles, rubber
How we test waterproof boots
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textile Lab, we've tested all kinds of footwear. Here's what we do inside and outside of the Lab to find the best waterproof boots.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
✔️ Weight: We weigh each style in a standardized size to see how heavy or light they'll feel on your feet.
✔️ Water Resistance: To quantify their water resistance and verify any waterproof claims, we first weigh and place a piece of filter paper in the toe box of each boot. One boot is then placed in our rain tester (pictured below), which sprays a set amount of water at a standardized pressure and temperature for five minutes. We then remove the filter paper, weigh it and note the difference to see how much water (if any) made its way into the shoe.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
✔️ Drying Time: Sometimes, it's inevitable (especially in heavy rain) that a little water will make its way into your shoe. This is why we check how quickly each boot dries. We pour a standard amount of water into each boot and weigh it. We re-weigh it after an hour and then again after a longer period of time to see how quickly the boot dries.
✔️ Consumer Testing: Beyond in-Lab testing, we have consumer testers wear the boots in their daily lives on both rainy and dry days, to assess real-world performance. Testers rate everything from fit and support to comfort and traction. They also share where they wore them, how the boots responded to water and any notable likes or dislikes.
Grace Wu
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst
Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.