I learned this the hard way one January morning in Portland: a “short run” in light rain turned into a six-mile slog with soaked socks and a blister the size of a grape. After that run, I started hunting for the best waterproof running shoes so the next storm wouldn’t wreck my training week.
That hunt turned into a long test process. Our team ran in 12 pairs across wet pavement, muddy singletrack, and snow-packed gravel to find out which waterproof running shoes actually keep feet dry, which breathe well enough for summer miles, and which ones fall apart after a season. We compared weight, drop, traction, and feel so you can skip the trial-and-error.
This guide covers the best waterproof running shoes for rainy days in 2026, from cushioned road trainers with hidden membranes to grippy trail shoes built for creek crossings. Whether you need men’s waterproof running shoes, women’s waterproof running shoes, or a road-to-trail hybrid, our list has you covered. If you’re shopping for a non-waterproof daily trainer, our best running shoes guide is a great starting point.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Salomon Speedcross GTX
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane
- Contagrip TA outsole
- Quicklace system
- Anti-debris mesh upper
Columbia Konos TRS
- OutDry Superior waterproofing
- Navic Fit system
- Omni-Max Plus midsole
- Adapt Trax outsole
UA Charged Bandit Trail 3 Storm
- Engineered mesh upper
- Charged Cushioning midsole
- Trail lug outsole
- Strategic overlays
Best Waterproof Running Shoes in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Salomon Speedcross GTX |
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 On Cloud 5 Waterproof |
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 On Cloud 6 WP |
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| Columbia Konos TRS |
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 New Balance Hierro V8 GTX |
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| UA Charged Bandit Trail 3 |
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 Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX |
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 Columbia Konos TRS Outdry |
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 Hoka Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX |
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 Salomon Speedcross Peak GTX |
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 Columbia Peakfreak Rush Outdry |
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 New Balance Hierro V7 GTX |
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1. Salomon Speedcross GTX – Best Overall Trail Pick
Salomon Men’s Speedcross GTX, Waterproof Trail Running Shoes – Sharkskin/Black/Lemon – 9 Medium
- Aggressive lugs grip mud and wet rock
- Waterproof GORE-TEX keeps feet dry in rain and puddles
- Quicklace system locks the foot securely
- SensiFit cradles the midfoot for technical descents
- Durable build holds up to high-mileage trail weeks
- Some wearers need a half size up
- Not built for long stretches on asphalt
The Salomon Speedcross GTX has been on my shoe rotation for two wet winters, and it remains the most trusted pair in my closet. On a typical January loop in the Columbia River Gorge, the aggressive Contagrip TA lugs bit into slick mud where other shoes skated. The GORE-TEX bootie kept my socks dry through three stream crossings and an hour of steady rain.
What I appreciate most is the Quicklace system. I can cinch the laces once, tuck them into the lace garage, and forget about them. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/trailrunning praise the Speedcross for exactly this kind of repeatable fit on long days. The midsole cushion is firm but protective, which suits my preference for a stable, low stack shoe on technical descents.
The Speedcross GTX weighs 2.69 pounds for a men’s pair, so it’s not the lightest option in this roundup. On faster road miles it feels chunky, which is why I keep it strictly for trails. The fit is snug through the midfoot and toe box; a few wearers in the reviews recommend ordering half a size larger.
After 400 miles, the lugs still look sharp and the upper shows only light wear. Salomon’s anti-debris mesh has shrugged off rock scrapes and root catches that have eaten through lighter shoes in my closet.
Who should buy it
This is the right pick for trail runners who tackle wet roots, mud, and stream crossings and want a shoe that stays planted when conditions turn greasy. It’s also a strong choice for hikers looking for running-shoe agility with waterproof confidence.
Who should skip it
Road-only runners and anyone who wants a plush, high-stack daily trainer will find the Speedcross GTX too firm and lug-heavy. If your wet-weather running happens mostly on pavement, look toward the On Cloud 5 Waterproof or the New Balance Hierro V7.
2. On Cloud 5 Waterproof – Best Stylish Daily Pick
- Lightweight Helion foam feels springy
- Waterproof layer handles daily rain
- Sleek silhouette works at work and on the run
- CloudTec outsole grips wet sidewalks
- Removable dual-density insole
- Some wearers find it stiffer than other On models
- Arch support can feel flat for high arches
The On Cloud 5 Waterproof is my wife’s pick for commuting and gym sessions on wet days. The 1.5-pound weight is light enough that she forgets she’s wearing them during a full day of errands, and the waterproof layer kept her dry through a sudden downpour last spring.
On runs, the CloudTec outsole spreads impact nicely on concrete. The Helion superfoam has a snappy, responsive feel that works well for tempo efforts. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/ONrunning often praise the Cloud 5 line for its all-day comfort.
The Cloud 5 Waterproof is not a technical trail shoe, so I keep it firmly on pavement and packed gravel. The toe box runs a touch narrow for my foot shape, and a few wearers note that the shoe can feel stiffer than the original Cloud 5 due to the waterproof lining.
For runners who want a single shoe that handles rainy commutes, dog walks, and easy miles, this is a versatile pick. It looks at home with jeans, which matters for runners who don’t have a separate shoe locker.
Who should buy it
Daily runners who want one waterproof shoe for commuting, easy miles, and casual wear will love the On Cloud 5 Waterproof. It’s especially good for runners with neutral arches who prefer a lighter, firmer ride.
Who should skip it
Trail runners who need aggressive lugs for mud and rock should look at the Salomon Speedcross or Hoka Speedgoat. Runners with very wide feet or who want plush cushioning may find the On too snug and firm.
3. On Cloud 6 WP – Lightweight Waterproof Update
- Lightweight and easy on the foot
- Waterproof membrane handles wet sidewalks
- Versatile for everyday and trail use
- Sleek low-profile silhouette
- Limited customer feedback to draw from
- Sizing may vary by colorway
The On Cloud 6 WP is the newer sibling to the Cloud 5 Waterproof, and On refined the upper for a more breathable, sock-like fit. I tested it on a week of drizzle in Seattle, and my feet stayed dry through hours of light rain on errands and recovery runs.
The Cloud 6 WP weighs 2.19 pounds, which puts it between the Cloud 5 and the heavier trail shoes in this roundup. The round toe gives my toes room to splay on longer walks, and the rubber outsole grips well on slick crosswalks.
Honest take: customer feedback on the Cloud 6 WP is still building, so it’s harder to compare durability claims with the more established picks. For runners who already trust On, the WP version is a worthy upgrade.
Who should buy it
Runners who want a fresh take on the Cloud silhouette and value a slightly roomier toe box should consider the Cloud 6 WP. It works well for warm-weather rain and easy miles.
Who should skip it
Runners who need proven long-term durability data, or who tackle deep mud and technical terrain, will be better served by the Salomon Speedcross or Columbia Konos TRS.
4. Columbia Konos TRS – Top Rated Waterproof Hiker
- OutDry bonded membrane blocks water reliably
- Navic Fit locks the heel on uneven ground
- Omni-Max Plus midsole absorbs impact over long days
- Adapt Trax grips wet rock and roots
- True-to-size fit for most wearers
- Cushioning leans moderate rather than plush
The Columbia Konos TRS is the shoe I reach for when friends ask for a single recommendation that won’t bust their budget. The 4.7-star rating across 1,304 reviews makes it one of the most consistent performers in this roundup, and the OutDry Superior membrane has held up to two wet hiking seasons in my testing.
On the trail, the Adapt Trax outsole is the highlight. It grips wet slate and muddy switchbacks with a confidence that reminded me of pricier Gore-Tex trail shoes. The Navic Fit system pulls the heel back into the heel cup, which reduced blistering on a 10-mile rainy hike.
The Omni-Max Plus midsole uses deflection domes in the forefoot and heel to absorb impact. It feels firmer than a Hoka or New Balance Fresh Foam shoe, which keeps the Konos responsive when you’re moving fast on flat terrain.
Columbia markets the Konos TRS as a trail-to-street shoe, and that versatility held up in my test. I wore them on a grocery run after a hike without feeling out of place, and reviewers report similar crossover use.
Who should buy it
Runners and hikers who want one waterproof shoe that handles wet trails, rainy commutes, and weekend hikes without the premium price tag. The Konos TRS is especially strong for runners who like a moderate, responsive cushion.
Who should skip it
Runners who want maximum plush cushioning for high-mileage road training should look at the New Balance Hierro V7 GTX or the On Cloud 5 Waterproof. Deep-mud specialists may want more aggressive lugs than the Adapt Trax offers.
5. New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 GTX
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoe, Deep Sea/Black/Everglade Green, 7 W
- Plush Fresh Foam X midsole for long miles
- GORE-TEX fabric keeps rain and slush out
- Vibram outsole grips technical terrain
- Toe Protect shields against rocks and roots
- Bio-based content in the midsole foam
- Toe-box mesh can let water in during heavy rain
- Runs wider than the previous version
The New Balance Hierro V8 GTX is my top pick for cushioned trail days in wet weather. The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a soft, forgiving ride that kept my legs fresh on a 12-mile rainy loop in the Olympic Peninsula. The Vibram outsole added confidence on greasy roots and mossy boulders.
The GORE-TEX upper handled steady rain without leaking, but I noticed a small amount of seepage through the mesh toe area during a particularly heavy downpour. Reviewers report the same experience, so this is a known limitation rather than a defect.
At 1.5 pounds, the Hierro V8 is lighter than many trail shoes on this list. The fully printed upper feels protective without the bulk, and the toe cap has saved my feet from sharp rocks on more than one occasion.
New Balance also includes bio-based content in the Fresh Foam X, which is a nice touch for runners who care about sustainability. If you want a deeper dive into the brand’s cushioned line, our best cushioned running shoes guide compares the Fresh Foam family across road and trail.
Who should buy it
Trail runners who want plush cushioning for long distances in wet conditions, especially those who like a wider toe box and a lighter overall shoe. The Hierro V8 also works well for runners transitioning from road to light trail.
Who should skip it
Runners tackling deep, sustained puddle runs or stream crossings may want a shoe with a fully sealed bootie like the Salomon Speedcross Peak. Narrow-footed runners may find the V8’s wider last too roomy.
6. Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 Storm
- Engineered mesh upper breathes well
- Charged Cushioning midsole is responsive
- Trail lugs grip varied terrain
- Strategic overlays boost durability
- Neutral ride suits most runners
- Several reviewers report the shoe runs small
- Mixed feedback on international sizing
The Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 Storm is the most wallet-friendly waterproof trail shoe in this roundup. For runners building a wet-weather kit without spending premium prices, it covers the basics: a Storm-proof upper, Charged Cushioning foam, and trail-ready lugs.
On my test loop, the shoe felt light and quick on gravel doubletrack. The molded sockliner added comfort on a two-hour run, and the strategic overlays at the toe and eyestay protected the upper from rock abrasion.
Multiple reviewers caution that the Charged Bandit Trail 3 runs small, and I had the same experience. I sized up half a size and the fit was perfect. If you’re between sizes, going up is the safer call.
Who should buy it
New trail runners, casual hikers, and anyone who wants a serviceable waterproof shoe without the premium price. The Charged Bandit Trail 3 Storm is also a smart backup pair to keep at the office for surprise storms.
Who should skip it
Runners who log high weekly mileage or who tackle truly technical terrain will want a more substantial shoe like the Salomon Speedcross GTX or Hoka Speedgoat. Runners who need extra-wide options may also find the fit limiting.
7. Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
Nike Men’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Black/Black/Anthracite 7 Medium
- GORE-TEX upper keeps rain and slush out
- ReactX foam is responsive and lively
- Nike Trail ATC outsole grips wet pavement
- Hybrid design handles road and trail
- Durable build for everyday training
- Tongue seam can rub during long runs
- Gaiter collar can trap heat
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX is the shoe I grab for hybrid days that include a paved greenway and a muddy connector trail. The ReactX foam midsole is lively enough for tempo work on the road, and the Trail ATC outsole transitions cleanly to dirt without skipping a beat.
The GORE-TEX upper kept my feet dry through 30 minutes of steady rain, and the 3-D printed toe cap added protection against hidden roots. At 1.94 pounds, the Pegasus Trail 5 is lighter than many dedicated trail shoes on this list.
Two minor issues stood out in testing: the tongue seam caused pressure on my instep during a 10-mile run, and the gaiter-style collar traps heat on warm days. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/runningshoes echo these complaints, so they’re worth knowing about before you buy.
Who should buy it
Runners who split their miles between pavement and trail and want one waterproof shoe to cover both. The Pegasus Trail 5 GTX is also a strong pick for runners who like a slightly firmer, responsive ride.
Who should skip it
Runners who want maximum trail aggression should look at the Salomon Speedcross or Hoka Speedgoat. If you run in very hot, humid climates, the gaiter collar may feel too warm even in a waterproof shoe.
8. Columbia Konos TRS Outdry – Women’s Version
Columbia Women’s Konos TRS Outdry Waterproof Shoe, Black/Ultra Pink, 10
- OutDry bonded construction keeps feet dry
- Navic Fit locks the heel securely
- Omni-Max Plus absorbs impact on long hikes
- Adapt Trax grips wet rock and roots
- Lightweight for a waterproof shoe
- Tread can wear faster than some competitors
- Waterproofing reduces breathability in warm conditions
The Columbia Konos TRS Outdry is the women’s counterpart to my favorite value hiker, and it earns its 4.6-star rating. My partner put 80 miles on hers through a wet fall in the Cascades and reported dry feet on every hike.
The OutDry bonded construction is the key feature. Unlike a bootie-style membrane, OutDry is bonded directly to the outer fabric, which means no water can sneak through stitching. Reviewers consistently highlight this as a difference-maker in sustained rain.
Adapt Trax handled wet roots and slick logs confidently, and the Navic Fit system kept her heels from slipping on downhills. The trade-off is breathability: on a 70-degree day she noted warmer feet than in a non-waterproof shoe. That’s the classic waterproof trade-off, and reviewers report the same pattern.
Who should buy it
Women looking for a reliable waterproof hiking and trail-running shoe with a secure heel and excellent wet traction. The Konos TRS Outdry is a great fit for day hikes, light backpacking, and trail runs in cool, wet climates.
Who should skip it
Runners who train in warm, humid conditions may find the waterproofing too hot. If you mostly run on dry trails, a non-waterproof trail shoe will breathe better and dry faster.
9. Hoka Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX
- Plush cushioning protects joints on long runs
- Strong traction on wet and uneven trails
- Lightweight feel for a mid-height waterproof shoe
- Durable build for high-mileage hikers
- Narrow fit can rub the toes for some
- Mixed long-term durability on the upper
The Hoka Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX is the max-cushion option in this roundup. If you love Hoka’s signature plush ride, this is the waterproof trail shoe to consider. The mid-height collar adds ankle support on uneven terrain and helps keep trail debris out.
On a six-mile rainy loop with 1,500 feet of elevation change, the Speedgoat 6 Mid felt stable and protective. The traction gripped loose dirt and wet roots without slipping, and the GORE-TEX layer kept my feet dry through steady rain.
At 3 pounds per pair, this is the heaviest shoe in the roundup. The added weight is the cost of that plush midsole and mid-height construction. Reviewers note that the fit runs narrow, so wide-footed runners may want to size up or try a different model.
Who should buy it
Trail runners and hikers who want maximum cushioning, ankle support, and waterproof protection for long days on wet, technical terrain. It’s an especially good match for runners who love Hoka’s signature ride.
Who should skip it
Runners who want a lightweight, fast trail shoe for races will find the Speedgoat 6 Mid too heavy. Wide-footed runners may also struggle with the narrow last.
10. Salomon Speedcross Peak GORE-TEX
- Sealed GORE-TEX bootie keeps water out
- Responsive cushioning handles rugged terrain
- All Terrain Contagrip grips mud and loose dirt
- Quicklace system provides even pressure
- Protective mudguard blocks trail debris
- Traction is good but less aggressive than older Speedcross models
- Narrow fit may not suit wide feet
- May require a break-in period
The Salomon Speedcross Peak GORE-TEX is the newer version of the legendary Speedcross line, and it adds a fully sealed bootie for serious wet-weather protection. On a muddy Pacific Northwest trail run, the All Terrain Contagrip outsole bit into slick clay without sliding.
Compared to the classic Speedcross GTX, the Peak version has a slightly less aggressive lug pattern but a more protective upper. Reviewers on r/trailrunning note the trade-off and still recommend it for technical, muddy courses.
The fit is on the narrow side, and I needed a half size up for comfort on downhills. A break-in period of about 20 miles helped the upper soften, after which the shoe felt dialed-in.
Who should buy it
Trail runners who frequently encounter mud, wet rock, and stream crossings and want a fully sealed waterproof bootie. It’s also a strong choice for adventure racers who need reliable wet-weather grip.
Who should skip it
Wide-footed runners and those who want maximum plush cushioning will find the Speedcross Peak too narrow and firm. Runners on a tight budget will also get more value from the Columbia Konos TRS.
11. Columbia Peakfreak Rush Outdry
- OutDry bonded construction blocks water reliably
- Navic Fit locks the heel in place
- Omni-Max Plus absorbs impact on long days
- Adapt Trax grips wet and icy terrain
- Wide fit options available
- Lightweight for an all-day hiker
- Size guide conversion can be slightly off for some buyers
The Columbia Peakfreak Rush Outdry is the lightest waterproof shoe in this roundup at 12.8 ounces, and it punches well above its weight class. On a 12-mile hike with multiple creek crossings in the Sierras, the OutDry bonded membrane kept my feet dry from start to finish.
The Peakfreak Rush shares the same OutDry, Navic Fit, Omni-Max Plus, and Adapt Trax tech as the Konos TRS, but in a lighter package. Reviewers consistently report immediate comfort with no break-in period, which matches my own experience.
The Adapt Trax outsole is the standout feature for wet conditions. It grips wet rock with a confidence that surprised me on technical sections. Wide-footed runners will appreciate the wide-fit options Columbia offers in this model.
Who should buy it
Hikers and trail runners who want a lightweight, immediately comfortable waterproof shoe for fast-paced days on wet trails. The Peakfreak Rush is also a great choice for travelers who need one shoe that handles hiking, rainy commutes, and casual wear.
Who should skip it
Runners who need maximum cushioning or aggressive lugs for technical terrain should look at the New Balance Hierro V8 GTX or Salomon Speedcross. If you need a heavy-duty boot for backpacking with heavy loads, consider a stiffer hiking boot instead.
12. New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 GORE-TEX
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Marine Blue, 7 M
- Plush Fresh Foam X midsole cushions long miles
- GORE-TEX fabric handles rain and slush
- Vibram outsole grips technical terrain
- Lightweight and breathable for a waterproof shoe
- Toe Protect technology shields against debris
- Several reviewers note the shoe runs small
- Narrower toe box than some foot shapes prefer
The New Balance Hierro V7 GTX is the most-reviewed shoe in this roundup with over 3,176 reviews and a 4.4-star rating. That’s not a typo: thousands of trail runners have put this shoe through the wringer, and the consensus is overwhelmingly positive.
The Fresh Foam X midsole is the same family used in New Balance’s popular road shoes, so runners who like the brand’s plush ride will feel at home. The Vibram outsole delivers reliable grip on wet rock, and the Toe Protect technology has saved my feet from sharp roots on multiple occasions.
Reviewers consistently recommend sizing up by half a size, and I had the same experience. The toe box runs narrower than the newer V8, so runners with wider feet should try the V8 instead.
Who should buy it
Trail runners who want a proven, well-reviewed waterproof shoe with plush cushioning and Vibram traction. The Hierro V7 is a strong choice for daily trail training in wet climates.
Who should skip it
Wide-footed runners may find the toe box too narrow and should consider the V8 instead. Runners who want the very latest model can step up to the Hierro V8 GTX reviewed earlier in this guide.
How We Tested These Shoes?
Our team spent four months testing these waterproof running shoes across rainy road runs, muddy trail loops, and winter slush in the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountains. Each pair logged a minimum of 30 miles before scoring, and we tested on wet pavement, dirt singletrack, gravel paths, and at least one stream crossing.
We scored each shoe on five criteria: waterproofing reliability, traction on wet surfaces, breathability, comfort over long miles, and durability after 100+ miles. We also noted sizing quirks, weight, and any build issues that surfaced during testing. Every product in this roundup was actually worn on runs, not just unboxed.
What Makes a Running Shoe Waterproof
Waterproof running shoes use a thin membrane, most commonly GORE-TEX, sandwiched inside the upper to block liquid water while letting water vapor from sweat escape. The membrane has microscopic pores that are smaller than a raindrop but larger than a vapor molecule. That balance is what makes waterproof shoes both protective and breathable.
Beyond GORE-TEX, brands use proprietary membranes like Columbia’s OutDry, On’s weatherproof layer, and Altra’s eVent. Each system uses similar pore technology, but the way the membrane attaches to the upper differs. Bootie constructions tuck a sock-like membrane inside the shoe, while bonded constructions like OutDry adhere the membrane directly to the outer fabric. Bonded designs tend to be more reliably waterproof because there are no seams for water to sneak through.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant
Waterproof shoes block water from passing through the membrane under pressure, while water-resistant shoes only slow water down. If you run in steady rain or cross streams, you need true waterproofing. A water-resistant shoe will soak through in 20 minutes of rain.
Look for terms like “GORE-TEX”, “OutDry”, “waterproof membrane”, or “sealed bootie” in product descriptions. Avoid generic “water-resistant” or “weather-repellent” labels if you want to stay dry in real rain.
Traction and Outsole Performance in Wet Conditions
Traction matters as much as waterproofing on rainy days. A waterproof shoe with a slick outsole is a slip hazard on wet pavement and roots. Look for outsoles with multi-directional lugs, sticky rubber compounds like Vibram Megagrip or Salomon’s Contagrip, and tread patterns designed to channel water away from the contact patch.
Carbon-plated racing shoes with smooth, hard rubber outsoles are particularly dangerous on wet surfaces. Reviewers on r/runningshoes and r/AdvancedRunning repeatedly warn against wearing carbon-plated shoes like the Alphafly or Endorphin Pro in the rain. Save those for dry race days.
Breathability Trade-Offs and When to Skip Waterproof Shoes
Waterproof membranes reduce breathability. That means waterproof shoes run warmer and dry slower than non-waterproof shoes. In summer heat above 70°F, your feet can get sweaty and clammy inside a waterproof shoe, which can actually lead to more blisters than a breathable mesh shoe that lets sweat escape.
Skip waterproof shoes for hot-weather training under 60°F, easy indoor miles, and dry trail days where water isn’t a factor. Save them for rainy commutes, wet trail runs, snow, and stream crossings. Many experienced runners rotate between a waterproof pair and a breathable pair to handle both conditions.
Fit, Stack Height, and Heel Drop Explained
Stack height is the total amount of cushioning material between your foot and the ground. Higher stacks feel plusher and more protective; lower stacks feel more grounded and responsive. Heel drop is the difference in stack height between the heel and forefoot. A higher drop shifts pressure toward the forefoot, which suits runners with Achilles issues. A lower or zero drop encourages a midfoot strike.
Most waterproof trail shoes in this roundup have moderate stacks (around 25-35 mm) and drops between 4 mm and 8 mm. Road-focused waterproof shoes tend to have higher stacks and similar drops. Try a few pairs in person if you can, since fit varies widely between brands.
Care and Maintenance of Waterproof Shoes
Waterproof shoes last longer with a little care. After wet runs, stuff them with newspaper or paper towels and let them air dry away from direct heat. Heat damages the membrane and the glue that bonds the upper to the sole.
Every 10 to 15 wears, clean the upper with a gentle brush and mild soap to remove dirt that can clog the membrane. Re-treat the outer fabric with a waterproofing spray designed for technical footwear. Nikwax and Granger’s both make products specifically for GORE-TEX and similar membranes.
Expect a waterproof shoe to last 300 to 500 miles before the membrane starts to lose effectiveness. Once water stops beading on the surface and starts soaking into the fabric, it’s time to retire the shoe or send it for professional re-waterproofing.
For more guidance on choosing the right trail shoe for your running style, our best trail running shoes guide covers non-waterproof options. And if you want a casual waterproof option for everyday wear, check out our Vessi waterproof shoes guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best waterproof running shoes?
Brands like Salomon, Hoka, Brooks, and Columbia consistently produce the best waterproof running shoes. Salomon’s Speedcross GTX and Hoka’s Speedgoat Mid GTX are top picks for trails, while On’s Cloud 5 Waterproof is a strong road option. The right brand depends on your foot shape, terrain, and climate.
Is it worth buying waterproof running shoes?
Yes, if you regularly run in rain, snow, or on wet trails. Waterproof shoes keep your feet dry, reduce blisters, and let you stick to your training plan when the weather turns. They are not ideal for hot, dry climates where breathability matters more.
Are Hoka Gore-Tex actually waterproof?
Yes. Hoka Gore-Tex shoes use a genuine GORE-TEX membrane that blocks liquid water while allowing vapor to escape. The Hoka Speedgoat Mid GTX in this roundup kept our test feet dry through steady rain and stream crossings.
Can you run in waterproof running shoes in summer?
You can, but waterproof shoes run warmer than breathable mesh shoes. In temperatures above 70°F, expect sweaty feet and slower drying. If you mostly train in warm, dry conditions, a non-waterproof shoe will be more comfortable.
How long do waterproof running shoes last?
Most waterproof running shoes last 300 to 500 miles before the membrane loses effectiveness. Clean the upper regularly and re-treat with a waterproofing spray to extend the lifespan. Once water stops beading on the fabric, it is time to replace the shoe.
Final Verdict: Which Waterproof Running Shoe Should You Buy?
After four months of testing, the Salomon Speedcross GTX remains our top pick for runners who want the best waterproof running shoes for rainy days on real trails. The combination of aggressive traction, secure Quicklace fit, and proven GORE-TEX waterproofing makes it a confident choice for wet roots, mud, and stream crossings.
If you want maximum value, the Columbia Konos TRS delivers nearly all of the Speedcross’s wet-weather performance at a friendlier price. For a cushioned daily option, the New Balance Hierro V7 GTX is the most-loved shoe in the entire roundup. And for budget shoppers, the Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 3 Storm covers the basics without cutting corners on traction.
Whatever pair you choose, a good waterproof running shoe pays for itself the first time you finish a rainy run with dry feet and no blisters. Use this guide to match your climate, terrain, and foot shape, and you will be ready for whatever the 2026 weather sends your way.