We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. Why Trust Us?
Depending where you live, waterproof running shoes might be a necessity for one season or the entire year. From rain to snow to slush to mud (and even stream crossings), a good pair of waterproof running shoes helps eliminate weather-related excuses for skipping that training run.
While no shoe is entirely waterproof, shoes that use this descriptor are built with a membrane in the upper to help keep the water and muck out. While waterproof shoes have plenty of benefits, they aren’t perfect, and are often less breathable than a non-waterproof model. For this reason, we prefer them for cold-weather runs, and accept wet feet in warm-weather rain.
Best Waterproof Running Shoes
- Best Overall: Saucony Peregrine 13 GTX
- Best Long-Distance Training Shoe: Asics Gel-Cumulus 24 GTX
- Best Winter Road Shoe: Brooks Ghost 15 GTX
- Best for Road and Trail: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
- Versatile Hybrid: Hoka Challenger 7 GTX
The Expert: I started road running in New Hampshire in college, taking my love of running from road to trail when I moved out west after graduating. I run and cross train in all four seasons in Montana, and each year I test around a dozen pairs of running shoes and use my field experience and background to pick the best options for a variety of athletes.I’ve been writing about outdoor gear since 2013, writing for publications like Backpacker Magazine, Outside, Travel + Leisure, The Strategist, Women’s Health, and more. In 2020, I cofounded Backpacking Routes, a website that connects backpackers with long-distance trails across the country.
What to Consider When Shopping for a Waterproof Shoe
What makes these shoes 'waterproof'
Waterproof running shoes have a waterproof membrane sandwiched between the outer fabric and liner, similar to a three-layer rain jacket, along with reinforced material for durability in rough conditions. Gore-Tex, listed as "GTX" in many models, is the most popular ingredient waterproofing material. Its ePTFE membrane has micropores that allow water vapor to evaporate without letting liquid droplets in.
This is technically both waterproof and breathable, though it’s not a perfect system, and the shoes get sweaty once you heat up or the temps rise above 65 degrees. For this reason we suggest wearing standard models on warmer wet days and leaving the waterproof models for cold, snowy, or slushy runs.
Consider other waterproof options to go with your shoes
Waterproof shoes aren’t the only option for runners looking for protection against wet conditions or stream crossings. Waterproof socks from brands like SealSkinz, DexShell, and Showers Pass work well in rain and on wet trails. We pair these with a set of trail-running gaiters that cover the tops of your shoes so we can run through a creek without water or debris getting into our shoes from above.
Both methods will keep you cozy and dry for longer—particularly when combined with waterproof shoes. Just keep in mind that both waterproof socks and gaiters suffer the same breathability issues as waterproof shoes. In warmer weather, it’s often better to have airflow on wet feet than sweat-soaked feet without drainage or ventilation.
Here are our picks for the best waterproof running shoe options for both road miles and trail running.
How We Selected These Shoes
This guide was initially developed by Caitlin Giddings, who spent eight years living and running in Portland, Oregon… a part of the country known for consistently rainy weather. In subsequent updates, Maggie Slepian tested additional shoes on the wet trails and winter snow and slush in Montana.
In addition to our field testing, we also relied on input from RW editors and testers who trained and ran in these shoes. The RW test team lives and runs in some rainy, snowy places, and gets out in all sorts of weather. All of these shoes have an excellent combination of comfort, performance, durability, and weather protection for everything from rainy road runs to slushy trails to unpredictable conditions on your next ultra.
Pros
Aggressive lugs- Durable upper
Cons
- Can feel narrow at first
- Midsole too firm for some
The Peregrine has been an enduring favorite with trail runners on the test team, thanks to the shoe’s traction and energy-saving Pwrrun midsole, which helps you adeptly navigate tricky terrain. The Peregrine has a slightly stiffer midsole than other shoes on this list, so if you’re used to having a cushy barrier between your foot and the ground, these might take some getting used to. But for runners who appreciate feeling more ground, the firm platform, grippy lugs, and secure fit have made the Peregrine line a go-to for multiple years in a row.
You’ll see a theme throughout these listings where we mention the shoes feeling hot once your body temperature increases, which goes with the territory. Like others on this list, the Peregrine GTX will feel warm in higher temperatures, but the waterproof protection will keep your foot dryer, warmer, and more comfortable through slush and snow. The latest update to this shoe is an ounce lighter than previous versions, and has more flexion through the upper for an unimpeded stride.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10 oz. (M), 9 oz. (W) |
| Drop | 4mm |
Pros
- Soft, supportive midsole for running long distances
- Smooth ride
Cons
- Upper can take a few wears to break in
For road runners looking to put in big miles during their training cycle, the Gel-Cumulus 24 GTX is a winner for its durability, smooth ride, and generous amount of brand-specific cushioning. Along with the GTX membrane for weather protection, the Gel-Cumulus has three types of cushioning through the midsole for optimal support without losing efficiency.
The shoe uses Flytefoam, Flytefoam Propel, and gel pods in the forefoot and back of the shoe to give both heel strikers and forefoot strikers a soft place to land. The outsole has a good amount of traction for a road shoe, so it feels stable over light slush, though it’s not the best for super icy conditions.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9.9 oz. (M), 8.6 (W) |
| Drop | 10mm (M), 13mm (W) |
3
Best Winter Road Shoe
Brooks Ghost 15 GTX
3
Best Winter Road Shoe
Brooks Ghost 15 GTX
Now 29% Off
We’ve recommended the Brooks Ghost for long-distance training year after year because it’s such a good shoe for a variety of runners. This model is no exception, featuring the brand’s new and improved “DNA Loft V2” midsole that offers a prime combination of soft cushioning and a lighter step without losing the firmness we appreciate for fast turnover and responsive feel.
This shoe provides a smooth ride with enough support for long training runs, plus the durability through the upper and outsole can’t be beat. The latest iteration builds in a more spacious upper with additional forefoot room, plus the Gore-Tex membrane that helps protect against slush and snow without adding bulk.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10.2 (M), 9.2 (W) |
| Drop | 12mm |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
4
Best For Road And Trail
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
4
Best For Road And Trail
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
Now 30% Off
Pros
- Versatile on road or trail
- Full-length React foam midsole is springy and responsive
Cons
- Less durable than other trail-ready models
Our testers loved this max-cushioned hybrid shoe, which feels equally snappy and responsive on the road or trail, thanks to a dense React foam midsole with less rubber along the outsole that helps it transition without losing underfoot grip. The Pegasus has long enjoyed its status as an excellent all-around shoe, and the added protection of the GTX membrane makes this model even more versatile for crummy conditions.
This is the most versatile of the full road and trail line, and even in the most drudgery-inducing conditions, the shoe feels light, springy, and nimble. The lugs are short and stubby, digging into mud without feeling bogged down, and they also react well on pavement. This shoe also has built-in gaiters at the collar to keep water and debris from sneaking in.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 11.3 oz. (M, size 10), 9.6 oz. (W) |
| Drop | 9.5mm |
5
Versatile Hybrid
Hoka Challenger 7 GTX
5
Versatile Hybrid
Hoka Challenger 7 GTX
Pros
- Versatile for road and trail
- Wider fit than other Hoka models
Cons
- Tall stack height can take some getting used to
Shedding more than an ounce over its predecessor, the Challenger 7 GTX is a shoe that feels as at home on the trail as it does on the road. In line with the majority of Hoka models, it has a cushioned (but still lightweight) midsole, with a whopping 31mm stack height in the heel and 26mm in the forefoot. The cushioning is relatively firm, with just enough give to handle long trail runs, but enough softness for pavement pounding during road days.
While Hoka might have narrower models, wider-footed runners rejoice: The Challenger 7 has a spacious toe box and a generous fit that will keep your toes relaxed and able to splay for balance and comfort. This shoe is built with a similar Gore-Tex membrane as others on this list, keeping rain and puddles at bay while allowing a decent amount of breathability.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9.7 oz. (M), 8 oz. (W) |
| Drop | 5mm |
6
Best Zero-Drop
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low 2
6
Best Zero-Drop
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low 2
Pros
- Lots of traction
- Firm cushioning
- Optional rock plate
Cons
- On the heavy side for a running shoe
Formerly called “RSM” (for Rain / Snow / Mud), Altra’s weatherproof line is now called ALL-WTHR, featuring several models with an eVent membrane—another ePTFE liner similar to Gore-Tex. The Lone Peak is a fan-favorite trail runner and hiking shoe for people who appreciate a zero-drop design and wider toe box.
The entire construction of the Lone Peak is made for protection and traction on trail, from the toe cap, to the upper overlays, to the deep, diagonal lugs that kept testers stable on everything from steep muddy slopes to slippery rocks. This updated version has a taller cushion with a 25mm stack, with previous Lone Peak iterations oscillating back and forth between varying heights.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 13.2 oz. (M), 10.5 oz. (W) |
| Drop | 0mm |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
7
Best For Gnarly Terrain
La Sportiva Bushido II GTX
Pros
- Dual-compound rubber outsole for maximum traction
- Lean Gore-Tex liner doesn’t impact fit
Cons
- Runs narrow
La Sportiva’s dedication to all-terrain performance—no matter how adverse the conditions—come through in this sleek-yet-rugged trail shoe. The Bushido II GTX features a protective Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane that doesn’t impact the flexion of the upper, and like La Sportiva’s comparable trail shoes, the upper wraps your foot securely for stability on off-camber sections of trail.
The dual-compound rubber on the outsoles provides grip and traction on wet and dry ground, with specific formulas based on footstrike zone. With a sturdy rockplate and a protective toe cap, the Bushido II GTX can handle the worst conditions your training runs can throw at you.
Key Specs
| Support | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10.5 oz. (M), 8.8 oz. (W) |
| Drop | 6mm |
Q+A
RW: When is a waterproof shoe the most useful?
MS: A waterproof shoe will be comfortable and useful in any conditions from light drizzle to soggy trails to winter snow and slush. We love our waterproof shoes for colder runs— think chilly rain, trail runs where you don’t want wet feet after stream crossings, or shoulder-season runs on slushy roads.
While the waterproofing membranes listed here are technically breathable (we’re not trying to put your feet into plastic bags), the fact is that a waterproof membrane will make the shoe hotter and less breathable than a standard upper. So if the forecast calls for warm rain, or you’re going on a summer trail run with some stream crossings, feel free to wear your standard running shoes.
RW: Can you use a waterproofing surface spray on regular shoes?
MS: Sure, if you want to! Waterproofing your standard running shoes can be done with a silicone or acrylic polymer spray, and Nikwax makes one of our favorites. This is an easy way to add a layer of protection to your regular shoes, but it won’t be quite as effective as a built-in membrane.
Additionally, a waterproofing spray can add a stiffness to the upper that will impact comfort and performance, so you might find a waterproofing spray is best left to your town shoes and investing in a waterproof pair of running shoes is a better bet.
RW: How can you tell which models of shoes are waterproof?
MS: Most manufacturers will note if a shoe design is waterproof in the name, though they might not do so using the word “waterproof.” Gore-Tex is one of the most popular membranes used by a range of brands across the industry, and many brands tack on “GTX” to a model name to highlight that. Other brands with proprietary membranes will create a waterproof product series, such as Altra’s “ALL-WTHR” line. If you aren't sure if a shoe is waterproof, check the shoe's listing on the brand's website or chat with an expert at your local specialty running store.
Maggie Slepian
Maggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.
