9 Best Waterproof Running Shoes | 2024 Buying Guide
Standout Picks
We reviewed many shoes. This shoe stepped ahead of the rest for a balanced combination of protection, materials, weight, and good value. Enjoy our full reviews below.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Protection
The experience that we have with different types of footwear has allowed us a unique perspective on the different types of shoe construction.
The quality of the materials and the way that they’re stitched together have a lot to do with whether or not a shoe is going to be truly waterproof. It’s important that runners are protected from the elements. Moisture inside a runner's shoe can cause a big problem. This is why so many runners protect their feet from excessive sweating using specialized socks.
An outside source of water can mean an absolute disaster for your run and foot health. Not only can it soften the skin and cause it to tear, but it can also make future runs impossible until everything is done the healing.
Careful attention paid to the materials and construction of the shoe will equal strong protection against leaks and unwanted moisture. We also looked at shoes with fewer seams and designs that actually carry the water away from the foot.
Materials
Gore-Tex is the go-to fabric when it comes to constructing a pair of water-resistant shoes.
Sometimes, breathability can be reduced when making a product water-resistant. However, Gore-Tex is microporous and allows for airflow while still keeping out water.
On top of being breathable and waterproof, it is also wind-resistant, allowing you to stay protected in less than perfect weather conditions.
Weight
Adding a small amount of weight to your feet can be great for training but isn’t a good idea when you’re to competitively increase your time.
It can slow you down and lead to ankle injury if it proves more than you can handle. Most runners prefer lightweight shoes and that won’t absorb any water—which can also increase weight.
This means choosing materials that are both water resistant and that that won’t add more than a few ounces to your shoes.
9 Best Waterproof Running Shoes
1. Altra Lone Peak 5
The heightened durability makes the Lone Peak 5 an excellent value.
Read moreThis shoe is built with quick-drying mesh. Water wicks away from your socks and quickly evaporates on the surface. It also boasts synthetic panels in key places to promote stability and control when training on uneven surfaces. The midsole is composed of Dual Layer EVA foam that cushions your entire gait.
The shoe frame sits lower on your foot for heightened flexibility and movement. A StoneGuard plate protects your feet from sharp rocks. They weigh in at just over 10 ounces, which is slightly heavier than your average neutral trail runner. For a great pair of durable trail runners, you can’t go wrong with Altra.
2. On Cloudventure
Responsive, comfortable, and durable shoes for runners —check them out.
Read moreThis option is incredibly water-resistant and perfect for wet, muddy, and slippery terrain.
These will provide you with full water protection. Grip and traction are excellent. The outsole features micro-engineered grip rubber to ensure protection and stability.
They are lightweight for trail running considering all of the additional features they have to ensure that you can go the distance while getting the support and stability you need.
The On running shoes were specifically designed for long distances and your favorite mud runs. They are really durable and designed for wet muddy terrain that needs a shoe with lots of traction and grip.
3. Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX
These are protective, have good traction, and are completely waterproof.
Read moreThis option is completely waterproof and will protect you from wet weather. Protection is beefed up through the inclusion of a Gore-Tex lining.
Along with a synthetic sole and hard-wearing rubber sole, lightweight EVA technology has been used in the midsole. AdiPRENE® in the midsole prevents any kind of shock both from external injury and slip. Breathability is average.
Weighing in at about a pound and a half, these are pretty lightweight for waterproof running shoes. These waterproof runners provide excellent traction and grip. Durability: They are abrasion-resistant and perfect for the trail and technical terrain.
4. Brooks Ghost 13 GTX
Breathable, supportive, and waterproof.
Read moreThe multi-layered upper will keep your socks dry while also giving support at the same time. It is composed of a blend of Gore-Tex, breathable mesh, and synthetic materials.
The midsole utilizes Brooks BioMoGo DNA foam to provide a little extra spring in your step. This material helps to provide support and absorb the impact when running on hard surfaces. It also has a 12 mm drop, which provides extra support for your heels when running on hard surfaces. The blend of these materials makes for an incredibly smooth (and dry!) ride.
Durability: It is important to note that the traction on the outsole is only ideal for modest trails. If you want to tackle difficult trailheads, you will need something with deeper treads.
These are a good pair of stability trainers that work to keep your feet dry and supported.
5. Salomon Speedcross 5
Equipped with heavy lugs to tackle almost any trail.
Read moreWe like the updated version of the Speedcross! It boasts a more dynamic upper that stretches and contours to the shape of your foot. This upper not only keeps water out, but it also fits tight to the feet to keep out dirt, debris.
These are a perfect blend between a hiking boot and a stability trainer. The most notable feature of this design is the super deep lugs that really grip the trail ahead. The lugs are also slightly tacky so that you won’t have to worry about losing your footing on slick trail leaves.
If your adventures take you off the beaten path, the Speedcross 5 from Salomon is one of your best options to keep your feet dry. Durability/Performance Point: It is important to note that due to the deep lugs, this option is not ideal to wear for road running or to the gym.
