Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant Shoes: What the Labels Mean

"Waterproof" and "water-resistant" sound similar but mean different things, and waterproof versions of a shoe usually cost more. Knowing what you are paying for helps you decide whether it is worth it.

Water-resistant

A water-resistant shoe can handle light rain, damp grass or a quick splash. It usually relies on:

• Materials that resist water, such as treated leather or tightly woven synthetic fabrics
• A water-repellent coating (often called DWR) that makes water bead up and roll off

Water-resistant shoes will get wet if you stand in puddles, walk through wet grass for a long time, or are out in heavy rain. Coatings also wear off over time and need to be re-applied.

Waterproof

A waterproof shoe is designed to keep water out even when it is wet for a long time. Most waterproof athletic shoes and boots use a membrane, a thin layer inside the upper with tiny pores that are too small for liquid water to pass through but allow some water vapor (sweat) to escape. Some brands use their own membranes; others use well-known third-party membrane brands.

Other waterproof designs include rubber boots and shoes with sealed seams and a gusseted tongue, which is attached to the sides of the upper so water cannot enter through the lacing area.

Important: a waterproof shoe only keeps water out up to the height of the waterproof section. If water goes over the top, it gets in, and then it takes longer to dry because the membrane slows evaporation.

The trade-offs of waterproof shoes

• Warmer. Membranes reduce breathability, so feet can get hot and sweaty, especially in summer.
• Slower to dry. Once wet inside, they take longer to dry out. See how to dry wet shoes.
• More expensive. Waterproof versions typically cost more than standard versions of the same shoe.
• Membranes can wear. Over time, a membrane can be damaged by abrasion or flexing, especially in the toe crease.

When waterproof is worth paying for

• Winter walking in slush or snow
• Wet climates with frequent rain
• Hiking in wet, muddy conditions, especially in cooler weather
• Outdoor work in wet conditions. See our work boots guide.
• Dog walking on wet grass every morning

When it is not

• Hot-weather running and hiking, where breathability matters more
• Activities where your feet will be submerged anyway, such as crossing streams. Many trail runners prefer non-waterproof shoes that drain and dry quickly.
• Indoor or occasional use

Budget alternatives

Re-treat water-resistant shoes. Water-repellent sprays designed for footwear can restore some resistance to treated leather and fabrics. Follow the product instructions and check that it suits your shoe's material.

Use waterproof socks. For occasional wet days, waterproof socks can turn a regular shoe into a reasonably dry option.

Buy last season's waterproof model. Waterproof versions are discounted alongside regular versions when models are updated. See last season's running shoes and the best time to buy shoes.

Use gaiters. For hiking, gaiters stop water and debris entering over the top of the shoe.

Caring for waterproof shoes

• Clean off mud, which can damage materials and block breathability.
• Dry them at room temperature, away from direct heat.
• Re-apply a water-repellent treatment to the outer material when water stops beading.
• Do not machine wash them unless the manufacturer says it is safe.

The bottom line

Water-resistant shoes handle light rain; waterproof shoes keep water out for longer but are warmer and dry more slowly. Pay for waterproofing when you regularly face wet conditions, especially in cooler weather. For summer and occasional wet days, consider re-treating water-resistant shoes or using waterproof socks instead.