Editors Say These Waterproof Shoes Saved Their Rainy Day Commutes (2024)

Hunter is a household name when it comes to rain gear, and the brand's cult-favorite boots have become a closet staple. This above-the-ankle Play boot is cute and cheeky while remaining 100% waterproof, roomy, and comfortable. Unlike other tall rain boots, this is easy to pull and off thanks to a stylish pull tab. We found it to run slightly big, so size down if you don't want them too roomy. In fact, Deputy Commerce Editor Christian Gollayan turns to this boot when it's raining or snowing. "It really does hold up to mud, slush, puddles, and it's super easy to clean after a long walk in the park with the dogs," he says. "Because it's easier to slip on and off than other snow boots I have, I turn to this one more often."

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Our editors who own a Freedom Moses slide are obsessed. It hits everything we need in a pair of slides, and is available in a bunch of different styles and prints to match whatever beachside look you're going for. Said necessities include: great arch support, an anti-slip outsole, a curved footbed that's extremely cozy, and a lightweight build that packs easily into luggage or your gym bag. Bonus: it's infused with a scented oil that smells divine out of the box, though this fragrance fades over time. "This slide is so ideal for summertime, or as slippers at home" says Isabelle McMahon, WH's Assistant Social Media Editor. "Plus, it comes in the cutest prints ever! I even bought a pair for my mom, who uses it every time she gardens outside."

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I've worn this bright chunky boot to work and have received tons of compliments. While some women may not like the thick sole, I think it adds a lot of style points while providing tons of cushion that was super comfortable to stand all day in. The sole is also super grippy, and has saved me from slipping on sidewalks during my rainy day commutes. I also like that it comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can blend whatever style you choose into your everyday wardrobe. I prefer the brighter models, since they add pops of color to my fits.

The only drawback with it: though the patent leather shell is entirely waterproof, its laces are not, and I've found that they're incredibly soaked after I've used them in the snow.

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Vivaia is one of my favorite shoe brands since it makes dressy shoes that are as comfortable as they are stylish. I was shocked to find out that it also makes a water-resistant dress boot, and after testing it during a rainy day in Los Angeles, I can confirm that it kept my feet from getting soaked.

It houses a bunch of functional features like a proprietary knit lining that feels like I'm wearing house socks. It also has a leather-blend shell that's able to withstand rain and puddles. If you're someone who need extra support, you'll like the cushioned footbed, which has incredible arch support and a shock-absorbing pad that's easier on your joints than your typical pair of heels. The kicker? This boot is stylish as heck, thanks to its square-toe silhouette and flared heel.

If you're an avid WH reader, you already know how much we love Hoka's Clifton 9 running sneakers. Now, the brand updates its marque model with a Gore-tex shell and a grippy sole for its first waterproof road running shoe. I found this great for my rainy day jogs, or if I'm walking across slippery surfaces. That's because it's incredibly durable, and features its famed cushioning that feels like you're walking on Cloud Nine.

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Everyone, and I mean everyone needs a pair of Teva sandals in her closet. It's a summertime staple that brings a world of comfort to stylish sandals with a cushioned footbed and proper arch support. Plus, the grippy traction makes them light-hike appropriate and water-shoe adjacent. I pair them with socks on chilly nights during camping trips, go commando for beachy bike rides, and even style them with a frilly day time dress. Tevas are are the most functional fashion statement around that can handle saltwater, rain, and mud. Go crazy with color combos because trust me, you'll never want to wear any other sandal.

Expect the adjustable straps to take a few hours to dry if completely submerged. Other than that, they are the perfect active sandal.

Birkenstock clogs are an icon of their own. They are the easiest slip on/slip off pair of shoes for errands, mail runs, dog walks, and more. But the classic suede isn't so weather friendly. This EVA pair is lighter in wight, sleeker in style, and can handle puddles, precipitation, slush, and drizzle. And for a fraction of the price, you can flex your Birk game without breaking the bank. With a water-friendly material combined with a flexible design, and the iconic contoured footbed, this is a pair to have on hand.

While they are a stylish choice, I've found they aren't made for quick movements on slippery surfaces leaving room for anti-slip improvement. And like any Birkenstock, they require a break-in period that molds to your footbed over time.

Timberland knows how to make a good pair of boots, and the latest hiking footwear are sustainably made, waterproof, and super technical. Leather, recycled plastic, waterproof rubber creates the trifecta for a waterproof boot of luxurious comfort. This pair hits everything you could want in a pair of hiking shoes including a cushy insole, a fully-seamed seal, and TimberDry waterproof technology which are fancy patented words for waterproof comfort you can move easily in. Like any hardcore technical hiking boot however, they can be slightly bulky and heavy compared to sneakers.

Our Associate Fashion and Commerce Editor, Lily Wohlner took them for a spin on a long rainy hike in Joshua Tree. "While most of my body was soaking wet after the hike, my feet were completely warm and dry all thanks to these shoes," she said."They have incredible traction on slippery gravel and rocks—I never once felt like I could slip and fall while I was wearing these."

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