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Best Waterproof Running Shoes In 2022

This product guide was written by GearHungry Staff
Last Updated February 5, 2019
GearHungry Staff
GearHungry Staff posts are a compilation of work by various members of our editorial team. We update old articles regularly to provide you the most current information. You can learn more about our staff here.
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If you’re not the kind of person who lets a little bit of rain, sleet or snow dampen their spirits or stop them from getting out and having a run, then you have definitely come to the right place. Even more so if you are looking to upgrade your current waterproof running shoes for a new pair that are better suited to that inclement weather and uneven terrain. Come rain or shine, puddles or muddy trails, we’ve made a list of our favorite kicks that will have you on your marks, get set and certainly ready to go, even if the weather outside is frightful! You are no fair weather runner! You are dedicated to your sport, passionate about your pastime and with all the right gear and especially the best waterproof running shoes on your feet, you can still hit the sidewalk whenever the mood strikes you. So stick around and take a look at today’s product review as we take you through the best waterproof running shoes we could find. Hopefully, the perfect pair for you will be among our runners and riders! Let’s go ahead and check them out.

The Best Waterproof Running Shoe

1
Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Waterproof Running Shoes

salomon men’s speedcross 4 trail waterproof running shoes

Salomon is well respected when it comes to delivering up the athletic goods and their Speedcross 4 Trail Running shoe might just be the perfect winter running shoe. It’s our Best Choice today that much is for sure. It’s actually the 3rd iteration of this popular running shoe, and Salmon put a lot of time and effort into engineering this beauty. Salomon started out as a ski company so the outdoors runs in their veins, inspired by a fell running shoe, this Salomon Speedcross has been designed to take on the toughest of winter terrains thanks to a well-built outsole that really provides superior traction, especially on the soft and slushy ground.

We love the lacing system which really wraps snugly around the foot to deliver the right amount of security and stability, and the addition of quick laces makes adjusting your shoe on the fly so much easier too. The Contragrip outsole is just the ticket for digging into soft terrain for those of you who enjoy trail running, and that sticky rubber construction works like a treat hugging to all kinds of surfaces, no matter what the weather, so you can still feel steady and confident on that cold-weather run. With a durable mesh upper the Speedcross is breathable too but there’s plenty of protection from debris is whether you like tackling trails or flats, this shoe is designed to help you put your best foot forward.

Key Features:

Highly Breathable

Snug and secure fit with quick lacing system

Protective toe cap

Orhotolite insoles for cushioning and odor protection

Stable ride with plenty of good traction

Specification:
  • BrandSalomon
  • Model383136-V0
Pros

Aggressive grip

Precise foothold

Contragrip rubber sole

Easy pull on and off

Lightweight

Stable

Cons

Tight toe box

Narrow fit

BUY ON AMAZON

2
Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex Swift R2 GTX Waterproof Running Shoes

adidas outdoor men’s terrex swift r2 gtx waterproof running shoes

You can always trust Adidas to come up with the goods when it comes to performance-enhancing, and technically engineered training shoes, and their Outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX waterproof running shoe certainly does just that. Besides the fact that they look pretty awesome too, they are more than up to the task of supporting you on your outdoor winter weather runs no matter what the terrain or conditions. With a synthetic toe and a super hard-wearing rubber sole, they also have a fully Gore-Tex lining which provides that all-important water resistance. Internally these runners have a mesh lining which provides an extra layer of luxurious comfort as well as breathability. Lightweight EVA technology is also adopted in the midsole, so the comfort of your feet is taken care of throughout with this thoughtfully designed waterproof running shoe.  They also feature adiPRENE in the midsole which helps to prevent injury and slip-ups when you’re navigating uneven and slippery surfaces. Overall, the Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX delivers the ultimate ventilated atmosphere so that your feet stay not only dry from those outside elements but also fresh and comfortable inside your shoe.

All that, of course, comes at a premium price, which is why we’ve awarded this trainer our Premium Pick in this best waterproof running shoes review but we think they’re well worth the investment and are reasonably confident you’ll fall in love with them too. They’re stylish and capable shoes that really do deliver reliable performance and a high level of durability. The advanced waterproof membrane is really what sets this shoe apart from the competition though and is an excellent choice for the serious runners among you. This is one trail shoe that will support you technically no matter how rough or wet those underfoot conditions might be. For more similar footwear, check out our guide to the best Gore Tex running shoes.

Key Features:

Inclusion of traction rubber provides excellent multi-surface grip

Excellent shock absorption thanks to decoupled heel cushions

Polyamide plates help protect feet from sharp objects

Midsole cushioning with AidPRENE foam lining

Gore-Tex extended comfort footwear for total water resistance

Specification:
  • Brandadidas outdoor
  • ModelCM7492
  • Weight3 pounds
Pros

Super lightweight and comfortable

Great workout as well as running shoe

Offer total water resistance

Responsive ride

Plenty of grip and traction

Cons

Narrow toe section

Complicated lace system

BUY ON AMAZON

3
Columbia Men’s ATS Trail Lite Waterproof Running Shoes

columbia men’s ats trail lite waterproof running shoes

A stripped-down version of Columbia’s ATS trail shoe, the ATS Lite Waterproof Running shoe features all the same benefits you know and love but in a much slimmer profile design with a more aggressive outsole for superior traction and support. Overall it’s a lightweight and low-profile running shoe that looks every bit as sporty as it performs. It’s a great outdoor running shoe and is perfect for supporting you across all kinds of rough and rugged terrain.

The upper is constructed from a light and breathable mesh which ensures comfort and climate control. With superior and responsive Techlite cushioning, this Columbia ATS Lite running shoe provides plenty of impact absorption for a high energy return. Overall this running shoe has been designed to provide the perfect balance between comfort and stability, supporting the foot no matter what the conditions. With strategically placed Omni-GRIP rubber pods on the outsole, you get all the grip and durability but without sacrificing weight and responsiveness. It’s waterproof, sporty in design, and technically advanced. Make sure you also check our guide to the best trail running shoes for more great footwear. 

Key Features:

Waterproof breathable mesh upper

Techlite Lightweight midsole with superior cushioning for high energy return

Strategically placed Omni-GRIP rubber pods for ultimate grip

Advanced traction system

Comfortable and supportive synthetic toe cap

Specification:
  • BrandColumbia
  • Model1756201
Pros

Lightweight and comfortable

High energy return

Responsive

Ultra grippy

Durable

Cons

Waterproof but not fully water resistant

Sole wears out quickly

BUY ON AMAZON

4
New Balance Men’s 481V3 Trail Waterproof Running Shoes

new balance men’s 481v3 trail waterproof running shoes

We wouldn’t say that these were the prettiest trail running shoes ever, but then we suspect that doesn’t really matter! If you are headed out running on that muddy forest trail, then these are going to be the perfect fit for your feet. These New Balance Men’s 4813V Trail Running shoes are all about the company’s renowned technology and comfort. With a fully water-resistant protective coating, these trainers can really handle the elements and whether you are running on road, track, field or trail that AT tread system is designed to support you every step of the way. The super durable out-sole is also non-marking too so if you do take these running shoes indoor, you won’t get into trouble for scuffing any surfaces.

Inside these comfortable running shoes is a Cush+ midsole which delivers softness without compromising on stability or durability. The plush compound foam is lightweight and breathable too, so your feet stay dry but also cool. To top it all off, these New Balance shoes also feature Ortholite inserts which are highly effective at targeting and controlling door fighting bacteria. Quite often to make a shoe really water resistant, breathability can be compromised, but that’s happily not the case when it comes to these New Balance Trail Shoes. With water-resistant upper and all the comfort and support you could ask for, these are a sharp-looking pair of hikers that are perfect for running and walking in all kinds of conditions.

Key Features:

Ortholite insoles provide breathability and control odor-causing bacteria

Excellent on and off-road traction with AT Tread system

Lightweight and supportive with CUSH+ midsoles

Water resistant uppers

New Balance ultra soft comfort inserts

Specification:
  • BrandNew Balance
  • ModelNB2-MT481V3-MNS
  • Weight12 ounces
Pros

Lightweight and comfortable

Great for on and off road

Water resistant

Plenty of traction and stable support

Breathable

Cons

Sizing comes up small

Thin, poor quality laces

BUY ON AMAZON

5
La Sportivo Bushido Waterproof Running Shoe

la sportivo bushido waterproof running shoe

If you are looking for a winter running shoe that combines responsiveness with stability and comfort then our final product selection, the La Sportiva Bushido Running shoe is well worth considering. It delivers adequate protection when running across various technical terrains and is also a good option for daily training as well as long-distance running. It’s what they call a super sticky and highly aggressive running shoe that is lightweight and incredibly responsive.

Thanks to STB control construction it’s the perfect versatile shoe for all kinds of off-road terrains and delivers a snug and stable fit. The lugs of this waterproof running shoe have been designed to create continuous contact and connection with the ground and are perfect for use with spikes.  They’re a highly grippy and well-constructed shoe which is ideal for trail and hill running plus we think that they look pretty neat too.

Designed to excel in technical terrain, there’s no point purchasing these shoes if you just like a rain-sodden run in the local park. With the La Sportivo Bushido Running shoes on your feet, you can push yourself to the limit and attack mountain crags and deter canyons.  They’re highly breathable and moisture wicking but they still offer plenty of protection and keep our sand and trail detritus. With precision control and total sensitivity, these are about as responsive as a trail running shoe can get. With these Bushido’s on your feet, you will find yourself confidently navigating rocks and roots plus a whole heap of obstacles like a mountain goat thanks to those special sticky rubberized soles. For more great running footwear check out our guide to the best barefoot running shoes.

show more
Key Features:

Breathable air mesh rip-stop fabric

Stretch air mesh tongues

No-sweat lateral mesh inserts

Ortholite mountain running style ergonomic inserts

FriXion XT with impact brake system and lugs for attaching spikes

Specification:
  • BrandLa Sportiva
  • Model26K
  • Weight2.18 pounds
Pros

Highly supportive

Lots of ventilation

Sock-like slip-on construction

Reliable traction

Great on soft and hard surfaces

Cons

Quite a heavy shoe

Toe cap could be more supportive

BUY ON AMAZON

Waterproof Running Shoes Buying Guide

How We Chose Our Selection Of The Best Waterproof Running Shoes

We used a number of criteria when pulling together our recommendation of the best waterproof running shoes, one of the most important of which was protection. The quality of all the running shoes which made it onto our list was a given, but we also ensured that they were all well stitched together to provide a truly waterproof finish. Running in the elements requires more protection than usual, and even a little bit of moisture can cause huge problems, so the best waterproof running shoes really do need to be water-tight but also incredibly breathable.

We also looked at the materials used in their construction. Again, water resistance is key along with breathability, and there’s no better fabric than Gore-Tex when it comes to fulfilling both these important functions. Breathability can sometimes be comprised for the sake of making something truly watertight but with Gore-Tex which a microporous, air can still flow freely but water is kept out. The best waterproof running shoes also need to be wind resistant too and protect your feed in all kinds of adverse weather conditions.

Weight was also a factor in determining our short list of running shoes. Just adding even a small amount of weight may well make a shoe more stable but it can compromise speed and efficiency, so we looked at which shoes had the benefit of being waterproof while still being lightweight and responsive too. In order to do that, brands carefully choose the right materials to deliver the protection from the elements that you require, but that won’t add more than a few ounces to your shoes.

Besides quality, construction, materials, and weight, we also looked at consumer reviews and feedback as this is always the best and more realistic evaluation of whether a running shoe really is waterproof and fit for purpose. Alongside those reviews and feedback, we also ensured that our guide offered a real cross-section of representative brands from within this popular category as well as a range of affordable and attractive price points. Quality needn’t always be expensive, but when it comes to construction and materials, there can be no compromising if you do genuinely want the very best waterproof running shoes.

man running on the rain in the waterproof running shoes

Features To Look For In Waterproof Running Shoes

There are plenty of features to be on the lookout for in a pair of waterproof running shoes so let’s take a look at some of the more important ones to consider before you drop some cash on your next pair of winter kicks.

Water Resistance v’s Water Proof - This might seem like a subtle distinction, they’ve both got the word “water” in the title after all but rest assured there is an important difference between the words resistant and proof when used in conjunction with those winter running shoes. Resistance means complete protection from the elements whereas the latter will only provide brief not prolonged exposure to water. So if you do intend hitting the roads on trails when it’s lashing it down, look for water resistance not waterproof trainers.

Advanced features - Sometimes less is more, and it doesn’t always pay to go for a pair of trainers that are literally stacked with advanced features that you really won’t benefit from. Tempting as it might be to splash your cash on the most expensive pair of waterproof trainers your budget will allow, you need to be investing in a pair of trainers that suit the kind of running that you regularly do. There’s no point getting the most advanced trail trainers with super supportive lugs if you only ever run on the roads. The best idea is to keep your shoe selection simple rather than overpaying for something that you just won’t get the benefit from. That said, if you do like to mix up your running and navigate a whole host of surfaces from asphalt to concrete, grass to a rocky trail, then make sure you pay attention to the type of toe and midsole that your shoes come with.

Support - How often do you regularly run? If you are hitting the sidewalks and the parks a couple of time a week, then you need a shoe that has plenty o cushioning and support and not just offers waterproof protection. Think about the anatomy of your foot too and make sure that you go for something that is suitable if you have a high or low arch for example. It’s a good idea to have your gait professionally assessed before you invest in an expensive new pair of running shoes to ensure that you’re not compromising your form by wearing the wrong fitting runners.

Breathability - Choose a pair of trainers that will allow your foot to breath. Look for nylon mesh which is a great fabric which enables your foot to stay both dry and cool. Ideally you want sweat to escape, but you don’t want moisture to penetrate; otherwise, you run the risk of developing every runner’s worse nightmare, blisters! So make sure that you don’t end up compromising on the breathability of your running shoes in order to get the water resistant you need.

Tough and durable tread system - Depending upon the types of surfaces that you intend running on, you need a tread or lug that can fully support you. If you are a suburban runner only you want plenty of shock absorption but a smooth and stable ride that will assist you as you pound those paved surfaces. If you prefer to do your running off road or tackle trails, then you should be considering an off-roading running shoe that has plenty of traction support and a tread that can tackle soft as well as hard and uneven surfaces.

Cushioning and comfort support - Look out for EVA foam cushioning, primarily through the mid-soles which will help with shock absorption and prevent unnecessary strain on the body and joints. The type of cushioning you go for should be determined by how you run too, so it's’ worth getting a gait assessment. If you overpronate for example when you run, then you need more stability n the midsole which will help prevent your foot from rolling inwards. Keep in mind though that motion control shoes can be heavier in construction, so it’s essential to get the balance between the right amount of cushioning and support plus flexibility.

Sockliner - The removable pad of foam inside your trainers, customarily made from EVA cushioning, is also an important feature worth considering. The inside of your shoe should be cushioned perfectly to the contour of your foot for that ultimate “fit like a sock” feeling. The sock liner is what is responsible for providing your running shoe with its geometry and comfort, along with arch support should you require it. We recommend that you pay attention to how the sock liner both fits and feels.

Consider the Flex Point of your running shoes. -  Ideally, a well designed running shoe will flex along with your toes and bend at the same time. If you have a toe box that it is too rigid, this may cause discomfort.

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