The best rain boots we tested
Best rain boots: Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boot
Best budget rain boots: Crocs Classic Boot
You’ll be glad to own the best rain boots as soon as the wet season rolls around. Rain boots are designed to protect your feet and legs from downpours, flooding and mud, whether you’re commuting around the city or trudging along a dirt trail. Some are even practical for garden work while others — deck boots, in particular, which are made for wet and slippery surfaces — are useful when working on boats, piers and docks.
Rain boots are essential for those living in an area that gets a lot of rainfall, or where the sewage system isn’t the most effective, and just having the best rain jacket won’t cut it. Even with the best rain pants on, you’ll still need a good pair of rain boots to keep your feet and socks dry and warm lest you risk developing conditions like trench foot, which according to the Cleveland Clinic can cause “skin and tissue breakdown, which can increase your risk for infection.”
For three weeks, I tested 10 top-rated rain boots from brands like Hunter, Crocs and Sperry on their waterproofing prowess, size and fit, traction, durability, insulation and more to see which ones lived up to their reputation for general everyday use. I then pared that list down to the two best rain boots for men and women.
These gorgeous Chelsea boots from Merry People are durable, excellently waterproof and easy to clean. They also have impressive grip and are incredibly comfortable for all-day walking. If you need something to run errands in during downpours, these are the ones to buy.
Crocs are known for their comfort and these rain boots uphold that reputation, being just as extremely comfortable and lightweight as the brand's clogs. These will protect your feet and socks from the wet elements for much less than most of their brand-name competitors.
Best rain boots: Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boot
I had sworn allegiance to Hunter before I had the pleasure of wading through rocky streams and a filthy city river in these Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boots. Now, I can’t get enough of this brand and its waterproof footwear.
Don’t get me wrong; I still love my Hunter boots, and I found the Hunter Play Short Boots to be quite the upgrade to an already great design. However, these Chelsea boots have Hunter beat in all-day comfort and traction. Available for men and women in 14 different colors, they’re also very durable and versatile in design, meaning they’re just as appropriate to wear on a short nature walk down a flat yet muddy path as they are for city commutes.
Made of natural rubber and flexible neoprene lining — though the brand is currently testing recycled rubber and neoprene alternatives — the Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boots feel robust and well-sealed, having survived rocky streams and muddy riverbeds without so much as a scratch during testing. I looked at the thousands of online reviews they received as well, and apart from the rare quality control issue, no one has complained of leaks.
Besides keeping my feet dry and safe from the Los Angeles River’s dubious waters, they kept them comfortable as well. At 2.61 pounds, they were hardly the most lightweight in the testing pool. However, they feel supportive at the heels, boast soft and luxurious lining and are comfortable for walking and running errands all day, giving them an edge over the Hunter offerings as well as their sibling model, the Merry People Tully Ankle Boots. There’s also some arch support here, though it might not be enough for high-arched users (like myself).
Another edge they have over the Hunters is the treads, which are abundantly textured for better traction. I found them to have excellent grip on slippery rocks and mud, and unlike the Hunter Play, decent traction on smooth surfaces like a bathroom floor. These boots are also warm and well-insulated, thanks in part to their neoprene lining, so you’ll have to let your feet breathe between trips when wearing them on balmy rainy days.
Also bear in mind that the Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boots only have about 3.5 inches of waterproofing around the ankles due to their non-waterproof elastic side panels. So, if you live in an area that sees moderate flooding, you might want to opt for the Hunter Play or the Merry People Tully instead.
Depending on how thick your legs are, there might be space around the collar for the occasional raindrop or splash to fall through. However, they’re still narrower than many of the other boots we tested, allowing for more protection at the top. Despite the narrower collar, these are still surprisingly very easy to slip on, even without the help of the front and back pull loops.
Taking them off is slightly tricky, as the bottom inserts can slip off when you do. It’s not a major inconvenience, but it is a common complaint among Bobbi users. Another downside here is that the inside isn’t as fast to dry as others; however, cleaning is effortless, as most of the mud and debris comes off with a quick hose-down.
Best budget rain boots: Crocs Classic Boot
Never having worn Crocs in my lifetime, I am just as surprised as you might be to see the brand’s rain boots make it to the final two as our best budget pick. The Crocs Classic Boots won my heart after surviving rigorous testing while delivering that legendary comfort Crocs footwear is known for.
These rain boots, great for both men and women thanks to the unisex aesthetic, are perfectly sealed because each boot is molded from melted Croslite, the proprietary waterproof material the brand uses to make its iconic footwear. This means that every boot is a single unit that requires zero stitching or glueing, minimizing the possibility of the rain boots’ coming apart after repeated exposure to moisture and rain.
Croslite isn’t just known for its waterproofing properties; it’s also very durable, lasting up to five years with regular use and up to 10 years with less frequent use. Not too shabby for something that will only set you back $60. We’ll take that deal over some cheap off-brand pair that could start leaking after only a few months.
At just around 1 pound, the Crocs Classic Boots are also incredibly lightweight, adding to their already comfortable fit. The insoles are bouncy yet supportive and come with some arch support. That’s great news for those with high arches like me.
Since the boots are entirely Croslite, there’s no fabric lining, but that doesn’t get in the way of comfort. I walked around in these without socks on — not ideal or very hygienic, but someone’s got to do the dirty work — to test how it feels and never saw a hint of a blister or chafing. That also means they’re easy to clean and dry, inside and out. In my tests, most of the mud and muck came off just by hosing the boots down. I’ve owned my share of rain boots over the years, and none of them were as easy to clean as these.
You might not want to wear these for long periods during the hot months due to their great insulation, but come fall and winter, you’ll probably never want to take them off. Their traction is impressive as well. I found their soles’ grip on algae-covered riverbeds, rocks and mud to be great, never slipping even once. They’re surprisingly grippy on smooth surfaces too, which was evident after I soiled my bathroom floor and tub with pools of water just to see how they perform.
What’s more, they’re easy to put on and slip off. That’s thanks to the wide collar, which is kind of a double-edged sword. On one hand, you don’t have to worry about wrestling off your dirty rain boots after sloshing around the city. In addition, there’s plenty of space for your legs, offsetting the somewhat rigid shaft. On the other hand, rainwater and splashes easily get in through the collar from all sides, dampening your socks at the cuff and leg areas. It’s not too bad though, as these are tall enough to give you coverage just below the calves.
How we tested
To put all the rain boots through their paces, I spent three weeks walking in them, stomping and splashing around in shallow creeks and rivers and recreating rain in the middle of summer, noting factors like waterproofing, traction, comfort and durability. It’s also important to note that I only considered those best for general everyday use, as we have a separate guide for waterproof hiking gear that includes waterproof hiking boots.
I evaluated each pair using the following primary criteria.
- Waterproofing: How a pair of rain boots performs in keeping water out doesn’t just depend on the level of waterproofing they offer; it also hinges on durability. However, assessing the latter can take months, so we kept our testing to their waterproofing capabilities. To do so, I took all 10 pairs to the muddy and algae-covered waters of the Los Angeles River, the rocky creeks of the Angeles National Forest, and my shower and garden to recreate rain, paying attention to any leaks and seeps.
- Durability: How well rain boots can withstand cracks and holes is more of a long-term process. Since I only had weeks to test, I stuck with how much abuse each pair could take in rugged conditions, paying attention to any resulting scratches and other damage. I also looked at reviews of verified customers, noting complaints about durability.
- Weight: Walking in the rain is hard enough, let alone dragging mud and other debris that get stucks to your footwear. So weight is an important consideration when choosing rain boots. Besides weighing each pair on our home scale, I also walked around in them to get a feel of how heavy they were
- Ergonomics: Size, fit, shape and comfort are non-negotiable in footwear so I noted those during our tests as well. I paid attention to things like insole support, arch support, breathability, sizing accuracy, how easy they were to put on and take off and more.
- Traction: Wet or flooded streets and paths mean slippery conditions. Good traction, therefore, is a requirement. To test this, I walked, jumped and ran around in the boots on different ground surfaces, from rocky and muddy creek beds to paved roads and my bathroom floor.
For a fair assessment, I also considered the following secondary criteria.
- Material: Many rain boots are made of neoprene, which has proven to be damaging to the environment. I looked at each pair of boots to see if they were made of more sustainable materials.
- Maintenance and cleaning: Because rain boots often contend with the elements, they always need a thorough hosing down and scrubbing. Some are easier to clean than others, though, and to test this, I stomped around in the riverbed mud, risking hygiene. I then threw all the boots in my tub and hosed them down to see which ones were the easiest to clean. I also noted how quickly each one dried, especially their inner lining.
- Value: Rain boots vary in price, and while I would never recommend cheaply made boots, I still consider value. Many cheap boots won’t last very long, while some expensive rain boots are simply not worth the splurge. I looked at how each pair performed across all criteria and then assessed if it gave the best value at its price point, especially in comparison to their rivals.
How to choose the right rain boots
If you’re a novice in the world of rain boots, the first thing you should know is that there are many types of waterproof footwear out there. You should choose the most appropriate one for your particular set of needs.
For instance, if you need hikers, a pair of waterproof hiking boots over rain boots is better. According to Maggie Peikon, manager of communications at the American Hiking Society and an experienced trekker, “For trails that are more strenuous, long, and/or challenging — with elevation gain and varying terrain (rocky, trip hazards, etc.), I would not recommend rain boots as they may not provide as much traction or stability and support for your feet and ankles as a traditional, lace-up hiking boot would.”
Cris Hazzard, a well-known trail guide and owner of the YouTube channel HikingGuy, agrees. “Part of the equation with the footwear is the tread and the grip, and I’ve had those rubber boots before. They’re not really built for that type of thing. In the hiking world, the tread and grip are important, especially if it’s rainy and muddy.”
Hazzard says rain boots are appropriate for certain situations. “If I was at a national park where there were some easy one-mile trails that were well-groomed and it’s just like flat cinders or paved, I think doing a short hike like that in rain boots is totally fine.”
Rain boots are “best for walks around town, on pavement or short treks on level ground rather than long hikes on the trail,” says Peikon. So, if you’re seeking a pair of waterproof footwear for running errands, commuting in the city or working in the garden, regular rain boots should more than suffice.
While they are the most popular, Wellington or gum boots aren’t your only options either. You might opt for a stylish pair of Chelsea boots if you want something versatile you can wear in the office, deck boots if you need something to wear on boats or mid-calf rubber rain boots if you need more protection on your legs.
Whatever height and style you choose, remember that there are several other factors to consider as well.
Carefully look at waterproofing and durability
Waterproofing and durability come hand in hand. A new pair of boots may be well-sealed, but if they crack or come apart after a few months, they’ll start taking on water and expose your feet to water and cold temperatures.
Unfortunately, you likely won’t find out just how durable your rain boots are after only a few uses. We recommend checking online reviews from verified customers and seeing what they’ve said about its durability before you hit buy.
Choose the right weight, insulation and ergonomics
Ideally, waterproof footwear should be lightweight, as trudging around in the rain is hard enough, let alone dealing with mud and flooding. Luckily, rain boots aren’t always heavy — the best budget recommendation in this guide, for example, is only around 1 pound.
However, weight isn’t the only factor when it comes to comfort; ergonomics come into play as well. Our top pick is heavier at 2.61 lbs, but they’re supportive, fit well and feel good to walk around in all day. Bear in mind the type of feet you have. For example, If you have high arches, you’ll want something with a lot of arch support.
Insulation is another important factor. Peikon says that “seam-sealed waterproof boots aren’t always the most breathable, so your feet may sweat in the boot, making you want to potentially consider lightweight socks.” Rain boots do tend to be warmer on your feet, but some are more breathable than others. If you want a pair you can wear all year long, you might want to get something less insulated so they won’t make your feet sweat too much in the summertime.
In terms of size and fit, Hazzard recommends “leaving some extra room, maybe a size or half size up, so that you can wear heavier socks.”
Traction is incredibly important
Peikon also recommends paying close attention to how grippy the soles are, pointing out that “you’re going to want protection from the elements as well as stability and traction when traversing across slippery, wet terrain underfoot.” That applies to all rain footwear, whether you need waterproof hiking boots or rain boots.
Again, this depends on your needs. Some rain boots have excellent grip, no matter the ground surface, while others don’t do as well on smooth surfaces. If you need something that provides stability in the streets and the office, opt for the former.
Consider how easy they are to clean
Wellington or gum boots are notoriously hard to clean, especially with mud on them. However, not all rain boots are Wellies, and many are easier to clean.
Sadly, there aren’t a lot of online reviews that mention maintenance. The only way to find out just how easy they are to clean is to muddy them yourself or ask someone you know who’s been using a similar pair. Lucky for you, I took cleaning and maintenance into consideration in my testing.
Are they worth the price?
There’s a reason why many brand-name rain boots are $100 or more. Good-quality rain boots can be expensive because of their materials and construction, and choosing a cheap pair of boots from a nameless brand could mean you’re getting one that will come apart after a few uses. However, that doesn’t mean you should go for the most expensive pair either, since a hefty price tag doesn’t necessarily equal high quality.
When choosing the right rain boots for you, make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
What boots should I wear for hiking in rainy weather?
According to Hazzard, there are two schools of thought when it comes to footwear for inclement weather. “Ten years ago, everything was Gore-Tex. And the idea was that you would buy hiking shoes or boots that were Gore-Tex to keep the water out. In theory, that sounds great. The problem with that is that, generally, it’s easy for water to get into your shoes or boots, especially if you’re doing stream crossings and not just walking on a wet trail.”
“And when Gore-Tex footwear gets waterlogged from the inside, then no water gets out.” says Hazzard “It’s overloading that membrane, and then they get soggy on the inside. And your feet aren’t dry.”
The alternative is to simply get wet. Hazzard says “The shift that I’ve seen over the last few years is to wear very breathable, lightweight trail runners that dry quickly and wool socks or synthetic socks that’ll wick the moisture away quickly, and just get your feet wet.”
However, if you prefer to keep your feet dry and don’t expect to cross any overflowing streams, he recommends a higher-cuffed or mid-cuffed Gore-Tex waterproof boot. “The nice thing now is a lot of popular trail runners, you can get with a mid cuff or a high cuff in Gore-Tex. There’s a popular one called the Hoka Speedgoat. And they make that in a Gore-Tex version with higher cuffs.”
Other rain boots we tested
Featuring a more modern aesthetic, the Hunter Play Short Boots are a nice upgrade to an already great design. They deliver the same top-notch waterproofing as the Originals while improving on stability and traction, making them a better choice for all-day walking.
The Hunter Play Short Rain Boots came in a close third on this list. Hunter is a well-established brand in rain boots, and its quality and craftsmanship are apparent in these modern versions of the Original line. They feel very sturdy and beautifully sealed, surviving my tests without a scratch or leak.
If you live in an area that often gets exposed to moderate flooding, know that you’re getting six inches of waterproofing with these rain boots. The collar is wide enough to let the rain in, sadly, but it also makes them super easy to put on, take off and walk around in. However, if you do find yourself needing some assistance, back loops are on hand too.
They’re lighter at 2.28 pounds and easier to walk around in compared to the Originals. That’s due in large part to their more modern soles — while the Originals are hard to walk in, particularly on uneven ground, these come with platform-style soles that offer steadier and more stable footing, as well as better tracking. Those soles also give the rain boots a more versatile design so they’re appropriate for short walks in the woods and are stylish enough for a day in the city. As far as comfort, the lining is soft enough to minimize chafing, while the fit is slightly on the roomier side, so there’s enough space for thicker socks without needing to size up.
Where the Hunter Play Short Rain Boots fall short is in traction and maintenance. Their grip is good, working well on rocks and mud. However, they get a little challenging to walk in on smooth, wet floors. That’s disappointing considering they’re made for urban settings. And much like the original Hunters, they’re also a little harder to clean when mud enters the equation.
Made for fishermen, the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots are perfect for walking on smooth, wet surfaces. But because of how comfortable they are, they’re also great for walking around in the city on a rainy day. They also come in different colors and fun patterns.
Originally designed for fishermen and fishing enthusiasts, the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots are made for wet, smooth surfaces like boat flooring. They lived up to their name during testing, delivering great traction on rocky or muddy surfaces and good gripping on smooth surfaces. And because they’re built for doing messy work, they were also easy to clean, with mud and debris coming right off with a quick hose-down.
However, many city dwellers have since adopted them for urban commutes on account of their comfort. These waterproof boots offer some arch support, a soft inner lining and a wide collar that makes them easy to slip on and off. In addition, they’re lightweight at 1.87 pounds, while the heel area rounds out a little, leaving extra room for your heels to minimize rubbing and chafing. They’re also well-insulated, keeping your feet warm and toasty during the cold months.
Unfortunately, I found the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots to have a few glaring disadvantages. The wide collar makes it easy for falling and splashing water to get through and get your socks wet. And while the upper part of the boots did survive our testing, I found it susceptible to scratches. I also combed through online reviews and found a handful of them mentioning leaking issues and the foxing coming off after only a few months of use.
Considering these are more than $100, it’s hard to look past those flaws.
One of our favorites, the Merry People Tully Ankle Rain Boots are surprisingly comfortable despite being heavier. If you want to get a few inches taller while trudging in the rain, these will deliver stable footing while keeping your feet dry and toasty.
Of all the products in the testing pool, I loved the Merry People Tully Ankle Rain Boots’ design the best, with their platform soles and wraparound neoprene cuffs. And they would have made the top spot had it not been for the fact they’re one of the heaviest of the bunch at 3.31 pounds.
They’re still one of the most comfortable boots I tested, though, if not the most, full stop. The insoles are bouncy and supportive, the lining is luxuriously soft and some arch support is present. They’re also easy to slip on and take off, though you may need some assistance from your fingers when you put them on. Size up, and there’s a lot of room for heavier socks.
In true Merry People fashion, these are super effective at keeping your feet and ankles dry and toasty. The cuffs are soft and expandable but curve in at the collar, providing more protection from the rain and splashes. Keep in mind though that the cuffs are not waterproof so they can get wet during downpours.
The rain boots feel very solid, surviving rocks and mud effortlessly during testing, and sport a textured finish that minimizes scratches. You can trust them to keep you stable as well, as they offer a lot of grip on non-smooth surfaces and decent traction on smooth ones.
An upgraded version of the Xtratuf 6-Inch Ankle Deck Boot, these rain boots offer better traction, better rain protection and a tighter fit — just the elements you need when you’re doing something more active. Just like the original, these come in different colors.
The sport version of the Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots comes with a few design updates. These rain boots have more slip-resistant outsoles and are made of high-performance foam called Biolite that’s more durable. Sure enough, these rain boots are grippier than the original, both on rocky and muddy surfaces as well as smooth ones.
These boots also have a slightly different collar, just as wide but shaped in a way that somehow limits the amount of falling or splashing water from getting inside. Plus, they have a tighter fit, leaving just enough room for socks of medium thickness if you don’t size up. Those upgrades, of course, come with a slightly higher price tag.
The same level of waterproofing is still there. And just like the original, the upper part is susceptible to scratches and other damage. During my tests, a sharp edge of a rock managed to poke a tiny superficial hole in the upper of the right boot. Online reviews also talk about leaking being an issue within a few months of use.
Still, they’re lightweight at around 1.3 pounds, have some arch support and are well-insulated. They’re also easy to slip on and take off, with front and back loops present for additional assistance.
The Sperry Torrent Chelsea Waterproof Rain Boots deliver warmth, waterproofing and excellent traction. These platform-style Chelsea boots are stunning too. These are worth considering if you want a more affordable pair of rain boots.
I love the soft micro-fleece material that lines the inside of the Sperry Torrent Chelsea Waterproof Rain Boots, as it adds insulation and makes them cozier. The insoles are also comfortable to walk on and the fit is good, leaving enough room for thicker socks. The boots look stunning, too. And while they’re not exactly lightweight, they’re not too heavy either — in fact, I managed to effortlessly climb the hills in my neighborhood in them.
Waterproofing is also top-notch here. The shoes are well-sealed while the collar isn’t too wide, minimizing the amount of rain that might seep through while still making them easy to slip on and take off. Equally important is traction, and these have incredible grip, especially in rugged situations but also on smooth surfaces.
It’s just too bad they still fall short in comfort. The main complaint about these Chelsea boots is their rough edges, and I can confirm that to be accurate. It was the first thing I noticed after wearing them for about 30 minutes. Sadly, the edges around the elastic side panels and the collars are rough enough to cause blisters when you’ve been wearing them for a while — and that’s with socks on. Add to that the lack of ankle support, and you’ll likely want to take them off after walking in them for half a day.
I really wanted to like these rain boots, especially because they’re very affordable at $90. If Sperry fixes their biggest issue, they would undoubtedly rank higher on the list.
Perfect for sailing days, the Bogs Kicker Rain Chelsea will likely round out your nautical outfit beautifully. I also love how flexible the uppers are, which is ideal when walking around on a moving boat. Best of all, they’re fairly inexpensive.
If you’re looking for a fashionable pair of waterproof footwear you can wear on a sailboat, look no further. The Bogs Kicker Rain Chelsea Boots are stylish in that preppy, nautical way. The upper on these is incredibly flexible too, which makes them easy to walk around in, especially on a moving boat. Of course, they’ve got the basics covered as well. They’re very durable and lightweight at 1.57 pounds. The collar is also designed to hug the ankles to keep rain and splashes from seeping in.
Sadly, water does tend to seep in anyway. Because of the non-waterproof elastic side panels, you have less than 1.5 inches of waterproofing at the ankles — meaning that if you accidentally step in a puddle about 2 inches deep or have no choice but to walk through a flooded part of the road, your socks and feet are soaked.
There’s also no arch support and the insoles do not feel very supportive, so you wouldn’t want to run around town in them all day. Finally, the traction could be better as well. It’s a pity because I do love the way these look on my feet and they’re affordable at only $80.
Another great pair of deck boots, the Grundens Deck-Boss Ankle Boots are made for all-day wear with their shock resistance and cooling, anti-odor liner. If you want to stay stylish on a fishing trip or a sailing expedition, these are a great, affordable pair to wear.
Built for all-day use on decks, the appropriately-named Grundens Deck-Boss Ankle Boots are designed with a thick insole with shock resistance and a soft, cooling liner that minimizes odors. There’s not a lot of arch support here, but they are relatively comfortable. I can certainly see the efforts Grundens put in to make them supportive, just the ticket if you’re on your feet all day.
However, there’s a lot of room for improvement. While they’re well-sealed, the collar is wide enough to allow falling water to seep in. The collar also rounds inwards and may cause some chafing until you break them in. Also, some online accounts from verified customers talk of ripping and peeling after a few months of use.
The inside also narrows around the midsole and then widens around the heels, which can feel weird if you don’t size up. You’ll need to size up anyway to leave extra room for heavier socks. Also, weirdly enough, though these are designed for decks, they don’t have the best traction on smooth surfaces.
At least they look stylish, and you’ll look good in them when you’re out fishing or sailing.
If you’re looking for tall rain boots, the Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots will get you through the muddiest conditions and moderate flooding. They’re extremely robust as well, so while they’re on the pricey side, they will last you a while.
I spent a lot of time traipsing along the muddy trails of the Irish countryside and in the rainy streets of Dublin in the Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots, and to be fair, they served me well, protecting not just my feet but my calves (and pants) too. And these being Hunters, they survived those days with barely a scratch on them.
As much as I love them for the protection and insulation they provide, though, they do come with a few glaring flaws. At 3.94 pounds, they’re very heavy, even heavier when you’re dealing with mud as they have a habit of picking it up and piling it on. What’s more, the soles aren’t great for uneven ground, and the lack of arch support makes them unsuitable for hours of walking. I kept losing my footing in the rocky areas, and my feet quickly experienced fatigue walking around in the city. That’s not accounting for the fact they feel very tight if you’ve got bigger calves or are wearing bottom layers.
Make no mistake; I still keep three pairs of Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots in my closet as they come in handy in certain situations. For example, I’ll be thankful to have them on a holiday in Venice when the city is completely flooded (yet again). However, these wouldn’t be my go-to rain boots for regular use.