The Best Rain Boots to Keep Your Feet Dry (and Your Style On Point)
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Ah, fall. Glorious fall! The trees are turning red, there's a bite in the air, annnd...now it's raining. That's the thing about the season we all love to love: It'll turn on you in an instant. Beautiful and balmy transforms into a drenching downpour with nary a warning. But that doesn't necessarily have to be bad news. Because if you've got the best rain boots in your rotation, not only will you be blessed with dry feet, but a chance to break out some damn-fine footwear, too.
Because rain boots nowadays aren't the clunky, uncomfortable rubber shells you might remember from way back. Sure, there are still loads of rubber, Wellington-style options out there, but they're genuinely comfortable. And depending on what you're into—big-ass waders or low-key Chelsea boots—there's something to match pretty much every situation and style. But rubber boots aren't the only thing going. Waterproof leather boots? Check. Technical sneaker boots? Check. Rain-shedding hikers and much-beloved duck boots? Check and check. In fact, some of the rain boots on the market today are so good you'll want to wear them when there's not a cloud in the sky, too. Start with any one of these 23 options and you'll be in good shape for drizzles, deluges, and everything in between.
Original Short Rain Boots
That said, the OG rain boot through and through (with two Royal Warrants to prove it) is no worse for wear after all these years and still a damn good option for the wellies purists among us.
Original Waterproof Chelsea Rain Boots
If Hunter's traditional wellies are a little too beefy for your liking, the brand also offers a sleeker, Chelsea-style rubber rain boot. Colors abound, but this navy is a particularly *chef's kiss* option.
2976 Chelsea Boots
Dr. Martens has pretty much had the market cornered on ultra-durable footwear for a minute now, and the British brand's signature heavily cushioned shoes—like the Chelsea boots here—are ready-made for anything the elements send their way. They'll also pair nicely with a good suit.
Stormers 6" Steel Toe Work Boots
Cat's absolute unit of a boot is a made out of a thick waterproof rubber specially-designed for wet conditions. The brand's Stormer collection offers best-in-class traction, coupled with some serious slip-resistant stabilization features.
Bean Boots
What's left to say about L.L. Bean's iconic namesake boot that hasn't already been addressed ad nauseam in any of the many, many message boards where its fanatic devotees congregate? The shoe is a genuine icon for a reason, and since the brand stepped up distribution of the style not too long ago it's never been easier to get your hands on a pair.
Gatson Mid Boots
You know Ugg for their fluffy, cozy boots, but they've got a damn good, sturdy rain boot, too. These have a seam-sealed construction, wool insole, and waterproof leather upper for comfort and style.
Rubber Workboots
For under 25 bucks, you can snag a pair of knee-high. classic rain boots that are perfect for sloshing around in the mud and dirt. Tingley's are flexible and tough, with a sole that prevents slipping and sliding.
Sauvie Slip On Waterproof Boots
When a company is literally called “Bogs,” you know you can trust it with any wet-weather defense your feet need. These pull-on boots feature a full rubber upper (to keep you dry), plus a contoured footbed (to keep you comfortable) and a slip-resistant sole (to keep you vertical).
AllCast Rain Boots
Whether you're running errands or going to the office, you can lean on Crocs' rain boots. Unlike their hole-y clogs, these are fully seam-sealed and waterproof, with flexible rubber construction for all-day comfort.
Acqua High Ribbed Rain Boots
Take the gloominess out of a rainy day with some sick rain boots. Moncler's bring fashion and function together, with a seamless ribbed design and sock-like ankle lining.
Scout 87 Pro Waterproof Boots
It’s no big surprise that Sorel, a brand that makes near-impenetrable snow boots, also excels at rain boots. The Scout, for example, is fully seam-sealed, with a waterproof upper. It looks damn good, too.
Larimer Mid Waterproof Boots
Inspired by a sneaker, these chic rain boots are lightweight, waterproof, and fully insulated—everything the season calls for.
Cloudrock Waterproof Hiking Boots
If you've ever had the pleasure of feeling On's innovative CloudTec cushioning under foot, there's a very good chance you won't want to give it up, no matter what the weather report says. And you don't have to, thanks to the Swiss brand's waterproof speed hikers, which add Missiongrip to the soles for extra traction on any surface.
SFB Field 2 Gore-Tex Tactical Boots
Sneakers are one of the places where Nike excels, of course. But the brand can make a mean boot, too. So if you're looking for something that'll stand up to long days on your feet, rain or shine, the brand's SFB Field 2—a lightweight sneaker-slash-boot hybrid, made of waterproof fabric and durable leather that features reinforced soles—is just what you need.
Pix Boots
Camper, by name alone, sounds like it should be selling outdoor gear, but is actually one of he most cosmopolitan brands around, offering pieces that'll get through any rain-soaked city street—or any condition for that matter. Just take a look at its Pix boots, which are made out of a thick, hard-wearing leather that's been specially treated to stand up to the elements, and come with chunky EVA outsoles for added traction.
Kaha GORE-TEX Sneaker Boots
It's no secret we're big fans of what the team at Hoka has been doing lately, but the French brand founded by two ex-Salomon employees has really outdone itself here. Made from a lightweight Gore-Tex—with thick Vibram soles for added traction—the Kaha looks like the type of boot that scoffs in the face of inclement weather, yelling "Bring it on!" into the stormy abyss.
Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Boots
If you're of the gorpier persuasion, you can always sub your (waterproof) hiking boots for traditional rain boots. The beefy Vibram sole on these Moab 2 mids has all the traction you'll ever need, while the leather-and-mesh upper keeps the elements at bay. And since they're built for long days on the trail, you can rest assured they'll more than hold up to a walk around the rain-soaked sidewalk.
Matte Puddle Chelsea Boots
Over the past few years, Bottega Veneta really brought its A-game when it comes to accessories, dropping styles—particularly its collection of bright, eye-catching waterproof rubber boots—that fashion insiders and followers are coveting. Lewis Hamilton knows what's up.
Legacy Lace Boots
Speaking of brands that reveal a whole lot in the name, Xtratuf is, well...extra tough. The brand's 100 percent waterproof Legacy lace-up boots have a beefy duck-boot construction, putting a leather shaft on top of latex-coated neoprene that's lighter and more flexible than traditional rubber. A chevron pattern on the sole keeps you firmly on the ground, even in the slipperiest conditions.
BL510 Original 500 Chelsea Boots
Blundstone's Chelsea boot isn't technically waterproof, but ask anyone who's worn a pair on a rainy day, they'll tell you that it'll get you through any downpour. Your feet will stay dry in all but the most ridiculously wet conditions.
Boulder Boots
As it's name conveys, Lems's boots are built like a boulder: they are simple in shape, but powerful in presence; they are incredibly hardwearing; and, most importantly, they are made of durable full-grain leather with a waterproof treatment.
FullBore Boots
With a name like FullBore, you just know that these Danner boots are darn tough. But if you need the specifications, these heavy-shoes are made of buffed leather and nylon, and feature a waterproof lining and super-durable Vibram rubber soles. They also happen to look, well, pretty full bore.
Premium Waterproof Boots
Classic 6" Timbs, now made entirely waterproof. If you know, you know.
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