How to Keep Your Feet Dry in the Rain

If the fear of soggy socks is enough to keep you confined to your home during a stiff downpour, it may be time to invest in some footwear that’s appropriate for wet weather. Materials like leather and Gore Tex provide excellent water resistance, or you could try waterproofing an old pair of sneakers using a repellent wax or oil.

And, of course, you’ll want to keep your distance from puddles, heavy streams, and other wet spots that could leave you with wrinkly toes.

1 Pull on a pair of rain boots. Rain boots are designed specifically for this purpose, so it’s no wonder they work so well. The thick rubber material used to make them is completely impervious to water, and will keep your feet and lower legs dry up to about shin-height, or even higher, if you go with a knee-length model.^[1]
- You can even find lined and insulated rain boots for protection from winter storms and treks through wet, cold conditions.
- If you’re going to be making your way through several feet of standing water, consider purchasing a pair of waders, which are essentially extra-tall rain boots.
2 Switch to shoes that are made from water-resistant materials. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and Gore-Tex are tough for moisture to saturate, making them ideal for mild inclement weather. Leather is another material with natural water-resistant properties. Full-grain leather has stood the test of torrential rains for centuries.^[2]
- Be sure to grab a pair with a solid, one-piece construction, as water can still seep through woven fabrics when submerged or exposed to a heavy downpour.
- Keep an eye out for water resistant products from your favorite brands. Nowadays, more and more companies are offering water resistant versions of classic styles.
3 Waterproof your shoes yourself. Assuming you don’t want to drop a bundle on a new pair of shoes or…