Splash-Proof Style: Best Rain Boots of 2025

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While we’re still clinging to the final vestiges of winter, spring showers are but a hop, skip and a jump away. From winter slush to the spring deluge, your footwear can determine just how comfortable the rest of your day will be – and sitting in the office, your car, or slogging outdoors is no fun with wet feet.

Not to put too fine a point on it, if you stand in cold, wet environments for a long time, you might also be at risk for trench foot, which can occur when you wear wet socks and shoes for days at a time. If you work near water or spend a lot of recreational time outdoors, you may be more at risk for symptoms, which may include tingling and itching, numbness, redness and swelling.

Fungal nail infections and athlete’s foot can also be common during the rainy season, so keeping your feet dry, maintaining good foot hygiene and wearing the appropriate footwear is critical to good health.

Wearing waterproof shoes that allow your feet to breathe and stay dry will be important during the rainy season. With that in mind, we’ve researched some of the best rain boot options available, selecting our favorites based on the rain boot materials, boot cut and comfort levels.

Rain Boot Materials: Natural Rubber vs. PVC

Most rain boots are made from two materials – natural rubber, or synthetic material like PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

Natural rubber

Natural rubber comes from the sap of the rubber tree, grown in Brazil, Thailand and Indonesia. When the rubber is collected via “tapping”, it is then processed and mixed with other materials to create a rubber compound.

Pros:

• Strong and flexible
• Water resistant
• Biodegradable
• More environmentally friendly during manufacturing process

Cons:

• Heavier than PVC
• Natural oils may evaporate over time and will need additional upkeep

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a type of plastic found in a variety of products, from product packaging and toys to flooring and pipes. It’s the world’s third-most widely produced synthetic plastic, with about 50 million tons of PVC produced each year. It was initially created and became popular in the early 1900s as an alternative to natural rubber.

Pros:

• Durable and flexible
• Inexpensive compared to other materials
• Water and weather-resistant

Cons:

• Damaging to environment
• Carcinogens and phthalates in material

Rain Boots: Waterproof vs. Water-resistant

By design, rain boots are supposed to be completely waterproof, unless you see “water-resistant” in the description. The difference of intended use can also determine the level of waterproofing.

We’ve discussed it in another guide, but rain boots aren’t the same as muck boots. Muck boots are designed to keep your feet dry while you’re outside doing chores, so flexibility and sturdiness are key. Muck boots are meant to be used in more extreme weather, and usually made from neoprene and rubber.

Rain boots, on the other hand, should slip on easily, offer some flexibility, but typically have thinner soles. They are more useful in urban, walkable environments, and can contain a number of different material options, including natural rubber, leather, and synthetic materials.

Hiking, leather or suede boots will eventually need to be waterproofed again when you see that water no longer beads up or rolls off the surface. There are a few treatment options, including cleaning jell, waterproofing spray and waterproofing wax. You can shop waterproofing products at REI.com, along with some application tips.

Rain Boot Style Options

While we love the “traditional” rain boot style, there are new options available that can look just as stylish as regular footwear.

1. Knee-high and “tall” rain boots: These are usually listed as tall rain boots. For petite heights, these may be more difficult to wear comfortably. These are the iconic rain boots you see in photos and film.
2. Calf-length rain boots: As the name suggests, calf-length boots will not rise to the knee, and these will be easier to pair with pants, skirts, shorts and everything in between, even for those who may be petite.
3. Ankle boots: Versatile styling and fabric offerings, these shorter rain boots have become pretty popular in recent years, and can be paired with most kinds of wardrobes. You may see some ankle boot styles referred to as “Chelsea” boots. Chelsea boots got their name from a trendy area of London in the 50s and 60s, and was popularized by The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

Best Socks To Wear With Rain Boots

Depending on the weather, you may need some warmer wool socks to keep your feet dry and warm, but during the summer showers in the south, breathability is key so your feet don’t overheat. Merino wool blend socks seem to be the favorite choice amongst rain boot reviewers, but there are other fabric blend options available depending on your preference.

Here are a few fan-favorite sock choices to wear with your rain boots:

1. Merino Wool Blend Calf Socks by Bombas (Men and Women) – $22 at Bombas.com
2. Bogs Classic Merino Wool Socks (Women) – $20 at BogsFootwear.com
3. Dickies Dri-tech Essential Moisture Control Crew Socks (Women) – $15.99 at Amazon
4. Cotton Crew Work Socks (Men) – $19.99 at Amazon
5. Wrangler Ultra Dri Seamless Toe Western Boot Socks (Men) – $19.99 at Amazon

Best Rain Boots of 2025

I​n the guide below, we highlight some of the best selling and top rated rain boots for women and men. We selected these boots based on first-hand testing, functionality criteria, comfort, and customer reviews.

1. Best Ankle Rain Boot (Unisex): Merry People Ankle Rain Boot
2. Best Tall Rain Boot For Women: Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
3. Best Budget Ankle Rain Boot For Women: Asgard Women’s Ankle Rain Boots
4. Best Leather Rain Boot For Women: ARIAT Women’s Terrain Waterproof Boot
5. Best Tall Rain Boot For Men: Kamik Men’s Forester Insulated Rubber Boots
6. Best Budget Rain Boot For Men: DUNLOP Waterproof PVC Boot
7. Best Leather Rain Boot For Men: Timberland Men’s White Ledge Waterproof Mid Hiker Boot

Shop It: MerryPeople.com

Price: $139.95 at MerryPeople.com (Men & Women sizes)

Colors available: Black, Yellow, Cherry, Forest Green, Light Pink, Chocolate, Slate Gray, Rust, Blue & Tan, Sand, Khaki Green, Denim Blue

Features:

• Waterproof
• Made from natural rubber, 100% vegan
• Warm neoprene lining
• Traction sole, arch support
• 12 month warranty, 30 day free returns

The Merry People ankle rain boot is our top rain boot pick for both men and women, with over 20,000 reviews and 4.9-stars on the company site. With a vast assortment of colors and sizes, you can mix and match to your heart’s content with these warm and waterproof rain boots.

“Most comfortable rain boots ever,” said one reviewer, noting they were pleased with both the product and customer service. They went on to mention they had stood in a container of water to test whether they were waterproof, and their feet stayed dry.

Another reviewer on the merrypeople.com site mentioned that having wide feet, they found it hard to find boots that were comfortable, and ordering online was always a risk. Since there were no half sizes, they had to make an exchange and the process easy to navigate.

Multiple reviewers did note that you should size down if you’re in between sizes, and adding inserts or wearing tall, thick socks would help. Some complaints included that these rain boots were fine around the feet, but very tight around the ankle, causing some markings or bruising due to the fit. It was also mentioned that they aren’t the most comfortable option if you have wide feet.

Best Rain Boots For Women 2025

Shop It: HunterBoots.com, Amazon, Zappos, Walmart

Price: starting at $93.08 (limited sizes and colors) at Amazon; $119 at Walmart; $175 at HunterBoots.com

Colors available: Black, Light Natural, Pink, Green, Navy, Light Brown, Yellow, Red

• Alternate Option – Hunter Original Short Rain Boots

Features:

• Waterproof
• Made from natural rubber and woven nylon lining
• Ideal for: Grass, fields, city

I have not just one, but three, weather.com colleagues who rave about these Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots, and claim these are the absolute “must have” rain and snow essential. In fact, style it with the red insert sock and a long coat, and “the only place you feel cold are the knees,” laughed Carmen Molina, bilingual news editor at The Weather Company, as we discussed her experience with these boots.

She went on to say, “I lived in Brooklyn for 10 years, and got them as a Christmas gift. Back then, these boots saved me so many times because, you know, New Yorkers walk everywhere no matter the weather. Now I live in the suburbs of northern Jersey, and they are mandatory to shovel snow. I have another pair (calf height) for ‘lighter’ tasks, but I still use the insert.”

Other reviewers agreed they are stylish, comfortable and offer great water protection. According to one helpful reviewer on HunterBoots.com, “[I] needed boots that actually reached close to the knee for wading, and these work great. I usually have to order a half size larger due to wide feet, but these fit perfectly at my true shoe size. [The] material is flexible and light enough that I don’t have ankle or heel rubbing when flexing through my strides. Tough enough to walk confidently through oyster rake. Calf is skinny enough there is no awkward noisy flopping like in generic rain boots.”

When it comes to complaints, some reviewers felt that these boots just didn’t hold up over time, with cracks developing or heels wearing down, and felt that durability should be better at this price point. Others noted that sizing could be difficult, since there are no half sizes, with some noting that they ended up sizing down for a better fit.

Shop It: Amazon

Price: starting at $28.99 at Amazon

Colors available: Black, Dark Brown, Green, Grey, Navy, Olive Green, White, Red, Starry Blue, Yellow, Burgundy, Beige, Nude

Features:

• Waterproof, non-skid
• Made from rubber with removable EVA foam insole
• Pull-tag at heel and elastic on sides

This Chelsea ankle rain boot pick comes from another colleague at weather.com. When I surveyed the meteorologists and production crew at weather.com, one immediately sent me this Asgard Ankle Rain Boot as her favorite budget-friendly pick.

“These are my favorite rain boots that can also double as winter boots depending on where you live. They look like regular stylish boots, but happen to be waterproof. I added some thick socks to wear for a week of walking around Christmas markets in Europe. Then my mother-in-law bought the same pair for her Christmas market trip the following year!” gushed Jenn Jordan, a content writer for The Weather Company.

“Love these!” claimed another reviewer, going on to say, “I was going on a trip where there would be snow and needed something that was still stylish, but practical for cold and wet weather…I wore them all five days I was on my trip.” More customers agreed that with both the stylish, functional and low price point, these are some of the best ‘bang for your buck’ rain boots.

Most of the complaints were around the longevity of the boots, with some noting they just didn’t last long, starting with small tears before they became unwearable. Others noted that they did not like the feeling of the boot around the ankle (you’ll want to wear socks with these).

Shop It: Amazon, Ariat.com

Price: $129.95 at Ariat.com and Amazon

Colors available: Black, Copper, Distressed Brown/Speckled Cow Print, Weathered Brown & Blue

Features:

• Waterproof, oiled full-grain leather upper
• EVA midsole
• Removable cushioning insole and moisture-wicking lining
• Durable but flexible sole

If you need an outdoor boot that can withstand mud and rain, ARIAT is one of my favorite boot brands. I have two pair of paddock boots I swear by (specifically the Heritage Lace Paddock Boot) that I can comfortably wear for hours. We ultimately selected the ARIAT Terrain Waterproof Boot, however, as our top leather rain boot pick thanks to its multi-purpose hiking and outdoors versatility. With moisture-wicking lining, shock absorption and support, and waterproof features, this chunky boot should keep your feet warm and comfortable all day long.

“Comfortable, supportive, waterproof,” sums up one reviewer. “They also look great with any style [of] pants. I love mine with turquoise accents! Good gripping soles with a heel making it a safe riding boot. I’m an outdoor woman who likes a little style with the functionality. I use them in the barn, pastures and riding.”

“Great boots” and “great fit” continue to be the refrain of the 5-star reviewers on Amazon and Ariat.com. Comfort, walkability and waterproof features top the list, with one saying, “I was pleasantly surprised… I could wear them all day and have no issues with comfort at the end of the day. They support my ankle which [is] a plus, and they are waterproof so I am able to hike through streams and small creeks.”

For complaints, some felt the sturdiness had changed over the past few years, and they were heavy for one reviewer. Others noted the sizing could skew, with some feeling they were just too big and needed to size down. Reviewers also mentioned you’ll need to refresh the waterproofing on the leather after a lot of water use.

Best Rain Boots For Men 2025

Shop It: Amazon

Price: starting at $61.56 at Amazon

Colors available: Black, Black & Khaki, Black & Charcoal, Khaki

Features:

• Waterproof, vegan-friendly synthetic rubber boot
• Adjustable nylon collar
• Moisture-wicking lining
• Temperature rated to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, according to company

Lightweight, waterproof and adjustable calf sizing (via drawstring) will keep the water and ice at bay with these Kamik Forester Insulated Rubber Boots. With 4.5-stars and over 5,200 global ratings, the reviewers agree that the boot quality, comfort, and price point value make this an easy rain boot pick.

One reviewer has purchased some for the entire family, saying, “Very warm, true to size. I’ve had a pair for years and they are holding up well. [I] just got another pair for my wife in black. She loves them for walking the dogs in the snow and slush. It’s been below zero lately and with a good pair of wool socks, you are good to go.”

Multiple reviewers mentioned using them in snow this winter season, calling them the “best winter snow boots I’ve ever had” with their solid waterproofing while doing outdoor chores, and easy to slip on and off while on the go. They’ve been referred to as “great boots” multiple times.

The fit seems to be the most common complaint, with some referring to them as tiny and uncommonly narrow while the calf area is wide. Some mentioned they felt bulky and hard to wear for an extended period of time.

Shop It: Amazon

Price: starting at $22.65, was $28.95 at Amazon

Colors available: Black

Features:

• Waterproof
• Made from PVC
• Replaceable cushion insole

We included the DUNLOP Chesapeake boot in our best muck boot list, and thanks to its waterproof design, low price point and high ratings, it tops the list for our budget pick in this rain boot roundup as well. With 4.5-stars and over 3,000 company ratings, it’s currently listed as a best seller in construction boots for men on Amazon.

As one reviewer said about their experience, “These boots are Mississippi River tested.” They appreciated the boot traction, and mentioned it was important to wear socks (and have another set ready when you were done wearing them, since there is no breathability in the boot).

More agreed they were excellent waterproof boots, keeping feet dry, but that the PVC is thin so wearing thick socks is suggested. Another long time wearer said, “Nearly three years of consistent use, 7,000 steps a week, with no rips or tears. I feel like I’ve already got my money’s worth and I’m still getting more.”

As for complaints, some felt that these are definitely not suited for everyday wear. Using them in cold weather would also not be ideal since they are thin and don’t have any extra padding. While they are lightweight, a few reviewers called them “flimsy”.

Shop It: Timberland.com, Amazon

Price: starting at $99.99 at Timberland.com and Amazon

Colors available: Black, Brown, Castle Grey, Wheat, Rust Nubuck, Dark Brown

Features:

• Waterproof premium Timberland leather
• Seam-sealed construction
• ReBOTL fabric lining containing 50% recycled plastic
• EVA footbed and midsole
• Rubber lug outsole

60,000 reviewers can’t be wrong when it comes to the best leather hiking boot and rain boot alternative – the Timberlands White Ledge Waterproof Mid Hiker Boot. With 4.5-stars and a 74% 5-star rating on Amazon, customers agree that these boots are stylish, durable, comfortable and worth every penny. “Well made” and “sharp” were some of the notable descriptions.

In my household, we’ve used Timberlands as our waterproof motorcycle boot of choice, and the boots have held up under many uses in all types of weather.

“Great construction” kicks off one happy reviewer, noting that they don’t treat these boots kindly. “Been using at my outdoor range in good and terrible weather conditions for over two years and counting. [They] hold up well without issues. I don’t treat it with TLC. It’s like the old Timex watch commercial. Takes a beating and keeps on ticking.”

And for the price point, many agree these are a great pair of shoes from a reputable brand. “Feet felt great walking, nice grips and most importantly kept me warm. I was wearing sneakers with holes in the design and forgot how nice warm feet feel,” says another reviewer.

As for complaints, some felt they weren’t as well made as they should be, with some mentioning the boots breaking down in less than a year or toe seams separating. Others felt like the shoes weren’t as comfortable as they hoped, and some arrived with scratches.

More Product Reviews: Air Purifiers, Dehumidifiers And Portable Air Conditioners

If you’re looking for more ideas to improve your air quality, moisturize your dry winter skin, or cut down on unexpected mold in the spring and summer, we’ve got a few handy guides that will help you find the best products for your household.

How We Made Our Decision

First-hand testing

Three of our top picks included products and brands that have been extensively tested by team members at weather.com. I personally have multiple Ariat boots that I highly recommend, and three colleagues stand by the Hunter Rain Boot pick. We make sure to include products and services that have withstood the test of time, and that we wouldn’t be afraid to recommend to our friends or family (and in this case, a mother-in-law!).

Functionality

While one of the key differentiators between muck boots and rain boots is the level of waterproofing coverage wearers will have, there are other considerations that may be at play. For this list we analyzed a few different performance criteria: waterproofing, materials, comfort, traction in wet and snowy conditions, and price point.

Price

Depending on the brand and quality of the product, we found many popular rain boots ranging as low as $40 and upwards of $200+. We aimed to keep our recommendation prices reasonable and within normal industry standards, with most falling between $60-130, and no selection over $200.

Reviews

When we aren’t able to hand-test every product in our list, we listen to the reviewers. We make sure to include the pros and cons of each product based on user feedback and the feature list. If a product has few (or no) verified reviewers, or the complaints outweigh the purpose and price of the product, we won’t feature it in our lists.

P​rice accurate and item in stock at time of publish.