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The 15 Best Waterproof Boots for Women of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

The 15 Best Waterproof Boots for Women of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Growing up in the perennially soggy UK, I learned from a young age that keeping your feet dry is the key to comfort wherever your adventures take you. I’ve packed waterproof hiking boots for rainy season expeditions to the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, and waterproof Chelsea boots for city breaks to stormy Seattle and wintry Munich. I also spend much of my year traipsing about the fields with my dog at home in Scotland in neoprene and rubber rain boots.

Having tried many different types of waterproof boots for a wide variety of activities and climates over the years, I can vouch for the diversity of this particular footwear category. Materials vary from naturally waterproof rubber to fabrics and leathers treated for full waterproofness, while styles include everything from ankle-high deck boots to heeled knee boots. To help you find the best waterproof boot for you, we tested 54 different pairs for fit, comfort, durability, traction, and waterproofing.




Credit: Sam Edelman

T+L associate editor Danielle Calma has owned these Sam Edelman boots for more than five years and says, “They’re the pair I reach for when it’s pouring out, or I have to trudge through several feet of snow.” The uppers are crafted from waterproof leather, while the tight-fitting, above-ankle shaft prevents moisture from seeping in over the top. Even better, the 1.5-inch heel elevates you above surface water and offers an exaggerated lug for reliable traction on all kinds of terrain, including ice and rain-slicked concrete. We also think that the classic Chelsea boot style is timeless enough to pair well with most outfits and remain on-trend season after season.

They’re both breathable and insulating enough to keep your feet at the right temperature in mild or freezing weather. We found the boots comfortable right out of the box, fitting true to size with just enough toe room to prevent any tightness. Despite the hefty-looking block heels, they’re relatively lightweight and can be worn for hours on end without causing fatigue. And, with elasticated gore insets and two pull tabs, you won’t have to struggle too much to get them on and off.

The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Leather upper, synthetic insole, rubber outsole




Credit: Sorel

The Sorel Joan Now Chelsea Boots focus on style with an elevated block heel, designed to go with everything. We love that they tick all the necessary boxes for a pair of durable, waterproof boots while simultaneously being chic enough to wear on capital city streets. Popp praises the boots’ craftsmanship, saying, “The material feels well stitched and of a high quality, while still lightweight enough for travel.”

We packed them in a checked suitcase for two flights and found that they added very little weight. The canvas-lined, full-grain leather upper is completely waterproof—as proven when we jumped in puddles and tested them in the shower—and we love that the ankle comes up a little higher than usual to prevent water seeping in over the top. The high-traction, aggressively lugged rubber sole provides traction on all surfaces. The boots were comfortable right out of the box, but we do think they run a little large.

The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Leather upper, canvas and synthetic lining, EVA footbed, rubber outsole




Credit: Amazon

Why We Love It

  • These boots are sturdy, reliably waterproof, and significantly more affordable than most other options on this list.

Wallet-friendly at under $40 and still high-quality, the Asgard Chelsea Ankle Waterproof Rain Boots are made from hard-wearing matte rubber with elastic goring on both sides and a strategic heel tab to help with on and off. We found that they fit as expected, with a spacious toe box and no break-in period required. The cushioning provided by the removable EVA insole is minimal, as is the arch support. However, even with plantar fasciitis, we were able to wear them for an afternoon at the pumpkin patch without discomfort.

They’re not particularly breathable, and if you wear them indoors for an extended period, your feet are likely to sweat. However, for outdoor adventures, they’re a great budget-friendly alternative to some of the pricier options on this list. The rubber construction is fully waterproof, and the non-slip sole performed perfectly in a muddy field and on puddle-strewn sidewalks. We also liked that cleaning them is as easy as running them under a tap.

The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Rubber uppers and sole, EVA insole




Credit: DSW

We think the Hunter Short Rain Boot is a more versatile rain boot for urban wear than the British brand’s original tall boot—but love that it still offers the same iconic buckle detail, Hunter logo patch, and matte finish. The natural rubber is vulcanized for additional strength and durability. We were impressed with the high-quality, just-right feel: It’s thick enough that we didn’t have to worry about sharp sticks piercing the uppers, but also thin enough to keep the boots lightweight. The boots show no signs of wear and tear after testing.

We found them easy to get on and off, and think they fit true to size. The polyester lining makes them comfortable, although arch support is minimal, and predictably for rubber boots, they’re not especially breathable. The slip-resistant soles held up perfectly on wet sidewalks and grass, making them our go-to pick when the weather is foul and we have places to be. Finally, we love that there are so many colors to choose from, whether you prefer classic black or something a little more unique (think bright yellow or red).

The Details: Sizes 5 to 11 | Rubber upper and sole, polyester lining, metal buckle




Credit: Nordstrom

Originally designed for Alaskan fishermen, the Xtratuf 6-inch Ankle Deck Boots have a non-marking, chevron-cut outsole intended to provide reliable stability in the harshest conditions. We wore them in the rain and on a fishing expedition and never worried about slipping once. Handcrafted from natural rubber, they are fully waterproof, assuming that no moisture comes in over the relatively wide top, while an XpressCool lining keeps feet from overheating, whether you’re fishing, boating, or completing outdoor chores.

These felt comfortable right out of the box with soft cushioning on the insole to enable walking and standing for hours on end. There is little arch support, however, which is something to bear in mind for those who need it. Two pull tabs make for easy on and off, while styles range from solid colors to ombre aurora shades and various fun, marine-themed patterns.

The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Rubber upper and sole




Credit: Johnston & Murphy

The Johnston & Murphy Izzie Booties are an effortlessly stylish pick made from seam-sealed, waterproof suede. T+L editor Hillary Maglin confirms that they repel water admirably, saying, “I wore them in the rain and could see tiny drops beading up and larger ones running off immediately.” They also provide excellent traction, even when walking through puddles. The fashionable 3-inch ABS block heel offers the flattering lift of regular heels with the benefit of reliable stability.

Maglin found that the boots fit true to size and were comfortable right out of the box. Although she did start to feel some tightness after a few hours of moderate walking, she never experienced blisters, redness, or pain of any kind. The boots are breathable with noticeable arch support and a cushioned, calfskin-lined TruFoam footbed for that cloud-like feeling underfoot. We particularly like how easy they are to get on and off, with a pull tab and a full inside zipper. All in all, they’re an excellent pick for those looking for an extra boost.

The Details: Sizes 6-11 | Suede upper, foam footbed, ABS plastic heel




Credit: Anthropologie

T+L associate editor Anna Popp says these Timberland platform boots offer “all the durability and quality you’d expect from a pair of Timberlands; they feel like they could last forever.” Depending on the color you choose, the upper is made from nubuck, full-grain leather, or a combination of both. Either way, expect seam sealing for the kind of waterproofing that kept her feet dry after six hours of walking in torrential rain. PrimaLoft insulation adds winter-ready warmth.

The rubber outsole features a heavy lug for impressive traction, which we tested on rainy New York City sidewalks and subway stations with zero slips. Available in half sizes and standard or wide widths for the perfect fit, we found the boots true to size with a memory foam footbed for comfortable all-day walking. The padded collar did rub a little at first, but had softened up by our second wear. Best of all, the boots are as cute as they are functional, with a platform sole and a wide range of neutral colors to choose from, including light pink, black, and metallic chrome.

The Details: Sizes 5.5-11 | Leather or nubuck upper, memory foam footbed, polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole




Credit: Merry People

Available in a whopping 17 color options, these Merry People rain boots were a hit with T+L writer Anne Taylor. She also calls them “the most comfortable rain boots I’ve ever worn.” Neoprene panels add stretch for easy on and off, while the neoprene lining allows for a snug, insulating fit with springy cushioning underfoot. Taylor wore them while splashing about in a Seattle downpour, and after 20 minutes, her feet were the only part of her body that remained completely dry. We love that the boots are more fashionable than standard rain boots, making them suitable for days out in the city as well as rural living.

There was no break-in period required for our pair, which we found surprisingly breathable with moderate arch support. The rubber itself feels lighter and stretchier than that of other rain boots we’ve tried, adding up to a pair of good-looking wet-weather shoes that move with you for maximum comfort.

The Details: Sizes 5-13 | Rubber upper and sole, neoprene lining




Credit: Blondo

The Blondo Harriet Boots feature a tall shaft for maximum coverage and a sleek look suitable for everything from daytime sightseeing to theater and dinner outings. We love the leather and suede upper construction, which adds flexibility while maintaining a tailored fit. For Popp, the ability to fold the boots in half without creasing them is a particular highlight, making them easier to pack and store without taking up too much space. She also loves that water “beads right off without leaving an ounce of moisture behind.”

Even the inside zipper is rubber-coated for complete waterproofness. It also makes it easy to get the boots on and off, while the 1.5-inch block heel adds height and style points. The boots felt a little stiff at first, but after an hour or two had loosened up sufficiently to be comfortable for hours of wear around the city. We found the rubber sole to be grippy on all kinds of urban terrain, even in the pouring rain, while the high-quality materials remain scratch- and scuff-free after testing. The boots are easily cleaned with a damp cloth if needed.

The Details: Sizes 5.5-11 | Leather and suede upper, rubber sole




Credit: Amazon

We love that the wedge heel in the Bogs Vista Rugged Lace Waterproof Boots is stylish and practical in equal measure. The wedge offers excellent stability, and the lace-up design earns extra points for style. The uppers are made from high-quality leather, the algae-based EVA footbed offers sustainable shock absorption, and there’s ample arch support even for those with unusually high arches. We found the boots immediately comfortable with a little extra room to accommodate winter socks.

While we loved their rugged build in terms of durability and support, we did find that the extra weight caused some foot fatigue after hours on the go. However, we feel that the soft warmth of the boots’ insulation and the fact that the moisture-wicking lining prevents sweaty feet more than make up for this slight drawback. Finally, although the lug isn’t as aggressive as that of some of the other boots on this list, we never worried about slipping even when walking on rain-slick city streets. 

The Details: Sizes 6-11 | Leather upper, algae-based EVA footbed




Credit: Blundstone

T+L editors and I own the Blundstone Women’s Thermal #2274 Boots and have worn them everywhere from rainy Seattle to snowy Munich and can vouch that the waterproof leather, latex seams, and Thinsulate lining effectively keep out the wet and cold. And yes, they’re pricey, but the investment is well worth it for a boot that offers maximum durability and effortless good looks. They fit true to size but require patience to break in. Mine were tight and stiff at first, but are now comfy enough to wear for hours on end.

Our favorite feature is the removable sheepskin-lined footbed, which is key for wearing these boots all year round. Additionally, the material is breathable, the footbed has reliable arch and ankle support, and it has XRD technology in the heel to absorb up to 90 percent of walking impact. The TPU outsole provides excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces and is lighter than expected, given its rugged appearance.

The Details: Sizes 6-11 | Leather upper, Thinsulate lining, TPU outsole




Credit: Amazon

Available in tan, dark brown, or gray, the Carhartt Women’s Waterproof Sherpa Lined Fold Down Winter Wedge Boots can be worn as regular mid-calf boots or folded down to show off the fleecy lining. We ordered a half size up to compensate for the fuzzy interior, which ended up being the right decision. The boots fit well with room for winter socks and were comfortable from the first wear, with sufficient arch and ankle support. With 200-gram 3M Thinsulate insulation, these boots are meant for cold weather and keep our feet toasty warm. 

Despite this coziness, a moisture-wicking lining and a breathable waterproof membrane designed to let dampness escape kept our feet from getting sweaty. We also loved the cushioned PU insoles, which maximize support and minimize foot fatigue for hours of comfortable wear. Although we expected the tread on the wedge soles to be deeper, we navigated slippery sidewalks without problems. The boots are on the heavier side, but as T+L deputy photo editor Skye Senterfeit says, “they’re very sturdy and feel like they could last for years.”

The Details: Sizes 6-11 | Nubuck upper, fleece lining, Thinsulate insulation, rubber outsole




Credit: Amazon

For fans of square-toe boots, we present the Ariat Anthem Shortie II Waterproof Western Boots. With an 8-inch shaft height, full-grain leather construction, and Western-style stitch pattern, these boots are designed for outdoor practicality by a top equestrian brand, yet also work as an urban fashion statement. They fit as expected, with plenty of wiggle room in the square toe box. And although we found them a little snug along the sides of our feet, we were able to wear them straight out of the box without suffering blisters or red spots.

The breathable waterproof membrane defends effectively against the elements. We also love how water droplets dissipate quickly, leaving the boots dry in record time. Ariat’s special four-layer footbed cushions and stabilizes feet for all-day comfort while keeping the overall weight light. “Thin but sturdy insoles provided an ideal amount of support, allowing me to traverse uneven ground without losing balance or risking a twisted ankle,” Calma said. The outsoles gripped on all surfaces, from wet sidewalks to vinyl floors. 

The Details: Sizes 5.5-12 | Leather upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole




Credit: Teva

For classic combat boot styling with sturdy leather uppers and an extended lace-up shaft, we love the Teva Women’s Rowena Lace Boots. They impressed us from the start with their quality construction and stylish looks—as well as the thoughtful addition of a hidden inside zipper so you don’t have to untie and retie the laces every time you want to get them off or on. We really liked the fit, finding the toebox roomy enough for those with wider feet. Although they were comfortable from the first wear, there is a stiffness that disappears as they mold to your feet.

The arch support is minimal; however, the cushioned footbed and dual-density foam midsole provide lightweight comfort and stability. The slightly higher shaft and the ability to tighten the laces make for ample ankle support, while the rubber outsole provides good traction on wet surfaces. We’d say the level of grip is comparable to other combat boots we own, if not quite on a level with purpose-built hiking boots. One of our favorite aspects of these boots is their casual yet versatile style. We found plenty of uses for them in both city and country settings.

The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole




Credit: REI

Our first impression of the Columbia Moritza Shield II Omni-heat Boots was of quality materials and beautiful, long-lasting craftsmanship. These mid-calf duck boots are designed for ice and snow with a waterproof rubber shoe affixed to a breathable suede upper. The latter features a durable water-repellent coating that held up well to walking through thick slush and stepping into snowbanks; it also made the boots so easy to clean that they still look brand new despite being frequently covered in mud.

The boots employ cozy fleece, 200 grams of insulation, and a reflective lining that traps body heat to keep your toes toasty. The cushioned midsole forms to your feet for impressive impact absorption and energy return—making the boots so comfortable that we almost forgot we were wearing them. They’re also breathable with great traction and sufficient arch and ankle support. We particularly like that they manage to be flexible without feeling flimsy, and that they’re chic enough to score style points on streets and slopes alike.

The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Rubber and suede upper, polyester lining, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Other Waterproof Boots for Women We Liked

Although these boots didn’t score highly enough to be category winners, there was a lot we liked about them, and we’re including them here as possible alternatives for your consideration.

Sorel Ona Ave Women’s Waterproof Chelsea Boot: We liked almost everything about these boots, from their reliable grip and weather protection to their out-of-the-box comfort. Our only complaint was how easily they scuffed. 

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Sperry Torrent Rubber Lace Up Boot: These boots combine heavy-duty rubber waterproofness and all-day comfort. We also thought their aesthetic was surprisingly cute. However, we wish the rubber were more supple so we could lace them tighter. 

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Dolce Vita Virona H2O Boots: We love the chic look of these knee-high, suede boots, which performed well during all of our waterproofing tests. We did have some issues with fit: namely, a too-narrow toe box and a too-wide shaft.

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Our Testing Process

For this article, we tested 54 pairs of waterproof boots. First, we examined all aspects of the boots to form an opinion of their overall material and construction quality. We then wore them for at least an hour at home and noted how well they fit and whether they were comfortable right out of the box. If not, we noted how long the break-in process took. Next, we wore the boots on at least three outings of at least an hour each, out in the real world. During these outings, we evaluated comfort, breathability, arch and ankle support, and traction.

Where possible, we made sure to wear them in the rain on at least one occasion. If the weather didn’t cooperate, we ran our own waterproofing tests at home. This involved stuffing the boots with paper towels and running them under a steady stream of water in a sink or bathtub, and wearing them in the shower to stimulate rainfall. After each time, we noted whether the paper towels in the first instance and our feet in the second remained dry. We also recorded how well the boots repelled water and how quickly they dried. 

Each pair of boots was scored for fit, comfort, durability, traction, and waterproofing, the results of which determined our category winners. Results will be updated after a six-month long-term testing period has been completed.

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Tips for Buying Waterproof Boots for Women

Know the difference between waterproof and water-resistant

If you’re shopping for boots that will keep your feet dry in a downpour, it’s critical that you look for a pair marketed as waterproof rather than just water-resistant. The latter will offer some protection from light rain or indirect splashes over a short period of time, but lacks the technology to sustain this protection over an extended period or in more extreme conditions.

Truly waterproof boots are made from naturally waterproof materials, such as rubber, or water-resistant materials, such as suede or leather treated with a waterproof coating. Some have a breathable waterproof membrane between the outer material and the inner lining for long-lasting moisture protection. Sealed seams and waterproof zippers are also essential in a fully waterproof boot.

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Think about how and where you plan to wear them

Waterproof boots come in all shapes and sizes, with the right pick for you depending on how, when, and where you plan on wearing them. For example, I own several pairs of waterproof boots. On cold and wet days when I’m walking my dog through muddy or snowy fields at home in Scotland, I reach for taller boots that have the height and insulation required for maximum protection. For a city sightseeing trip, I’d choose my leather Chelsea boots instead, since they are a versatile and comfortable boot option.

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Consider packability

My top tip for traveling with waterproof boots is to wear them on the plane since they tend to be the bulkiest and/or heaviest item on my packing list. If you don’t feel comfortable wearing boots in transit (or if you’re packing more than one pair), choosing the most packable pair possible is key for frequent travelers. Look for shorter boots with a regular sole rather than a chunky platform to keep weight and required suitcase space to a minimum; or opt for a taller boot that can be folded without damage, such as the Blondo Harriet Boots listed above. You should also check product descriptions carefully to get a sense of weight before you buy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Should I spray waterproof boots?

    Whether or not you should spray your waterproof boots depends on what they’re made of. Naturally waterproof materials like rubber don’t need to be sprayed to maintain their protection level, but any material that is made waterproof by a coating or wax will need regular reapplications to remain effective. Check the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to see which waterproof sprays are recommended and how often you need to reapply.

  • How do I clean waterproof boots?

    Again, how you clean your waterproof boots depends on the material and individual care guidelines. By definition, waterproof boots should offer a level of protection against dirt since the technologies that prevent water from being absorbed should do the same for most other substances. Often, cleaning waterproof boots is as simple as running them under a tap (for rubber rain boots) or wiping them gently with a damp cloth (for treated fabric and leather boots).

  • Should I size up or down for boots?

    It isn’t easy to know exactly how a boot will fit without trying it on, since sizing can vary between different brands and even individual shoe styles. If you can’t try the boots on before purchasing, check reviews carefully to see how other customers find the fit—often, it’s fairly obvious if a boot tends to fit smaller or larger than expected. You should also make sure to check the terms of the brand’s return process in case you do need to swap for a different size. However, if you’re between sizes like me and there are no half sizes offered, I’d always size up rather than down to ensure space for your coziest socks.


Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure writer Jessica Macdonald lives in Scotland, where waterproof boots are an essential wardrobe item all year round. She owns pairs for all kinds of activities, from hiking to nights out. Her favorite pair is her faithful Blundstones, which she wears most days and has packed for trips to rainy Seattle and snowy Munich. All other boots on this list were chosen according to the results of real-life tests carried out by the T+L team.

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