7 Best Waterproof Running Shoes in 2025 | RunRepeat

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There are days when you have to deal with rain, puddles, slush and moisture; hence, the creation of waterproof running shoes. These shoes are made with a waterproof membrane, Gore-Tex being the most popular one, which keeps water out. And since there are waterproof versions of both trail and road running shoes, it might take some time to go through everything.

To help you narrow down your options, we have created this list to give you the finest shoes among all the waterproof models that we have reviewed. We are proud to say that each shoe went through our meticulous testing, both on the runs and in our lab.

Next to these top picks, we also write about different waterproof membranes, when not to wear waterproof running shoes, how to level up the waterproofness, and other details relevant for running in wet weather.

Before putting any waterproof shoe on this list, we always test it first in our shoe testing lab, and religiously follow these protocols:

In our lab assessments and actual runs, Nike’s Pegasus Trail 5 GTX stood out as the best waterproof running shoe. Wrapped in Gore-Tex membrane, it’s an outstandingly agile performer with incredible energy and lasting warmth and comfort. We could easily lift each foot at the snap of a finger.

Other than its waterproof membrane, the mesh upper is compact to block out debris. It’s so tightly woven that even smoke couldn’t escape in our lab test, earning the lowest and most airtight 1/5 breathability score.

This Peg aced its midsole by integrating the ReactX foam that’s both soft and bouncy underfoot. Our durometer shows the foam is 23.4% softer than average, ensuring comfort, while the flexible midsole smoothens our transitions. Our bend test confirms it’s 29.4% more adaptive than average.

The Peg Trail 5 GTX also has a light build that makes it easy to maneuver. Weighing 9.9 oz (281g) on our scale, it’s even lighter than its non-GTX counterpart, a rare occurrence in our lab! Its focus on agility is evident in its streamlined build. Therefore, the narrow midsole will not suit those with extra stability needs.

Our test runs in wet conditions revealed the best waterproof running shoe for the road, the Hoka Clifton 9 GTX. It’s a cushioned yet stable trainer that graced our streets and lab, all while wrapped up in a light package. It delivers the protection of a trail shoe without the bulky weight and lugs.

Our initial strides already tell us this Hoka has generous cushioning for any foot striker, and our caliper confirms an above-average 37.2/28.6 mm. It’s an excellent shock absorber and landing stabilizer as our durometer reveals a balanced 23.9 HA foam.

The Gore-Tex membrane effectively kept our feet dry as we ran through rain and puddles. Our jaws dropped when it rated 3/5 in our breathability test, a rare score for GTX shoes! On top of this, the jacquard mesh is so tightly knitted that it resisted impressively against our Dremel, earning a well-deserved 4/5 score.

Underfoot is another tough shield: the 79.1 HC Durabrasion rubber. Despite its average hardness, it showed minimal damage in our Dremel test (0.5 mm) vs. the average (0.9 mm). Even with all these extra features, it remains a light 9.6 oz (271g).

Unfortunately, we do not advise this pair for wide or squared feet as the toebox tapers aggressively to the front.

Running in Hoka’s 7th Challenger GTX is being armored with all-terrain, all-weather shoes. Our lab and run tests show it’s all about versatility. It provides the grip and protection we need from the streets to off-the-beaten paths, making it our top waterproof road-to-trail shoe.

Upon cutting it open, we discovered the outsole is made of Durabrasion rubber lined with 3.8-mm lugs to ensure traction. This depth feels suitable on gravel roads and moderate trails while not being clunky on pavements — the latter being crucial for comfort.

The upper is fully waterproof and feels very safe from any kind of debris. Under our microscope, we saw that it’s packed with a solid amount of protective layers and a Gore-Tex membrane. The fully gusseted tongue keeps our feet dry even as we pass through river crossings.

Challenger 7 can keep up with our whole-day adventures as it’s generously cushioned. Its stack rises above average, notably in the heel with a whopping 39.2-mm foam. The platform feels comfortable underfoot and our durometer confirms it’s 25.3% softer than average. Overall, the ride feels balanced which makes it a great performer in any environment.

Unfortunately, we cannot recommend this pair to those with wide feet since the tapering toebox causes unpleasant pressure on the toes.

Speedgoat 6 GTX offered the best cushioning among all the waterproof shoes we tested in the lab and ran with. It offered great impact protection and a well-planted sensation, with its Vibram outsole further enhancing control. This trail shoe is our best bet for rain or snow with its highly protective Gore-Tex membrane.

We had plenty of cushioning beneath our feet to protect us from the ground, confirmed by our caliper with precise measurements of 32.9/27.9 mm in the heel and forefoot. It feels noticeably firm and, therefore stable, proven by our durometer reading of 25.8 HA.

The upper features a tightly woven construction with a Gore-Tex membrane. It didn’t allow any smoke to pass through in our breathability test, so we rated it the lowest 1/5 score. Moreover, it didn’t budge in our Dremel test and received the highest 5/5 durability score.

Speedgoat 6 GTX delivers the sure-footedness and traction we need on moderate trails and mixed terrains. We have a generous 118.1/95.7 mm landing platform, which avoids any awkward foot movements. In terms of grip, the Vibram Megagrip outsole and its 3.9 mm lugs felt steady on dry and wet surfaces.

However, it feels very stiff and unnatural, which may disappoint runners seeking a comfortable ride and flexible shoes.

We found the waterproof running shoe that’s best equipped with grip after intensive lab tests and extensive runs, and it’s no other than Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX. Its remarkable impermeability allows us to encounter streams worry-free. Meanwhile, its supportive platform and remarkable traction ensure our control and safety on diverse terrains.

Even as we speed through corners, pass through wet rocks, and run through inclined trails, we feel in control thanks to the shoe’s incredible traction and deep 5.0 mm lugs. Being 1.4 mm deeper than average, it has extra bite even on softer ground. They are chevron-shaped for enhanced control and cleverly spaced to shed debris effectively.

As if dipping our shoes in streams isn’t proof enough, we also performed lab tests to verify this GTX’s waterproofness. Its 1/5 score means it blocks everything out—fine particles, moisture, and even cold air! Our microscope reveals a very compact knit upper.

While the cushion is a stacked 37.0/25.8 mm, its firm nature leads to a stable ride. Our durometer confirms it’s 23.7% harder than the average, which leaves no room for bottoming out. Even in our manual assessment, we had a tough time twisting the shoe (5/5) which proves it’s almost impossible to roll our ankles.

Given its firm cushion, Speedcross may feel too harsh for long distances. Runners who seek a plusher feel should look elsewhere.

From light runs to heavy backpacking on the trails, we surely felt stable and protected with Salomon's XA Pro 3D v9 GTX. It inspired confident and surefooted strides on wet encounters and uneven terrains as its watertight upper, firm midsole and grippy lugs supported us. Our lab proves it’s built like a tank, making it our top durable waterproof running shoe.

The first area we analyzed is its Gore-Tex-wrapped upper, proving its impermeability when it scored a low 1/5 in our breathability test. Not a single drop of water entered as we traversed through below-the-ankle waters and rain. It also has a toe bumper that shields us from unexpected rocks and roots.

The next supportive layers are the midsole and 3D chassis which give a firm and stable ride. Our durometer confirms the cushion is 23.6% denser than average, which means it won't bottom out. We also found the midsole difficult to twist, meaning it won’t easily give in to our excessive lateral movements.

Lastly, the Contagrip outsole has 2.8-mm sticky lugs to enhance traction on mixed terrains. Even after extensive testing on harsh paths, we felt reassured of its longevity since the rubber didn’t show signs of premature wear.

Unfortunately, this shoe is heavy at 12.7 oz (359g). Those who prefer lighter shoes should look elsewhere.

Comfort is paramount in our runs with the Nike Winflo 11 GTX. Our lab assessments confirm its massive stack has a plush feel, protected by a non-permeable upper and supported by a highly grippy outsole. And it offers all these and more for only $130, making it our best affordable waterproof running shoe.

We had the privilege of enjoying the shoe’s luxurious comfort at a more accessible price compared to its water-resistant counterparts ($148). Winflo 11 GTX features a colossal 39.0 mm heel, erasing ground feel and cushioning our strides. Our durometer confirms its buttery smooth feel, with a reading 26.7% softer than average.

During our tests, we oddly felt more surefooted in wet conditions. Diving deeper into the lab revealed why: the Storm-Tread outsole’s traction comes alive in rain and snow, with v-shaped lugs that drain water away.

In addition, the non-breathable upper is perfect for cold and rainy weather. The plush upper effectively insulated our body heat, evidenced by its 1/5 breathability score since nothing escaped the shoe in our smoke test.

What does a massive and plush stack mean? Unfortunately, a less stable ride. Runners who need more support should look for alternatives.

Wet weather means you must have: a) waterproof upper and b) superb grip for wet surfaces. Now we dig deep into both of them! And cover all the necessary details.

You can recognize running shoes that are waterproof by looking for the name of the waterproof membrane. The most famous one is Gore-Tex (GTX). However, many brands develop their own trademarked waterproof membranes but you don’t have to know all the names. When a shoe is waterproof, a brand does everything to promote that feature. Some include waterproof or WP in the shoe name.

Also, when we examine the uppers under the microscope, it’s easy to notice that the waterproof ones are more tightly packed and woven. The non-waterproof ones have ventilation holes or loose threads which makes them more breathable.

If you were to look on the inside, often you’ll be able to see the a lining of different color. That lining, under the upper, is the waterproof membrane.

This is measured by the hydrostatic head in millimeters. The hydrostatic head is measured by filling a 1’’ x 1’’ tube with water and putting it over a piece of fabric. The number of millimeters of water that the tube can take before water begins to leak through the material is the hydrostatic head. The lower the number in mm, the less waterproof the fabric.

Knowing this, it’s on you to decide how waterproof the membrane should be depending on the weather conditions on your runs. Look at the table for reference:

This applies to all waterproof materials, so you can use the table if you’re looking for waterproof trousers, jackets (usually hard shell), backpacks, and so on.

Usually, if you want a waterproof runner, you want it. However, if you were just to learn how not-breathable they are, and usually expensive, maybe you would decide that you don’t have to get a waterproof shoe. Or, maybe you can deal with less water resistance.

If that’s the case, consider water-resistant or water-repellent running shoes.

There’s no perfect test for grip in dry and wet weather as it depends on many things, like runner’s foot strike, rubber placement (coverage) on the outsole, rubber hardness, thread design, lug depth and shape (if we’re talking about trail shoes), inclination, surface type, etc.

But, what usually stands is: softer rubber is stickier, while harder rubber is more protective and durable.

Pay attention to:

If the topic of outsoles peaks your interest, we wholeheartedly recommend reading our guide In-depth insights into running shoe outsoles (road & trail).

When it comes to softness, in our lab, we use a shore C durometer to measure how hard the outsole rubber is.

In the lab, we also use a Dremel to test the durability of the outsole. Once the damage is made, we use a tire tread gauge to measure the depth of the dent with great precision.

Using a Dremel to test the durability of the outsole

Shallow dents mean the outsole is more durable than the one that got a deeper dent. Simply, it was more difficult for Dremel to make the damage.

We also measure the depth of the lugs (in trail shoes). Deeper lugs mean more grip.

While producers of waterproof membranes will claim that their membranes breathe, the fact is, they might but only to a certain degree. Compared to see-through uppers we find in perfect summer shoes or simply very ventilated mesh uppers, waterproof membranes turn out to be, well, not breathable.

Breathability of a GTX shoe vs a non-GTX one

We test breathability in our lab using a smoke machine. We pump the smoke into the shoe and watch where it comes out and at which pace. Based on this, we assess the breathability on a 1-5 scale, where 1 is the least breathable.

We also look at the uppers under the microscope to understand what’s happening in greater detail. When it comes to waterproof running shoes, it’s easy to understand why they are less breathable.

Next to the waterproof membrane, waterproof running shoes also usually feature a gusseted tongue, to prevent the water from coming inside below the eyelets or in case the tongue moves to the sides, so there’s even less chance of heat coming out in that area.

Also, it’s good to know that in the world of non-waterproof running shoes, it’s better to choose a mesh upper than a knit one. Mesh is more breathable and dries faster, while a knit upper will soak up rain and become heavy. To learn more about the upper materials and which one makes the best sense for your needs, please read Running shoe upper: how to choose the best one for your needs.

Avoid these shoes when:

These shoes cost more because waterproof membranes are not cheap. However, when you nail the fit and purpose, the investment pays off easily.