We Tested Rain Boots in Our Lab to Find the Pairs That Are Actually Waterproof (2024)

Synonymous with "rain boots" since 1956, Hunter continues to be a leading brand for attractive, functional waterproof boots. This best-selling pair is available in 29 colors, including matte and glossy finishes. The shorter height keeps you protected from rain and puddles without weighing you down. The brand offers a taller height if you want more coverage too. Pair them with the brand's boot liners for added warmth in the winter.

Our testers found this pair to be very comfortable to wear all day. In our Lab testing, this pair proved to be completely waterproof. Although the buckle is just for decoration, Hunter does offer an adjustable width version.

Shaft height: 10.5" | Weight (per shoe): 1 lb 11 oz | Material: Rubber

A best-seller on Amazon with a whopping 23,000 reviews, these Chelsea rain boots are popular for good reason. They have a classic design that's chic enough to wear on non-rainy days too. Online reviewers say they are easy to take on and off, thanks to the stretchy side panels and the convenient back tab. Many reviewers were also impressed with the affordable price with one reviewer saying, "I wasn't expecting much for the price but have worn these a few times now and am really impressed. I have walked for 6+ hours in the rain and found them to be pretty comfortable. I have worn them in the mud and they cleaned off easily."

Shaft height: 5.5" | Weight (per shoe): 0.7 lbs | Material: Rubber

Stay fully covered in inclement weather or flooding with tall rain boots. This pick from Kamik has a removable EVA footbed for arch support and cushioning. One tester especially liked the arch support, calling this pair "the most supportive rain boots I've ever tried." We appreciated the fitted calf that helps prevent water from seeping in, but those with wider calves may find the shaft too snug. , Though color options are limited, this boot has a classic look with a decorative buckle and patch.

Shaft height: 15.75" | Weight (per shoe): 1.25 lbs | Material: Rubber

When working in the mud and dirt, you need a pair of boots that'll keep you clean and dry and stay in good condition wear after wear. These sturdy boots from Muck Boot are designed specifically for gardening. The neoprene upper is more flexible than rubber, so the boots will move with you when you're squatting down. For more versatility, the upper can also be rolled down to transform the boot into an ankle bootie. Online reviewers especially like how lightweight are, making them comfortable enough for all-day wear. Because of the neoprene upper, they don't offer as much protection from rain as tall rubber rain boots.

Shaft height: 9" | Weight (per shoe): 1 lb | Material: Neoprene and rubber

Even though it's gloomy out, your footwear doesn't need to be glum too. Merry People offers rain boots in bright, fun colors like lavender, pink and neon green that add a bit of sunshine to your waterproof wardrobe. These shoes have fans worldwide, amassing thousands of online reviews. Our testers found these boots comfortable to wear everywhere (including indoors) and appreciated the two pull tabs on the front and back of the ankle for easy on/off. These boots have a chunky design that testers loved the look of, but some found them a bit clunky to wear.

Shaft height: 7" | Weight (per shoe): 1.25 lbs | Material: Rubber and neoprene

Everlane is a reliable brand for elevated, stylish wardrobe staples like these boots, which are a favorite among our fashion editors. The ankle boot style is on-trend, but they're also functional shoes. They're made with 100% rubber, have stretch panels and tabs so they're easy to pull on and use treads to give you traction. There's also cushioning in the soles to make them extra comfy. Testers appreciated the roomy toebox to accommodate thick, cushioned socks. "They fit really well, without feeling bulky, and looked stylish. And my feet didn’t tire after wearing them for hours," said one tester.

Shaft height: Not listed | Weight (per shoe): 1.37 lbs | Material: Rubber

Avoid lugging around a huge pair of rain boots when it's just a light drizzle and opt for these ankle boots from BOGS instead. Although they don't offer as much coverage as taller boots, they proved to be waterproof in our Lab testing. They have a rubber exterior with a cushioned textile footbed for added comfort. Testers liked this pair's simple, casual look and they all reported that they fit true to size, but some found them a bit narrow compared to similar styles. They were especially popular for being very easy to take on and off.

Shaft height: 4.75" | Weight (per shoe): 0.8 lbs | Material: Rubbers

Wearing typical heels out in inclement weather may lead to slips or falls. This pair of rain boots from Cougar has a 2-inch heel with a platform for a bit of extra height without sacrificing rain protection. They are made of rubber, which proved to be waterproof in our rain tester, but the elastic sides may let in some water. Available in black, white and cream, these stylish booties are easy to pair with anything in your wardrobe from skirts with tights to wide-leg jeans — our editors even wear this pair when it's not even raining!

Shaft height: 5" | Weight (per shoe): Not listed | Material: Rubber

With two big pull tabs on the front and back, these rain boots from Xtratuf are super easy to put on and slip off at the end of the day. This pair was especially popular among our testers with wider feet. Loving their comfy fit, one tester said, "Most [boots] I have worn in the past have been snug but these have a good amount of room in the toe box." They are available in 30 colors and patterns, including bright reds and floral prints.

Shaft height: 6" | Weight (per shoe): 1 lb | Material: Rubber and neoprene

Stay cozy and warm with a pair of waterproof winter boots. This pair from Sorel has a rubber bottom that covers the whole foot and a high-traction outsole for great protection during rainy weather. The leather upper has a water-resistant finish. With 9mm of felt insulation and a fuzzy lining, this was the warmest winter boot we tested. They go up to your mid-calf to keep you covered without feeling too bulky. This pair runs large as they are designed to be worn with roomy socks, so the brand recommends sizing down if you are between sizes. We love the sherpa cuff and felt lining that is removable and washable too.

Shaft height: 9.5"| Weight (per shoe): 1 lb 6 oz | Material: Rubber and leather with felt lining and sherpa cuff

If you're on the search for classic, reliable rain boots, look no further. These rain boots from Western Chief have over 11,000 reviews on Amazon and are available in over 30 colors and patterns that are sure to help brighten up any rainy day. They are also significantly less expensive than other picks, so they're a real deal. The adjustable side buckle offers a good fit for a range of calf sizes, and the bottom sole has grips for traction, though it's less rugged than other picks' outsoles. There's also a cotton/polyester lining inside the boots that dried quickly in our test.

Shaft height: 11.5"| Weight (per shoe): 0.9 lbs | Material: Rubber with cotton and polyester lining

Because rain boots are made with stiff materials, they are often not well-suited for people with wider feet or bunions. These rain boots from Jileon are specifically designed for people with wider feet and calves. They can fit calves from 16 to 23 inches in circumference and can be adjusted using the side buckles. Some online reviewers found the buckles a bit stiff when adjusting the width. The brand recommends going with your normal size as these boots are wide throughout the foot and ankle for a comfortable fit (no pinching or squeezing!).

They're made entirely of rubber with a high traction outsole to prevent slipping. One satisfied online reviewer said "I couldn't be happier with them, and I expect to be able to wear them for quite some time since they are pretty sturdy. I do love them so much and I am super happy I was able to finally find tall rain boots that fit extra wide calves."

Shaft height: 13.5" | Weight (per shoe): Not listed | Material: Rubber

Duck boots are like rain boots on the bottom, but they have a lace-up design and are designed to be used in activities with wet surfaces like boating, gardening or casual hiking. These boots from Sperry have waterproof rubber that covers the entire foot and a microfleece lining to provide warmth. In addition to the laces, there's a zipper on the side so the boots are easier to get on and off. We appreciate that this pair is also available in wide sizing. Just note that if you're in a torrential downpour, they're not going to be quite as water-resistant as tall, fully-enclosed rubber rain boots.

Shaft height: 6.5" | Weight (per shoe): 0.59 lbs | Material: Rubber and leather with fleece lining

✔️ Material: Rubber is the most popular rainboot material as it is completely waterproof. Some boots may advertise as being designed for rainy weather but use only water-resistant materials. Water-resistant materials will allow in some moisture in heavy rains unlike waterproof materials, which offer better protection.

✔️ Shaft height: Rain boots are available in all heights from tall styles that go up to your knees or short ankle booties. Generally, the taller the boot, the heavier it'll feel but it'll offer better coverage. Shorter boots are lighter weight but leave you more exposed.

✔️ Traction: Look for deep lugs and treads on the bottom of your rain boots to ensure they have decent traction to prevent you from slipping in wet conditions.

✔️ Warmth: Most rain boots aren't lined so they can be worn year round. Some brands sell liners to be worn with the boots for added warmth too. In the summer months, rubber boots may feel a bit sweaty as they tend to trap body heat.

✔️ Style: Rain boots can be a pricey purchase, so make sure to choose a style that you'll want to wear long term. If rain is rare where you live, a pair of low ankle booties may suffice. In rainy climates, a taller pair of boots is likely preferred.