What Shoes to Wear in the Rain — No Heavy Rain Boots

We don’t mind rainy weather if we’re dressed for it. But there’s nothing worse than squishy socks and shoes that are ruined because they are soaking wet.

We’ve all struggled with tall rain boots — you know the boots that go up to your knee and make you look like a fisherman. Classic rain boots tend to be incredibly heavy and uncomfortable. Plus, you don’t look especially chic if you’re indoors and wearing a cute dress or pencil skirt. And if you bring shoes to change into, you’re lugging around these gigantic boots everywhere.

Here’s our specially curated list of shoes that you can wear in the rain that our writer has tested in NYC downpours.

Henry Ferrera Clarity Waterproof Rain Boots

Since we’re based in New York City, we know a thing or two about commuting in the rain. So, if you need some heavy-duty waterproof shoes, but you don’t want all the weight, we recommend these Henry Ferrera Clarity Waterproof Rain Boots.

These ankle boots are incredibly lightweight and flexible. On really rainy days — like straight downpours, we wear these boots and change into prettier shoes when we get to work. The ankle height is much easier to store under desks than the tall version.

Crocs Lina Ballet Flat or Target Soft Jelly Ballet Flat

The Crocs Lina Ballet Flat does not have the same clunky silhouette that made the Crocs brand famous. It has clean lines with a sleek, feminine shape.

Although it’s not made of rubber, like the Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots, it’s made of Croslite material, which is waterproof. Full disclaimer, there are two tiny air holes for breathability. So, these ballet flats are best for light rain only. And don’t go jumping in any puddles.

They only come in whole sizes. One of our writers is a 6.5 and got a 6. So, we definitely recommend sizing down if you’re between sizes.

Alternatively, Target’s Okabashi Georgia Sustainable Soft Jelly Ballet Shoes are another option for waterproof ballet shoes. They are flexible with a super comfortable contour footbed and are machine washable.

The jelly ballet flats also only come in whole sizes. Our writer, who’s a 6.5 wears a 7 in these shoes. So, we recommend sizing up if you’re a 1/2 size.

Waterproofing Your Leather Shoes

If you prefer not to purchase a separate pair of shoes for the rain, more power to you. But, take precautions.

If your shoes are made of synthetic or man-made fabric, it’ll probably withstand the rain for a short period of time because they aren’t breathable like natural fibers. Of course, use your judgment — faux leather will not do so hot in the rain.

But, if your shoes are made of leather, you’ll need to treat those bad boys before you go out in the rain. It’s kind of like how you can wear treated UGG boots in the snow.

Smooth Leather

For smooth leather, we recommend the Bickmore Boot Care Kit. Always test an inconspicuous spot before conditioning a large surface. It’s a 3 step process: clean, rehydrate, and protect. While you could just go straight and waterproof your shoes, it’s best to go through the steps because you wouldn’t want to seal in any dirt and grime.

If that’s too many steps, try Sof Sole Mink Oil. It’s a minimalist technique with a much better price point. You apply it and the oil dries in minutes. Be careful, mink oil may darken some leathers, so always test it first.

Suede and Nubuck

Since suede and nubuck have naps, which give it that soft touch, you’ll need to use a different type of conditioner. For my suede pieces, use Gear Aid Revivex Suede and Fabric Boot Care Kit.

This one comes with a brush so you can clean those leather protein fibers before sealing it all up.

Polyurethane Boots

Polyurethane boots give the look of faux leather, but are made of plastic. The rain just slips off of them with black a more attractive price tag. For this option, we recommend the Sam Edelman Winona Rain Boots.

So, go ahead and make a splash.