The 20 Best Rain Boots for Men to Keep Feet Dry and Protected
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Whether you count your daily outdoor time as non-negotiable, no matter the weather, or you’re just trying to commute to the office without getting soaked, rain boots are an essential piece of anyone’s wardrobe.
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There’s plenty to love about a classic rain boot, but there are also more styles than ever to choose from — from fashionable boots to pair with any outfit while running weekend errands to tough, durable pairs to sport when traversing rain, mud or snow. Whether you’re looking for a waterproof boot for hiking year-round or a boot for mucking around the yard in, there’s a men’s rain boot to fit every occasion.
As climate change leads to more extreme weather, rain boots become an evermore practical item to invest in. There are pairs that lend themselves best to cold weather and lighter versions for warmer months.
Different types of men’s rain boots
Chelsea Boots: A Chelsea-style rain boot has a low shaft and gusseted sides that make them easy to slip on. With a low shaft, a Chelsea boot is perfect for looking stylish when you’re on the go in poor weather.
Wellies: This classic boot style is likely the first to come to mind when you think of rain boots. Reaching about knee height and typically made of rubber, wellies are great for yard work and outdoor activities in the rain and mud.
Work Boots: Lace-up Timberlands or Carhartts usually crafted in a water-resistant treated leather are good examples of a work boot. Wear them on the construction site or for serious outdoor projects at home. They’re reinforced with elements like a steel toe for extra safety and durability.
Duck Boots: Duck boots are an all-season boot that can be worn in the snow in the winter or to stay dry in wet weather year-round. Reaching mid-shin, the heavy-duty style boasts lots of traction and tons of durability. Invest in one pair and wear it for a decade or more.
Winter Boots: Waterproof winter boots are a good bet for battling rain and snow during the coldest months of the year. A winter boot has the benefit of insulation to keep you warm, not just dry. Traction will help you navigate slick surfaces, including ice.
Sneaker Hybrids: Waterproof sneakers, or short rubber boots that most resemble sneakers, are a lightweight alternative to hardier boots. Wear them in the warmer months to dodge puddles without ruining your footwear.
Moccasin-style rain boots: These are another more casual alternative to wellies or winter boots. A moccasin will usually have some laces and waterproof leather in the design, but heavy duty tread and inclusion of materials like rubber or water-repellent nylon make them rain-ready.
What to look for in the best rain boots for men
To choose between the different types of men’s rain boots, consider your planned activities for the day. For walking around a city or going into the office, opt for a Chelsea boot or sneaker hybrid that blends seamlessly with your outfit. For any type of construction, serious yard work or renovation, opt for the work boot. For activities like fishing, hunting and walking outdoors, a classic wellie will serve you well. Winter boots and duck boots are great options if ice and snow could factor into your plans.
Arguably, the most important element in choosing the right men’s rain boots is the material. Rubber, treated water-resistant leather and certain nylons are all materials found in the best rain boots for men. Avoid styles made with lightweight nylons and polyesters found in athletic shoes.
For those in warm climates, a moccasin-style rain boot, sneaker-style rain boot or Chelsea boot will get you through the year. But if winter equates to freezing weather, a winter boot or duck boot are essential items to store in your closet. For those who experience all the seasons, pick a lightweight version for the warmer months and a heavy-duty boot for the cold. The investment will pay for itself by saving all the other shoes in your closet from destruction.
No matter what style of rain boot you choose, traction is key to safely navigating wet conditions. Look for thick lugged soles and rubber, which will help you keep your footing.
Check out the 20 best rain boots for men that fit the bill, below, with a few of Fishkin’s picks thrown in.
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Top Rain Boots for Men
Best Tall: Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
Best Mid-Calf: Ugg Gatson Mid Rain Boots
Best Budget: Kamik Ranger Rubber Boots
Best Duck Boots: Sperry Saltwater Rain Boots
Best for Wide Feet: Crocs All Cast Rain Boots
Best for Work: Carhartt Ground Force Work Boots
Best for Cold Weather: Bogs Rain Boots
Best Duck Boot Hybrid: L.L.Bean Bean Boots Rubber Moc
Most Stylish: Sorel Caribou Moc Waterproof Boots
Also Consider Best for Wide Feet: Rockport Storm Surge Toe Boots
Best Steel Toe: Dunlop Waterproof Full Safety Boots
Best Designer: Burberry Flinton Check Waterproof Rain Boots
Best for Hiking: Timberland White Lodge Waterproof Ankle Boots
Best Chelsea Rain Boots: FitFlop Margan Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Best Ankle-Length Steel Toe: Xtratuf Steel Toe Legacy Ankle Boots
Best Rain Sneakers: L.L. Bean Wellie Sport Shoes
Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
Best Tall Rain Boots for Men
16-inch shaft
Cushioned footbed
Hunter’s Original tall rain boots are an all-season, hardworking rain boot that can withstand difficult surfaces and terrains, like mud and swamps. They’re designed to keep you dry during outdoor activities like hunting, fishing and yard work in bad weather. For Fishkin, they tick all the boxes for a proper pedorthist-approved rain boot. “The sole prevents the midfoot from collapsing,” he says. “They do have a removable insert that you can swap for a replacement insole or custom orthotic.” The seamless waterproof shell is durable but flexible.
Courtesy of Zappos
Buy:
Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
$160
Ugg Gatson Mid Rain Boots
Best Mid-Calf
6-inch shaft
Seam-sealed construction
Plush wool insole
Seam-sealed waterproof leather and a rubber shell in Ugg’s Gatson rain boots means you’re protected from moisture, no matter the season. The outsole and shell are molded together for extra coverage. Inside, an Uggplush wool blend lining offers warmth and comfort. A 6-inch shaft is a perfect everyday height.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Ugg Gatson Mid Rain Boots
$120
Kamik Ranger Rubber Boots
Best Budget
Elevated heel
4 lb total weight
No-slip outsole
Kamik Ranger rubber boots are crafted in a waterproof synthetic rubber that is 100% recyclable. Perfect for rainy dog walks, shoveling snow and overall wet and slushy conditions, this tall rain boot is a versatile answer to bad weather. The elevated heel keeps you out of pesky puddles, and the sole is designed for extra traction. This highly-rated Amazon pair is dubbed by some reviewers as “ the best rubber boot.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Kamik Men's Ranger Rubber Boots
$33-$50
Sperry Saltwater Rain Boots
Best Duck Boots
Waterproof rubber shell
Quilted nylon upper
Another stylish pair of men’s rain boots is the Sperry Saltwater. It’s a duck boot style of shoe with a waterproof rubber bottom and water-resistant nylon quilted upper. The super durable pair has a lugged rubber outsole for traction. A lace-up closure makes it easy to slip your jeans and slacks inside.
Courtesy of DSW
Buy:
Sperry Saltwater Rain Boot
$37-$173
Crocs All Cast Rain Boots
Best Men’s Rain Boots for Wide Feet
Roomy Fit
Seamless
Lightweight
Crocs Men’s All Cast rain boots are constructed in a seamless synthetic rubber. No seams means there’s no possibility for leakage. The lightweight boot has a traction sole for navigating slippery conditions. These are designed with signature Crocs comfort and support, so you can wear them for hours without experiencing foot fatigue.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Crocs Men’s All Cast Rain Boot
$48-$84
Carhartt Ground Force Work Boots
Best Men’s Rain Boots for Work
6-inch Shaft
EVA midsole
Waterproof, oil-tanned leather upper
Carhartt’s Ground Force work boots are a must-have on the job site. With a 6-inch shaft, they provide ankle stability no matter which way you move. The waterproof oil-tanned leather upper keeps you dry in wet conditions. The EVA midsole is built for comfort and is equipped with a polyurethane Strobel pad for extra support. A removable ergonomic insole prevents foot fatigue.
Courtesy of DSW
Buy:
Carhartt Ground Force Work Boot
$151-$283
Bogs Rain Boots
Best Cold-Weather Rain Boots
12.75-inch shaft
Weighs 1 lb 14 oz. for a single shoe
Pull-on handles
The Bogs rain boot is crafted in natural, hand-lasted rubber over a four-way stretch bootie. Max-Wick technology keeps moisture away from your feet. The insole features dual-density EVA to support feet when standing all day. It also has anti-odor protection. Unique pull-on handles make them easy to put on and take off. “They are 100% waterproof,” Fishkin says. “The long-lasting rubber outsole is self-cleaning, as it’s designed to prevent debris from getting stuck in the sole.” Plus, he notes these are made to be worn in temperatures as low as -40 degrees, making them ideal for cold climates.
Courtesy of Zappos
L.L.Bean Bean Boots Rubber Moc
Best Duck Boot Hybrid
A single shoe weighs 1 lb 2 oz.
Low height
Triple-stitched for durability
L.L. Bean’s duck boots enjoy a cult following thanks to their hardiness in harsh New England snow and slush. The L.L.Bean Bean Boots Rubber Moc are a moccasin version that are lighter than the original duck boots and a little easier to wear around town with jeans on rainy days. They have a full grain leather upper and waterproof rubber toe to combat rain and snow. The uniquely-shaped foot is designed for comfort and stability, with a steel shank for support. The rubber chain-tread outsole is ultra-durable.
Courtesy of Zappos
Buy:
L.L.Bean Bean Boots Rubber Moc
$99
Sorel Caribou Moc Waterproof Boots
Most Stylish Rain Boots for Men
Fashion-forward rain boots
Waterproof leather
Rubber sole
Sorel’s Caribou boots are a stylish alternative to rubber rain boots. Available in four neutral sandals, they’re made of waterproof leather with a rubber sole. A seam-sealed waterproof construction means this durable pair will keep you dry as you navigate city streets on rainy days. The molded EVA footbed offers tons of comfortable support. Reviewers say these are “comfortable and well made.” Break them in in just a few wears.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Sorel Caribou Boots
$82-$245
Rockport Storm Surge Toe Boots
Also Consider Best Men’s Rain Boots for Wide Feet
75-inch shaft from arch
Waterproof leather
Three widths
The Rockport Storm Surge boot comes in three widths —regular, wide and extra-wide — so you can get just the right fit. Made of 100% waterproof leather, this mid-cut boot is seam-sealed to prevent leakage and has a waterproof insole. It boasts waxed, flat laces and a comfortable collar. A shock-absorbing heel cushion keeps feet comfortable and happy.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Rockport Waterproof Storm Surge Toe Boot
$72-$145
Dunlop Waterproof Full Safety Boots
Best Steel Toe Rain Boots for Men
Cold insulation down to -20 degrees Celsius
Steel toe and steel midplate
Pull-on style
These Dunlop waterproof safety boots are all business on the worksite. They have a completely waterproof Vibram rubber outsole for slip resistance and rubber lining to keep you dry. The heel features energy absorption to lessen the impact of each step, and the wide toe area is designed for comfort. They have a certified steel toe and steel midplate for safety. They’re even recommended for wear in super cold temperatures down to -20 degrees Celsius.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Dunlop Waterproof Full Safety Boots
$159
Skechers Rain Boots
5-inch heel
Memory foam
Rubber sole
There’s often a trade off when it comes to rain boots. You either cover up with a heavy-duty pair for your commute and risk looking office-inappropriate, or you sacrifice your less-than-hardy work shoes in poor weather conditions. Skechers’ rain shoes solve this dilemma. Easily tuck your work trousers or jeans into this low ankle boot, which is much more lowkey than a knee-high pair of rain boots. They’re still totally waterproof with a rubber sole and have memory foam for comfort. Rather than letting rain ruin your weekend plans, don these for brunch or watching your kid’s soccer game.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Skechers Rain Boots
$68-$203
LaCross Alpha Muddy Rain Boots
4.5-inch shaft
Rubber upper and outsole
One shoe weighs 1 lb 3 oz.
The LaCross Alpha Muddy is both functional and comfortable. The 4.5-inch shaft means you can move around quickly without being weighed down by a larger, heavier boot. This soft-toe shoe has a rubber upper and outsole to guard against moisture. The quick-drying mesh liner is breathable. The heel pull-tab helps you slip these on and off.
Courtesy of Zappos
Buy:
LaCross Alpha Muddy Rain Boots
$99-$132
Burberry Flinton Check Waterproof Rain Boots
Best Designer Rain Boots for Men
Feature a removable sock
Pull-on style
The Burberry Flinton Check waterproof rain boot is a designer pair of rain boots for men that boasts a subtle elegance great for the conservative dresser. It doesn’t get much more classic than British brand Burberry, and Brits know a thing or two about rain. The waterproof style protects against puddles and slush, too. The pull-on style has a removable Burberry check insole and tough, durable rubber sole to keep you grounded.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Buy:
Burberry Flinton Check Waterproof Rain Boot
$450
Timberland White Lodge Waterproof Ankle Boots
Best for Hiking
7.5-inch shaft
Lace-up style
Few rain boots come in multiple widths, but Timberland’s White Lodge waterproof ankle boot does. Available in regular and wide sizes, these full-grain, waterproof leather boots with a seam-sealed construction also have laces so you can adjust the fit. The ankle-height boot has a rubber sole for tons of traction. These are perfect for hiking and trekking through inclement weather but also boast classic-cool Tims style for wearing with your city duds. They come in black, brown and tan.
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Timberland White Lodge Waterproof Ankle Boots
$90-$180
FitFlop Margan Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Best Chelsea Rain Boots for Men
Leather
Pull-on style
FitFlop’s Margan waterproof Chelsea boots are a perfect rain boot for men who want to go about their day without a traditionally chunky or bright shoe. This leather pair has a seam-sealed inner lining and non-wicking stretch panels, pull tabs and stitching to keep your feet dry. The sneaker-style sole is designed for orthotic support. It features light, flexible EVA cushioning and an anatomically contoured footbed. The slip-resistant rubber pods on the sole maintain traction on the wettest days. Available in black and brown, these are office-appropriate.
Courtesy of Fit Flop
Buy:
Fit Flop Margan Waterproof Chelsea Boots
$190
Spyder Hyland Waterproof Rain Boots
Insulation
No-slip lug sole
Leather and textile upper
Combat inclement weather in style with the Spyder Hyland waterproof rain boot. It features PrimaLoft lightweight insulation to keep you warm in wet or dry conditions. The rugged, no-slip lug sole takes on slush, snow and rain with its multi-directional lugs. This cool, sporty silhouette comes in four different color and pattern combinations.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Buy:
Spyder Hyland Waterproof Rain Boot
$160
Bogs Sauvie Basin Rain Boots
Rebound cushioning
Neoprene lining
Offering cool utilitarian vibes, the Bogs Sauvie Basin rain boot features a 100% waterproof design, complete with a fully waterproof rubber upper and neoprene lining. DuraFresh natural bio-technology in the interior also fights odors, while the footbed has rebound cushioning to soften every step and keep you comfortable the entire day. A slip-resistant rubber sole boasts superb traction, too.
Courtesy of DSW
Buy:
Bogs Sauvie Basin Rain Boot
$110
Xtratuf Steel Toe Legacy Ankle Boots
Best Ankle-Length Steel Toe Rain Boots for Men
6-inch shaft
Steel toe
Super durable
Fishkin recommends Xtratuf’s steel toe Legacy ankle boot for its superb durability. Constructed to function in the Alaskan climate, it’s fully waterproof with a steel toe design to protect your feet from hard surfaces or falling objects. “These feature a slip resistant outsole and are meant to keep you dry and stable,” Fishkin says. “They’re also on the stylish side, too.”
Courtesy of Xtratuf
Buy:
Xtratuf Men’s Steel Toe Legacy Ankle Boot
$140
L.L. Bean Wellie Sport Shoes
Best Rain Sneakers
Available in half sizes
Comfortable footbed
Rubber shell
Fishkin also suggests turning to L.L. Bean for waterproof boots and shoes. L.L. Bean’s men’s wellie sport shoes are great for occasions when you need protection from water and moisture but want to forego an actual boot. The rubber shell repels moisture, and the EVA midsole provides cushioned comfort. The outsole has mini lugs for traction.
Courtesy of L.L. Bean
Buy:
L.L. Bean Wellie Sport Shoes
$89
Podiatrist Tips for Shopping for Men’s Rain Boots
Pedorthist Michael Fishkin of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists reminds shoppers that just like any other shoe — be it the most comfortable sandals, the best walking shoes or even the best slippers for plantar fasciitis — the best rain boots for men require a lot of the same elements to deliver comfort and overall foot health, plus a few aspects that are unique to wet weather gear.
To start, “proper fit is everything,” he says. While he recommends a durable rubber outer to protect against water, mud or snow, the material doesn’t have a lot of give, so making sure that a pair of rain boots isn’t too small is key. If you’re in between sizes, always size up in rain boots.
Also, consider the lining. “[Look for] rain boots with a nice lining in them to help with moisture and perspiration absorption,” Fishkin adds. “Some will have removable inserts you can replace for more supportive insoles if necessary.”
Anyone dealing with plantar fasciitis or heel spurs should consider replacing existing inserts with over-the-counter arch support, or ideally, a custom orthotic, he says. Additionally, “the boot should not collapse or flex in the midfoot,” he emphasizes. The same rules apply for flat-footed shoppers searching for rain boots. Structured boots with plastic or metal shanks will prevent collapse.
For high arches, look for a boot that notes contoured arch support, so arches can relax to a proper neutral foot position. And for wide feet, Fishkin recommends a duck boot, which laces up and allows for adjustment, unlike a pull-on rubber boot. “The rounder the toe box, the better,” he advises.
Overall, Fishkin recommends finding a rain boot with a waterproof outer shell (such as one made of rubber), traction on the outsole, proper midfoot support and a moisture-absorbent liner.
Meet the expert
Michael Fishkin is a certified pedorthist and currently treats patients at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists. he’s been in practice for over a decade.
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