It’s easy to be a summer runner – pleasurable even. While getting your fitness fix, you can use it as an opportunity to soak up the sun’s rays and explore the great outdoors. It’s a delight. The same cannot be said for the winter.
When it’s raining cats and dogs and temperatures have plummeted, it’s enough for even the most determined of runners to hang up their sneaks until spring rolls back around.
But if you’re training for a race, want to keep your fitness at your warm weather peak or need an excuse to get outside to stroll or discover new peaks, the right apparel will keep you dry and your miles dread-free – and this begins from the feet up.
Waterproof trainers are of the utmost necessity for any and all outdoor activities. These designs will keep your feet dry and comfortable whether you’re pounding the pavement in the urban jungle, hiking muddy trails or taking to the track. But how do you select such a shoe? We’ve consulted the experts to find out.
What should you look out for to ensure trainers are waterproof?
It all comes down to material and specifically waterproof membranes built to withstand the elements. John Jennings, Runners Need Footwear Buyer explains, “You should look out for running shoes with GORE-TEX technology - a waterproof, breathable membrane that is used for outdoor gear.
“It works by allowing sweat and moisture to escape from the inside of the shoe whilst still keeping water from getting in, meaning that your feet keep dry and comfortable, even in the wettest conditions”.
Liz Ellyard, senior category manager, Performance Footwear EMEA adds that this “treatment added to the existing upper ensures that the shoe becomes waterproof yet still breathable. It’s lightweight, flexible, and pretty much invisible. However, you’ll see if it is on the shoe by its well-recognised brand logo and tag that must always be used when it’s Gore-Tex”.
Are leather trainers waterproof?
“Leather running shoes are not waterproof, only water resistant,” says Jennings. “The thicker the leather, the better job it does at offering a short-term barrier against water. However, if exposed to high levels of water, it will find its way in. Leather will also take water on and thus become very heavy, quickly”.
Are mesh trainers waterproof?
“Left untreated, mesh uppers are not waterproof” reveals Ellyard. “They are designed for breathability, support and to be lightweight”. But when you apply the Gore-Tex membrane, this changes. “Mesh and fabric are some of the most popular materials for running shoes, however, it’s the membrane that makes them waterproof”, Jennings confirms. “The membrane keeps the water out, but is also breathable”.
How to choose waterproof trainers
This should begin with looking out for that all-important Gore-Tex branding. Jennings suggests with the inevitability of puddles, grass and mud “wet, uncomfortable trainers and blisters are a concern”. Yet, stick to waterproof shoes are this “reduces the chance of your socks getting wet, which in turn reduces the chance of blisters to keep your run comfortable”.
After you have selected a shoe that is marked as waterproof, the specific features to look out for are the same as ordinary running shoes - aka cushioning, support, a lightweight build and a comfortable fit, according to the running expert. While waterproof trainers are created for functionality, who says they can’t be attractive too? There are endless colourways, silhouettes and styles to choose from.
Jennings also highlights the following:
Where do you run?
Have you had your gait analysed?
All Runners Need stores offer video gait analysis as part of its comprehensive fitting service that is free with the purchase of a running shoe (otherwise £15). Using video technology to analyse your running style, expert fitters can assess how much you pronate (the extent to which your foot naturally rolls inward when you run) and where your foot strikes the ground. Using this information, they will recommend a running shoe based on foot shape, terrain, level of pronation and personal preference.
Are you wearing insoles?
Insoles allow you to personalise the fit to your foot and can help provide additional comfort in the heel, arch and across the ball of your foot.
What socks are you running in?
The thickness of your sock can make a big difference to the fit and feel of your shoe, especially as your feet expand in the heat. Always wear the socks you intend to run in when you go for a shoe fitting. Consider a good, technical running sock specifically designed with added arch support, moisture-wicking properties, and extra padding across the ball of the foot, toes, and heel for better impact protection.
Tips and tricks for running in the rain
Ellyard stresses that the key is to “be prepared!”. She continues: “Footwear and apparel can make a big difference to your experience of running in the rain. There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad equipment. Keeping your feet dry during wet weather can increase your comfort throughout the run, with less chance of friction, bacteria and slipping”.
Simon James, Run the Wild Founder and Runners Need Ambassador suggests adding reflective pieces to your arsenal. “Rain often means low light conditions so select outer layers that are bright, highly visible and have reflective detail to stay safe”. Also, be aware of chafing. “It can happen whatever the weather, but it can be much worse if you and your clothes are wet from the rain. Use anti-chafe gels to reduce risk. As soon as you get home, take your clothes off and change into something dry to keep warm”.
To protect the lifespan of your trainers, he shares his final tip: “When you get back from your run, take off your running shoes and stuff them with crumpled newspaper to help keep their shape and draw the moisture out of the fabric. Try not to put them in front of a heater or in the dryer as this can shrink and warp their shape”.
But most importantly of all, “embrace it”, Ellyard says. “Enjoy the freedom and fun of running in the puddles, it can be liberating and quite different to normal life which is predominantly spent in the comfort of your home or workplace”.
See below for the best waterproof trainers for running. Soggy socks begone.
Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX Trail Running Shoes
Built for rugged conditions, your feet stay dry by sealing out rain and moisture while remaining breathable, keeping you comfortable even in the most challenging conditions. The abrasion-resistant overlays provide added durability, making these trainers perfect for logging miles on rough, muddy trails.
One of the stand-outs for me is the gusseted tongue, which prevents dirt and debris from entering, so you can stay focused on the trail ahead without anything getting into your shoe; always an annoyance for me. The midsole also offers responsive cushioning, giving stability and comfort as you move through uneven terrain. Plus, its rocker shape promotes a smooth roll-off, allowing for a fluid pace over long distances.
Buy now £140.00, Adidas
ON Cloud 6 Waterproof
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A brand-new update for 2025, the Cloud 6 Waterproof offers next-level comfort and protection in all conditions. It features a fully waterproof membrane, improved cushioning for softer landings, and a re-engineered upper for a more secure fit.
Lightweight, breathable, and made with recycled materials, it's ideal for staying dry without compromising on style or performance.
Buy now £159.99, Foot Locker
Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GORE-TEX
Based in the French Alps, Jean-Luc Diard and Nico Mermoud founded Hoka back in 2009 out of the desire to create a running shoe to improve the feeling of running downhill – and, seeing as it’s since been adopted by professional ultramarathoners and elite athletes, they succeeded.
So, it’s no wonder the label then branched out to hiking boots to contend with the mountains too. These, in particular, feature a GORE-TEX construction, a lightweight midsole and a supercharged grip for rocky terrain.
Buy now £160.00, Hoka
The North Face Verto Alpine Gore-Tex Sneakers
These minimalist design Gore-Tex trainers by The North Face are as great for hikers as they are for weekend revellers. As well as the waterproof uppers, the rubber soles have great grip on all surfaces and they’re super cushioned to keep your feet comfy all day.
Buy now £155.00, The North Face
Salomon Speedcross Peak Waterproof Men's Trail Running Shoes
Flexible, lightweight, waterproof, and engineered for all terrains, the Salmon Speedcross Peak trainers are incredibly hardworking.
Most Salomon running shoes are equipped with a Quicklace system which ensures a precise, consistent fit which is easily adjustable and prevents any potential for loose lases. The minimalistic and extra-strong lace can be tightened with one pull thanks to the streamlined toggle.
Was: £115
Buy now £101.18, Amazon
Saucony Excersion TR16 Gore-Tex
These lightweight Gore-Tex trainers from Saucony are springy, comfy and come in a more classic silhouette for anyone who isn’t a fan of the stacked look. They’re super breathable for your hikes and adventures and have rugged details such as grippy outsoles, while the VERSARUN cushioning keeps them comfy for hours.
Buy now £115.00, Amazon
Adidas Supernova 3 GTX Running Shoes
Whether you’re drawn in by the sleek colourway pictured or would instead prefer the retro black and white alternative, the Supernova is undeniably an attractive shoe. If you’re familiar with the Adidas BOOST range, you will no doubt spot this technology at the sole to put a spring in your step and give you greater energy return. So that nothing stands in your way, there is the addition of Gore-Tex, turning a quality running silhouette into an all-season, all-weather essential that will have you welcoming in the winter with open arms.
So you remain stable on your feet with every stride, there’s the brand’s trademarked Continental WinterGrip rubber outsole and for an eco-conscious twist, you can be content in the knowledge that the shoes are constructed with at least 50 per cent recycled content.
Buy now £110.00, Adidas
Columbia Women's Konos TRS II OutDry Hiking Shoe
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This shoe is built for speed, agility, and all-day comfort. Lightweight yet incredibly durable, its technical mesh upper with no-sew overlays provides essential support without the bulk, while the Navic Fit System gives a natural midfoot lockdown for a secure fit on any terrain.
Buy now £77.00, Columbia
