It can be tough finding a great pair of rain boots that suits your style, feels good to wear for hours on end, and that will actually hold up season after rainy season. But it’s not impossible. This episode, outdoor gear writer Kyle Fitzgerald explains what makes a well-designed rain boot.
Drawing on years of real-world testing through floods, mud, and city downpours, Kyle shares top picks for city commuting, quick errands, and heading into the great outdoors.
This episode includes:
- What construction details to look for: One-piece molded rubber boots or heavily sealed seams along the sole and upper prevent leaks.
- How to pick the right tread for your terrain: Flatter treads excel on city sidewalks while deeper, wider treads keep mud from clogging your grip.
- How to prevent clammy feet: Swap cotton for wool or moisture-wicking synthetic socks to absorb perspiration trapped inside non-breathable rubber boots.
- When rain boots can double as snow boots: Rain boots paired with wool socks can handle chilly 35° to 40°F weather. If it’s colder than that, you’ll probably want designated snow boots.
Products we recommend:
- A great boot for city walking: Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boot
- A boot that doesn’t slip on pavement: Xtratuf 6-Inch Ankle Deck Boots in Men’s or Women’s
- A classic rain boot for mixed terrain: L.L.Bean Bean Boots in Men’s or Women’s
- The best calf-height boot: Hunter Original Short Rain Boots in Men’s or Women’s
- The best tall boot: Original Tall Gloss Rain Boots
- A fashionable tall boot our style expert loves: Ganni Country Boots
- A great boot for the mud: Bogs Classic Seamless Tall in Men’s and Women’s
- A leather shoe worth waterproofing: Blundstone Men’s Originals #500
- A cowboy boot that can handle the weather: Tecovas The Earl
Additional reading:
