Lighter and usually more comfortable than boots, waterproof sneakers are a smart option for keeping your feet dry in wet weather. Whether you want to wear them for trail running, walking on the beach, or running errands in the rain, waterproof sneakers should be durable and easy to wear. When shopping, look for waterproof—not water-resistant—shoes for the best protection. According to Gretchen A. Lawrence, DPM, water-resistant materials can stop water from penetrating the material to some extent, but waterproof materials are built to resist water, even in the most extreme conditions. For extra traction on wet, slick surfaces, opt for sneakers with rubber outsoles and grippy treads. We selected the best waterproof sneakers by researching dozens of pairs from the most popular, trusted brands. We also spoke with experts to understand which features every pair of waterproof sneakers should have. We considered each pair’s design, price, fit, comfort, and more. We also tested some of our top picks according to our testing guidelines by running and walking in each pair in wet conditions and on varied terrain. We tested the shoes over a one-month period, walking or running a minimum of three times per week. For walking shoes, we made sure to wear them on both long and short walks and paid close attention to their fit, stability, responsiveness, and comfort, in addition to their level of waterproofing. For running shoes, we ran in each pair for both short and long runs—including a shorter 3-mile run and a longer 8-mile run—testing each shoe for fit, cushioning, responsiveness, and comfort, along with assessing how each pair held up to the elements. We continue to test the best waterproof sneakers and will update this list with new tested insights as we collect them. Our Top Picks Best Men's Overall: Best Women's Overall: Best for Walking: Best for Running: Best Hybrid: Best Cushioned: Best Lightweight: Best for Hiking: Best for Trail Running: In This Article Our Picks How We Selected and Tested What to Look For FAQs Why Trust Verywell Fit Pros Comfortable fit Made with recycled materials Hands-free lacing system Cons Doesn’t come in wide widths With a comfortable fit, versatile design, and effective waterproofing, On Cloud 5’s Waterproof Shoes are our top overall pick. The shoes’ waterproof membrane keeps out water, but the mesh upper is still breathable, so you don’t have to worry about sweat-soaked socks. A durable rubber outsole offers plenty of traction for further protection in wet conditions. And unlike some waterproof shoes that feel stiff and bulky, we love that this pair is flexible and works for active or casual wear. The shoes feature a plush, foam sole that definitely earns their “cloud” name, providing a cushioned landing and support through the midfoot. Plus, the tongue is padded for even more comfort. On Cloud 5’s sneakers don’t come in wide widths, but they do feature a spacious toe box. The hands-free speed-lacing system and pull tabs on the back make getting them on and off easy. We also like that the shoes are made with recycled materials and have reflective elements for running in low-light conditions. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Good traction Breathable Reinforced toe Equipped to repel water and provide stability in wet conditions, New Balance’s Arishi trail running shoes earn our other top overall spot. They’re constructed with breathable, waterproof fabric that protects feet from wind and water. The rugged, grippy tread on the outsole provides reliable traction on all types of surfaces, while the reinforced toe helps protect feet from roots, rocks, and debris. Despite all of these features, the shoe is flexible, which helps prevent foot fatigue after hours of wear. When testing, we found these shoes to be super lightweight, which is unusual for waterproof trail running shoes. We found them super comfortable and responsive, right out of the box—no break-in period required. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning leaves a bit to be desired, though, as we found the shoe sacrifices cushioning for its lightweight construction. But we think it's worth it for the feather-light feel and lack of bulkiness. However, if you're looking for a shoe with more cushioning, this isn't the right pair for you. We like the no-sew construction upper, which offers a sleek fit and prevents irritation.Although it’s a waterproof trail running shoe, the Arishi also works well on slick pavement. Plus, it comes in various color combinations so you can find one that fits your style. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Upper Comfort 5/5 Weatherproofing 4/5 Pros Comfortable fit Wide toe box Durable Cons Not as breathable as other options For fitness walking in all types of weather, we recommend Brooks’ Ghost 14 GTX running shoes. They offer all the cushioning and support of the regular Ghost running shoe, plus a waterproof membrane that prevents rain, slush, and snow from getting in. Even with the added protection, the shoe’s upper is flexible and offers a generous fit, with plenty of room in the toe box. The full-length midsole provides soft comfort and good shock absorption, to help take the pressure off your joints. And we love that it’s removable, in case you have your own insoles or orthotics—like insoles for flat feet—you’d like to use instead. The shoe isn’t as breathable as the regular Ghost running shoe, but it’s a good choice for a quality walking shoe for walking in the rain or on the beach. Just note that it's not as breathable as other options on our list, so it may not be the best pick for warmer-weather walks. Key Specs: Pros Wide range of colors Good traction Wide toe box Cons May run small for some Waterproof sneakers tend to be heavier and stiffer compared to regular pairs, which isn’t ideal for running. But the Saucony Peregrine 12 GTX offers a lightweight feel, even with its superior construction. It’s designed to keep out the elements, so you’ll be ready for anything on your run. The upper also features pliable overlays that provide further protection against bad weather. When testing this shoe, we particularly liked the fact that the upper is very breathable and comfortable, while still offering optimal protection. The cushioning feels soft yet supportive, providing comfort and good shock absorption on all types of surfaces. Despite the ample cushioning, the shoes still feel responsive, and allow you to feel grounded enough to maintain good balance. A grippy rubber outsole helps you keep your footing in wet conditions and dig into soft terrain. We like that the shoe also has a wide toe box, which creates more stability and helps prevent blisters. However, they tend to run small, so you may want to go up a half size. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Good support and stability Responsive cushioning Comfortable fit Cons We wish they had slightly deeper lugs for even better traction We recommend the versatile Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Gore-Tex shoe for runners who go back and forth between roads and trails (and who don’t let bad weather stop them from running). These shoes felt so comfortable from the first moment we laced them up to the last stride of our 8-mile run. Running in these shoes feels like running in slippers—but slippers that keep feet locked in, stable, and protected from the elements. The waterproof membrane and built-in gaiter at the collar prevent water or debris from getting in. Plus, the shoe’s full-length, dense foam midsole feels springy and responsive, whether you’re running on pavement or a dirt trail.And we love the cloud-like cushioning that kept us going throughout tough runs. The short, grippy lugs on the outsole can handle wet conditions and technical terrain, but can also easily transition to road running. We do wish the lugs were slightly deeper for even better traction, but we still feel confident recommending these shoes for light to moderate trails or slick pavement. We like that the extra traction at the toe and heel enhances the shoe’s overall stability and traction, especially for uphill and downhill running. Despite all its technical features, this shoe isn’t bulky or stiff, and it boasts a sleek, attractive style. Key Specs: Cons May run narrow for some High-quality waterproof sneakers can be expensive. For those on a budget, we recommend Columbia’s Vitesse Fasttrack sneakers, which are built to last. They feature a waterproof, seam-sealed membrane that creates a barrier against the elements, so your feet stay dry and comfortable. The shoes’ durable mesh upper allows for good breathability, plus exceptional fit and support. The Vitesse is also comfortable enough to wear all day long, thanks to an EVA foam midsole that’s lightweight and responsive. And we like that the versatile rubber outsole offers reliable support and traction, whether you’re trekking in the woods or hitting the pavement. The fit runs a bit narrow, but they do come in wide sizes if you need some extra room in the toe box. Key Specs: Pros Made with recycled materials Good support and stability Breathable Cons Doesn't come in wide widths Hoka shoes are well-known for their ample cushioning, which provides a high level of comfort and responsiveness. The brand’s Challenger ATR 6 GTX offers trail runners the same cloud-like feel, with added protection. The shoes will keep your feet dry, but we like that they’re also breathable—ideal for taking on rough terrain. With a sturdy midsole and a rugged outsole, the Challenger can transition between trails and pavement. Its hybrid design and superior traction can handle uneven or wet surfaces with ease, keeping you stable and secure. Meanwhile, the front of the shoe is layered with rubber for even more durability. Although the shoe doesn’t come in wide widths, it has a spacious toe box that allows the toes to splay for better balance and protection from blisters. Key Specs: Pros Good shock absorption Made with recycled materials Reflective elements Cons May run narrow for some If you’re searching for a well-cushioned waterproof sneaker that’s still lightweight, we recommend Asics’ Cumulus 23. The shoe’s mesh upper defends against the elements, keeping your feet dry and warm in wet, slushy, or snowy conditions. But we like that it’s still flexible, so the shoe doesn’t feel too stiff. The Cumulus 23 also has a grippy outsole, so you can run confidently on wet surfaces. And the foam midsole offers springy support, along with gel pods in the forefoot and rearfoot that provide excellent shock absorption. While the shoe does have a wide toe box, it doesn’t come in wide sizes, so it may run narrow for some. These shoes also feature reflective elements, for walking your dog or running at night. Key Specs: Pros Good arch and ankle support Reinforced toe Extra heel cushioning Cons Not as lightweight as other options For hikers who need to be ready for all kinds of weather, we recommend Merrell’s Moab 2 GTX shoes. This pair will keep your feet dry no matter what conditions you encounter. Designed with a suede and mesh upper, we like that they’re built to keep water out, but also let moisture escape to prevent overheating. The slip-resistant outsoles are made from thick rubber, for great traction, grip, and durability. A contoured, foam footbed supports your arches and heels, so your feet won’t get fatigued on long trails. And extra cushioning in the heel helps with shock absorption and provides extra stability on uneven terrain. Note that this pair isn’t as light as others on our list, weighing in at just over 16 ounces. But this shoe is still lighter compared to many proper hiking boots. Key Specs: Pros Good traction Pockets to tuck laces away Good shock absorption Cons Too technical for everyday wear Tough and durable, we recommend Salomon’s Speedcross 5 for trail runs in wet conditions on moderate or technical trails. The upper membrane effectively blocks water and wind, while anti-debris mesh keeps out dirt and rocks. And we like that the shoes are still breathable, allowing moisture to evaporate so you stay comfortable while you run. With deep lugs on the outsole, the Speedcross 5 offers reliable stability and traction in even the soggiest and muddiest conditions. The shoe’s cushioned insole contours to the shape of your foot for extra comfort and support on trails, while the laces allow for a secure, precise fit with just a pull of a toggle. They’re a bit pricier than traditional running shoes, but their versatility and performance are worth the extra cost. Key Specs: Pros Stylish design Good cushioning Thin, lightweight outsole Cons May not have enough blister protection for some Not as breathable as other options If you need a stylish, comfortable work sneaker that’s just as functional in wet weather, we recommendthese sneakers from Sorel. Not only are they easy to pair with almost any outfit, but they’re also completely waterproof. Plus, we love that they have grippy traction, so you stay sure-footed and stable on slick surfaces. The shoe’s generously cushioned footbed provides all-day comfort and support, while padding around the collar and tongue adds to the plush feel. Although the lacing system allows for a custom-like fit, they’re still easy to slip on and off, which comes in handy at airport security. The one downside of the shoes’ effective waterproofing is that they’re not very breathable, so your feet may get hot in warm conditions. Also, these shoes don’t have as much blister protection as other pairs on our list. Key Specs: Pros Sleek, athletic design Good support Good traction Cons May be too narrow for some Expensive For golfers who may get caught in a storm on the course, we recommend these ECCO Golf shoes. They’re constructed with waterproof leather, offering the perfect balance of functionality, comfort, and style. Although they provide reliable protection from rain, they’re also breathable, so your feet won’t overheat. We love the shoe’s foam insoles, which provide cushioned comfort and support for all 18 holes. They’re also removable, so they’re easy to clean or replace with your own custom orthotics. While these golf shoes provide excellent traction on the course, the outsole is fairly low-profile, so you can easily walk in them when you’re headed to the clubhouse. But the fit may be too narrow for some wearers, since the toe box isn’t as wide as others on our list, and the price point is high. Key Specs: Pros Antibacterial insoles Comfortable fit Stylish design Cons Doesn’t come in half or wide sizes Not the most stylish shoes Swap your rain boots for these modern kicks that are completely waterproof, despite their lightweight look and feel. The shoe’s patented knit material has built-in waterproofing—not a coating—so the protection lasts the lifespan of the shoe.When testing these shoes, we found they fit like a glove and provided a secure enough fit for a long day of travel. With a slip-on style, these vegan shoes are a convenient, comfy choice for casual wear. We love that the shoe’s molded insoles contour to the shape of your foot, plus they feature an odor-resistant layer to keep your feet feeling and smelling fresh. But they don’t come in half or wide sizes, so it might be tough to find the right fit for wider feet. These shoes keep our feet feeling light, even after completing our 10,000 daily step goal, but still feel supportive. We like that you can customize the fit even further by tightening or loosening the laces, despite the slip-on design. While this isn't the most stylish shoe, we think it more than makes up for it with its convenient design and great comfort. Key Specs: Pros Good traction Made with recycled materials Good for both roads and trails Cons Only one color option If you’re worried about slushy or snowy conditions putting your running schedule on hold, we recommend Adidas’ Terrex Soulstride sneakers. Advanced waterproofing in the upper seals out moisture, while the raised side walls offer added stability. The sturdy rubber outsole has small lugs that are grippy enough for rocky trails, but still not too deep that you can’t run comfortably on pavement. We like the hybrid design, which is ideal for providing secure footing in unpredictable winter conditions. Meanwhile, you’ll run in comfort, thanks to a full-length EVA foam midsole. The pillow-like heel cushioning provides reliable shock absorption. These sneakers only come in one basic color combination. But they’re made with high-performance recycled materials, so you can feel good while wearing them. Key Specs: To choose the best waterproof sneakers, we first asked Gretchen A. Lawrence, DPM, a podiatrist in Shelby, North Carolina and David Kilgore, a professional trail runner, which features they think every pair should have.Then, we researched dozens of sneakers from the top, trusted brands. We considered style, comfort, breathability, support, and traction. We also looked at the price, fit, and materials to ensure each pair of sneakers was fully waterproof. We then tested some of our top picks at home over a one-month period. We tested the running shoes by going on three to five runs every week over the course of the testing period on varied terrain in multiple weather conditions. We assessed each pair for fit, cushioning, stability, comfort, responsiveness, and value. We tested the walking shoes by wearing them weekly for intermittent walking, movement, and standing. We also wore them for eight hours straight to assess fit and comfort, as well as whether or not the shoes irritated our feet at all. We continue to test the best waterproof sneakers and will regularly update our recommendations if we feel the need to based on new insights collected from our ongoing tests. When purchasing waterproof sneakers, getting the right fit is crucial—especially if you’re going to be running or hiking in them. “A well-fitting shoe can be the determining factor in prevention of injury,” Dr. Lawrence says. Your sneakers shouldn’t be so tight that there isn’t room for your toes to move, and they shouldn’t be so loose that your feet are sliding or slipping out of the shoe. You should also consider how you’ll be using the sneakers. “To run more aggressively, I would want the shoe to be a bit more tight and structured around my foot, while still leaving a little room for foot swelling in the shoe," David Kilgore, On athlete and professional trail runner, says. “When choosing a sneaker to walk around in on a day-to-day basis, I might make it a half size up and make it more roomy and comfy.” Mesh and fabric are some of the most popular waterproofing materials for sneakers, since they keep out water and wind, but are also breathable. Waterproof leather, suede, and synthetic leather are also commonly used because they’re durable and easy to clean. Rubber or PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is often used to create the soles of waterproof sneakers, since they’re flexible and sturdy. A rubber outsole with excellent traction will help keep you steady while walking or running on slippery surfaces (but not necessarily ice—choose shoes for walking on ice for frozen ground). Look for sneakers with a raised pattern on the outsole for a good grip, like Saucony's Peregrine 12 Trail Running Shoe. If you’re going to be trail running or hiking, you’ll want sneakers with deep lugs to handle wet or rocky surfaces and loose gravel. While waterproof sneakers will never be as breathable as ones that are made of well-ventilated, lightweight material, they should still offer some degree of breathability. For instance, sneakers with mesh uppers (like On Cloud 5’s Waterproof Shoes) will keep out water, but will also allow heat and sweat to escape. Look for a pair that feels comfortable and cool to wear, even after a long day. Whether you’re running on trails or sightseeing in a new city, you’ll want sneakers that are comfortable. Look for cushioning in the forefoot, heels, and collar, since those are the areas where you’ll want comfort or shock absorption. Foam and gel are popular types of cushioning in many waterproof sneakers, including Asics' Women's Gel-Cumulus 23 G-TX Running Shoes. Are leather sneakers waterproof? Leather is very durable and will keep out water, so it’s a common material used in many pairs of waterproof sneakers, like ECCO’s Golf S-Three Gore-Tex Shoes. However, leather is porous and can absorb water if the shoes get completely saturated. For further protection, you can coat them with a waterproofing spray every few weeks. How do you make sneakers waterproof? To add some waterproof protection to a pair of sneakers you already own, you can spray them with a silicone or acrylic spray that’s specifically made for waterproofing shoes. You should first clean your sneakers thoroughly and make sure they’re dry. In a well-ventilated area, hold the waterproofing spray about 10 inches from the shoes and spray the shoes liberally. Let them dry overnight and repeat the process every two to three months, or after the sneakers have been exposed to water. Can you wear waterproof sneakers in the snow? Yes, waterproof sneakers will provide a barrier between your feet and ice or slush and can be a good option if you need to walk in the snow. “Waterproof shoes and warm socks can help to protect our extremities from the elements and things like frostbite and chilblains—cold-induced injuries that can lead to amputations and gangrene,” Dr. Lawrence says. However, you should limit your time outside in extreme weather, since the feet and other extremities are vulnerable to cold-weather injuries, even with good protection. As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. To exercise in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for shoes and replacing them regularly. The 5 Best Waterproof Fitness Trackers of 2022
Material: Recycled polyester, textile, and synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Slip-on | Sizes: 7 to 14 | Cushioning: Soft and supportiveBest Women's Overall
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi Trail GTX
Material: Textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Cushioning: MediumBest for Walking
Brooks Ghost 14 GTX Road-Running Shoes
Material: Waterproof textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Medium, high-energizingBest for Running
Saucony Peregrine 12 Trail Running Shoe
Material: Textile upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Soft and supportiveBest Hybrid
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
Material: Foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: High
Material: Synthetic leather and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber sole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 7 to 15 | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsiveBest Cushioned
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
Material: Textile and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: High
Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, gel cushioning | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Soft and supportiveBest for Hiking
Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Material: Suede and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 16.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Soft and supportiveBest for Trail Running
Salomon Trail Running Shoes
Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 14 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 7 to 14 | Cushioning: Medium
Material: Leather and synthetic upper, synthetic outsole | Weight: 12 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 12 | Cushioning: Medium
Material: Leather and textile upper, foam midsole, synthetic outsole | Weight: 11 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11.5 | Cushioning: Medium
Material: Knit upper | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Cushioning: Lightweight and firmBest for Winter
Adidas Terrex Soulstride Rain-Ready Trail Running Shoes
Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Cushioning: Medium How We Selected and Tested the Best Waterproof Sneakers
What to Look For in a Waterproof Sneaker
Fit
Materials
Traction
Breathability
Cushioning
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Fit
FAQs
Do water repellent shoes actually work? ›
Shoes that are labeled as water-repellent are made with a fabric that effectively resists and blocks water, meaning they will remain dry even in damp conditions. These types of footwear are great for everyday wear and activities.
Do waterproof sneakers exist? ›If you're searching for a well-cushioned waterproof sneaker that's still lightweight, we recommend Asics' Cumulus 23. The shoe's mesh upper defends against the elements, keeping your feet dry and warm in wet, slushy, or snowy conditions.
How often do you need to waterproof sneakers? ›The more often you wear your shoes, the more often you should waterproof them. A good guideline is two to three times per season - but especially in autumn and winter, when shoes often get wet, you can waterproof up to three times a week.
What shoes do Navy Seals wear in water? ›Used by river professionals, rescue agencies and Navy SEALS, the NRS Workboot Wetshoe is the hardest-working river boot on the market today. When you need a water shoe that works as hard as you do, on and off the water, the NRS Workboot is your best choice.
What is the problem with waterproof shoes? ›Waterproofing limits breathability.
It's not the most pleasant subject to address, but if you are hiking all day in high humidity, your feet are going to work up a sweat. If you are wearing wool socks and breathable shoes, the moisture will wick away from your feet and evaporate.
Remove all residue from the gel or soap with a clean, non-abrasive cloth. Rinse the shoe, then make sure the whole shoe is wet before starting the waterproofing spray. Hold the waterproofing spray six inches from the shoe, and spray over the entire surface. Pay close attention to coverage along the seams.
How can I make my shoes waterproof permanently? ›Use a Wax Treatment to Waterproof Shoes
This method allows the wax to seep into every microcavity of the shoe. Use a soft brush to apply the wax to a small part of the running shoe. Using the same soft brush, rub in the wax thoroughly. Put some extra wax on high-friction areas, like the heels, toes, laces and tongues.
Puma Clyde GTX x Nanamica Shoes
Some of the best sneakers here use Gore-Tex, a membrane making many everyday items completely waterproof. From chunky Hokas to slimmed down Pumas to grippy Nikes, we've rounded up the 20 best waterproof sneakers to scoop now.
But, in more mild conditions, many runners find that waterproof shoes cause their feet to overheat and work up a sweat, which can potentially bring on blisters.
How to make sneakers waterproof? ›Beeswax, mink oil or coconut oils are all great options when it comes to waterproofing your shoes. First, ensure your shoes are clean and thoroughly dry. Then, apply a thin, even layer of your chosen oil to the shoe's surface, paying extra attention to seams and stitching.
Does Vaseline waterproof shoes? ›
It has the ability to polish, clean, and soften leather shoes in addition to being waterproof. vaseline's petroleum jelly can repair leather cracks and improve the color of your leather. Bring those leather boots back to life!
Should you spray your sneakers? ›Then, you might want to treat your sneakers with a protective or waterproof spray. This will help to repel dirt, stains, and water, keeping your sneakers looking fresher and cleaner for longer. Make sure to choose a spray that's suitable for the materials used in sneakers.
How many years can a sneaker last? ›As a general rule of thumb, shoes should be replaced every 8-12 months for most people or every 500-700 kilometres for running shoes.
What is the highest waterproof? ›Waterproof Rating (mm) | Level of Water Resistance |
---|---|
6,000-10,000mm | Some resistance |
11,000-15,000mm | Normal resistance |
16,000-20,000mm | High resistance |
20,000mm + | Highest resistance |
Original GORE‑TEX products offer guaranteed waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection. So if your heart rate is going to rise and a strong wind and rain are forecast, some GORE‑TEX Invisible Fit footwear and a jacket made with GORE‑TEX SHAKEDRY™ product technology could be just what you need.
How waterproof are GORE-TEX shoes? ›I'm not sure why you'd want to go swimming in a pair of hiking boots, but don't expect them to keep you dry underwater. GORE‑TEX boots are great at keeping water out at every angle, but completely dunking your foot in water lets in water from around the ankle—the one place where no waterproof fabric can save you.