6 Best Waterproof Running Shoes for Trail Runners in 2026
Ready to tackle any trail, rain or shine? The right waterproof shoes can make all the difference between slogging through mud and confidently conquering rocky paths. Trust me, finding gear that fits well, stays dry, and grips the ground is a game-changer — and 2025 brings some serious options. Curious about which models top the list? Stick around — I’ve got the scoop on these must-have trail runners you won’t want to miss.
SHULOOK Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Are your outdoor shoes getting soaked every time it rains or you walk through mud? The SHULOOK Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes can fix that. These shoes are lightweight and have anti-slip soles, perfect for hiking and outdoor fun. They keep your feet dry by using waterproof materials. The shoes also breathe well, so your feet don’t get sweaty inside. The padded insoles and arch support help your feet stay comfy all day. Just remember, these shoes tend to run small, so it’s a good idea to go a size up. Ready to enjoy dry, happy feet on your next adventure?
Best For: People who want light, waterproof shoes that give good support and grip for trails, rain, and mud.
Pros:
- Keeps your feet dry in wet weather and mud
- Light and comfy, good for long walks
- Strong build with good arch support and soft insoles
Cons:
- Fits small; size up recommended
- The insoles might feel bumpy at first and could need changing
- We don’t know how long they last with heavy use
Saucony Mens Excursion Tr16 Hiking Shoe
Looking for a good hiking shoe that can handle rocky trails and outdoor adventures? The Saucony Mens Excursion Tr16 is a great choice. It helps you feel steady on dirt, gravel, and rocky paths. The soles are designed to grip well and not slip. The shoes also have springy cushioning, so your feet stay comfy even after many miles.
They are lightweight and have good ventilation, which keeps your feet from getting sweaty. The shoes are strong and last a long time. Some people find they fit true to size, but others might need to go up half a size. It’s best to try them on in person if you can. Overall, these shoes are stylish, reliable, and perfect for outdoor fun.
Best For: People who want a lightweight, strong, and versatile hiking shoe for different terrains and long trips.
Pros:
- Good grip and traction on dirt, gravel, and rocky trails.
- Comfortable right away, often no break-in needed.
- Stylish design, good quality materials, and cushion for steady walking.
Cons:
- Some people may need to size up or choose a wider size for a better fit.
- The fit can be different for each person, so trying them on in-store is helpful.
- The inside cushion isn’t very thick, so some might want more padding for extra comfort.
This shoe is a solid pick for anyone who wants a dependable, comfy, and easy-to-wear hiking shoe.
Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5 GTX, Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
If you love trail running or hiking, you need good shoes that can handle wet weather. The Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5 GTX are a great choice. These shoes have GORE-TEX™ material that keeps water out, so your feet stay dry. At the same time, they breathe well, so your feet don’t sweat too much.
The shoes have a tough, aggressive tread. This grip helps on muddy, rocky, or uneven trails. The cushioning and fit make them comfortable for long walks or runs. Plus, the quick lacing system helps you get ready fast. You won’t waste time fussing with your shoes. Just remember, these shoes run about half a size small. It’s best to size up for a good fit.
These shoes can handle mud, water, and tough terrain. They are a good choice for anyone who wants reliable, waterproof trail shoes. They are perfect for trail runners, hikers, and anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Pros:
- GORE-TEX™ makes shoes waterproof and breathable, so your feet stay dry.
- The deep tread gives good traction on muddy and rocky paths.
- They feel comfortable and have extra cushioning for long walks or runs. They fit wider feet well.
Cons:
- Shoes are about half a size small. It’s best to order a bigger size.
- The rough tread might slip a little on smooth city sidewalks.
- Check the sizing chart when buying online to get the right fit.
If you want shoes that can handle mud and water while keeping your feet comfy, these are a good option. They work well for trail running and outdoor adventures.
adidas Mens Terrex Soulstride Trail Running Shoe
Looking for trail running shoes that can handle rough ground without feeling heavy? The adidas Mens Terrex Soulstride Trail Running Shoe is a great choice. These shoes are perfect if you want stability and durability more than soft, squishy cushioning. The shoes have a lightweight, breathable mesh upper that shapes to your feet. This makes them comfortable and helps you forget you’re wearing shoes—that is, until you reach a rocky trail. The EVA midsole gives enough cushioning to feel comfy, but the real highlight is the Traxion outsole. It provides strong grip on wet rocks and roots, so you won’t slip or wobble. These shoes are tough and look nice—ready to support you through any trail.
Best For: trail runners and hikers who need sturdy, supportive shoes with good grip on tough terrain. They like a firm, stable feel instead of soft cushioning.
Pros:
- Light and breathable mesh upper for comfort.
- Traxion outsole sticks well to tricky ground.
- Strong EVA midsole offers reliable support.
Cons:
- May feel firm; some prefer softer shoes.
- Takes a little time to break in for full comfort.
- White parts can stain but are easy to clean with proper products.
Brooks Men’s Revel 7 Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Men’s Revel 7 Neutral Running Shoe is a good choice if you want comfort and a simple, clean look. Putting these on feels like giving your feet a gentle hug. They have soft, quick-responding cushioning that makes walking long distances or doing light workouts easier. Even after a busy day, your feet will feel better. The shoe fits true to size, but if you have wider feet, the toe area might feel a little tight. The shoes come in stylish colors and are made with breathable material, so your feet stay cool. They are strong and flexible, making them good for everyday use or quick outdoor runs.
Best For: People who want comfortable, stylish shoes you can wear daily for walking, light exercises, or casual outings.
Pros:
- Very soft and responsive cushioning that helps reduce foot and leg pain
- Fits true to size and is made with durable materials
- Looks good in different styles and colors
- Great for all-day wear, long walks, and indoor activities
Cons:
- The toe box might be a little tight for wider feet
- Can squeak a little after wearing outside for a long time
- Some people might need to size up or down a little for the best fit
These shoes are easy to wear and help keep your feet happy. They are perfect for everyday use and light exercise.
adidas Mens Terrex Anylander Rain.rdy Hiking Sneaker
Are you looking for a hiking shoe that can handle even the rainiest, muddiest trails? The adidas Mens Terrex Anylander Rain.rdy Hiking Sneaker might be what you need. It has special RAIN.RDY waterproof tech that keeps your feet dry, even if it pours. The shoe is made of lightweight, tough fabric that feels comfy and lasts long. The Traxion outsole gives you grip on slippery and uneven ground, just like a mountain goat. Plus, the EVA midsole adds a soft cushion for your feet, so long hikes won’t hurt as much. The only thing to watch out for is that the toe area can feel a little roomy. Overall, this shoe mixes rugged style with good support. It’s perfect for outdoor trips in wet and tough conditions.
Best For: hikers and outdoor lovers who need waterproof shoes to handle wet and tough trails.
Pros:
- Keeps water out with RAIN.RDY waterproof tech
- Light and strong fabric for comfort and support
- Great grip with Traxion outsole on slippery trails
Cons:
- Toe area can be a bit wide, affecting fit
- Some find the laces and sides don’t grip as well as other models
- Slightly heavier and bulkier than some other hiking shoes
Factors to Consider When Choosing Waterproof Running Shoes for Trail Runners
When choosing waterproof running shoes, you want to make sure they fit just right—no one likes tight shoes or blisters, right? Then, think about how well they keep water out—because soggy feet are a trail runner’s worst nightmare—and how they grip the terrain, especially on slippery rocks or muddy trails. Oh, and don’t forget about comfort, support, and durability—after all, you’re investing in shoes that can handle all those crazy trails you love!
Fit and Sizing
Getting the right size for your waterproof trail running shoes helps more than just keep you comfortable. It also helps you run better and keeps your feet happy on rough trails. If your shoes are too tight, you might get blisters and chafing. If they are too loose, your feet might slide around and cause slips. Some brands run small or narrow. If that is the case, try going up a half size or even a full size. Don’t squeeze into shoes that don’t fit. It makes running on trails very hard and uncomfortable. Always try on shoes with the same socks you plan to wear. Thick or moisture-wicking socks are best. Use size charts and read reviews because sizes can be different from brand to brand. A size 10 in one brand might be a 9.5 in another. A good fit means your shoes are snug but not tight. This keeps water out and your feet feeling good mile after mile.
Waterproof Effectiveness
Picking the right waterproof trail running shoes is more than just choosing a popular brand. You want shoes that keep your feet dry. That is where waterproof effectiveness matters. Waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX or RAIN.RDY are tiny layers inside the shoes. These layers block water from getting in. They also let your feet breathe so you don’t sweat too much inside.
But even the best membranes can leak if the shoes aren’t made well. Seams must be sealed tight so water can’t sneak in. The way the shoes are built also matters more than the brand name.
Check how shoes handle rain and puddles before buying. Shoes with higher waterproof ratings usually work better in wet weather. They can handle long walks in rain or through muddy puddles without making your feet soggy.
Tight fabrics help keep water out. However, if the fabric is too tight, it can block airflow. That can make your feet sweaty and uncomfortable. The best shoes balance waterproofing and breathability.
In short, don’t just buy shoes because they look good or have a famous name. Look for shoes that are made well, have sealed seams, and fit your needs for wet adventures.
Traction and Grip
If you think waterproof shoes are only for keeping your feet dry, think again. Good shoes also need to grip the ground well. This is especially true on slippery trails where mud or loose gravel can make you slip. Shoes with strong traction help you stay steady. Look for shoes that have special tread patterns. These patterns have small spikes called lugs, which grip in all directions. This helps when the ground is uneven or tricky to walk on.
The sole material also matters. Rubber soles made with a soft rubber formula stick better on wet surfaces. Softer rubber gives you more grip and keeps you from slipping. When your shoes have good grip, walking on muddy hills, rocky paths, or wet surfaces feels much easier. It’s almost like cheating! Good traction makes a big difference and helps you stay safe while moving on difficult trails.
Comfort and Support
When you go hiking or walk on rough trails, your shoes should feel comfortable and support your feet. They shouldn’t be tight or squeeze your toes. Good shoes have cushions that make walking easier and arch support that helps your feet stay strong. If your shoes have soft insoles or space for special inserts, your feet stay happy all day. Fit your shoes snugly but not tight. Too tight can cause blisters. Make sure your shoes have extra padding around the heels and firm sides to keep your feet steady on uneven ground. If you have high or flat arches, pick shoes that support your foot shape. Remember, comfortable shoes let you walk farther and faster. When your feet feel good, walking feels easier and more fun!
Durability and Materials
Let’s talk about what makes a good waterproof trail shoe last. The materials and build are the heart of the shoe. Strong fabrics like tough textiles and mesh help protect your feet from scratches from rocks and branches. Rubber soles with big, jagged treads help grip muddy and rocky ground. They also stop the shoes from wearing out fast. Waterproof layers like GORE-TEX or RAIN.RDY keep your feet dry. These layers need to fit smoothly with the shoe’s upper part. If they don’t, water can get in. Toe caps and heel parts are made thicker to protect your toes and heels from bumps. Picking shoes with good materials means they will last longer. This way, you can enjoy more hikes without getting new shoes every few months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Waterproof Shoes Affect Breathability During Long Runs?
Waterproof shoes can limit breathability during long runs, causing your feet to sweat more. However, quality designs balance waterproofing and airflow, helping you stay dry and comfortable without sacrificing breathability on challenging terrains.
Are Waterproof Shoes Suitable for All Trail Types and Weather Conditions?
You might find waterproof shoes suitable for most trail types and weather, but they can be less breathable and heavier. So, for long distances or hot conditions, consider their limitations to stay comfortable and avoid overheating.
How Often Should Waterproof Running Shoes Be Replaced for Optimal Performance?
You should replace waterproof running shoes every 300-500 miles or when you notice decreased waterproofing, excessive wear, or discomfort. Regularly inspect for damage, as maintaining ideal condition guarantees your shoes perform confidently on diverse trail terrains.
Do Waterproof Shoes Add Extra Weight Compared to Non-Waterproof Models?
Waterproof shoes often weigh more than non-waterproof models due to added materials and membranes. While this extra weight might affect your speed slightly, it provides valuable protection and dryness on wet terrains, ultimately enhancing your trail running confidence.
Can Waterproof Shoes Dry Quickly After Crossing Wet or Muddy Terrain?
Wet or muddy terrain leaves your shoes damp, but waterproof shoes dry relatively quickly if you remove insoles, loosen laces, and air them out. Proper drying techniques help them regain comfort and maintain performance efficiently.
Hi, I’m Rachel Powell, the founder and creative mind behind FashionBeautyLooks.com. With a passion for all things fashion and beauty, I’ve dedicated my career to helping others discover their unique style and enhance their natural beauty.
