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10 rain boots that actually look stylish
Spring is coming fast, bringing with it warm days, bright blooms and rain showers. But when you slip on a pair of on-trend rain boots, rainy days won’t stop you from stepping out in style.
Designed to keep feet dry no matter how wet the weather, the first rain boots were crafted of leather. Boots made of rubber became available in the 1850s. However, designs and colors were limited. Today, the styles are almost limitless and indistinguishable from standard footwear. Our favorite rain boots are comfortable with grippy outsoles and will keep your feet dry while looking great in the process.
Shop this article: Hunter Women’s Original Short Rain Boots, Bogs Men’s Kicker Chelsea Waterproof Rain Boots and Sperry Women’s Saltwater Core Boots
How to choose rain boots
You’ll simplify your search for the perfect pair of rain boots when you take a few things into consideration before you make your selection.
Weather
While rain boots are made to keep moisture away from your feet, not all pairs are the same. Some boots are made primarily of rubber with or without thin linings. These types of boots are suitable for warm spring days.
Springtime weather is often unpredictable. It’s common in some regions for wet spring weather to be mixed with snow. Boots that are made for wet, cold conditions have thick linings and are often made with a combination of rubber and leather. As with standard rain boots, waterproof is the key feature to look for if you prefer a pair that will hold up to cold weather.
Length
Just like other types of boots, the most common lengths of rain boots are ankle, mid-calf and tall. Taller boots provide additional leg protection and are best for extremely wet conditions. Otherwise, the length is a matter of style preference.
Materials
Rubber is arguably the most popular material used to manufacture rain boots. It’s naturally lightweight, durable and waterproof, which make it the ideal material for walking in the rain.
Vinyl and faux leather are also used to make rain boots. Boots made of these materials are often quite affordable yet may be lacking in durability.
Rain boots may also be made of leather. They may be pricier and warmer than rubber, vinyl or faux leather options. Waterproof leather boots often fall into the winter boots category.
Regardless of the material, keep in mind that most quality rain boots will have rubber outsoles for reliable traction when the ground is wet.
Comfort
Rain boots won’t be effective if they aren’t comfortable. Finding the best fit is the first step. When considering a pair, check out the description and customer reviews to determine if they fit true to size.
Some rain boots only come in whole sizes. In such cases, most consumers who wear half-sizes should choose the next whole size. This will allow ample room for socks. Having narrow feet is the caveat to this rule of thumb.
For added comfort, look for boots with linings throughout the shafts and insole cushioning for optimal comfort when sloshing through wet terrain.
BestReviews 10 favorite rain boots
Hunter Women’s Original Short Rain Boots
Hunter is renowned for making quality rain boots, and this pair is no exception. Made of durable rubber, they feature a mid-calf design with reliable tread and low heels. In other words, they offer a traditional rain boot design that goes perfectly with rainy weather. You’ll love that they are available in a rainbow of colors to fit your unique style.
Evshine Women’s Chelsea Short Ankle Rain Boots
These ankle boots may have a simplistic design, but they look great and provide excellent puddle protection. They are flexible and lightweight, so they won’t constrict or weigh down your feet in inclement weather. The polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material comes in a choice of five colors with a high-gloss finish and matte black or gray.
Bogs Men’s Kicker Chelsea Waterproof Rain Boots
Stylish rubber and textile uppers, treaded rubber outsoles and a low-rise Chelsea structure are key reasons to love these rain boots. They also offer eco-friendly foam insoles for exceptional comfort and proprietary anti-odor technology for feet that are as fresh as they are dry.
These mid-calf boots have more to offer than just rugged good looks. They are made by a top brand in outdoor wear and are constructed of strong rubber and leather. The removable and washable felt liners are made of recycled materials. These features make this warm pair perfect for stomping around in the snow.
Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Karissa Rain Boots
You can step out in the rain in high style with Tommy Hilfiger’s Karissa tall boots that measure 14.75 inches. Constructed of faux leather, they have a glossy and matte finish and do a great job keeping moisture away from your feet. They are so stylish, you may want to slip them on even when there’s no rain in the forecast.
Sperry Women’s Saltwater Core Boots
Not only are Sperrys always in style, but they are also made to withstand wet conditions. Leather uppers, rubber soles and seriously waterproof construction make this pair both fashionable and practical. The lace-up ankle-length style comes in a choice of eight color combinations.
Comfort and traction are important when it comes to walking on wet surfaces. These boots fit both criteria with flexible rubber uppers, breathable liners and slip-resistant outsoles. Their laid-back slip-on style and ankle-length design make them ideal for rainy spring days.
Sorel Women’s Brex Waterproof Chelsea Boots
These chunky platform boots may look trendy, but they are also waterproof. While the leather uppers lock out water, the treaded rubber outsoles prevent slipping on wet surfaces. Five color choices are available.
Cole Haan Women’s Hampshire Waterproof Booties
So stylish you’ll forget they are also practical, these leather ankle-length boots sport a side zipper, fancy buckle and stacked heels so you can wear them with some of your favorite fashion-forward outfits. They are waterproof and have rubber outsoles to keep your feet dry and stable.
Juebong Men’s Fashion Rain Boots
Men who want a combination of good looks, dry feet and an affordable price will love Juebong’s rain boots. They may look expensive with their black glossy and matte finish, but they are available at a fraction of the price of those by fashion brands. The pair features a simple pull-on style and slip-resistant outsoles.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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