Wet Willy: 10 Best Waterproof Running Shoes For Men

Running is hard. Running with wet socks, and waterlogged shoes? A whole lot harder. And uncomfortable. So, unsurprisingly, there is a pretty decent sized market for waterproof running shoes out there.

And yet, despite that fact, it can be kind of hard to find the right pair of waterproof sneakers. These athletically inclined kicks hide in the deep, dark parts of online stores and brand sites. They’re often glanced over as simply the more expensive version of an already price pair of running shoes. But in fact, these waterproof warriors are well worth the relatively higher price tag. If you’re dedicated to putting in miles year-round, they’ll keep you on-pace and focused on shaving down those seconds and minutes on your runs. Some of these running shoes are more trail-focused, with deep lugs, and rugged builds. Others simply look like your common sneaker but they’re lined with the protective Gore-Tex lining. Whatever your preference in style and function, we’re sure you’ll find a lot to like on our list of the best waterproof running shoes for men.

New Balance 910V4 GTX

There is a lot to like with this sneaker. Not only does it feature a GTX lining for keeping your feet dry, but the shoe boasts grippy outsole made from HydroHesion rubber and designed to provide a tough grip on wet surfaces. That compound combined with the deep lugs, and responsive REVlite midsole all come together to make the runner an ideal one for taking on or off the trail. They don’t look half bad, either.

Purchase: $120

adidas Terrex Skychaser GTX

We won’t lie, these sneakers aren’t going to win any beauty contests. That is because instead of being focused on looks, they’re built to do nothing more than rip through muddy trails. To assist runners in doing just that, the waterproof sneaker from adidas features a lugged Continental outsole for serious traction on wet surfaces, while the mesh upper is designed to resist abrasion from things like low-lying twigs, rocks, and other on-trail debris. In addition to the rugged design, the shoes also boast adidas’ super comfortable boost midsole, and a fast lacing system for slipping in and out of your runners quickly.

Purchase: $120

Inov-8 Roclite 282 GTX

The Roclite line from Inov-8 is a tough, capable waterproof running shoe designed to take on tough, uneven terrain. Equipped with 5mm deep lugs made from a rugged rubber compound – one would assume this sneaker would be on the heavier end of the spectrum. In fact, they’re surprisingly light for their tough build. Additionally, the shoes offer up solid support with their SHOC-Zone cushioning that’s aligned to sit along the parts of the feet that need it most. A solid pick for serious runners.

Purchase: $130

Salomon Speedcross 4 GTX Trail Running Shoes

If your idea of a good time is a muddy run through your local trails, then these waterproof running shoes are worth a second look. First, lets just get this out of the way; these shoes do a whole heck of a lot more than just keep your toes dry. The runners boast a suite of tech that is engineered to provide better grip, a better fit, and solid cushioning. This is all thanks to things like Salmon’s Sensifit – a special lacing system that provides a snug fit around the top of your foot without pinching or crushing your feet. And for traction? Salomon employs a special Contragrip technology that combines a special compound with optimized geometry to make sure your feet are always firmly planted.

Purchase: $130

Saucony Ride 10 GTX

See, we told you. Not ever waterproof running shoe on this list is a veritable tank with laces. This runner from Saucony is ideal for those who are looking to keep on pavement during their weekly jogs. The sneaker features an engineered mesh upper with Flexfilm melded to the upper for a snug but flexible film. But flexibility doesn’t stop there. Saucony also equipped their shoes with a tri-flex outsole that does an amazing job at dispersing each foot strike evenly while still providing solid traction.

Purchase: $140

Brooks Ghost 10 GTX

It shouldn’t be much of a surprise that the waterproof version of Brooks’ most popular running shoes is just as sought after and well regarded as its dry-weather model. The shoe features an engineered mesh upper that sits on top of a Gore-Tex membrane that provides both protection from sudden or planned downpours while still allowing for a degree of breathability. In addition to that fancy bit of tech, the waterproof running shoe has an outsole with special Omega Flex Grooves for fluid foot movement, and a solid cushioning system so you won’t get spooked by the prospect of long miles.

Purchase: $150

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34 Shield iD

Frequently rated Nike’s top running shoe, this Air Zoom Pegasus is built specifically to conquer wet weather runs through the city. The upper is made from a one-piece Flemish material that boasts a water resistant finish – allowing the shoes to stay lighter and more breathable than its competitors. In addition, these sneakers have the Portland-based brand’s famous Zoom unit for solid cushioning, and a special a-symmetrical outsole unit for solid grip.

Purchase: $155

Altra Lone Peak 3.0 NeoShell Mid

Not quite a hiking boot and not quite a running shoe, this pick from Altra is ideal for those who don’t want to let up even a little when the temperature starts dropping and the sky pens up. The sneakers boast a waterproof and abrasion resistant mesh upper that keeps water out without totally stifling the foot. The mid of the shoe is made with a comfortable A-Bound EVA foam, and is attached to a rugged MaxTrac sticky rubber outsole that’ll keep traction even on slippery trails.

Purchase: $160

On Running Cloudventure Shield Sneaker

Staying dry and comfortable even on long runs and wet days is easy with these runners from On Running. The shoes boast a proprietary waterproofing from On, as well as a Micro-engineered grip rubber soles that provide traction in four different ways. In addition to all this tech, the shoes feature a toe-cap for protecting your foot from being stubbed on rocks. Not bad.

Purchase: $170

adidas Ultraboost All Terrain Shoes

Looking for something that’ll keep you dry but won’t compromise on style? These are well worth considering. They boast adidas’ super comfortable UltraBoost midsole, a knit upper, and Continental stretch-web outsole for a solid grip on wet pavement. A solid, blacked out sneaker you’d be happy to wear on or off the trail.

Purchase: $220

8 Best Running Tights For Men

The last thing you want to do when going on a wet-weather run is throw on a pair of shorts. Your muscles will get cold and stiff faster than you’d expect. That’s why we suggest taking a look at picking up some of the best running tights for men.