Waterproof vs Water Resistant Shoes: Ratings and Membranes

What water resistant means

Water resistant shoes are treated to repel light moisture. The upper is often coated with a durable water repellent (DWR) that makes water bead up and roll off instead of soaking in immediately. This works well for mist, light rain, or walking on damp grass.

The protection is limited. Under steady rain or when stepping into a puddle, water will eventually penetrate the fabric or leather. Water resistant shoes are not designed to keep your feet dry in prolonged wet conditions, but they dry quickly and are more breathable than fully sealed options. For more on how materials affect breathability, see shoe breathability.

• Best for: short commutes, light drizzle, dry weather with occasional splashes.
• Maintenance: DWR coatings wear off and need reapplication over time.

What waterproof means

Waterproof shoes are built with a physical barrier that stops liquid water from entering. This barrier is usually a membrane laminated to the inner lining or a specially treated material that prevents water penetration while still allowing water vapor (sweat) to escape.

A truly waterproof shoe keeps your feet dry even when stepping into shallow puddles or walking in heavy rain. The tradeoff is often reduced breathability and a stiffer feel. Tightly woven fabrics or sealed leathers can also achieve waterproofness, but membranes provide a consistent barrier across the entire upper.

No shoe is waterproof under every condition. If water goes over the collar or inside the opening, it will get in. Even the best membranes can fail if the shoe is damaged or the seams degrade over time.

• Best for: heavy rain, snow, slush, stream crossings, and work sites with standing water.
• Look for: taped or sealed seams, a gusseted tongue, and a high collar for extra coverage.

Membrane types and how they work

The most common waterproof membranes are made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) or polyurethane. These materials have microscopic pores that are large enough to let water vapor pass through but far too small for liquid water drops to enter. That is what allows a waterproof boot to remain breathable.

ePTFE membranes are known for a good balance of waterproofness and breathability, while polyurethane membranes are often more flexible and quieter when walking. Both types are used widely across hiking boots, work boots, and everyday shoes.

When a shoe is described as waterproof, the membrane is usually bonded to a lining fabric. You may also see terms like 'waterproof breathable' which emphasizes that the membrane lets moisture escape. Without breathability, your feet would sweat heavily inside a sealed shoe. Learn more about breathable materials.

Seam sealing: where shoes leak first

Sewn seams create tiny needle holes that water can penetrate, so a membrane alone is not enough. Seam sealing involves applying a waterproof tape or glue over the stitching on the inside of the shoe. This blocks the holes and prevents water from wicking through the thread.

Check whether the label mentions taped or sealed seams. Shoes without sealed seams may have a waterproof membrane on the upper but still leak through the stitching when water pressure builds, such as when walking in deep puddles. Proper stitching and construction methods are covered in stitching vs gluing.

A gusseted tongue, which attaches the tongue to the shoe on both sides, also helps keep water out by preventing splashes from entering through the lacing area. Combined with sealed seams, these details turn a water resistant shoe into a truly waterproof one.

Choosing based on your activity and conditions

Consider how much rain and water you actually encounter. If you walk a few blocks in light rain, water resistant shoes with a DWR coating are probably sufficient. They are lighter, more breathable, and easier to break in.

For outdoor jobs, long hikes, or commuting in heavy downpours, waterproof boots with a membrane and sealed seams are worth the extra weight. They keep your feet dry for hours and protect against cold water, which reduces the risk of conditions like trench foot. For work environments, see our best work boots guide.

Also think about the rest of the shoe. A waterproof upper does not help if the outsole has no traction on slick pavement. Pair your waterproof choice with a sole designed for wet conditions, and remember that proper drying extends the life of the membrane.

• For urban rain: consider water resistant shoes with good grip for a short walk.
• For hiking or fieldwork: waterproof boots with sealed seams and a high cut protect against puddles and streams.
• For cold weather: waterproof boots with insulation keep feet warm and dry, provided the membrane stays intact.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I make my water resistant shoes truly waterproof?

No. Adding a DWR spray or wax can improve water resistance, but it will not create a full waterproof barrier because the stitching and materials are not sealed. For true waterproofness, you need a shoe built with a membrane and sealed seams.

Are waterproof shoes more breathable than water resistant ones?

It depends on the membrane. High-quality membranes like ePTFE allow moisture vapor to escape, so a well-designed waterproof shoe can be nearly as breathable as a water resistant one. However, many waterproof shoes sacrifice some breathability for the sake of the barrier. For more on breathability, see shoe breathability.

Do waterproof membranes last forever?

No. The membrane can degrade over time, especially if the shoe is exposed to extreme conditions, chemicals, or improper drying. DWR coatings on the outside also wear off and need reapplication to maintain water beading. Learn how to dry wet shoes properly to extend their life.

Why do my waterproof shoes leak even though they have a membrane?

Leaks commonly occur at the seams, the tongue, or the collar. If the seams are not sealed, water can enter through the needle holes. Water can also come over the top of the shoe if you step too deep. Check the construction details before buying and inspect your shoes regularly for wear.

What is the difference between a waterproof boot and a water resistant boot?

A waterproof boot has a physical barrier that stops liquid water from entering, while a water resistant boot only repels light moisture. Waterproof boots are sealed at seams and often have a gusseted tongue, making them suitable for heavy rain, while water resistant boots are lighter and better for dry conditions with occasional drizzle.