5 Best Waterproof Running Shoes in 2024 (2024)

In our lab assessments and actual runs, Nike’s Pegasus Trail 4 GTX stood out as the best waterproof running shoe. Wrapped in Gore-Tex membrane, it’s an outstanding performer with tacky grip, incredible energy, and lasting comfort. We could easily run from the road to the trails without counting the miles.

Besides its waterproof membrane, the upper has several protective layers to block debris. Underfoot, we also have an outsole that keeps us steady no matter what surface we run on — whether dry pavements, wet grass, or snow.

This Peg aced its midsole by integrating the React foam that’s both soft and bouncy underfoot. The heel stack rises to 37.7 mm, offering an extra 5.5 mm cushion for protection. Also, our durometer shows the foam is 29.0% softer than average. This heavenly combination ensures long-lasting comfort, while the energetic midsole handles LSDs to tempo runs effortlessly.

Adding to the comfort is the unresisting midsole that boosts our agility and allows us to stride naturally. Our bend test confirms this hybrid shoe is 29.0% more flexible than average.

While the upper is undoubtedly water-resistant, it lacks a fully gusseted tongue for complete block out. We recommend staying away from streams above the ankle.

From light runs to heavy backpacking on the trails, we surely felt stable and protected with Salomon's XA Pro 3D v9 GTX. It inspired confident and surefooted strides on wet encounters and uneven terrains as its watertight upper, firm midsole and grippy lugs supported us. Our lab proves it’s built like a tank, making it our top durable waterproof running shoe.

The first area we analyzed is its Gore-Tex-wrapped upper, proving its impermeability when it scored a low 1/5 in our breathability test. Not a single drop of water entered as we traversed through below-the-ankle waters and rain. It also has a toe bumper that shields us from unexpected rocks and roots.

The next supportive layers are the midsole and 3D chassis which give a firm and stable ride. Our durometer confirms the cushion is 23.6% denser than average, which means it won't bottom out. We also found the midsole difficult to twist, meaning it won’t easily give in to our excessive lateral movements.

Lastly, the Contagrip outsole has 2.8-mm sticky lugs to enhance traction on mixed terrains. Even after extensive testing on harsh paths, we felt reassured of its longevity since the rubber didn’t show signs of premature wear.

Unfortunately, this shoe is heavy at 12.7 oz (359g). Those who prefer lighter shoes should look elsewhere.

On Cloud Waterproof kept our feet dry and warm from rain and puddles when we tested these shoes out. It performs in cool and wet conditions, allowing us to continue throughout our day with no worries. It's flexible for all-day comfort with an outsole that lasts long. Our lab results and actual runs show it's best for daily wear among waterproof running shoes.

With its unresisting midsole, this unique runner is versatile enough for walking, the gym, or casual wear. We could move freely! Our flex test confirms it’s 48.2% more adaptive than average. This feature makes it more comfortable for long hours.

Under our microscope, we found the upper is made of several layers of engineered mesh with small holes to block out water. It effectively keeps us dry with a bootie fit that locks the water out.

The shoe has a durable outsole that can take the load of daily mileage. Our durometer shows 83.0 HC — harder (and tougher) than the 80.3 HC average. The 3.7 mm rubber is thicker too, ensuring the long-lasting quality of the outsole.

The upper successfully blocks water out, but it hinders airflow too. We don’t recommend this pair for warmer regions because the feet will be drenched in sweat instead.

Speedgoat 5 GTX offered the best cushioning among all the waterproof shoes we tried and tested in the lab and ran with. Rain or shine, this trail shoe is all-weather ready with its surprisingly breathable Gore-Tex membrane. We enjoyed the seamless blend of comfort and stability in our off-road adventures.

On foot, we know there is plenty of cushion for protection no matter where we land. Our caliper confirms an above-average 34.6/27.6 mm stack, allowing us to run farther without worrying about comfort. Our durometer proves Speedgoat’s buttery foam is 26.8% softer than average.

The upper features a double-layer mesh with a Gore-Tex membrane. Based on our previous lab tests, GTX translates to a low breathability score. Yet we’re pleasantly surprised that this shoe earned a 3/5! Upon testing further, we found that it has a ventilated tongue for balance.

Speedgoat delivers the stable ride and traction we need on moderate trails and mixed terrains. We have a generous landing platform, which avoids any awkward foot movements. In terms of grip, the Vibram Megagrip outsole and its 3.5 mm lugs ensure our steady and controlled strides.

We don’t recommend submerging this shoe beyond the breathable tongue since water can seep in through this area. Best to avoid the discomfort of finishing a run with wet socks.

Running in Hoka’s 7th Challenger GTX is being armored with all-terrain, all-weather shoes. Our lab and run tests show it’s all about versatility. It provides the grip and protection we need from the streets to off-the-beaten paths, making it our top waterproof road-to-trail shoe.

Upon cutting it open, we discovered the outsole is made of Durabrasion rubber lined with 3.8-mm lugs to ensure traction. This depth feels suitable on gravel roads and moderate trails while not being clunky on pavements — the latter being crucial for comfort.

The upper is fully waterproof and feels very safe from any kind of debris. Under our microscope, we saw that it’s packed with a solid amount of protective layers and a Gore-Tex membrane. The fully gusseted tongue keeps our feet dry even as we pass through river crossings.

Challenger 7 can keep up with our whole-day adventures as it’s generously cushioned. Its stack rises above average, notably in the heel with a whopping 39.2-mm foam. The platform feels comfortable underfoot and our durometer confirms it’s 25.3% softer than average. Overall, the ride feels balanced which makes it a great performer in any environment.

Unfortunately, we cannot recommend this pair to those with wide feet since the tapering toebox causes unpleasant pressure on the toes.