All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.

However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Plus, they have great traction (so you dont have to worry about falling on your tush).

Image may contain Clothing Footwear Shoe and Sneaker

Courtesy of the brands / Gabrielle Castrillon

Shop our favorite podiatrist-approved pairs below.

Our top picks

1.

Best for Trail Running:Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-Tex2.

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 in branded component on a light gray background

Best for Running:Brooks Ghost 16 GTX3.

Best for Hiking:Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid4.

Best for Travel:On Cloud 5 Waterproof5.

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 in branded component on a light gray background

Best for Walking:New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 Gore-Tex6.Best for Plantar Fasciitis:Hoka Clifton 9 GTX7.

Best for the Office:Snibbs Spacecloud 2.08.

Sometimes waterproof shoes arent as comfortable as the [standard version] because of the waterproof membrane.

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 in branded component on a light gray background

Not so with these.

They are as comfortable as my regular Brooks 16s, they explained.

I have a lot of foot problems, and I love these shoes.

Brooks Ghost 16 GTX in branded component on a light gray background

Like Gore-Tex, Keen.Dry lets moisture out without allowing water in.

One thing to note: These boots are pretty heavybut for our tester, that heft was a bonus.

The Targhee IV also has better cushioning that resists compression and absorbs shock, for logging even more miles.

Brooks Ghost 16 GTX in branded component on a light gray background

Theyre truly waterproof and perfect for traveling, one Nordstrom reviewer wrote.

Being able to slip them off and on came in handy.

They were comfy, although it got warm at timesbut that beats walking in wet shoes.

Brooks Ghost 16 GTX in branded component on a light gray background

(We agree.)

This model uses Gore-Texs Invisible Fit membrane for waterproofing, with a seamless and lightweight feel.

Plus, its Hydrohesion outsole adds extra grip, for better traction in wet weather.

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid in branded component on a light gray background

I bought these to walk around in the rain and snow on a big-city vacation, wrote one reviewer.

I was glad to have them on slippery pavement and stairs.

I bought them to go to Everest base camp and they are amazing, they wrote.

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid in branded component on a light gray background

Its Merino wool upper traps heat inside while allowing sweat to escape.

We also like that the rubber soles provide enough grip to keep you from slipping.

I wore them everywhere, and I really appreciated the nonslip soles, one reviewer wrote.

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid in branded component on a light gray background

FYI: Some brands, like Keen and On, use their own technology to create waterproof materials.

(Take note,sweaty-footed folks!)

The outsole should be made of a higher portion of rubber for optimal traction, says Dr. Lobkova.

On Cloud 5 Waterproof in branded component on a light gray background

Thats because rubber outsoles have a sticky texture that helps keep you upright.

Also, shoes with deep lugs (a.k.a.

Comfort

Any shoe you wear should feel comfortable on your feet.

On Cloud 5 Waterproof in branded component on a light gray background

How we picked these shoes

First, we asked podiatrists to share their expert shoe shopping tips.

Only our favorites earned a spot in our top picks.

FAQs about shopping for waterproof shoes

What is Gore-Tex?

On Cloud 5 Waterproof in branded component on a light gray background

Gore-Tex is a term that folks often associate with waterproofing.

Itsthe brand nameof a fabric thats also known for being breathable and windproof.

How long do waterproof shoes stay waterproof?

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880V14 Gore-Tex in branded component on a light gray background

Related:

Get more ofSELFsgreat product recommendations delivered right to your inbox (for free!

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880V14 Gore-Tex in branded component on a light gray background

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880V14 Gore-Tex in branded component on a light gray background

Hoka Clifton 9 GTX in branded component on a light gray background

Hoka Clifton 9 GTX in branded component on a light gray background

Hoka Clifton 9 GTX in branded component on a light gray background

Snibbs Spacecloud 2.0 Work Sneaker in branded component on a light gray background

Snibbs Spacecloud 2.0 Work Sneaker in branded component on a light gray background

Snibbs Spacecloud 2.0 Work Sneaker in branded component on a light gray background

Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles in branded component on a light gray background

Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles in branded component on a light gray background

Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles in branded component on a light gray background