Rain boots are humble but hard working. You are a down-to-earth hero who belongs in every bad-weather wardrobe. While their reputation has long shifted from practicality and comfort over style, today’s best rain boots for women are not without fashion appeal – many chic versions exist at every price point – and they’re well-equipped to handle heavy rain and snow, or slick roads the city.
useful in light to heavy downpours. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAIL
The type of rain boots you choose depends on your needs, the level of waterproofing you want and where you intend to wear them. I consulted various outdoor experts to find out which pairs stand out from the rest and keep your feet wet. My top pick overall is Hunter’s Short Back Adjustable Rain Boots, which are a shorter, more flexible version of their signature tall boot. For a cheaper version, your best bet is to choose Planone Mid Calf Rubber Boots, which you can order from Amazon. Ahead, the best women’s rain boots in each category.
Hunter
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Hunter women’s rain boots with short back, adjustable
Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: Black, Navy, Tufted Purple, Primrose Yellow and more (10 total) | Materials: Rubber, lining made of recycled polyester
Hunter is a British brand known for making rain boots that last (they were a favorite of the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh). This shorter version of the Original Tall has a more flexible fit, a relaxed shape and an expandable tab at the back. They are also available in 10 colors and are suitable for country and city life. Keep in mind: Hunter boots are a bit expensive and shorter is no better in heavy rain.
Sizes: 6-10.5 | Colors: Dark Gray, Black, Copper Green, Red and more (10 total) | Materials: synthetic rubber
Planone wellies are made from durable rubber that can withstand heavy rain but are also light enough for gardening and long walks. This pair has non-slip grooves on the sole and a price that’s hard to beat. To find the right fit, measure around the fullest part of your calf to select your boot size. Keep in mind: Some reviewers say these boots run narrow.
Handmade in France, the Aigle boots in the Chic range adopt a hunting style and come in classic tones. To prevent leg fatigue, these have padded, triple density soles and are insulated against the cold thanks to a 4.5 mm thick neoprene lining. Overall they are a great all weather boot with adjustable straps and gusset that fit snugly to keep rain and snow out. Keep in mind: Aigle boots can be an expensive investment that may not fit every budget.
DSW
Cougar Ignite Chelsea rain boots
Sizes: 6-11| Colors: Black| Materials: Rubber and faux shearling upper
Fusing fashion with function, this Chelsea style has a rounded toe and sturdy block heel, while the faux shearling lining keeps you warm on cool, rainy days. The flocked traction sole also offers a firm grip and the elastic gussets on the sides make this pair easy to slip on and off. Keep in mind: These are water resistant, not waterproof, and the shorter length isn’t ideal for heavy rain.
Amazon
Grundéns Deck Boss ankle boots for women
Sizes: 5-10| Colors: Glacier, Parisian Blue, Sage Green, Fog and more (10 total) | Materials: rubber
Grundéns specialize in performance-level waterproof gear, specifically for fishing and boating, so you know their boots can handle getting wet. This lightweight, easy-to-pull fisherman-style best-seller isn’t just for anglers, it’s designed with razor-sharp fins to channel water under the shoe and give you improved grip on wet surfaces. There is also a thick insole for shock resistance. Keep in mind: This pair is ankle length and short so not ideal for heavy rain.
Rain boots aren’t made for a lot of walking, but Timberland’s leather lace-up shoes combine waterproof functionality with long-lasting comfort: there’s a steel shank for extra arch support, a faux fur lining for warmth, and a sustainably sourced leather upper treated with a waterproof membrane , which can be rolled up or down. Keep in mind: Leather is not as easy to keep clean or put on and take off as a traditional welly.
Amazon
Bogs Classic Tall Waterproof rain boot with adjustable calf
Bogs rain boots are perfect for those with wider calves. They hit just below the knee and have adjustable calf straps and a stretchy back to adjust to the shape of your leg. They’re waterproof from top to bottom and have rebound cushioning in the midsole for extra comfort and support. Keep in mind: Moore are a little heavy but prioritize practicality and durability.
Everlane rain boots are a great affordable staple made from easy-to-clean, flexible rubber. They have a non-slip tread, cushioned insole, stretchy side panels, and rear pull tabs so you can slip them on and off with ease. The fit leaves enough room to wear thick socks even in extreme cold. Keep in mind: There is no built in insulation so these boots are not ideal for deep snow.
A cross between a Chelsea boot and a sneaker, Sperry’s rain boots have deep indentations to improve traction and a microfleece lining to keep your feet warm. The waterproof upper is offset by a thick platform outsole, similar to hiking and work shoes for stability. Keep in mind: Some say the rubber can be stiff, so plan on wearing these boots with knitted socks.
Sizes: IT 35 – 41(US 5-11)| Colors: Black | Materials: rubber
For those looking to make a fashion statement on light rainy days, these Moncler wellies are stylish and practical. The Italian skiwear brand specializes in all-weather essentials and this pair has cleated soles for stability on smooth surfaces and tight stitching to keep moisture out. Keep in mind: Moncler is a splendour, and this ankle length isn’t best for heavy rain.
my expertise
I’m the former fashion features director of Harper’s Bazaarand throughout my 20+ year career as a fashion and lifestyle journalist I have written for Fashion, grace, The Guardian Life & Style, CNN and Forbes. I’ve profiled leading fashion designers to learn about the production and manufacturing process and reviewed hundreds of collections during fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan and Paris.
How I chose the best rain boots
To determine the absolute best rain boots out there, I spoke to fashion experts Sarah Meikle, Nicole Colovos and Eva Dayton, as well as New York real estate agent Talia McKinney, who spends her time walking around the city rain or shine Sunshine. I also asked Jackie Sutera, DPM, a board-certified foot surgeon, about the key features to consider when choosing a comfortable and functional rain boot, while considering different styles for different climates and activities. Finally, I researched outdoor brands that are known for making quality rainwear, looking at the length, materials, price range, waterproofness, profile, and traction of their boots. I matched all my competitors to actual buyer ratings to make the final choices you see here.
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NSJ is a journalist and editor specializing in fashion, beauty, lifestyle and culture. Her work has appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Grazia, The Guardian, Telegraph Fashion, The Sydney Morning Herald.
