I hate the rain. Like really, really do. But, if I had to pick a season when the rain bugs me the most, it'd definitely be summer. Not only does it wreak havoc on my curly hair [1] when added to existing humidity, there's no way I'm stepping out into the sweltering city [2] with a pair of knee-high rubber boots.
Since this is not a once-a-year occurrence, I've collected quite a few weather-resistant shoes, and some I love so much I also wear them when it's not raining. Instead of traditional wellies [3], think flats, sandals, and sneakers that let your feet — and legs — breath. And, even if it's not yet (or ever) super hot where you are, these will also come in handy for future tropical trips [4], and when outdoor festivals return, too.
Check out 15 stylish pairs of rain shoes ahead, or jump straight to the style that suits you best.
- Flats
- Sandals
- Sneakers
Melissa x Jason Wu Ballet Flat
I have these cushioned Melissa x Jason Wu Ballet Flat [6] ($82-$155) in two colours, and they're probably the item I'm most questioned about, by everyone from friends to strangers on the subway. The sides don't rub like the jelly shoes of my youth, so I often wear these even when it's not raining outside.
Melissa Women's Pointy Heart Flats
It's easy to love these Melissa Women's Pointy Heart Flats [7] ($62-$92) 365 days a year (and there's white, black, or pink to pick).
Blondo Brooklyn Waterproof Flats
These ballerina-style Blondo Brooklyn Waterproof Flats [8] ($90) are made of a super-soft waterproof fabric and, not only do they keep feet safe from rain, they also won't make them wet with sweat when it's humid outside.
Freedom Moses Two Band Slides
If I had to name one shoe that got me through 2020, it'd be my Freedom Moses Two Band Slides [9] ($50). Incredibly easy to clean and keep clean, I wore them all spring, summer, and fall walking my dog, and even left them out to slip on for recycling or mailroom runs year-round. Rainy day? No problem at all. Plus, there are so many patterned picks [10] — and solid Freedom Moses Two Band Slides [11] ($45) — there's likely a pair to match your personal style, too.
Melissa Wave Slide Sandal
If it's raining but, say, you have a date or other dressy plans where clunky boots or shoes just won't do, these Melissa Wave Slide Sandals [12] ($70) look like everyday sandals, and come in five colours including basic black.
Shade and Shore Nola Toe Ring Slide Sandals
These 100-percent plastic Shade and Shore Nola Toe Ring Slide Sandals [13] ($10) also make great beach shoes when it's not raining.
Melissa Block Heel Sandals
There are so many ways to wear these Melissa Block Heel Sandals [14] ($125), and rain will be the least of your concerns in outfit planning that day . . . unless you're deciding between the heeled or flat version of Melissa Women's Knotted Slingback Sandals [15] ($75), too.
Coach Ulyssa Waterproof Slide Sandals
For a stylish slide that makes a colourful statement, opt for a pair of Coach Ulyssa Waterproof Slide Sandals [16] ($85) in bright blue or orange this summer.
Melissa Papete Rider Sandal
These Melissa Papete Rider Sandals [17] ($90) are super squishy . . . but that won't include squishiness from the rain. Opt for a pair of these water-resistant sandals to add a sporty touch to a wet — or potentially wet — day.
Birkenstock Essentials Arizona Waterproof Slide Sandals
Of course, you can't go wrong with a classic pair of Birkenstocks with added water-resistance like these rubbery, adjustable Birkenstock Essentials Arizona Waterproof Slide Sandals [18] ($45).
Hush Puppies Women's Rain Sneakers
My favourite thing about these Hush Puppies Women's Rain Sneakers [19] ($80) is how lightweight they are. I usually slip them on with a short sock, but the insole is so comfy that I've popped out without socks for a quick walk (and I can even kick them off while standing, perfect for when I'm also juggling groceries on the way back inside).
Dksuko Waterproof High-Top Rain Shoes with Laces
If you want your rain shoes to really, really look like sneakers, these Dksuko Waterproof High-Top Rain Shoes with Laces [20] ($15-$40) can trick people into thinking you're wearing Chucks from a distance.
Dksuko Waterproof Low-Top Rain Shoes with Laces
When it's really hot, a pair of these short Dksuko Waterproof Low-Top Rain Shoes with Laces [21] ($15 - $33) keep feet dry but don't scream "I'm wearing rain protection" in the process.
Joules Rainwell Waterproof Chelsea Rain Boot
These Joules Rainwell Waterproof Chelsea Rain Boot [22] ($42-$70) are like a sneaker/Chelsea boot hybrid, but they're way less bulky than proper boots, and have cushioning for all-day outdoor adventures like summer festivals.
Bottega Veneta Off-White Puddle Rubber Clogs
Yes, these Bottega Veneta Off-White Puddle Rubber Clogs [23] ($510) are technically called clogs, but don't they resemble slip-on sneakers, too? These are the pair of stylish rain shoes to grab when you want to make a bold statement (much like the brand's now-iconic Puddle Boots [24] do).