Getting caught in the rain can be fun, but not if you're in the wrong shoes. Whether you're navigating slick city sidewalks or sloshing through muddy backcountry rainstorms, the best rain boots for women are essential for keeping your feet protected from the elements.
Our top pick we tested the Hunter Original Rain Boot, a classic British Wellington style made from sturdy rubber. Style editor Samantha Crozier recommends their short version if you prefer a petite size that won't cut you off at the knees.
The Sorel Splashy is an ankle bootie that's designed to feel comfortable on long walks. Each Sorel boot we've tested has impressed us with their cushioned EVA footbeds. Below are more of our favorite durable, water-resistant picks you can pair with a reliable umbrella for a complete rainproof ensemble.
Best overall: Hunter Original Tall Rain Boot
The Wellingtons are as iconic as they come, with a generous 16-inch shank and durable latex construction that can handle mud, rain, ice, and snow.
- Lightweight
- Flexible material
- Completely seals out moisture
- Too narrow for wide calves
- Too tall for short calves
- Uninsulated
When it comes to classic rain boots, Hunter is the blueprint. The British heritage brand has been in the rubber boot business since 1856, and its iconic Wellies are built to stand the test of time too. The shoe boasts a simple knee-high (give or take, depending on your height) silhouette marked with a buckle and the brand's instantly-recognizable logo. When it comes to keeping your feet dry, Hunter is best-in-class.
For how tall these boots are, you'd think they'd be heavier, but the natural latex rubber is surprisingly lightweight, flexible, and well-reinforced so you don't have to worry about water seeping in. Plus, they're super easy to clean when they inevitably get mucked up. That simplicity and practicality is what makes these a fan-favorite, beloved by everyone from farmers to urban explorers to the royal family alike, and our top pick for the best rain boots for women. One thing to note, these rain boots do run a bit narrow in the calf.
However, these might be a little too tall for the under five-foot-three set. "I've tried the knee-high Hunter boots and they fit a little wonky on me, since they come up nearly past my knee. But they also have a short version that has all the benefits of the durable Hunter brand, just in a height that's more suitable for petite folks," says style editor Samantha Crozier.
Best budget: Chooka Delridge Mid Rain Boot
These waterproof boots are made with durable rubber and lined with faux fur to keep your feet dry and warm in sleet or snow.
- Fits short calves
- Memory foam insoles
- Great value
- Faux fur lining may shed
If you're looking for a great rain boot on a budget, the Chooka Delridge will get the job done and then some. This mid-calf rain boot boasts a plush polyester lining to keep your feet warm, a rubber outsole for added traction when walking on slippery ground, and a self-cleaning tread pattern which essentially means the sole is designed to pick up less dirt, dust, and mud than your average shoe. The design is simple in a black colorway that goes with everything. The best part is you get all of that for just $40.
Best ankle boot: Sorel Out n About IV Splashy
We love Sorel's boots for their supportive EVA footbeds and lightweight midsoles. This is the rubberized version of their best-selling "Out n About" duck boots.
- Comfortable for long walks
- Slight platform
- Runs large and wide
Finding a pair of rain boots that are stylish, comfortable, and practical can be difficult. Enter: the Sorel Splashy. These waterproof ankle booties have a little bit of a platform, so they pair well with long, wide-leg pants.
What's most impressive about their design is the well-cushioned EVA insoles, meaning you can cover some serious ground in them without making your feet miserable — which isn't always easy for a thick, rubber shoe. The laces also allow for a snug fit that locks your foot in place during long walks.
Beware that this style runs large and wide, so unless you plan to wear them with extra thick socks, we recommend sizing down by half. You can also find them in a waterproof suede version.
Best knee-high: Barbour Bede Rain Boot
Barbour's rubber rain boots have grippy soles for safely navigating slippery surfaces and have a heritage tartan lining.
- Rugged tread
- Extremely sturdy
- Runs large
- Too tall for short calves
I guess it's true that the British know a thing or two about rain, because here we have another knee-high rain boot from another British heritage brand. Barbour has been making countrywear (think rugged, waterproof goods to withstand the region's fickle weather) since 1894. While the brand may be best known for its waxed jackets, the rain boots are not to be missed.
The silhouette is that of a classic wellington, tall and sleek, finished with a side buckle and the brand's logo. Vulcanized construction ensures no leakage and dry feet guaranteed. The brand suggests ordering a size down if you're in between sizes.
Best for extreme cold: LaCrosse Alpha Agility 1200g
These muck boots are easy to slip on, fit super securely around the foot, and felt comfortably warm and dry (even while wading through calf-high snow in sub-zero temperatures).
- Extremely waterproof
- Highly insulated
- Excellent traction, even on ice
- Bulky
- Too warm for mild temperatures
Freelance writer Rachael Schultz tested 25 pairs of winter boots in the Colorado Rockies. She relied on these rubber hunting boots to keep her warm when the temperature dipped below zero and the conditions were wet and mucky:
"Made with 5 millimeters of neoprene, these seam-sealed boots proved to be 100% waterproof when I ran them under a faucet. The top-of-the-calf height gives you a lot of coverage if you find yourself post-holing through a snow bank. As for their tread, the Agility rubber outsole is super grippy on slick snow and as solid as one can expect on ice.
The Alpha Agility boots are closely molded throughout the forefoot and heel, which kept my feet anchored in place without feeling constricted. This really helped with comfort and mobility on long walks. Also, unlike most of the muck boots and Wellies I've tested, these have a cinch on the back. This allows for a more custom calf fit, plus more leeway for wide calves.
With its serious outsole and platform lift, these boots are definitely bulky — which is the main complaint among the online reviews. However, I didn't find the bulk too cumbersome, largely because they fit so securely. They weigh 4 pounds thanks to the insulation, neoprene, and outsole, but that's actually lighter than many alternatives with a similar amount of technicality. That said, I still wish the tops were able to fold down, as they don't fit underneath jeans that well (unless you're wearing extra wide-leg jeans).
While the midsole and footbed kept me pretty comfortable for long walks, my feet did start to hurt after standing in them for 6 hours straight (though with my high arches, this is pretty typical without insoles). Other reviewers found that they're not very breathable, but I didn't have this issue. Lastly, you'll definitely want to size up and, unfortunately, they don't come in half sizes."
Best stylish: Vivaia Square Toe Tara Pro Boot
These stretchy knee-high sock boots have a knit water repellent upper and are a lightweight, packable alternative to clunky rubber boots.
- Sleek silhouette
- Super stretchy
- Walkable heel
- Water repellent, not waterproof
- Best worn with thin socks or hosiery
The Vivaia Tara Pros have the ability to pose as sleek knee-high boots until you need them to work as rain boots. These knit sock boots have a water resistant upper that comes in handy when your night out is interrupted with scattered rain showers, and they're much easier to fold up and pack than big rubber boots.
"I've worn them throughout the especially rainy stretch of weekends we've had in New York City, and falling raindrops would bead on the uppers and brush off with a simple swipe. I also tested them by pouring water over them before putting them on, and the knit fabric wicks moisture so effectively that I was honestly impressed. You couldn't wear these as waders, but they're a more stylish alternative to rubber rain boots. They fit true to size, but beware that the toe box runs narrow." — Gabrielle Chase, senior associate style editor, Insider Reviews
Read more in our full Vivaia shoes review.
Best Chelsea: Quince Waterproof Rain Boot
- Cushioned insole
- Flexible natural rubber
- Runs large
- Frequently low stock
For years, I've had the same stiff rubber rain boots sitting untouched in my closet. Even on downpour days, I'd be hesitant to take them out for dread of walking around in those uncomfortable bricks. Now that I've met Quince's super comfortable waterproof ankle rain boots, I'm tempted to put them on at the first sight of a drizzle.
The natural rubber outsole provides extra grip and durability, while the interior is lined with cushioning for maximum comfort. The waterproof Chelsea boots have stretchy side panels that hug (but not squeeze) your ankles, to keep any stray drops from making their way inside. Convenient pull tabs help you get into the kicks, which come in olive, black, and stone colorways. I recommend sizing down since these run a bit large. — Talia Ergas, contributing author
Best heavy-duty: XTRATUF 15 Inch Legacy Boot
XTRATUF's boots are completely waterproof, slip resistant, and have a moisture-wicking liner. Trusted by folks in the Alaskan fishing industry, these boots will keep your feet dry in the heaviest rains.
- Lightweight
- Protects feet from water and corrosive liquids
- Fits wide calves
- Runs small
- Uninsulated
Dubbed the "Alaskan Sneaker", the XTRATUF Legacy Boot has earned a reputation for providing top-notch durability through even the most rugged conditions. The shoe is a go-to for commercial fishers, dockhands, and all sorts of outdoorsy types at the whim of extreme weather.
While most rain boots promise to be 100% waterproof, XTRATUF takes that a step further. The brand uses a triple dipping technique to reinforce the boot's exterior shell and provide watertight protection that ensures nothing gets inside. Not only is it waterproof, but it offers protection against acid, corrisives, and other contaminants. The outsole is slip-resistant and provides serious traction on wet surfaces. Not only are they super-durable, but they're comfortable too. If you're in-between sizes, size up for this boot.
Best lace-up: L.L. Bean Women's Insulated Bean Boots
These classic weather-resistant boots are sturdy and long-lasting, thanks to the triple stitching, water resistant material, and rubber chain-tread bottom.
- Extremely warm
- Durable tread
- Great ankle support
- Harder to slip on and off
- Handmade construction may result in inconsistent sizing
If you've ever weathered an East Coast winter, congratulations, you probably recognize the classic Bean Boot. While a slew of brands now make duck boots– which consist of a thick rubber sole and leather upper – L.L. Bean was the original, and still stands as a go-to choice today.
The brand still makes these boots just like they did in 1912, hand-sewn right in Maine. With a waterproof leather upper and rubber bottom, Bean Boots are truly up for whatever comes your way. A chain-tread outsole provides serious traction and minimizes risk of slipping, which is great for icy, slushy environments. This iteration of the Bean Boot is lined with insulation for added warmth, but if you're looking for even more serious weather protection go for the GORE-TEX insulated option. These boots are what powered me through four years of Upstate New York winters and I can't recommend them enough.
Best rain clog: UGG Tasman X
This clog-style slipper is designed with durability in mind thanks to its waterproof construction. It also offers a plush-lined removable sock for an extra layer of warmth.
- Removable sock
- Platform sole
- Trendy silhouette
- Water resistant, not waterproof
- Not for floodwater
A tall, rubber rain boot will do an amazing job at keeping your legs and feet dry, but it's also prone to causing sweat and stickiness on hot days. On a warm and wet day, you'll want something that lets your extremities breathe a little, like this low-profile rain boot clog from UGG.
This ankle-grazing rubber bootie has an platform sole for some added height and puddle protection. The Tasman X is water resistant, though the removable sock liner it comes with is not. For those chilly days, you have the option to slip the plush, moisture-wicking sock on for some added coziness. You can even wear the socks on their own or with other shoes, but we're talking about the boots. These days, chunky shoes are all the rage so this shoe is not only practical but oh-so trendy as well. As someone who currently lives in Southern California, where it's perpetually warm and only sometimes wet, I am adding this pair to my cart as we speak.
Best rain shoe: L.L. Bean Storm Chaser 6 Slip-Ons
These waterproof rain shoes have a wide, padded mesh collar and pull loops at the ankle so you can easily slip them on and off.
- Lightweight
- Molded footbed
- Fleece lining
- Not for floodwater
Imagine it's a rainy Sunday morning. You need to get the paper but you don't want to get dressed, let alone go through the effort of pulling on a knee-high rain boot. That's where a rain shoe, like the L.L. Bean Storm Chaser 6 Slip-Ons, comes in. They come in half sizes and extra wide fits.
These rain-ready slip-ons are built to endure all sorts of weather including rain, snow, and slush. Like any good rain boot, these shoes have a waterproof leather upper and rubber bottom, but they also have an EVA midsole to deliver on sneaker-level comfort.
They won't help you in flood conditions since they're a low-top, but if you're looking for a comfortable walking shoe that can tread through puddles, these are it.
Best on Amazon: Joules Molly Welly
These are some of Amazon's top rated rain boots. They're affordable and they get the job done — plus they come in a wide range of colorful prints.
- Fits wide calves
- Fits short calves
- Great value
- Uninsulated
With over 5,900 5-star reviews, these rain boots are a favorite among Amazon shoppers. And it's no wonder– these wellies are a well-balanced blend of utility, affordability, and cuteness. The mid-calf silhouette offers a roomier fit that suits wide and narrow calves alike. A thick rubber outsole brings the grippiness needed to stay stable while walking on recently-drizzled sidewalks or pulling weeds in the garden.
Wellington boots may not be what you envision when you think of stylish footwear, but there's definitely something charming and nostalgic about these rain boots. The Molly Welly comes in playful patterns including bumblebees, polka dots, and floral prints.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@businessinsider.com.
