5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (2024)

There are thousands of beautiful sneakers for athletes out there, and they all pretend to be THE perfect ones!

The truth is: The perfect athletic pair of shoes doesn’t exist, it all depends on this specific balance between the shoe and the athlete!

However, some brands have developed sneakers that are good enough to fit most athlete’s needs!

We’ve gathered some of the best waterproof athletic sneakers for you, have a look and see if one of them could help you reach your goals!

Athletic Sneakers - The Buying Guide

As mentioned earlier, wearing the wrong kind of shoes can be one of the worst things you could do to your feet. That’s why you have to invest a lot of time and money into getting the right waterproof athletic shoes. Continue reading this buying guide to find out how.

1- Know Your Feet First

Just like you have your preferences in what you wear and what looks good on you, so do your feet. Therefore, you have to get to know your feet first. What is your exact size, whether you have high or low arches, all this is crucial to know.

2- Matching Your Shoes to Your Workout

The wrong shoes aren’t just those which feel uncomfortable or are the wrong size. Even when they feel perfect, they can be the wrong shoes if they aren’t meant for that specific activity.

Therefore, and we can’t stress this enough, you have to match your shoes to your workout or training.

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (2)

For running, you want shoes that have a little bit of space around the toes. They should have plenty of cushioning and a slightly raised heel.

For walking, you don’t need the cushioning or the raised heel.

Similarly, for hiking, you want shoes that are tough, have strong traction and offer plenty of ankle support. For weightlifting, you want as much support and stability as possible.

3- Durability

When you’ve determined the right kind of shoes, look at some other features. For instance, how durable the shoes are because you don’t want to be buying a pair every few months. Therefore, look for sneakers that have a tough exterior that can stand rough use.

4- Weight

The weight is, again, something that depends on the precise training you’re doing. If you’re going to be moving around a lot, you don’t want heavy shoes to weigh you down. That’s why you have to look for sneakers that are lightweight and comfortable on your feet.

5- Comfort

Of course, this goes without saying. Your shoes have to be comfortable. However, what we want to point out is that it should feel comfy from the very first time.

Even though some shoes do require a breaking-in period, ideally, they should feel perfect on your feet the minute you slid into them first. If not, you probably need to keep looking.

What Are the Best Athletic Sneakers?

How many times have you been out for a jog and accidentally stepped into a puddle? Not only is it annoying to have wet and drenched feet, but then you’re completely thrown off your tempo.

So, save yourself all that trouble and get one of these fantastic waterproof athletic sneakers:

1- Loom Waterproof Sneakers Men/Women

Have you heard about Loom waterproof sneakers? Created by a group of passionate workoutaholic entrepreneurs based in LA, these sneakers gather all the features most athletes require!

These guys have thought about everything! waterproof and breathable, Loom are super comfy and adapted to any kind of situation and weather! When you are a young athlete that travels a lot, you definitely need a pair of smart shoes that can make you run anywhere!

To make it even more comfortable, the shoes are incredibly lightweight. Then there’s a perfect cushioning system inside to absorb shocks and protect your heels during workouts.

Available in black and white, these sneakers are made with love! Hence, they are animal-cruelty free!

Pros

  • Waterproof and moisture-wicking top layer
  • Anti-bacterial and anti-odor
  • Flexible and lightweight
  • Eco-friendly
  • Durable
  • Easy to wash

Con

  • Maybe not suitable for all kinds of workouts

2- Nike Metcon 5

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (4)

Generally, when you’re looking for a pair of workout shoes, you can’t really go wrong with Nike. Their shoes are designed for the best performance and utmost comfort.

However, when you specifically need footwear for CrossFit training or something for the gym, the Nike Metcon 5 takes the prize.

Not only does the sleek design look fantastic on your feet, but it feels pretty amazing too. There’s a diverse cushioning system - a firmer foam under the heel - so you can do any high-impact training without worrying.

Moreover, at the other end, there’s a softer foam beneath the toes to give you extra flexibility. The shoes have a low and flat shape to give you maximum stability as well as removable HyperLift inserts for when you want to do some squats.

On top of these sneakers, you’ll find a textured surface. This ensures the sneakers last you a long time as well as stay light on your feet. Furthermore, the outsole has a secure grip so that you don’t go slipping or sliding on the gym floor.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Strong grip
  • Diverse cushioning

Con

  • Not good for jumps, plyometrics, etc.

3- Reebok Crossfit Nano 9

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (5)

It’s always ideal to get waterproof athletic shoes that are made for the training or workout you do!

However, if you still want something that can work across a variety of different things, look no further than the Reebok Crossfit Nano 9. These versatile shoes will be your ultimate training partner.

The shoes feature the Flexweave Technology on the top, which results in a durable exterior. There’s also plenty of spaces between the weave on the top to keep the shoe breathable. Furthermore, they are also flexible enough to support all kinds of foot movement.

On the bottom of the shoe, you’ll notice two separate outsoles. One wraps all around your heel and goes till the midsole. This protects the shoes during rougher workouts, and more importantly, it offers you a much stronger grip. The other outsole along the front features special grooves to help with toe splay.

Moreover, the Nano 9 has additional cushioning inside, especially on the midsole, so you can even use these for short runs. The low-cut design allows more free movement while the bootie construction ensures the best performance.

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Durable
  • Strong grip
  • Flexible

Con

  • Doesn’t have a very snug fit

4- Nike Metcon 4

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (6)

If you’re not particularly a fan of the Nike Metcon 5 but still love the Metcon series, the Nike Metcon 4 is your best option. It features a textured print from the toe to the heel. This provides the shoes with a strong layer of durability so you can continue using them for a long time.

Similar to Metcon 5, the Metcon 4 also has diverse cushioning. The midsole is harder near the heel so that you can get the perfect push-offs. Moreover, the toe area is slightly softer so that you can comfortably do some short runs as well.

There’s a 4mm heel drop, which makes the sneakers feel pretty flat for more stable and grounded footing. The tongue on the top is made of lightweight mesh that allows plenty of airflow for cool and dry feet.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Flexible
  • Stable
  • Strong traction

Con

  • Too hard for cardio workouts

5- New Balance Women’s 365v1 Walking Shoe

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (7)

If you’re not really into heavy workouts like lifting, CrossFit, hiking, etc., simply walking can be a great way to workout. However, even with walking, you need a brilliant pair of walking shoes, such as the New Balance Women’s 365v1 Walking Shoes.

These stylish-looking shoes are good enough for everyday, casual use as well as when you want to do a short walk workout.

The top is 100% synthetic material, which keeps the overall weight of the shoe light and makes them durable. Moreover, the shoes feature some mesh patches that allow airflow and keep your feet cool and dry.

There’s a rubber outsole that has an excellent grip, so you don’t slip or stumble on your walk. The slightly raised heel gives you that forward-moving push, which can be quite helpful during runs and walks.

Inside the shoes, there’s a soft foam insole to absorb any harsh impact and protect your feet as well as keep them comfortable.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Firm grip
  • Versatile

Con

  • Requires a breaking-in period

Conclusion

Considering our feet literally bear our whole weight the whole day, we’d say they do deserve the right care and attention. What’s more, when it comes to footwear, a little time and money properly invested can go a long way in ensuring your feet’s health.

We’re already obsessed with all five of these brilliant sneakers. However, if we had to choose one, it’d be the Loom Waterproof Sneakers, for their quality and life-changing comfort!

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes (2024)

FAQs

5 Best Waterproof Workout Sneakers for True Athletes? ›

On Cloud 5 Waterproof Shoes

With a comfortable fit, versatile design, and effective waterproofing, On Cloud 5's Waterproof Shoes are our top overall pick. The shoes' waterproof membrane keeps out water, but the mesh upper is still breathable, so you don't have to worry about sweat-soaked socks.

What is the most waterproof shoe? ›

10 Best Waterproof Shoes for Rainy Days in 2024
  • Best for Trail Running: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex.
  • Best for Running: Brooks Ghost 15 GTX.
  • Best for Rugged Hiking: KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid.
  • Best for Easy Trails: Merrell Bravada 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe.
  • Best for Travel: On Cloud 5 Waterproof.
Mar 4, 2024

What sneakers are best in the rain? ›

On Cloud 5 Waterproof Shoes

With a comfortable fit, versatile design, and effective waterproofing, On Cloud 5's Waterproof Shoes are our top overall pick. The shoes' waterproof membrane keeps out water, but the mesh upper is still breathable, so you don't have to worry about sweat-soaked socks.

Is there such a thing as waterproof running shoes? ›

Yes, waterproof running shoes are specially designed to resist water and keep your feet dry in wet conditions using technology such as GORE-TEX membranes, providing both waterproofing and breathability.

What are the top 10 athletic shoes? ›

The best running shoes
  1. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2. The best overall race running shoes available today. ...
  2. Adidas Adistar. The best running shoe for slower runs. ...
  3. Hoka One One Bondi X. The best long-distance running shoe. ...
  4. Saucony Endorphin Speed. ...
  5. Saucony Ride 15. ...
  6. Asics Metaspeed Sky Plus. ...
  7. Asics Gel-Nimbus 25. ...
  8. Saucony Endorphin Pro 2.
7 days ago

What shoes do Navy SEALs wear in water? ›

You see, SEALs aren't the only special operators who wear Chuck Taylors — or Chuck Taylor-inspired shoes — on the job. Because they are well-suited for water applications, special operators from every branch have taken a shine to the retro sneakers.

What are the best waterproof trainers? ›

7 Best Waterproof Running Shoes in 2024
  • Best overall. Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX.
  • Best for road. Hoka Clifton 9 GTX.
  • Best road-to-trail. Hoka Challenger 7 GTX.
  • Best cushioning. Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX.
  • Best grip. Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX.
  • Best durability. Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX.
  • Best budget. Nike Juniper Trail 2 GTX.
Jul 12, 2023

Are Gore Tex running shoes waterproof? ›

Not only are Gore-Tex running shoes waterproof, they also add a layer of protection allowing them to be hard-wearing versions of the style. This is especially useful for the trail and gravel versions so you can take to the most aggressive trails year-round with a hard-wearing upper ready for action.

How do you keep sneakers dry when running in the rain? ›

Trail gaiters are a lightweight, low-profile option for keeping your shoes (and feet) protected on rainy days. While they don't offer the full protection of waterproof socks or a waterproof shoe, they're fantastic for drizzly days or trails where you might be running through ankle-whacking wet underbrush.

Are Hoka's waterproof? ›

We have a number of HOKA styles that are waterproof!

You can view our Waterproof Collection here! Look out for the above waterproof logo on the product page to make sure your specific product is waterproof, as some items without this logo may only be water-resistant.

How to make sneakers waterproof? ›

Use a Waterproof Spray to Waterproof Shoes
  1. Be sure to put on a face mask and work outside. ...
  2. Start by spraying evenly around the shoe. ...
  3. Check the instructions on the bottle. ...
  4. Repeat the process with the other shoe.
  5. Wipe off any excess spray on the shoes with a clean microfiber cloth.
  6. Let the shoes air dry overnight.
Feb 26, 2023

What is the difference between waterproof shoes and water shoes? ›

While both styles protect against moisture, they don't provide the same level of protection. Water repellent shoes are designed to repel water, while waterproof shoes are designed to keep water out completely. The shoes you should need will vary depending on what activities you are participating in.

What is the No 1 sneaker brand? ›

Nike is the most popular sneaker brand among U.S. consumers, with 64 percent of respondents who know the brand actually liking it.

What are the top five sneaker brands? ›

Biggest Sneaker Companies by Market Share
RANKBRANDCOMPANY TYPE
1NikePublic
2Air JordanSubsidiary (Nike, Inc.)
3AdidasPublic
t-4SkechersPublic
4 more rows
Oct 2, 2023

What is the highest waterproof? ›

Should I just go for the highest rating?
Waterproof Rating (mm)Level of Water Resistance
6,000-10,000mmSome resistance
11,000-15,000mmNormal resistance
16,000-20,000mmHigh resistance
20,000mm +Highest resistance
1 more row

Are Goretex shoes really waterproof? ›

Original GORE‑TEX products offer guaranteed waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection. So if your heart rate is going to rise and a strong wind and rain are forecast, some GORE‑TEX Invisible Fit footwear and a jacket made with GORE‑TEX SHAKEDRY™ product technology could be just what you need.

How can I make my shoes waterproof permanently? ›

Use a Wax Treatment to Waterproof Shoes

This method allows the wax to seep into every microcavity of the shoe. Use a soft brush to apply the wax to a small part of the running shoe. Using the same soft brush, rub in the wax thoroughly. Put some extra wax on high-friction areas, like the heels, toes, laces and tongues.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Reed Wilderman

Last Updated:

Views: 5889

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (52 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Reed Wilderman

Birthday: 1992-06-14

Address: 998 Estell Village, Lake Oscarberg, SD 48713-6877

Phone: +21813267449721

Job: Technology Engineer

Hobby: Swimming, Do it yourself, Beekeeping, Lapidary, Cosplaying, Hiking, Graffiti

Introduction: My name is Reed Wilderman, I am a faithful, bright, lucky, adventurous, lively, rich, vast person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.