The Best Waterproof Boots for Women Who Never Let Rain Ruin a Vacation

By Laura Reilly
November 01, 2019
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Nisolo
There may be no type of footwear that's truly there for you like the boot. It provides full-foot protection, supports from all sides up to the ankle, can be found in insulated and heeled forms, and still manages to look cute. But a boot is at its very best when it’s also waterproof. While the concept of waterproof boots might call to mind the boxy rain boots or wellies famously worn by Paddington Bear, water-repellent boots can be found in a wide variety of styles — plenty of which don’t even look like conventional rain boots.

So what should you look for when it comes to finding the right boots to keep your feet dry? Well, like any boot, they should first and foremost be comfortable. Look for styles that offer arch support and have a wide toe box, two components of great walking shoes. To best protect from water seeping in, the exterior of the boot should be composed of an impenetrable material like rubber, and the seams should be sealed tightly to not affect the integrity of the boot.

Whether you are looking for casual Chelsea boots for drizzly city days, or rain-repellent hiking boots you can take with you on outdoor excursions, we’ve rounded up the best option in every category. Read on below to see our picks from top brands like Sorel, Woolrich, UGG, and more.

Best Winter Boots: Sorel Ainsley Conquest Waterproof Boot Best Chelsea Boots: Nisolo Chelsea Boot Best Leather Boots: Aquatalia Ulyssa Water Resistant Bootie Best Lightweight Boots: Bernardo Footwear Paxton Rain Boot Best Dressy Boots: Nikki Waterproof Knee High Waterproof Boot Best Hiking Boots: Woolrich Rockies II Waterproof Hiking Boot Best Ankle Boots: Bos. & Co 'Belfield' Waterproof Chelsea Boot Best Snow Boots: UGG Women's W Birch Lace-up Snow Boot Best Slip-on Boots: Vionic Kaufman Casual Sneaker Best Warm Boots: Tretorn Women's Lina Winter Faux-fur Lined BootiesKeep scrolling to see why each of these best-in-class boots made the cut.
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Best Winter Boots: Sorel Ainsley Conquest Waterproof Boot

Credit: Nordstrom

The insulation along this boot’s "collar" keeps out moisture and cold air, making this pair the perfect choice for cool days, from the city to the wilderness.

To buy: amazon.com, $121–$260

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Best Chelsea Boots: Nisolo Chelsea Boot

Credit: Nisolo

This newly launched boot by Nisolo, the brand loved by Everlane and Cuyana fans, is a fast favorite for its stunning leather exterior and flexible elastic insets, which make taking them on and off a breeze.

To buy:nisolo.com, $228

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Best Leather Boots: Aquatalia Camden Weatherproof Nappa Boot

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Luxury Italian brand Aquatalia is known for its inventory-spanning dedication to waterproof footwear. This particular style made of genuine patent leather features a side zip and hidden heel for discrete lift.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $495

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Best Lightweight Boots: Bernardo Footwear Paxton Rain Boot

Credit: Nordstrom

The minimal PVC figure and lining of this rain boot keep your feet light while trudging through the wet outdoors. Elastic paneling makes it easy to get your feet in, and the back tie adds a unique touch.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $66–$145

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Best Dressy Boots: Blondo Nikki Waterproof Knee High Waterproof Boot

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

These sleek waterproof boots feature a 14.5-inch shaft, which will keep you dry from knee to toe. A perfect walking-height heel adds additional protection against puddles and provides a more formal appearance perfect for pairing with dresses, skirts, and narrow-leg trousers.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $182

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Best Hiking Boots: Woolrich Rockies II Waterproof Hiking Boot

Credit: Nordstrom

This attractive boot by American heritage brand Woolrich combines form and function. Its classic, tan shell and an inventive lacing system not only look great, they also make this a highly practical option for trail climbing and long hikes.

To buy: amazon.com, $106–$132

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Best Ankle Boots: Bos. & Co 'Belfield' Waterproof Chelsea Boot

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Suede boots are so luxuriously fall, but it's not easy to find a pair you can wear in the rain. Italeau has the waterproof and stain-resistant answer, and it comes with a two-inch block heel that's walkable enough for daytime wear and tear and polished enough to be dressed up at night.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $195

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Best Snow Boots: UGG Women's W Birch Lace-up Snow Boot

Credit: Nordstrom

UGG’s proprietary DryTech technology keeps the exterior suede on this boot completely water- and stain-resistant, while the plush wool lining keeps your feet warm. 

To buy: amazon.com, $140–$200

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Best Slip-on Boots: Vionic Kaufman Casual Sneaker

Credit: Courtesy of Vionic

Your doctor (and Oprah) wants you to wear these boots as much as you do. From podiatrist-recommended brand Vionic, this pair of splash-proof booties offers orthotic support plus wide elastic side panels and an adjustable strap so you can easily slipping in and out.

To buy: vionicshoes.com, $140

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Best Warm Boots: Tretorn Women's Lina Winter Faux-fur Lined Booties

Credit: Bloomingdales

This classically styled, cropped ankle rain boot goes the extra mile with a generous faux-fur lining that provides a layer of warmth and insulation from the harsh cold outside.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $100

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By Laura Reilly