The Best Waterproof Running Shoes for Women

Words by Isobel Coughlan

Ensuring your shoes are right for your weather conditions is essential. So, as the drizzly months roll in, it’s time to discover the world of waterproof running shoes. These specialised trainers are designed by experts to keep your feet dry and supported during the wet season. Because your workout schedule shouldn’t stop because of the weather!

Waterproof shoes

Finding the perfect waterproof trainers isn’t as simple as some would think, so we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best waterproof running shoes for women out there. In this guide, we summarise what you need to look for in a waterproof running shoe and the top options to try, so let’s get into it.

What To Look For in a Waterproof Running Shoe

If you’re looking for a pair of waterproof running shoes, you need to consider a few factors. These include:

  • Materials
  • Breathability
  • Durability

Firstly, you should look at what the shoes are made from. They’ll need a waterproof upper, so they should be made from a well-known waterproof material like Gore-Tex or water-resistant fabric, at least. Gore-Tex running shoes are the best for wet weather, as this specialised material keeps you dry while still allowing your feet to breathe. Any product with an official Gore-Tex tag is totally waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

As we just mentioned, you’ll also want the shoes to be breathable. Feet still get sweaty, even when the weather is cold. So, a pair of waterproof trail running shoes needs to allow airflow to keep you comfortable, cool, and dry.

Finally, when looking for waterproof running shoes for women, keep durability in mind. You don’t want your shoes to wear out too quickly, as this can lead to your slipping or injuring yourself in the wet weather.

Waterproof shoes

Top 4 Waterproof Running Shoes

Ready to buy a pair of the best waterproof running shoes? Here are some of the top picks you should consider for your running gear collection.

ON Running - Cloud 5 Waterproof

ON Running is a brand that ensures runners’ needs are met, and the ON Running Cloud 5 Waterproof is proof of this.

This cult favourite running shoe has been reimagined with waterproof materials and sustainable components to ensure running enthusiasts have waterproof running shoes womens for the wetter months.

The shoe is sustainably waterproof, thanks to the upper made from 100% recycled materials. Plus, this eco-friendly waterproof material acts as a membrane, allowing air in and out to keep your feet cool. It even featured small reflective elements to ensure you’re seen when the weather conditions are drab. Perfect.

Pros:

  • Reimagined popular shoe
  • Made with CloudTec technology
  • Membrane for breathability
  • Locks liquid out
  • Sustainable

Cons:

  • Some might want a more cushioned sole
  • Not optimised for trail running

HOKA - Challenger 7 Gore-Tex

If you’re looking for Gore-Tex trail running shoes, consider the HOKA Challenger 7 Gore-Tex. Another popular brand, HOKA, also ensures runners have optimised shoes for all conditions.

The Challenger 7 Gore-Tex show includes a mesh upper with soft new foam and Gore-Tex invisible fit technology to protect you against the weather. The shoe also has a higher stack height for a more comfortable feel. The sole also has tightly spaced lugs and aggressive lugs to tackle uneven terrain.

Pros:

  • Uses Gore-Tex
  • Ultra comfortable fit
  • Great for road and trail running
  • 70% recycled polyester
  • Moulded EVA foam midsole

Cons:

  • Some might want less cushioning

Nike - Pegasus Trail 4

Out of the many Nike waterproof running shoes, the Pegasus Trail 4 is one of the best for the rainy months. This specialised shoe combines waterproof Gore-Tex and a flexible ankle cuff for comfort. This cuff also keeps dirt and debris out, which is excellent for those muddy trail runs.

The Pegasus Trail 4 also features a full-length React midsole for a responsive and smooth feel on any terrain. It’s complemented by a grippy outsole that provides durable traction for uneven surfaces and roads. This is one of the top Nike Gore-Tex trail running shoes around.

Pros:

  • Optimised for trails and roads
  • Outside provides a durable grip
  • Gore-Tex waterproofing
  • Flexible ankle cuff to reduce dirt
  • Lightweight feel

Cons:

  • Expensive price
  • Some may not want a trail shoe

ON Running - Cloudrunner

Another essential ON Running shoe, the Cloudrunner, is here to give maximum support and maximum waterproofing.

While ON Running shoes aren’t official Gore-Tex trail running shoes, they use Swiss engineering to provide reliable 360° waterproofing with serious breathability. So, if you’re searching for “Gore-Tex trail running shoes womens,” these are a great pick.

The shoes also feature CloudTec cushioning and Zero-Gravity foam for a super supportive feel. The sole even has a cradle-shaped construction to help you run comfortably and easily. The whole shoe weighs 282g – pretty impressive.

Pros:

  • Lightweight feel
  • Very cushioned feel
  • Supportive shape
  • 360° waterproofing
  • Breathable

Cons:

  • Some might want a smaller heel-to-toe drop (9mm)
  • Might be too cushioned for short-distance runners
  • Not optimised for trails

ON Running Cloudrunner
ON Running Cloudrunner

Shoes:

The Takeaway

Has your waterproof running shoes search come to an end? Or are you still looking for the perfect fit? Hopefully, our guide has helped you find the perfect winter running shoe. Remember, look for high-quality materials, breathability, and durability for an enduring choice!

Or continue researching on our blog. See The Sports Edit editorial page now.