Water Shoes

Regular trainers are not waterproof so when it rains or when you walk through morning dewy grass, your shoes and socks are going to get wet quickly. A waterproof trainer not only allows your feet to stay dry, but it also does so without the bulk of a large winter snow boot. Our waterproof trainers and waterproof shoes come in a range of colours and designs depending on what you need to use them for. 

Summer calls for trips to beaches, exploring waterfalls and splashing in streams, but with slippery and sharp rocks underfoot, it can be an unpleasant experience. However, when you choose a shoe specially designed for summer adventures, there are a range of features that make water fun. If you want protection from the rain then choose a waterproof trainer, but if you need a shoe for entering water, check out our complete range of water shoes and waterproof walking shoes. 

Features of our waterproof trainers

When choosing a new pair of waterproof trainers or shoes, there are a few things you need to look for to make sure they fit your needs. The most important feature should be the waterproofing of the shoe as a whole, not just the upper, as water ingress through seams in the sole or laces can prove problematic. 

Seams should be sealed on fully waterproof shoes, whereas if it’s a water-resistant shoe, then there might be unsealed seams. To prevent water from getting in at the top and moisture building up, look for a specially designed tongue that can repel water underneath the laces rather than letting it seep in. 

The foam inside needs to be properly cushioned, because if moisture does manage to get inside, contact with water can cause rubbing on your feet and blisters. Even though a shoe might be waterproof, don’t overlook the fact that it also needs to be breathable. 

Waterproof shoes normally fit snug to the foot so you get the outsole grip, traction, stability, and balance performance you need without rubbing, but for a trainer that you also plan to walk in, a wider fit might be a sensible option. 

And for men with wide feet, we have the perfect pair available in our plus size clothing for men section.

What are OutDry™ waterproof trainers?

Columbia Sportswear® has developed OutDry™ shoes that are designed to be waterproof but still breathable, and you can find this technology on many of our waterproof shoes with a sporty style. OutDry™ keeps the water out of your shoes in wet weather conditions but still allows them to be comfortable on the inside, so you can be sure they won’t rub even if you get your shoes wet. 

Friction inside a waterproof shoe is often caused by sweat rather than water ingress, but the waterproof membrane allows your foot to stay dry when coupled with the right hiking socks. These shoes can be used on the trail or road and are particularly suited for wetter days where you need the traction of a hiking shoe as well as waterproofing. 

The Outdry™ Extreme range of waterproof shoes from Columbia Sportswear® kicks things up a notch and allows you to wear the shoes not only in light rain and puddles, but also in the heaviest of downpours and even snow.

FAQs

Why choose Drainmaker™ XTR water shoes?

Columbia Sportswear® has designed the Drainmaker™ XTR range of water shoes in different colours to complement your water adventures. With a quick-drying upper created from mesh and ports in the midsole for fast drainage and maximum air flow, these men’s and women’s shoes are the perfect way to explore waterfalls, streams, rivers, tarns and beaches. They are lightweight, rubberised, and fully cushioned to prevent any spiky rocks from harming your feet.

How do you know if trainers are waterproof?

Some types of trainers may look waterproof because of their outer membrane, but the only way to be sure is to check the product specifications that list the level of waterproofing. On waterproof shoes, the seams should be sealed rather than stitched, and even though some might handle light splashes from puddles or rain, they won’t perform well in a downpour or deep water that you have to splash through. 

Which is better, water-resistant or waterproof trainers?

This really depends on what you’re going to be using them for, as if you are outside in wet weather a lot, then something that gives full waterproofing is essential. However, if you need to wear them to be resistant to splashes in puddles or light drizzle, then a men’s  or women’s shoe that’s weather-resistant will be just fine. Water-resistant shoes tend to be lighter than their fully waterproofed counterparts too. 

What shoes to wear to a waterfall or river?

There’s nothing quite like a summer trip to a waterfall or river on a cool day, but if standing and slipping on the rocky bottom isn’t your thing, then you need a pair of dedicated water shoes. They are light and can be thrown in your backpack easily, and wearing them helps you enjoy the water more as you can wade in without stones poking your feet. What’s more, when you get out of the water, they drain very quickly and won’t rub if you need to walk a longer distance in them. Pair with a synthetic down jacket so water won’t affect the insulation.