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21 Rain Boots You’ll Want to Wear Even When It’s Not Raining

Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Retailers

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My fashion-related pet peeve is walking in wet socks. And as a New Yorker, I know that if I don’t check the weather app in the morning before I leave the house, it’s a very real possibility. Enter the rain boot. It saves me the inevitable rage (sorry, we are not all Drew Barrymore) of walking through puddles or sprinting from my subway stop to my final destination while praying that my umbrella will keep me somewhat dry.

I know what you’re thinking, though: Rain boots are the No. 1 way to ruin an outfit. Not true! If the resurgence of lug boots taught us anything, it’s that functional footwear doesn’t have to be ugly. There are many different boot styles apart from your average clunky wellie. If you hate the idea of a tall rain boot, try a sleek ankle style. If you like to make a statement in the rain, go for a bold color or an edgy sole with an added heel. And if you don’t mind sporting tall wellies in a downpour or on sleet-covered streets — but prefer to wear more of an everyday, water-resistant boot for drizzly days — try a cool patent boot.

So whether you’re a fan of British countryside wellies or a more discreet water-resistant look, there are plenty of pairs that won’t make you feel like those of a fisherman or a toddler, and I rounded up the best options below.

A Refined Chelsea Boot

For a different version of the classic Hunter boot, try these wellies in the shorter, Chelsea style. The height of the boots will protect you from puddle splashes without causing dreaded leg sweat. And if you prefer a pop of color, they also comes in a bright fire-engine red.

Not Your Typical Uggs

Ugg Droplet Waterproof Rain Boot
From $56
From $56

These rain boots from UGG are the perfect pick-me-up for a rainy day. The boot has a rubber shell and flexible neoprene collar on the outside and a moisture-wicking wool-rich blend on the inside made to feel like genuine shearling.

Rain Boots that Don’t Look like Rain Boots

Photo: Courtesy of the Vendor

If you want boots that will absolutely keep water out but don’t look like a rain boot, these are your best bet. These boots from Rag & Bone have a rubber upper, but from afar look like well-loved brushed leather.

The Everlane Ones

Like most of Everlane essentials, these boots are attractive enough to make them more than purely a practical purchase. Made from 100 percent rubber, they hit at ankle height and feature a slip-resistant tread and a cushioned insole for walkable comfort. Plus the flexible rubber leaves plenty of room for thick winter socks for those winter rainy days.

Statement Chelsea Boot

Why opt for a neutral toned rain boot when you can buy these chic mustard ones instead? If you want an option that screams “fun,” these are the ones for you. These boots are made from natural rubber and a neoprene lining for all-day comfort. Plus they’ve been tested to be freezeproof so you’ll be good even if you don’t check the weather app.

The Classic Hunter Boot

When it comes to wellies, there’s nothing more classy than the original Hunter Boot. The tall rubber boots (or, as we like to call them, the official rain boots of Glastonbury) are an all-weather staple and a necessary addition to any wardrobe. These boots can withstand the most torrential downpours, plus you can buy matching boot liners and insoles for colder, snowier conditions.

The Hunter Dupe

From $67

These boots give off classic horse-girl energy, and the thick rubber is equally good at keeping out stable gunk and urban mystery water. Reviewers said that the rubber material isn’t a flashy patent, but rather a more muted and versatile matte.

The Utilitarian New York Classic

These boots are less heavy than Timberland’s original six-inch boots, and, even if they don’t look it, are 100 percent waterproof. They are the perfect blend of rugged and feminine and feature premium full-grain waterproof leather uppers. If you really don’t like the look of rain boots, these are a good alternative. But size up a half size if you plan on wearing these with thick socks in winter.

The Preppy Ones

From $63

Sperry’s Saltwater boots are a nice alternative to the pervasive tall wellie. Reviewers say these boots are a more comfortable, cuter take on the ever-popular L.L. Bean boots which sell out every year. The boots also come in two different size widths, so you can find the best fit.

For Your Next Target Run

These ankle boots may not be the best to wear if it’s pouring rain, but they’re easy enough to throw on for your next Target run. Plus the waterproof construction will still keep your socks dry.

The Festival-Ready Option

If you plan on spending most of the summer festival-hopping, this cool matte black pair is a good option to keep on hand, especially since they are considerably more affordable than a pair of Hunter boots. The chunky heel will give you a few more inches so you can actually see the performances.

The Trendy Heeled Ones

These boots made it big on TikTok for being both practical and stylish. If you still want these rain boots even after the hype died down, this is your sign. With their sleek and glossy design they’ll be a great investment purchase.

The Splurge-Worthy Ones

If you’re looking to make a fashion investment, say hello to the trendiest rain boots on this list. Hitting right above the ankle, they are lightweight enough to wear all the time while offering a flattering fit that keeps you dry. They are definitely expensive, but functional rain boots will never go out of style, so you’ll be able to wear them for years to come.

Another Splurge-Worthy Option

If a high heel is too much on damp days but you still want to feel fashionable, try these sleek Gucci kitten heels. They are ideal for logo lovers.

Rain Boots to Channel Coraline

DKSUKO Women’s Tall Rain Boots
From $38
From $38

Halloween might be months away but consider these tall rain boots if you want to channel one of our fave stop motion characters. And even if you’re envisioning a whole other costume, these are available in a slew of other colors that will surely match your current wardrobe.

The Best Zip-Up Rain Boots

You can’t beat the convenience of these zip-up block-heel boots — especially compared to tall pull-on boots. Even though they are not traditional rain boots, the durable patent material works well for wet days.

An Edgy Chelsea Boot

Don’t let the cream exterior of these bold boots fool you. Sorel’s modern take on the Chelsea boot features a seam-sealed waterproof construction with a high-traction rubber sole to stand up against inclement weather and provide maximum comfort.

A Simple Classic

For a neutral short boot option, we love these simple yet chic rubber ones by La Canadienne. The cushioned gel insole makes them extra comfortable, plus they are so easy pull on.

The Major Discount Pair

Interested in designer wellies but don’t want to drop the designer dime? Understandable. That’s why we found these JW Anderson rubber boots. You can now score the popular puddle boots with chunky gold hardware for nearly half of the original price.

A Patent Pop of Color

Looking for a pop of color? Brighten up a cloudy day with these bold red puddle boots by Kate Spade. The PVC rubber is an easy option that is eye-catching but also functional. And unlike most of the wellie options on this list, they feature a side zipper so you have the option to either pull on the boots or zip them up.

The Recycled Rubber Boots

You can’t go wrong with sustainability, which is why we love these Chelsea boots that are made from recycled rubber. They are another great option for those who prefer a water-resistant style that isn’t necessarily a full-blown rain boot.

21 Rain Boots You’ll Want to Wear Even When It’s Not Raining