6 Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoes in 2024

Jovana Subic
Jovana Subic on
6 Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoes in 2024

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It’s known to many - the trails aren’t the friendliest. Apart from jagged rocks and roots, there are also some stream crossings and other wet conditions you have to endure. 

And when faced with these, your trusty go-tos are waterproof trail running shoes. They keep your feet dry and protected. So much so, they can even be your pair of winter running shoes.

We took it upon ourselves to test the shoes so that we could help you make an informed decision in picking up your pair. We have made the shoes go through multiple steps in our testing method, to end up with only the best.

 

How we test trail running shoes

It’s easy to get lost, given the number of waterproof trail running shoes from athlete-trusted brands like Nike, Hoka, Saucony, Brooks, etc. But fret not, we have tested and selected the best of the best through our own RunRepeat shoe testing lab. 

Before we come up with our list, we make sure to buy each pair with our own money. We then examine each shoe from top to bottom using the following steps: 

  • We run in each waterproof running shoe model for at least 30 to 50 miles
  • We cut them open to see what’s inside
  • We measure each aspect of the shoe via parameters like weight, cushion, flexibility, etc. 

 

Best waterproof trail running shoes overall

What makes it the best?

Protective upper, incredible traction, lasting comfort, and energy return — these are just some of the qualities we saw in the lab and experienced in our test runs. The outstanding and versatile Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX is the best among all waterproof trail running shoes we tested. 

Wrapped in several protective layers and a Gore-Tex membrane, the upper can surely take a beating. It proves itself durable even further as our brutal Dremel barely made an impact on the upper.

We ran on wet grass, uneven terrains, and even snow to test the outsole’s traction. We’re ultimately impressed with the shoe’s grip as we remained in control the whole time thanks to its variety of 3.5 mm lugs.

The Pegasus Trail 4 GTX has a brilliant midsole that feels comfy and energetic underfoot. The foam comes at a generous stack height of 37.7 mm (5.5 mm higher than the average of trail running shoes) while also measuring 29.0% softer than average. To say that our feet enjoyed maximum protection and TLC during our trail adventures is an understatement.

Though the upper offers excellent waterproofing, its tongue is not fully gusseted. We believe this is a crucial feature for the complete waterproof experience.

Pros

  • Versatile road-to-trail performance
  • Grippier than the standard version
  • Surprisingly light for a GTX shoe
  • Accommodates wide feet with ease
  • Delivers a really stable ride for neutral runners
  • Upper showcases remarkable durability
  • Fantastic option for heel strikers

Cons

  • Non-gusseted tongue allows water and debris to enter the shoe
  • Not suitable for technical terrain
  • Excessive drop for midfoot or forefoot strikers
Full review of Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX

Trail waterproof running shoes with the best grip

What makes it the best?

Our test runs and lab analysis show that Speedcross 6 GTX offers the best grip among trail waterproof running shoes. It’s built for action and technical terrains — ensuring we’re in control with its deep lugs, protective upper, and supportive platform.

We felt steady on loose gravel, muddy terrains, and wet paths thanks to the reliable traction of the 5.0 mm lugs. Our calliper measurement shows it’s 1.5 mm deeper than average, giving that extra bite on softer ground. The lugs are cleverly spaced to shed off mud and are chevron-shaped to act as brakes on hills and sharp turns. 

Speedcross ensures our feet remain dry on rainy days and below-the-ankle river crossings. Under our microscope, we noticed one of the densest uppers we’ve seen. It leaves no room for air to pass through, and all the more water! It scored the lowest 1/5 on our lab breathability test.

The platform blends rigid and fluid elements for support and comfort. The foam provides enough cushion for relief yet feels firm for stability. Our durometer confirms it’s 21.3% harder than average. Speedcross allows for longitudinal flexibility yet it's hard to twist, earning the highest 5/5 on our torsional rigidity test. Together with the stiff heel, we remain steady even on challenging terrains.

Unfortunately, its 11.5 oz (325g) weight is hard to ignore and feels quite heavy on foot.

Pros

  • Fully functional Gore-Tex membrane
  • Ample cushioning for long adventures
  • Excels in challenging, technical terrain
  • Rapidly sheds mud
  • Agile and tenacious grip on twisted trails
  • Remarkable durability
  • Ideal for heel strikers

Cons

  • Completely lacks breathability
  • Midsole could feel overly firm for some
  • Exceptionally heavy
Full review of Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX

Waterproof trail running shoes with the best cushioning

What makes it the best?

Going faster and longer on the trails while being comfortable—these perfectly sum up our experience with the Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX. A cushioned, grippy, jack-of-all-trades trail shoe that’s also water-resistant, the Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX is our pick for having the best cushioning in the waterproof trail running shoe group.

A combination of soft and thick midsole foam makes the Speedgoat 5 GTX a massively comfortable shoe to run with. Running in these shoes makes the rough terrain somewhat smoother and more manageable. It's an understatement to say we truly enjoyed our trail runs and day hikes.

The Speedgoat 5 GTX is mind-boggling. The durable and grippy Vibram outsole grips loose trail surfaces, mud, and even frozen surfaces. Along with the excellent waterproofing, these are the shoes to wear in wet conditions.

Getting cold and wet feet is one of the most uncomfortable feelings during a run. Luckily, we did not experience this thanks to the excellent waterproofing the Speedgoat 5 GTX offers. Its Gore-tex upper kept our feet dry and warm through and through. 

However, the Gore-tex may make the shoe too warm in hotter conditions. For cooler weather, these shoes are perfect.

Pros

  • Plush, cushioned midsole
  • Exceptional stability
  • Remarkable breathability for a Gore-Tex shoe
  • Spacious enough for most foot types
  • Well-suited for ultra marathons
  • Superior grip on easy and moderate trails
  • Vibram Megagrip outsole
  • Utilises recycled materials in the upper

Cons

  • Simply too heavy
  • Midsole hardens noticeably in cold temperatures
  • Could benefit from increased flexibility
Full review of Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX

Best road-to-trail waterproof running shoes

What makes it the best?

We tested Hoka’s Challenger 7 GTX on our wet excursions and against intensive lab tests and it proves its versatility in any weather and terrain. It serves the grip, protection, and cushion we need to run securely from the roads to the trails, making it our best hybrid shoe in the trail waterproof running category.

We pushed our durometer against the outsole and the Durabrasion rubber measures a balanced 81.0 HC, ensuring traction without sacrificing durability. We found the shoe suitable enough for moderate trails thanks to the 3.8 mm lugs. Thankfully, they didn’t feel intrusive on hard concrete and asphalt.

Challenger 7 GTX features a robust upper with a fully gusseted tongue to ensure protection from debris. Upon checking our microscope, the thick mesh has several protective layers and a Gore-Tex membrane to shield off water. We can confirm our feet remained dry as we ran through rain and puddles.

This hybrid shoe offers exceptional comfort that lasts all day through its plush platform. Our calliper shows it rises above average, especially its 39.2 mm heel stack. The velvet cushion ensures our legs don’t feel tired during long runs. Our durometer confirms the foam is 25.3% softer than average.

Because of its maximalist nature, we recommend runners who prefer having more ground feel to look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Fully waterproof and winter-ready
  • Secure lockdown thanks to the gusseted tongue
  • Amazing stability
  • Provides a comfortable ride on roads and easy trails
  • Ideal for long runs
  • Generous CMEVA cushioning underfoot
  • Surprisingly lightweight given its stack height
  • Just $15 more than the regular version

Cons

  • Lacks reflective elements
  • Potentially too stiff for hiking for some users
  • Higher heel-to-toe drop than anticipated
Full review of Hoka Challenger 7 GTX

Waterproof trail running shoes with the best foot protection

What makes it the best?

The Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX is a shield like no other, offering defence from top to bottom so we can run confidently in various terrains. It’s built like a tank with its dense upper, firm cushion, and balanced outsole. Our lab results back up our run observation that this trail waterproof running shoe delivers the best foot protection.

We first tested the Gore-Tex upper through our smoke and light test, and it cemented its impermeability by receiving a low 1/5 score. Low doesn’t mean bad because this confirms it’s extremely protective against water, cold weather, and debris.

Moving to the next layer, the cushion has a brick-like feeling, which our durometer confirms is a firm 32.5 HA. We found that it dampens landing impact well and maintains our balance since it doesn’t bottom out. The stiff 3D chassis also serves as an additional stability element and rock plate of the shoe.

Underfoot, this trail monster is supported by a Contagrip outsole with 2.8 mm lugs. We have no issues with its traction on loose sand, snow, and rocks. The shoe also displayed minimal wear after miles of outdoor testing, proving its durability.

Unfortunately, all the extra protection comes at a heavy 12.7 oz (359g), 22.1% heavier than average. Backpackers and hikers might appreciate this shoe more than speedy, agile runners.

Pros

  • Incredibly protective
  • Extremely stable and supportive
  • Great traction even on wet surfaces
  • Watertight Gore-Tex upper
  • Flexible and forgiving on the foot
  • Makes a great hiking companion
  • Effectively dampens landings
  • Generously padded from heel to tongue
  • No lace bite whatsoever
  • Durable, high-quality construction
  • Simple yet snazzy design

Cons

  • Could be lighter
  • Rather firm cushioning
  • Upper needs breaking in
  • Lacks the agility for technical trails
Full review of Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 GTX

Best budget waterproof trail running shoes

What makes it the best?

Finding a stable and protective waterproof running shoe for the trails doesn’t have to break the bank as seen in our best budget pick: the Nike Juniper Trail 2 GTX. With a non-intimidating £130 price, it's more affordable than the £160 average waterproof running shoe in our lab. 

Our feet remained dry as we encountered wet conditions in the wild. To prove its waterproofing abilities further, we counterchecked with our breathability tests and the 2/5 score aligns with our observations. Its dense upper doesn’t allow liquid particles to enter but still has some room for ventilation, which is a plus! Not only that, the padding greatly resisted our Dremel and proved its durability with a flawless 5/5 rating.

Juniper Trail 2 GTX offers a firm ride, as confirmed by our durometer measurement which is 27.8% denser than average. This delivers surefooted strides, further boosted by its high level of torsional rigidity and vast landing base. Our calliper reveals a generous width to find our footing, with 114.4/94.3 mm in the forefoot and heel. To balance off all the rigidity, the midsole feels easy to manoeuvre, needing 20.3% less force than average to bend.

However, we recommend sticking to easy to moderate trails with this pair, as it lacks grip for more challenging terrains.

Pros

  • Impressive upgrade
  • Top-notch waterproofing
  • Amazing durability
  • Exceptional stability
  • Ideal for heel strikers
  • Spacious toebox
  • Excellent for winter conditions

Cons

  • High price increase
  • Firm ride
  • Grip could improve
Full review of Nike Juniper Trail 2 GTX

What to look for in waterproof trail running shoes

Hitting the trails covered in puddles, mud, snow, slush, or running while it’s raining means you really need to get a) waterproofness and b) superb grip from your shoes. 

running-through-water-waterproof-trail-shoe.jpg

Waterproof shoes are rather easy to recognise because brands make sure to highlight that feature. And when it comes to the grip, it’s all about the lugs: their depth, shape, orientation (tread pattern). 

How to recognise a waterproof upper 

Brands always highlight when the shoe is waterproof. This means that, in the name of the shoe, you might see Gore-Tex, GTX, WP, Waterproof, etc. These all mean that the upper is waterproof, where Gore-Tex is the most popular waterproof membrane of choice. 

waterproof-trail-shoes-upper.jpg
It's easy to notice "waterproof" or the name of the membrane on the upper

However, many brands develop their own waterproof materials. It’s important to read the label. And, if you’re familiar with the names, you can look at the upper and find the proof of waterproofness. 

There are 2 more things you can examine: 1. The upper is usually very tightly woven and 2. The waterproof membrane is visible on the inside as a separate lining under the upper. 

trail-waterproof-upper-under-the-microscope.jpg

Looking at a waterproof trail upper under the microscope

goretex-membrane-visible-in-gtx-shoes.jpg
Once the shoes are cut in half, it’s easy to see the GTX membrane (usually in different shades of grey) under the upper 

Waterproof trail running shoes usually feature a gusseted tongue to prevent water from getting inside the shoe if the tongue moves to the sides or simply to add an extra protective layer.

gusseted-vs-nongusseted-shoe-closeup.jpg
A shoe with no gussets (left) vs. a shoe with a gusseted tongue (right)

A tongue gusset is a separate piece of material that connects the tongue to the sides below the eyelets, or the tongue itself is wider in that area and stiched to the sides. 

Which weather conditions will push the limits of your waterproof trail running shoes?

How much water can a certain fabric withstand is measured by the hydrostatic head. The unit is millimetres. This hydrostatic head is measured by putting a 1’’ x 1 ‘’ tube over the fabric and filling the tube with water. The amount of water (in millimetres) that the tube can take before the water leaks through the fabric is called the hydrostatic head. 

still-in-the-water-waterproof-trail-shoes.jpg

The lower the water level, the less waterproof the material. This applies across all apparel and gear, not just footwear. Often, when looking for waterproof (hard shell) jackets, pants, backpacks… you will see the hydrostatic head in the specifications. Comparing the given number to the one in the table below will let you know which weather you can use your outdoor equipment in. 

hydrostatic-head-vs-weather-cond.jpg

Do you really need waterproof trail running shoes? 

Would you be OK with water-resistant or water-repellent trail shoes, maybe? 

  Water-resistant Water-repellent Waterproof
General characteristics a tightly woven fabric that is naturally capable of resisting water upon contact fabric treated with durable water-repellent (DWR) or hydrophobic chemicals - fabric treated with DWR
- have waterproofing membranes like Gore-Tex and OutDry
- have seam-sealed construction for extra protection
Water protection level low water protection moderate water protection high water protection
Water pressure resistance 0-5000 mm (no pressure or moisture) 6000-10000 mm (light pressure) 10000-20000 mm (high to very high pressure)
Weather conditions best used in light rain shower and dry snow light rain and average snow moderate to heavy rain and average to wet snow

Here’s why you should reconsider getting waterproof trail shoes: 

  1. They are not breathable. When the water gets inside, it’s not getting out. It can get inside in case the water levels or the weather conditions are simply too much, or the water can slide down your legs or trousers and get into your shoes. This can lead to blisters, sliding inside the shoe, etc. 
  2. They are more expensive than the non-waterproof shoes. 
  3. There will only be a few small sections on the run where you might need waterproof shoes. For example, if you’re running a race that’s 50km long and there’s only a few metres of puddles, mud, or snow, in waterproof shoes, you’ll have to deal with the non-breathability almost all 50km. In non-waterproof trail shoes, maybe the water will get inside, but (considering it’s not freezing cold) the heat from your feet might dry out both the socks and the shoes if you just keep running. 

If you’re considering getting non-waterproof trail shoes, look for one with a mesh uper instead of a knit one. Mesh breathes better, and dries faster, while the knit upper soaks all the water in and becomes soggy and heavy. We’ve covered running shoe uppers in the highest level of detail possible in our guide Running shoe upper: how to choose the best one for your needs

Nail the grip in trail waterproof running shoes 

When running on trails in wet weather, it’s important to have shoes that bite. Here, in our lab, we focus on 2 things: the softness of the rubber and the depth of the lugs. 

We use a shore C durometer to measure the softness of the rubber. This is important because usually the harder rubber is more durable and protective (think sharp debris) but soft rubber is stickier, more pliable, more flexible. 

outsole-hardness-of-a-waterproof-trail-shoe.jpg
Outsole hardness test performed in RunRepeat lab

Then, we also use a digital calliper to measure the thickness of the lugs. The deeper the lugs, the more the shoe bites, especially in mud, slush, snow. 

lug-depth-of-waterproof-trail-shoe.jpg
Measuring the thickness of the lugs

Of course, it’s not just about how deep the lugs are. It’s about their shape, orientation and overall pattern. Those that are spaced further apart allow for better mud shedding. 

outsole-pattern-in-waterproof-trail-shoes.jpg
Different depth of lugs, orientation, spacing, and overall thread pattern

If you want to learn more about the outsoles, we recommend reading our guide In-depth insights into running shoe outsoles (road & trail)

Durability of waterproof trail shoes 

Usually, the brands differentiate between soft-ground and hard-ground trail shoes. However, it’s not always the case or, at least, there’s no guarantee that the terrain will always be the same. 

standing-in-a-stream-waterproof-trail-shoe.jpg

If your runs involve sharp rocks, debris, technical terrain, obstacles… you should pay attention to the durability. 

In our shoe lab, we test this with a Dremel. We press it against the outsole, always at the same RPM, pressure and time duration, and then we look at the damage we’ve made. 

outsole-dent-waterproof-trail-running-shoe.jpg
Dent on the outsole made by the Dremel

We then use a tyre tread gauge to precisely measure how deep the dent is. The shallower the dent, the more durable the outsole. 

Not breathable, regardless of what the brands say 

Many brands claim that their waterproof trail running shoes are breathable. Experience has taught us otherwise and we’ve backed it up in our lab. 

Breathability of a GTX shoe compared to a non-GTX one 

In the lab, we pump the smoke into the shoe and watch where the smoke comes out and at which pace. Based on that, we assess the breathability on a 1-5 scale, where 1 is the least breathable. Waterproof shoes usually get 1 or 2. While many other trail shoes get 4 or 5! 

For another inspection, we look at the upper under the microscope. There’s such a clear difference between the non-waterproof and waterproof uppers. The non-waterproof ones have a looser structure and sometimes very large ventilation holes. The waterproof uppers usually feature VERY tight threads and no visible vent holes

waterproof-vs-nonwaterproof-upper-under-microscope.jpg
Breathable non-waterproof uppers (above) vs waterproof uppers (down)

What also helps score a low breathability result is the gusseted tongue, as mentioned above in this guide. 

gusseted-tongue-waterproof-trail-shoe.jpg
Gusseted tongue in a waterproof trail running shoe

These gussets are another layer of fabric that does not allow the shoe to breathe (while stopping the water from getting inside). 

If you want to learn more about breathability, read The definitive guide to running shoe breathability

You will pay more for waterproof trail running shoes 

More technologies means more money. Waterproof membranes are expensive. For context, look at these averages: 

  • Avg price of non-waterproof trail running shoes (no carbon plate): £140.9
  • Avg price of all non-waterproof trail shoes: £150.1
  • Avg price of waterproof trail shoes: £160.1

Author
Jovana Subic
Jovana Subic
Whether it's a vertical kilometre or an ultra, climbing in the Alps or exploring local mountains, Jovana uses every opportunity to trade walls and concrete for forests and trails. She logs at least 10h/week on trails, with no off-season, and 4x more on research on running and running shoes. With a background in physics and engineering management, she prefers her running spiced with data.