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Weather storms in style with these chic rain boots from Hunter, L.L.Bean and more

Get through showers and puddles with the right gear.
From knee-highs to classic Chelsea boots, you need these wellies in your wardrobe.
From knee-highs to classic Chelsea boots, you need these wellies in your wardrobe.Everlane; Hunter
/ Source: TODAY

Rain, rain go away! Stormy weather can turn into a dilemma when it comes to our footwear choices, but rain boots can be a great alternative to overcome any wet stretch. While waterproof shoes are made of sturdy (and sometimes bulky) materials like rubber soles and PVC to keep your feet dry, you don't need to sacrifice style when wearing a pair.

We've got several and impossibly chic footwear finds to prove it! Plus, designs to keep your attire safe and practical. In an effort to help you look more stylish when the rain drops, we've included affordable options and expert tips to select the best one.

How to shop for rain boots | Expert rain boot picks | Editor rain boot picks | Bestselling tall boots | Bestselling mid-calf boots | Bestselling short boots | Best rain boot alternatives | FAQs | How we chose | Meet our experts

How to shop for women's rain boots

Dancing in the rain is always a good time, but walking in it can sometimes be the worst. Our experts have some tips for choosing rain boots that keep a smile on your face, even on a gloomy day.

Material

If you want a true waterproof rain boot, rubber is your best friend. Board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon Dr. Brad Schaeffer says a thicker boot will avoid leaks and be better quality in the long run.

"When you think of like a true Welly — like a rain boot from England — because that is all rubber, it is what keeps out the rain," stylist Hallie Abrams adds.

Fit

Size is everything when it comes to finding proper rain boots. Our experts recommend looking for boots that run true to size and have a wide toe box.

"You should be able to wiggle your toes, but your heel should not slip," says foot and ankle reconstructive surgeon Dr. Ashley Lee. "Wearing boots that are too big or too small can lead to blisters, tendonitis and instability."

Foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Miguel Cunha suggests looking for rain boots that don't bend easily at the mid-arch, foot and ankle. Rain boots with a sturdy arch have more shock absorption, which leads to less foot pain in the arch and heel. 

A little heel never hurt anyone — actually, it may even help. Our experts say to avoid choosing a boot with a completely flat sole. Rain boots that are completely flat allow your foot to collapse, which can affect your posture and lead to further foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, posterior tibial tendonitis and Achilles tendonitis.

"Rain boots that have somewhat of a slight heel — less than 3/4 inch in relation to the front — are actually better for you than shoes that are completely flat," Cunha says. "It takes the stress off the Achilles, which can help with the alignment of your posture, ankles, knees and spine."

Support

Abrams advises shoppers to be mindful of the sole material because that will determine how slippery the shoe is in the rain.

Make sure your rain boot has some sort of rubber grip that can bend as you move your foot. "You being able to roll your foot is what’s helping you grip when it’s wet and slippery," Abrams says.

Additionally, podiatrist Dr. Asim Sayed suggests shoppers looking for rain boots with a contoured insole that closely fits the bottom of their foot.

"The outer sole should provide ample rigidity. Seek out rain boots with deep heel cups and proper arch support, especially if you suffer from conditions like plantar fasciitis," Sayed adds.

Height

Your activity will determine what boot height you want. Abrams says ideally a six- to eight-inch shaft height will work to keep out most of the water.

If you want a taller boot, our experts remind shoppers to keep their calf measurements in mind.

"Booties prevent people from having to deal with calf circumference issues. That becomes a very gray area when someone’s looking for a boot," she says.

Plus, paying attention to rain boot height as you shop will make sure you can wear them comfortably all day long.

"There’s no ideal height — if you have bigger calves like me, a regular rain boot may not be very comfortable unless it is specifically made for those proportions," orthopedic surgeon Dr. Meghan Kelly emphasizes. "Otherwise, you may be better off with a shorter height."

Best rain boot for women, according to an expert

Jeffrey Campbell Cloudy Rain Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 5.5 inches

People are stepping up their rain boot game this fall with Jeffery Campbell's Cloudy rain boot. This design has everything you could want: thick soles, a short heel and, overall, style. If you're not a fan of the brand's tall cowboy-inspired rain boots, these may be for you.

As a go-to for many shoppers, the stylish design is in line with the classic fall Chelsea boot trend. In addition, Cunha says he particularly likes the elevated platform sole in these rain boots.

"The sole allows the feet to stay warm and dry, and has heavy treads to avoid slip and falls. The wide toe box accommodates the toes more comfortably to not aggravate feet with present bunion and hammertoe deformities as well as decrease the chances of ingrown toenails from forming," he says. "The removable insole is [also] a great option for replacing with custom orthotics for plantar fasciitis sufferers."

XTRATuf Ankle Deck Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 6 inches

Brace the day with XTRATuf's 100% waterproof deck boots. Whether you're going for a walk, fishing for fun or hitting the town, Schaeffer says these boots are the way to go.

"These are a little more ankle-oriented. I think it's a great boot for doing yard work or walking around town," he says.

Front and back pull-tabs allow for easy on and off wear. One Tiktok video with over 144,000 views shows that XTRATuf boots even made it to the floor of a concert. The cushioned footbed sure came in handy as the family stood for hours to see one of their favorite artists.

The brand suggests shoppers order a half size up, since reviewers say these boots run large.

“I typically wear a 9.5 or 10. Initially, I ordered a 10, but it was too large. There was too much room in the toes and slipping in the heel when walking, so I returned for a size 9 and they are just right,” one reviewer said. “I won’t be able to wear really thick socks with them but the fit and stability overall is much better.”

Vionic Evergreen Ankle Boot

Material: Waterproof leather | Shaft height: 4.25 inches

If you're looking for a perfect everyday rain boot, you've found it. Comfort, support and style are just some of the words that describe these Vionic Evergreen boots.

Lee gave these boots the podiatrist's stamp of approval for their built-in arch support. These are easy and convenient to slip on and off for those on the go.

Blando Indi Bootie

Material: Waterproof leather | Shaft height: 5.5 inches

Blando's Indi boots will make you do a double take. It's hard to believe you can wear these sleek waterproof leather boots on a rainy day.

Reviewers say these boots are comfortable and chic but are meant to be fitted around your lower leg which may make the fit different for everyone.

"The Indi boot has a nice block heel that is versatile for any outfit," Abrams adds.

Editor women rain boot favorites

Dansko Karmel Rain Boot

Material: EVA/Rubber | Height: 4.25 inches

Durability meets affordability in Dansko's Karmel boot. Wet streets become less of a slip risk with these thick, channeled soles. Dansko’s Natural Arch's innovative technology in its removable cushioned footbed adds arch support to this style.

Associate SEO editor Kamari Stewart says these boots are so comfy and that they go with everything. 

"They're very easy to slip on and off, and they’re roomy enough that you can wear thick socks with them when it’s cold out," she adds.

Bogs Women’s Vista Rugged Zip

Material: Waterproof leather | Height: 5 inches

SEO writer Jannely Espinal says these wedge boots from Bogs Footwear are the most comfy rain boots she's ever worn.

They feature DuraFresh natural bio-technology to help fight foot odors and a moisture-wicking lining to keep feet dry. Also, the boots have extra cushioning for all-day comfort and a side zip for easy wear.

"While they’re not really considered rain boots, they have excellent waterproof features. I tried these for the first time last week during a rainy day in NYC and my feet remained cozy, dry and warm," she says. "They are so stylish and have that wedge heel to give you a bit of elevation. I can pair them with leggings, jeans and dresses and still feel chic thanks to the design."

Sperry Torrent Chelsea Waterproof Rain Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 4.25 inches

Avoid cold feet this fall with these Sperry rain boots. Not only are they stylish, but they also have a microfleece lining for those chilly rainy days. The large rubber platform supports you as you walk all day.

Assistant partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky just ordered these Chelsea rain boots and she is so excited to try them.

“I’ve been looking for something lighter and easier to slip on than my knee-high hunter boots and I think these will be perfect," she says. "Plus how cute is the olive color?”

Merry People Bobbi Rain Boot

Material: Natural rubber | Shaft height: N/A

Step into fall fashion with these boots from Merry People. The bestselling boots have a tread design for extra traction and arch support for all-day comfort. Dress these boots up or down this fall with any of the 16 colors available.

Production coordinator Camryn Privette says she is obsessed with these rain boots. "Personally, I don’t think they don’t scream rain boot so they’re really versatile and can match any outfit vibe," she shares.

Abrams says she also has rain boots from this brand. "They're lined with neoprene. The neoprene makes it a little cushier and hugs your foot when you're in there making it snug," she says.

Lee also says these boots hug your foot so that activities such as long walks and biking are comfortable.

Tall rain boots for women

Planone Tall Rain Boots


Material: Synthetic rubber | Shaft height: 12.7 inches

These ultra-protective boots from Amazon are meant to survive small puddles and abrupt flooding. Available in 14 colors, the boots have a lightweight cushion outsole and are designed to cover you through any type of weather condition.

"They're loose enough that I can get them on easily but tight enough that they won't fall off," said one verified reviewer who rated this option five stars.

Kamik Jennifer Rain Boot


Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 13.5 inches

Add a chic edge to your rainy day look with these riding boot-inspired kicks from Kamik. Adorned with a decorative side buckle and patch, these rain boots are also 100% recyclable.

One verified reviewer said they are blown away by the quality of these boots.

"These boots have exceeded every expectation I have ever had for rain boots," they said. "Rain, sleet, snow, blazing heat, mud so thick you can’t drive a tractor through it, sloshing through creeks, chasing cows on foot, hiking woods to go deer hunting…. These boots have done it all."

Hunter Women's Original Tall Rain Boot


Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 16 inches

Hunter boots have developed a following from celebrities and beyond, making it the gold standard of rain boots. The women's tall waterproof boots are a classic that feature traction-gripping soles to keep you supported and dry as you take on the rain.

Reviewers say these boots are great for people with bigger calves and are a closet staple. They also have a buckle around the calf that you can tighten or loosen to your size.

Recommended by Cunha as well, the slip-resistant sole helps avoid slips and falls. 

Mid-calf rain boots for women

Litfun Women’s Mid-Calf Rain Boots

Material: Rubber outsole | Shaft height: 8.85 inches

If you’re looking for affordable rain boots, this Amazon option will survive a long day walking around. Jump from puddle to puddle in this pair featuring a stylish quilted design.

“This boot met all my requirements. It’s even easy to drive a stick shift in,” confirmed one Amazon reviewer.

Crocs Classic Boot


Material: Rubber | Shaft height: N/A

Provide the sunshine on a rainy day with these boots that offer a pop of color and stay true to Croc's recognizable design (minus the holes.) The chunky platform and thermoplastic material make this boot perfect for light rainy days.

These boots are available in four colors, including army green, navy and black, plus they can also be customized with Jibbitz, the brand's fun spin on customizing every pair of Crocs.

Bogs Glitter Waterproof Rain Boot


Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 12.5 inches

A bit of shimmer will brighten up any soggy day outside. These rain boots from Bogs are not only stylish, but they also provide long-lasting comfort with shock-absorbing cushioning and waterproof insulation.

They are 100% waterproof and are easy to pull-on with the dual-side handles.

"This is just what I wanted, for a special outdoor occasion that calls for dressy rain boots. This boot is great because it does not dig in anywhere and is easy to pull on and off," one reviewer said.

Hunter Women's Original Play Short Rain Boots


Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 10 inches

Hunter's glossy mid-height rain bootie is easier to get on than its taller cousin, yet it's just as chic. The brand clarifies that the buckles on these boots are solely decorative.

One reviewer said, "I found short boots are more comfortable than tall boots for everyday use. Although driving a car with Hunter boots is not as comfortable as driving with sneakers. I’m still happy with this purchase. They are great boots and very stylish."

Short rain boots for women

London Fog Piccadilly Rain Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 5 inches

Brave the elements in this twist on the classic Chelsea boot from London Fog. They come in a variety of shades and prints to add some color to a gloomy day. Customer reviews say these rain boots include elastic side panels for a stretch fit and a flexible rubber sole.

“These boots are very comfortable, wide enough to accommodate thick boot socks but not so sloppy that the heel drags. I would recommend these 100 percent," said one reviewer.

Journee Collection Tekoa Rain Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 5 inches

Step out on a gloomy day in style with these rain boots from Journee Collection! Available in fun designs and neutral hues, these ankle boots also include a pull tab to make taking them off a breeze. However, reviews say these boots run a bit small.

“I ordered my black boots with pink soles three weeks ago,” one reviewer said. “My need was for early dog walking and rainy days. I got a half size larger for socks. They aren’t flashy, but nice. The heal is supportive flat.”

Madewell The Zip-Up Lugsole Rain Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 6 inches

Madewell's Zip-Up Lugsole rain boots have the perfect two-toned round-toe silhouette making this design a fashionable choice for any fall outfit.

"I have high arches and instep so shoes that don’t stretch as leather does tend to be a problem for me," one reviewer said. "These don’t push on the top of my foot at all. I forget I have them on when coming inside and find myself still wearing them hours later."

L.L.Bean Women’s Rugged Wellie Chelsea Boot

Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 5 inches

L.L.Bean's Rugged Chelsea boots are a twist on the classic welly. Keep your feet comfortable and dry with the synthetic knit lining in these waterproof rain boots.

One special thing about this style is the EVA pods in the midsole and forefoot that give you enough cushion to walk all day without pain. Also, the durable rubber outsole on these boots gives you traction to walk across almost any surface this fall and winter.

If you usually wear a half size, the company suggests you size up in this boot.

Hunter Women's Original Short Play Wedge Rain Boots


Material: Rubber | Shaft height: 6 inches

If you're looking for a pair of extra chic boots, these are definitely the pair for you. The fun platform wedge heel will give any look that extra sass we all need on a rainy day.

Reviewers say these Hunter boots also run a bit large but are still stylish with socks.

"They did a great job keeping my feet dry and some days were so rainy that our raincoats soaked through," said one reviewer who wore these rainboots on a trip through Northern Ireland.

Best rain boot alternatives

While rain boots will help you dry on a rainy day, they're not the only option to protect you. Abrams says weather- and water-resistant boots can be a more modern take than traditional rain boots. Here are some of her picks for the best rain boot alternatives.

Sperry Women's Saltwater Duck Booties

Material: Rubber | Height: 6.5 inches

Who knew the words “fashion” and “duck boot” could go together so well? These boots from Sperry are a fashionable yet functional way to brave bad weather. If your style skews towards a minimalist color palette, this option comes in a variety of colors and patterns including navy and gray.

One reviewer said, “These boots are lovely. I have narrow, flat feet and no issues getting them on.”

Kodiak Surrey II Women's Boots

Material: Waterproof leather and rubber | Shaft height: 6.5 inches

Need to brace for the cold weather? Cunha says these boots will keep you warm and supported all winter long.

"This stylish waterproof boot has a one-inch heel, which is ideal to take the stress off the Achilles and can help with the alignment of your posture, ankles, knees and spine," he explains.

"The lace-up style of these boots supports more stability in holding the foot and ankle in place. The rounded toe box offers more wiggle room for your toes and places less aggravation on feet that suffer from bunions and hammertoes."

L.L.Bean Women's Bean Boot

Material: Waterproof full-grain leather and rubber | Shaft height: 3.5 inches

When you think of the best outdoor shoes, you think of L.L.Bean. The classic duck boot has a lace-up design for a secure and customized fit, plus is a boot that will last for years because of their triple-needle stitching.

While these boots aren't designed to stay submerged in water, they work best in rain, mud and other wet conditions.

"I bought them to do yard work and I absolutely love that they’re waterproof and keep all the wetness/dirt out," said one reviewer. "I live in a hot and humid environment and my feet don’t overheat in them even if I’m outside for several hours."

Frequently asked questions about women's rain boots, answered by experts


How we chose the best rainboots

The Shop TODAY team spoke with fashion and foot experts to get the 411 on finding the best rain boots. We then pored over reviews and ratings from customers to find the best rain boots for every budget. Finally, we are a team of shopping experts and we shared some picks that our editors are obsessed with.

Meet our experts