How do I Choose the Best Waterproof Running Shoes?

When choosing waterproof running shoes, it is important to find an option that is very resistant to water and also has good treads. Most wet weather conditions, whether in cold, warm, or temperate conditions, also have the possibility of being slippery. Therefore, having good treads on waterproof running shoes is important for safety. After all, a sprained ankle will make any kind of running shoes — waterproof or not — useless for at least a few weeks, and a sprained ankle is just a mild injury that can be sustained if a runner slips or loses balance.

In order to choose waterproof running shoes that have a good level of water resistance, read consumer reports and customer reviews. No shoes are 100 percent waterproof and, in a serious downpour, can still lead to soggy feet. However, there is some variation in how strong a resistance the shoes have to water. A good pair of waterproof running shoes should be able to keep the feet dry while running in a drizzle.

Although a good pair of waterproof running shoe should have treads that will work in all kinds of weather, if the shoes are intended to be worn in cold weather, it is important to choose a pair that has good insulation. For people who go on long runs or who run in very cold temperatures, it is very important to keep the extremities warm to avoid frostbite. This includes the fingers as well as the toes. In addition to wearing warm socks, it is also important to wear shoes that are designed for cold weather running and, therefore, have extra insulation, especially around the toes.

Because slipping is a concern in wet weather, it is important to wear waterproof running shoes that will help to keep the runner as balanced as possible. As such, it is important to get shoes that are designed to fit the foot's natural shape and ergonomics. Runners who underpronate have feet that roll slightly toward the outside when the run, meaning that they need extra support to keep their feet from rolling and, possibly causing injury. Runners who overpronate have the opposite problem and their feet roll inward when they run, a condition that also requires waterproof running shoes with extra support in order to keep the runner balanced. For those with neutral feet, meaning that they don't overpronate or underpronate, it is important to wear neutral waterproof running shoes.