Nothing spoils outdoor fun like wet feet. When rain is in the forecast, keep the adventure going with footwear that can handle drizzles, downpours, and everything in between. The best footwear for little feet? Waterproof shoes with grippy soles for traction and easy-on designs for hassle-free outings. With the right pair, your kiddo can embrace the rain—without you worrying about soggy socks or chilly toes. Here’s how to pick the best waterproof shoes for kids.
What to Consider When Choosing Waterproof Footwear
Wet feet can lead to discomfort, blisters, and tears, so you’ll want to look for waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex, rubber, or synthetic materials with sealed seams. While water-resistant shoes can handle light moisture, they won’t hold up in heavy rain or snow. Fit and comfort are essential for young kids—breathable materials help prevent odours, while cushioned support holds up to endless stomps and jumps. On rough terrain, slip-resistant soles with deep treads provide traction and help prevent falls on rain-slicked roots and rocks. To make getting out of the house a breeze, opt for Velcro straps, pull-on styles, and elastic closures, while snug-fitting lace-up designs offer a secure fit for longer hikes and uneven terrain.
Types of Waterproof Footwear for Kids
Rain Boots
No childhood is complete without a pair of classic, comfy rain boots. Made with a fully waterproof rubber exterior, they’re designed to keep toes toasty warm when puddle-jumping, navigating wet playgrounds, and tackling rainy-day walks. Look for easy pull-on handles, cushioned insoles for all-day comfort, and a slip-resistant sole for safety on slick surfaces.
Waterproof Hiking Boots
When adventure calls, waterproof hiking boots provide the support and durability kids need. These boots offer superior traction, a waterproof membrane to block out moisture, and sturdy ankle support for uneven terrain. Whether they’re exploring muddy trails or heading out on a family camping trip, a sturdy pair of waterproof boots is the perfect accessory to big adventures.
Waterproof Sneakers
For everyday wear, consider waterproof sneakers that offer a balance of style and practicality. These streamlined shoes keep feet dry in light rain, and their compact, easy-to-wear designs are ideal for busy mornings, park hangs, and playdates.
Snow Boots
Snow days are pure magic for kids—but don’t let wet, frozen feet ruin the fun. Insulated, waterproof snow boots offer the warmth, traction, and secure fit needed for sledding, snowball fights, and everyday winter wear.
Best Waterproof Footwear for Kids
Best Overall
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A must-have for rainy-day escapades, the Enkka Reimatec Shoes are made to keep up with your little adventurer. The lightweight, flexible Reima EVA outsole lets kids run, race and explore with ease, while the waterproof, seam-sealed insert comes with a mesh lining. Bonus: the removable inserts can help you adjust for those awkward in-between sizes. For parents, the elastic laces and Velcro fastening offer a custom—and speedy—fit, while the dirt-repellent finish is one less thing for you to clean (for now). Suitable in three seasons, these waterproof sneakers are a must for active kids and our overall top pick.
- Pros: A Velcro closure with elasticized laces, breathable mesh lining, and streamlined outsole.
- Cons: Not ideal for slush, sleet or deep snow.
Price: 0.00$
Best for Rainy Days
Bogs Essential Tall Rain Boots are easy on kids and the planet, thanks to their cool, algae-based EVA footbed that delivers comfort while helping to clean polluted water habitats. While other gumboots can be heavy and clunky, Bogs' proprietary material is surprisingly lightweight yet durable. The tall profile can stand up to the deepest puddles while the easy slip-on handles means your little one can zip outside in mere seconds.
- Pros: 100% waterproof rubber keeps feet dry in heavy rain.
- Cons: Tall design may feel bulky for younger kids or those new to rain boots.
Price: 0.00$
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Bogs Essential Tall Rain Boots are easy on kids and the planet, thanks to their cool, algae-based EVA footbed that delivers comfort while helping to clean polluted water habitats. While other gumboots can be heavy and clunky, Bogs' proprietary material is surprisingly lightweight yet durable. The tall profile can stand up to the deepest puddles while the easy slip-on handles means your little one can zip outside in mere seconds.
- Pros: 100% waterproof rubber keeps feet dry in heavy rain.
- Cons: Tall design may feel bulky for younger kids or those new to rain boots.
Price: 0.00$
Best for Hiking
Designed for slightly older hikers, The North Face Fastpack Mid-Rise Hikers offers ankle-high support for extra stability, plus a cushioned insole and orthotic footbed for lasting comfort on rugged terrain. The DryVent™ waterproof membrane keeps feet dry through mud and bogs, while the streamlined design minimizes bulk for easy movement over long hikes. Whether tackling backcountry trails for the first time or simply exploring the backyard, these tough, waterproof boots are ready for any kid-approved journey.
- Pros: Durable, breathable, and supportive.
- Cons: Higher price point.
Price: 0.00$
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Designed for slightly older hikers, The North Face Fastpack Mid-Rise Hikers offers ankle-high support for extra stability, plus a cushioned insole and orthotic footbed for lasting comfort on rugged terrain. The DryVent™ waterproof membrane keeps feet dry through mud and bogs, while the streamlined design minimizes bulk for easy movement over long hikes. Whether tackling backcountry trails for the first time or simply exploring the backyard, these tough, waterproof boots are ready for any kid-approved journey.
- Pros: Durable, breathable, and supportive.
- Cons: Higher price point.
Price: 0.00$
Best for Everyday Wear
Since 2016, Reima's Patter Shoe has been a go-to for new parents. The high-top design provides solid support for early walkers, while the extended sizing range means you can reach for these year-after-year as kids gain confidence and tackle bigger adventures. The easy two-point Velcro closure makes them ideal for school, playdates, and everyday adventures.
- Pros: Lightweight, waterproof, and easy to put on.
- Cons: Doesn't hold up well to mud and snow.
Price: 0.00$
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Since 2016, Reima's Patter Shoe has been a go-to for new parents. The high-top design provides solid support for early walkers, while the extended sizing range means you can reach for these year-after-year as kids gain confidence and tackle bigger adventures. The easy two-point Velcro closure makes them ideal for school, playdates, and everyday adventures.
- Pros: Lightweight, waterproof, and easy to put on.
- Cons: Doesn't hold up well to mud and snow.
Price: 0.00$
Best for Winter
When it comes to winter boots, Sorel has you—and your smallest buddy—covered. The Flurry Winter Boots offer parents peace of mind, thanks to their waterproof thermal rubber shell, ultra-warm felt inner boot, and water and wind resistant upper. The built-in gaiter and Velcro wrap-around outer strap keeps kids snug and secure, while the multi-directional lug outsole offers enhanced traction on snowy slopes and icy sidewalks.
- Pros: Waterproof shell, insulated liner, and adjustable fit.
- Cons: Can be bulkier for smaller feet, plus Sorel's laces and zippers are not waterproof.
Price: 0.00$
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When it comes to winter boots, Sorel has you—and your smallest buddy—covered. The Flurry Winter Boots offer parents peace of mind, thanks to their waterproof thermal rubber shell, ultra-warm felt inner boot, and water and wind resistant upper. The built-in gaiter and Velcro wrap-around outer strap keeps kids snug and secure, while the multi-directional lug outsole offers enhanced traction on snowy slopes and icy sidewalks.
- Pros: Waterproof shell, insulated liner, and adjustable fit.
- Cons: Can be bulkier for smaller feet, plus Sorel's laces and zippers are not waterproof.
Price: 0.00$
Best Budget-Friendly Option
Made from 100% waterproof rubber, these durable Canadian-made boots are built to handle the country's best drizzles, downpours, and muddy shortcuts. A slip-resistant outsole provides steady traction (for not-always-steady feet) and comes in a range of bright, fun colours—perfect for adding a pop of cheer to dark, gloomy days. Whether it’s a wet walk to school or a backyard romp, Kamik's Stomp Rain Boots let kids stomp, splash, and play—without a soggy sock in sight.
- Pros: Flexible rubber and easy pull-on design.
- Cons: No insulation.
Price: 0.00$
Brand Name | Product Type
Brand Name | Product Type
Made from 100% waterproof rubber, these durable Canadian-made boots are built to handle the country's best drizzles, downpours, and muddy shortcuts. A slip-resistant outsole provides steady traction (for not-always-steady feet) and comes in a range of bright, fun colours—perfect for adding a pop of cheer to dark, gloomy days. Whether it’s a wet walk to school or a backyard romp, Kamik's Stomp Rain Boots let kids stomp, splash, and play—without a soggy sock in sight.
- Pros: Flexible rubber and easy pull-on design.
- Cons: No insulation.
Price: 0.00$
Care and Maintenance Tips
Some basic maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your kids’ shoes. Clean Gore-Tex and synthetic materials with a soft brush or cloth, lukewarm water, and mild soap, making sure to remove any sand, gravel, or dirt from the treads and insoles. Avoid machine washing unless specified by the manufacturer. Direct heat can ruin waterproof coatings. Instead, air dry at room temperature (shoe racks come in handy for this step), then store footwear in a well-ventilated, cool and dry area. For extra longevity, use moisture-absorbing inserts to prevent odours and apply a water-repellent spray once the finish starts to wear off.
FAQ
How do I know if my kid’s shoes are truly waterproof?
Avoid water-resistant materials. Instead, look for features like sealed seams, waterproof membranes (such as Gore-Tex), and a fully waterproof exterior.
Are waterproof shoes breathable for warm weather?
Some waterproof shoes have breathable membranes that allow airflow, but fully waterproof options may trap heat, making them less ideal for hot and humid days.
What’s the best waterproof shoe for all-day school wear?
A lightweight, breathable waterproof sneaker with good support and easy closures.
Investing in quality waterproof footwear for your child means dry, comfortable feet no matter the season. Whether you need sturdy rain boots, rugged hiking boots, or cozy winter boots, our top picks have you covered. Shop kids footwear and kids clothing.
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