Whether you’re a construction worker, an avid hiker or someone who loves walking whenever you have the chance, having the right shoes can make all the difference. Choosing the right footwear is one of the most important things that can make your outdoor adventures worry-free, especially in rainy or snowy weather. And the ideal option for such footwear is waterproof shoes because their non-porous materials prevent liquids from soaking through, keeping your feet dry all the time. These properties make waterproof footwear ideal for commuting, hiking, and outdoor work, regardless of the weather conditions.
Reasons to Buy Them
Dry and Comfortable Feet
Staying dry and comfortable even when unexpected changes in weather occur is crucial, and waterproof comfy shoes can provide you with precisely this. Walking with wet and soggy socks can certainly turn a good day into a dreadful one, so staying on the safe side is always better.
Instead of feeling miserable and catching a cold, staying comfortable, dry and protected with waterproof comfy shoes is the best option you have. Choosing a good model made from quality materials means that no rain, muddy paths or terrain can ruin your walk.
No Blisters and Foot Sores
These shoes are designed with protection and comfort in mind, which makes them less likely to cause painful blisters and sores. Wet socks and shoes can cause blisters, leading to discomfort and pain that can slow you down or affect movement. Luckily, shoes made from waterproof materials can keep your feet dry and comfortable, reducing any friction.
Improved Foot Health
Aside from preventing blisters and keeping your feet dry, these shoes also support overall foot health. Given the fact that they keep the feet dry, there’s no chance of developing common issues like fungal infection, bacterial growth and athlete’s foot.
Versatile
Another great advantage of these shoes is that they’re versatile and can be worn even during winter and summer storms. They are the perfect year-round shoes that can keep you protected whenever needed. You can even wear them as the perfect work boots since they should be waterproof as well.
Common Materials
Nowadays, the choice of waterproof materials is huge. However, a few are used more commonly due to their quality and comfort.
Gore-tex
This is certainly the most commonly used option for such shoes because of its ability to prevent water from coming in, while allowing sweat (water vapour) to go out. This material is usually combined with treated leather or synthetic fabric for increased comfort and durability.
Neoprene
This is a synthetic rubber material popular for its great flexibility and insulation. It’s known for providing excellent mobility without compromising waterproofing. Even though shoes made from neoprene can keep your feet warm, the material offers minimal breathability.
Coated Nylon/Polyester
These materials are known for their lightness and durability. Treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, these shoes don’t allow any water to come inside, but this doesn’t mean they don’t allow water to evaporate. Unlike neoprene, these materials are super breathable, allowing sweat to evaporate easily. The only thing you should know about shoes made from this material is that the waterproof coating can wear off over time, so it may need to be reapplied.
Leather and Nubuck (Treated)
When treated with heavy-duty wax or waterproof spray, leather and nubuck shoes can also prevent water from entering the shoes. But just like the previous material, shoes made from leather or nubuck also need periodic wax reapplication.
Rubber/Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Both of these materials are considered quite solid and are mainly used for shoes and boots used under wet conditions. An important thing to know about rubber is that it isn’t breathable and can make the feet sweaty, which can be quite uncomfortable, especially if worn for many hours.
Is There a Difference between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Shoes?
Yes, there’s a major difference between these terms, and unfortunately, a lot of people think of them as the same.
Waterproof shoes mean that their materials form a barrier that’s impossible to break. They keep your feet dry and comfortable, and are mainly used in heavy rains, hiking under wet conditions, puddles and working in construction.
Water-resistant shoes, on the other hand, only repel moisture, but eventually, they’ll let it pass through the material, especially during prolonged exposure to water.
So, if waterproof shoes offer 100% water protection, the water-resistant models offer only temporary protection. That’s why it’s mandatory to be careful when shopping and choose shoes with waterproof properties only.
