23 Best Men’s Rain Boots in 2023: Hunter, L.L.Bean, Timberland, and More

When the rain really starts coming down, you’ll be glad you copped a pair of men’s rain boots…or completely bummed you didn’t. Your sneakers aren’t going to save you from dreaded wet sock. As the weather gets more volatile every year, checking the forecast is about as good as asking a Magic 8-Ball if it’s going to rain (“without a doubt” sounds sarcastic any way you read it). However the weather shakes out, it’s best to just be prepared, with a raincoat, an umbrella, and certainly a pair of proper waterproof boots.

Rain boots carry an incredible amount of responsibility. Obviously, they should defend your feet from the rain (or they’re not actually rain boots and you should check out the return policy for false advertisement). But rain boots should also keep your feet from slipping and come with a grippy outsole. Think about it: what good is all that waterproofing if you end up falling on your ass? Not only that, they should also work well through mud, slush, and perhaps even snow, answering the high calling of a winter boot. It’s truly a lot to ask of one pair of shoes.

We’re happy to report that there are plenty of choice waterproof shoes on the market that will keep the rain out and look great doing it. So, right now, while you’re all dry and cozy, check out all of the best men’s rain boots to keep you looking fly and drip-dry, from the best sellers to the It Boots of Instagram to the under-the-radar stompers and beyond.


The Best Rain Boots Shopping Guide


The Best Heavy-Duty Rain Boot

Xtratuf cut its teeth in the harsh climate of Alaska, earning a reputation for keeping toes bone dry in the face of slushy ship decks and snowy trails. The brand’s 15″ legacy boots feature an outsole with unmatched traction, breathable interior lining, and rubber exterior that is completely watertight. Though Xtratuf’s ankle deck boots are perhaps more popular, we favor the mid-calf version for its extra coverage and style.

The Best High Fashion Flex Rain Boot

Bottega Veneta “Puddle” rubber boots

It doesn’t matter if you’re subscribed to every menswear newsletter on the web or if get your fashion fix via an occasional scroll: you’ve definitely come across Bottega Veneta’s Puddle boots. Launched under the helm of ex-creative director Daniel Lee, the funky, chunky boots are a blown-up riff on a childhood classic—like waterproof Wellies taken to their logical designer extreme. Would we call them essential? No. But if you’re looking for designer rain boots, indulging your whims will spark may more joy than just settling for the same pair everyone else has.

The Best Extremely East Coast Rain Boot

The archetypal duck boot was born over a century ago and has held its reputation as a go-to waterproof boot ever since. It’s unmistakable rubber toe and outsole give the shoe its signature watertight properties while the gusseted leather portion keeps moisture and debris out. They’re also mad comfortable thanks to the built-in steel shank within the insole, which provides arch support for all-day wear.

The Best Rain Boot for the British Countryside

Hunter Original tall rain boot

Hunter is a day-one rubber boot manufacturer dating all the way back to the mid-1800s, when vulcanized rubber first came on the market. In the 1950s, after several decades of supplying waterproof boots to civilians as well as the British army, the iconic Original Boot (aka Wellington, aka Wellies) was born. They’re embraced by everyone from British royalty to everyday gardners and are a wardrobe staple. The Original Boot looks great in its natural habitat with chinos and a waxed jacket, but a track record of high-end collabs with brands like Stella McCartney and Saint Laurent, can easily be worked into your more capital-F fits.

The Best Budget Rain Boot

Totes Cirrus ankle rubber rain boot

If you’re not a fan of the cinder block-like feeling of most rain boots, the Totes Cirrus sheds some weight while shedding sheets of rain. They’re thinner and a lot lighter than most other options. Because of that, they’re super flexible and can even collapse, should you need to pack them in your suitcase for your flight to Seattle.

The Best Rain Boot for City Slickers

Timberland 6″ premium waterproof boot

If you want sturdy, waterproof boots that aren’t full-on rubber rain boots, this is your move. Timberland’s premium seam-sealed waterproof boot gives off classic work boot energy without any of the stiffness of a rubber rain boot. Their classic workwear style pairs well with just about anything, too, whether you’re gettin’ work done in double-knee carpenter pants or putting on some nice trousers for a date.


Plus 16 More Rain-Ready Shoes We Love

Sky High Farm Workwear

Whether you’re trekking across the city or roughing it in the outback, Sky High Farm’s freaky, functional boots will put in overtime to keep your fits pristine.

Canada Goose

“Journey” rubber and nubuck-trimmed boots

Because when the forecast is just a confused face emoji, you need a pair of hulking rain stompers as weatherproof as your parka.

A-COLD-WALL*

Most slip-on mocs are for strictly indoor, at-home wear. A-Cold-Wall’s are not most mocs.

Crocs

When they remake the OG Star Wars movies with a young, style-conscious cast, these are what the Rebel Alliance will wear to defend Hoth.

Diemme

“Ramon” suede and rubber Chelsea boots

If full-on Wellies feel a touch too “Diana in Northamptonshire”, Diemme’s hybrid Chelsea boots are the city-friendly alternative you need.

Salomon

“X Ultra Pioneer” waterproof mid hiker boot

Yes, the surprise fashion crowd favorite—and perennial sneakerhead pick—makes a killer pair of boots for the slopes, the streets, and everywhere between.

Danner “Rain Forest” boot

Feel free to actively seek out puddles for the sole purpose of splashing around in them.

LaCrosse Alpha Muddy boot

For when the rain ain’t all that serious.

Thorogood Outdoor Infinity rubber boots

They’re for going incognito in the woods, but they’ll stand out in the best way possible on the sidewalk.

Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX boot

These adventurer-approved climbing boots are equal parts stylish and utilitarian.

Tingley high top stretch overshoe

When you absolutely refuse to get another pair of shoes or let go of your sneakers, you can opt for some rubber overshoes like these. Simply slip them on to your favorite shoes and boom—instant protection. 

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