Last updated on May 2nd, 2022 at 06:55 pm
Trail runners encounter mud, streams, and even snow. Whether you’re dealing with pesky puddles, or muddy single-track, avoiding drenched feet can be amazing. To help you avoid wet feet on your next trail excursion, we’ve put together a list of the best waterproof trail running shoes.
Hopefully one of these shoes can finally keep your feet dry!
What Makes A Great Waterproof Trail Running Shoe?
Trail running naturally puts you in contact with water… It’s inevitable. That said, there are certain attributes trail running shoes should come with that can fight this. Here are some of the main criteria of shoes that made our list:
- Fully Waterproof: If you are looking for a fully waterproof shoe, make sure you choose something marked as waterproof… not water resistant. Shoes with a Gore-Tex liner and reinforced seams will keep water out while still being breathable.
- Excellent Grip: If it is muddy and wet you will need great grip to keep upright and safe. The best waterproof trail running shoes should have even better grip to get you over slick surfaces. Look for shoes with thick durable lugs in high quality material.
- Type of Terrain: Technical terrain will require rigid shoes and deep lugs. However, on bridle trails, for example lower profile lugs are ideal.
- Warmth: Waterproof trail shoes are not necessarily made for cold winter months. However, there are some options that keep feet warm on snowy trails. These will have insulation and a little extra height to protect the ankles from snow.
Our Favorite Waterproof Trail Running Shoes Are...
After comparing trail running shoes based on waterproofing, grip, and quality of material, a few waterproof trail running shoes stood out more than others.
Here are our current favorite trail running shoes that can keep your feet dry:
Best shoe for mud and long runs: Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX
Our favorite for rocky terrain: On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers
Best for wide feet: Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low
Our favorite for winter trails: Salomon Snowspike CSWP
If you were intrigued by our top picks, take a look at our detailed reviews below to find out more about these shoes.
Comparison Table of Our favorite Waterproof Trail Running Shoes...
So you could see each of our favorites side-by-side, we put them into the table below. If you want to see current pricing for any of these shoes (on Amazon) you can click on the picture or the product name:
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX | $$ |
|
On Cloudventure Waterproof Trail Runners | $$$$ |
 
|
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low | $$ |
 
|
Salomon Unisex-Adult Snowspike CSWP | $$$ |
 
|
Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX | $$ |
 
|
La Sportiva Jackal GTX | $$$ |
As you can see, the options are quite diverse. We’ll go into the attributes of each in our reviews below.
1. Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX
First is our favorite waterproof shoe for long runs on muddy trails, the Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX. We found this shoe to not only fit and feel great, but also feature durable Gore-Tex lining and excellent warmth.
Runners will find the Speedcross 5 GTX protects your feet from the elements while gripping the terrain and granting sure footed confidence mile after mile.
Great Ankle Support
If you are tackling muddy or slippery trails, there is always an increased risk of falling, and a rolled ankle could put you off your feet until you are recovered. This is why ankle support is of the utmost importance when choosing a pair of trail running shoes for wet weather.
The Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX has a very good amount of ankle support which might be compared to the kind of support you would get from a hiking boot, without the heavy, bulky design.
Runners will feel confidently seated in this neutral trail shoe.
Weatherproof
To the point however, the main reason you are reading this review is to find out which trail running shoes will protect your feet best from the elements.
As such, the Speedcross 5 GTX is leaves nothing to chance. They are crafted from durable synthetic materials and feature a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry, no matter what.
If you love to experience the full thrill of running on softer trails, in all kinds of weather then this lining will always protect the feet, keeping you comfortable and focused on the run.
What’s more, this incredible waterproof ability doesn’t come at the cost of breathability so there will always be excellent airflow around the interior of the shoe.
Excellent Grip
Finally, one of the best things about the Speedcross 5 GTX is that they feature amazing grip. And, if you are running on rugged trails where the ground might change from one moment to the next, it is vital that your shoes provide excellent traction.
In the case of the Speedcross 5 GTX, Salomon has featured their epic Contagrip that is designed with a deeper lug depth.
As a result, this shoe is ideal for wet conditions where the ground may be muddy or when running in ice and snow. These deep lugs will dig into the turf, offering you supreme traction.
Salomon Speedcross 5 GTX Pros and Cons
Speedcross 5 GTX PROS
- Light – mid weight at 12 oz (men’s)
- Quicklace system for perfect fit
- GoreTex waterproof lining
Speedcross 5 GTX CONS
- Outsole durability issues
- Sizes run small
- Deep lugs can be felt through the midsole
Who is The Speedcross 5 GTX Perfect For?
This running shoe is the perfect addition to your trail running gear if you tend to head out in all seasons. While many people avoid going out in the fall or winter, this time of year can provide you with some unique running conditions, it’s just important to have the right shoes. Check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5 GTX and the Salomon Women’s Speedcross 5 GTX
2. On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers
Here we have our favorite or rocky trails, where the On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers shines. If you are tackling particularly tricky trails with a variety of terrains and perhaps a lot of rocks underfoot, then durability and agility is a must.
These running shoes are robust, well-made, and will stand up to the challenges of even the most rough terrain.
Well Cushioned
As you can imagine, wet trails can be tricky, and rocky terrain can be hard on your feet.
However, one of the most outstanding things about the Cloudventure is that they are fitted with a non-removable insole that provides you with some intense cushioning.
Not only will this be like walking on a cloud, but it protects the feet and joints from pain caused by abrupt energy transfer with each step. As such, more cushioning equals better shock absorbency and these shoes deliver this by the bucket load.
Durable Grip-Rubber Tread
Additionally, one of the greatest advantages of trail running is that you are able to get back to nature. However, you will need to keep your feet protected from tough ground, tree roots and rock edges with durble trail shoes.
For instance, the Couldventure has an incredible tough rubber outsole that features a Mission Grip enhanced traction pattern. This ensures that the shoes will grip the ground even in treacherous conditions and won’t give up when the going gets tough.
We found the Cloudventure to be the best shoe for gripping wet rock faces.
Great Breathability
While having a waterproof shoe is essential, you never want to have to sacrifice breathability in order to gain this. Moreover, the Cloudventure boasts a waterproof upper with a membrane as well as a two-layer mesh lining to keep the air flowing around your feet.
Without this feature, you would likely notice how the sweat builds up inside a competitor’s shoe causing friction and blisters. In addition, the mesh lining means that your feet will be kept warm if you’re braving the winter chill.
Pros and Cons of the On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers
On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers PROS
- Zero gravity cushioning
- Very comfortable
- Intense traction
- Speedboard to drive you forward with each step
- On membrane Water proofing plus water resistant treatment
On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers CONS
- Have a rather bulky feel that might not be suitable for people who like a minimalist shoe
Who Will Love This shoe?
The Cloudventure trail running shoes are an excellent choice for anyone who likes to get out in all types of weather and on more unpredictable trails. They will cope well with changes in terrain and offer excellent waterproof abilities to keep the feet dry while you explore. View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Women’s On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers and the Men’s On Cloudventure Waterproof Trainers
3. Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low
Additionally, if you don’t mess around when you hit the trails and regularly head out on long, intense runs, the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low might be right for you.
Especially for those with wide feet or bunions. We found these to be truly waterproof, breathable, lightweight, and durable; quite simply amazing.
Great Traction For Technical Terrain
The Altra Lone Peak feature Altra’s MAXTRAC tread which gives you the confidence to run on various types of terrain knowing that the shoes have excellent grip. Moreover, the sole offers deep lugs that will easily grip into the ground, granting stability with every step.
Furthermore, TRAILCLAW lugs are strategically placed directly underneath the metatarsals providing incredible control underfoot. As a result,this provides the runner with greater traction, especially on muddy, slippery, or uneven ground.
Great Fit
If you have ever worn a pair of loose-fitting runners, you will know how easily they can cause irritation, blisters, and sores. But one of the greatest things about the Altra Lone Peak is that they have been designed with both men and women in mind and each shoe is made with your unique foot shape in mind.
Additionally, for those of us that need an unimpeded toe box with room for bunions or wide forefeet, this shoe fits beautifully and allows toes the space to grip.
Moreover, this design essentially results in a shoe that fits snugly around the contours of your foot while providing you with enough space to feel unrestricted. In short, you are getting the best of both worlds.
Great for Realigning your gait
If you are looking to endure wet trails with ease then having the correct footwear to align your step more naturally is essential.
In fact, the Lone Peak is made with balanced cushioning, meaning that the cushion is equal at both the forefoot and the rear. This combination of Altra’s FOOTSHAPE design and ALTRA EGO allows a much more naturally aligned foot as well as reducing shock from impact with the ground.
We found these to be supremely comfortable and perfectly responsive on most technical terrain.
Pros and Cons of the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low PROS
- Great cushioning
- Well-placed lugs
- Pleasant aesthetic design
- zero drop for great control
- Wide toe box
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low CONS
- Sizes run large
- Ankle support is lacking
Who Will Love This Shoe?
The Altra Lone Peak is a great beginners running shoe and this is thanks to the balanced cushioning. If you are new to running, getting off on the right foot; literally, is the best way forward and this natural alignment from day one will help you to achieve this. Additionally, if you like more control, the Altra’s zero drop is somethingto look into. Check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Altra Women’s Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low and the Altra Men’s Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Low
4. Salomon Snowspike CSWP
Another amazingcontender for best formuddy trails is out favorite for winter trails, the Salomon Snowspike CSWP. This shoe’s high-top design provides amazing protection when running in harsh, wintry conditions.
Designed For Winter
Wet conditions during winter may involve snow and ice which can make running on trails difficult, especially if they are particularly rugged. However, the Snowspike has everything you need for winter runs.
Moreover, the most notable feature of the show in terms of cold weather protection is the high top which fits snugly around the ankle, stopping snow and other moisture from getting inside. Additionally, this boot has a robust design and is fully waterproof so your feet always feel warm and dry.
Some have compared this to being ‘armor for the foot’, and they certainly aren’t wrong.
Incredible Traction
Keeping steady on all that ice and snow can feel incredibly challenging, and of course, while you might like a challenge, it is also important to be safe. These running shoes have been designed with some of the best traction we have ever seen.
Not only do they feature deep lugs that will grip into muddy or snowy ground, they also have 12 tungsten spikes that will make light work of running over ice.
This traction is not only extremely effective but also very durable. You needn’t worry about having to replace the shoes after a few treacherous runs; these will easily see you through the winter and beyond.
Comfortable
Just because a shoe is durable, strong, and geared up to deal with harsh conditions, that does not mean that comfort should be compromised.
It is important for us to point out that these shoes feature quite a stiff cushion and so they may not be suitable for people who like something a little more bouncy.
However, for the type of terrain you will be running on, this firm cushioning is likely to be beneficial.
Another key feature of the Snowspike, in terms of comfort, is that they have a very easy to wear lacing system. Once tied, the laces do not bundle up behind the gaiter, reducing the risk of irritation while running.
Salomon Snowspike CSWP Pros and Cons
Salomon Snowspike CSWP PROS
- Ortholite cushioning
- Fully waterproof
- Comfortable and easy lacing system
- Integrated gaiter for ankle protection
Salomon Snowspike CSWP CONS
- Heavier at 14.1oz per shoe
- Sizes run large and slightly narrow
Who Would This Unit be Perfect For?
The Salomon Snowspike is a running shoe that is designed for people who want to achieve a hardcore run in total comfort and safety. They offer excellent protection from harsh weather conditions while keeping the feet comfortable and warm. View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Salomon Unisex Snowspike CSWP
5. Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX
Next, we have a great runner for bridal trails or pavement in the Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX. This is a very popular running shoe and it isn’t difficult to see why. The Brooks Cascadia 15 offers an improved fit and better traction while remaining lightweight and extremely comfortable through long runs.
Versatile Design
The Brooks Cascadia 15 is a great all-round running shoe that will do just as well on a rocky trail as it would on a much flatter and smoother one. Moreover, one of the most notable features is soft, yet very durable cushioning.
But don’t let this fool you, this comfy shoe can handle harsh weather conditions like intense rain.
This shoe’s cushioning might be soft and flexible but it is built to handle tough runs without the need for the wearer to tip-toe around tricky spots on the trail.
What’s more, with a stabilized suspension system, you are able to gain greater control over each step. We found this shoe to provide outstanding rugged support regardless of rocks, roots and uneven ground.
Great Traction
When it comes to tackling muddy terrain that has been freshly rained on can be dangerous if you don’t have a pair of running shoes with great grip. Fortunately, the Cascadia 15 features a Brooks’ TrailTack rubber outsole that is designed to be incredibly grippy and give you more control over the run.
This outsole gives you a greater amount of traction and is suitable for use on both wet and dry ground, further proving that this is a versatile shoe. The result? You are better able to gain speed while remaining stable.
Snug and Comfortable Fit
For people that struggle to find a well-fitting shoe, the Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX could be what you have been looking for. The shoes benefit from a much wider heel area but gives a very close fit at the toe end.
While this may not be suitable for those who require a larger toe box, those with regular-width feet will find that this design wraps snugly around the feet.
Not only will this give you a more stable feel as you wear the shoes but it will prevent them from rubbing and keeps the foot seated. In addition to this, the tongue is tightly fitted to the foot to further prevent the shoe from moving around when running.
Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX Pros and Cons
Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX PROS
- Good traction
- Gore-Tex Upper
- Comfortable fit
- Pivot post technology keeps your foot locked in to eliminate sliding
- Ballistic rock shield
Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX CONS
- May not be suitable for people with wide feet
- Upper takes some breaking in
Who Would This Unit be Perfect For?
If you’ve been looking for a versatile waterproof shoe to take you from paved multipurpose paths to the trails, the Cascadia 15 should be a contender. With its grippy tread, durable build and overall snug stability, this shoe would be perfect for any runner with a medium volume foot. View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Brooks Women’s Cascadia 15 GTX and the Brooks Men’s Cascadia 15 GTX
6. La Sportiva Jackal GTX
Finally, the La Sportiva Jackal GTX makes our list as one of our favorite for wide feet on wet trails. The Jackal is lighteweight and stabilizes any gait while on technical track.
Runners will love the Jackal’s fit and its hefty lugs for a grippy ride.
Brilliant Traction
If there is anything that instantly jumps out at you about these running shoes it is the impressive traction. The outsole is made from rubber and boasts a Dual Density rock guard that will keep the feet protected no matter what is underfoot.
What’s more, the multidirectional lugs will provide excellent grip in wet and slippery conditions.
Testers have regularly noted that they perform very well on slightly steeper inclines as well as very loose rubble. Furthermore, when you get to muddy areas, the lugs stay clean and therefore, will perform better for longer.
Lightweight
One of the key aspects of any trail running shoe is that it is lightweight to keep you agile over obstacles. While some shoes may be a little more bulky owing to overly thick outsoles and dense cushioning, these shoes remain lightweight while still being protective and comfortable.
In fact, the Jackal weighs in at just 8.8 ounces for women and 10.5 ounces for men.
As a result, these running shoes are great for long distance running when you don’t want to feel weighed down.
Wide Fit
Running in shoes that are too narrow can cause all kinds of problems ranging from mild discomfort to bunion or hammer toes. Finding a roomier shoe that offers everything you would expect from a trail runner can be tricky, but La Sportiva has achieved this pretty well.
The Jackal features a wide toe box that is perfect for people with such conditions as bunions as well as boasting a wider fit in the middle of the foot. That being said, they don’t feel overly wide to the point that they are loose. In fact, runners get just the right fit and comfort.
La Sportiva Jackal GTX Pros and Cons
La Sportiva Jackal GTX PROS
- Good foot protection
- Sticky outsole
- Cushioned midsole
- Lightweight
- Wide toe box
La Sportiva Jackal GTX CONS
- Sizes run small
- Has a break-in period
Who Would This Shoe be Perfect For?
With such a lightweight design, we can’t ignore the fact that these shoes are perfect for people who hit the trails for more substantial distances. With a good amount of traction, they are also ideal for longer runs where the terrain may vary across the miles. View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: La Sportiva Women’s Jackal GTX and the La Sportiva Men’s Jackal GTX
Before Picking Your Waterproof Running Shoes
While you’re on your search for the best waterproof trail shoe to fit your needs, keep the following criteria in mind and choose shoes that:
- Are fully waterproof vs. water resistant. Shoes with a Gore-Tex liner and reinforced seams will keep water out while still being breathable.
- Offer excellent grip. Look for shoes with thick, durable lugs in high quality rubber.
- Fit your type of terrain: Technical terrain will require rigid shoes and deep lugs. However, on bridle trails or worn down, even track, lower profile lugs are ideal.
- Offer warmth. If you’re heading onto winter trails, good options will have insulation and a little extra ankle height to protect the ankles from snow.
Regardless of your shoe choice, keep in mind that wearing appropriate socks can help keep moisture from accumulating in your shoes and causing blisters. Equip yourself with a nice pair of moisture wicking socks and a set of gaiters to suit your seasonal needs.
Muddy Trails Ahead
Trail running is a truly invigorating experience, but when the weather turns or the trails are wet, it can be a little less comfortable. However, by wearing the correct running shoes that are waterproof, protective, and comfortable, you can enjoy trail running any time of year. We love running in ankle deep snow where slick trodden paths are non-existent. And with the aid of gaiters and great tread, I’m able to conquer any trail. For additional safety, a pair of running poles are ideal for slippery track. So get out there and take the path less traveled.
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Image Credit: R Boed | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size