It’s raining, it’s pouring… and you don’t have the right shoes to go outside. Sounds like a dilemma every guy has experienced before. Now, you could opt for a classic pair of rubber boots, or as the British call it, Wellies, but rubber boots can be a drag. The problem with rubber boots is they are heavy, not breathable, and require you to change out of as soon as you get to your destination.

Well, I have a better and more stylish solution for you: welcome to the wonderful world of waterproof shoes and boots!

Before we get started, please note: “water-resistant” and “waterproof” are two different things. Water-resistant means it can stand being in water for a limited time (i.e. walking from A to B while it’s raining), while waterproof means you can be in a downpour for extended periods of time and zero water will seep in. Keep these terms in mind when you are searching for your perfect pair and decide what your needs are.

Alright, let’s see what I have for you…

Waterproof Sneakers

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Photo Credit: Zappos, Greats

All weather sneakers are pretty cool and are a subtle way to protect yourself from the elements. They look like ordinary sneakers, but are made with water-resistant or waterproof materials. You can go for a high-top, which goes up to your ankle, or a low top, which stops below your ankle. If you’re a casual guy and your go-tos for the weekend (or even work) are casual shoes like sneakers, these will work great for you.

If you prefer a water-resistant sneaker, opting for a sneaker made out of wool can deliver style, protection, and breathability. Best of all, you can wear your wool sneaker day to day and not just on rainy days.

Waterproof Casual Boots

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Photo Credit: Zappos, Timberland

Photo Credit: ZapposClassic Work BootIf you live in an area where it snows, boots are a better option than sneakers, for winter at least. A casual boot, like a “work boot”, is perfect for the guy who has an overall casual style (i.e. wears jeans and t-shirts most of the time). These boots will give you excellent grip, protect your feet from wetness and make sure you look stylish. Bonus: you can take them hiking!

Waterproof Smart-Casual and Dressy Boots

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Photo Credit: Nisolo, Cole Haan

What if I told you there is a stylish boot you can wear to work and it’s waterproof? They exist! Waterproof boots come in many styles including Smart-Casual and Dressy ones. Waterproof Chelsea and Chukka boots, for example, are perfect for those who don’t want to change into different shoes when they get to their destination. Going for a waterproof version of your favorite boot style will pay for itself because you can wear them day to day too.

If you want to learn more about different boot styles to see which one appeals to you, check out The Ultimate Guide to Boots where I give you the who, what, where on boots.

If you weren’t convinced before, there you have it: plenty of stylish water friendly shoe options besides rubber boots to get you through wet weather. Whether it’s April showers or severe winter weather, you’ll be ready to take on the elements best foot forward.