Water Resistant vs. Waterproof Footwear

Your shoes and boots are responsible for keeping water from your feet as you go about your day. But not every pair can promise the same protection.

What Is Water-Resistant Footwear?

Water-resistant footwear holds up in drizzles, a passing rainshower, or even a little bit of snow. But over the course of a long, hard day traipsing through puddles, or under intense rain, water resistant shoes are going to let water in and your feet will get wet. 

Water-resistant shoes have plenty of advantages. They can be more breathable and lightweight than waterproof footwear. If they dry quickly, they may be a great option. A bit of water protection can certainly go a long way.

If you have shoes with water-resistant features and you want to increase their performance, learn how to waterproof shoes with the best waxes and sprays. Follow instructions carefully.

What is Waterproof Footwear?

Waterproof footwear seals water off comprehensively using rubber or other materials that create a membrane. Waterproof shoes will eventually get wet if they sustain enough heavy rain and puddles, but more often than not, they’ll keep you dry no matter what you have to do.

Waterproof shoes are a life-saver when you have no choice but to be outside and have to weather the conditions that come your way. They’re especially suitable for cold weather, because their sealed nature can make them pretty warm.

If you’re wondering if your Timberlands are waterproof, the answer is that they often are. And many types of Timberland® footwear are water-resistant. But check your product specifications carefully. 

Heading to the jungle, or preparing for a puddly spring? Try our waterproof hiking boots to hit the trail with no fear of soggy toes.

How To Choose Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof

While you’re deciding on water resistant vs. waterproof shoes or boots, it’s important to think about the situations that your shoes will need to take on. 

If you’re indoors often at work, and looking for boots that offer support and breathability, but need to be non-slip, and weather the occasional spill, then water resistant shoes sound like the way to go.

For days that need to keep you warm and dry no matter the conditions—even days where you may have to endure hours of heavy rain—it’s a no brainer: you’ll need waterproof work boots or other waterproof shoes to keep you dry.

Think about breathability carefully when you’re deciding whether to buy water resistant vs waterproof shoes. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, or overheating, you might trade a little moisture for comfort. On the other hand, if you find yourself complaining often that your feet are cold, a waterproof pair could warm you up and provide great water protection.

Where to Find Waterproof Shoes

Timberland has a vast selection of waterproof boots, shoes, and trail runners. Shop men’s and women’s selections today. We started out in the factories and forests of northern New England, where rain storms, heavy snow, and muddy springs were a constant. We know that water is something every worker and adventurer has to deal with—and our designs reflect this history.

While you’re considering water-resistant versus waterproof footwear, make sure you count on Timberland for the footwear that you need for any job. From thru-hikes to construction work to weekend adventures, we have models with style and function so you can perform at your absolute best - and stay dry and comfortable.