Weather Boots

Waterproof boots for rain, slush and muddy walks that still look good with the rest of your outfit.

Weather Boots

Lace up winter boots, classic rubber rain boots, sherpa lined hikers and chunky waterproof styles, with advice on fit, socks and what to wear them with.

A good pair of weather boots makes rainy and snowy days far less miserable. The goal is simple: dry feet, steady grip and a shape that still works with jeans, trousers and skirts. Classic rubber rain boots are the easiest pick for wet weeks and look great in black, olive or a bright yellow. Lace up styles with a rubber foot and leather or suede upper handle slush and cold sidewalks and feel more polished with a wool coat. Sherpa lined hikers add warmth for freezing mornings. Tall rubber boots keep hems dry on long walks, while short ankle styles are easier to pull on and wear under straight leg jeans. Look for a chunky lug sole that grips well on slippery streets. These boots work hard, so it is worth choosing a pair you actually like the look of, since you will be wearing them often.

Wear weather boots with confidence rather than hiding them. Tuck straight jeans into tall rubber styles, or let wide leg trousers fall over a short boot. A thick sock peeking out at the top adds warmth and looks charming. Pair practical boots with a polished coat to keep the outfit balanced. Wipe them down after slushy days to prevent salt marks and help the materials last. A waterproof spray keeps suede and leather uppers protected all season long.

Our honest take

We think a short black rain boot or a lace up winter boot is the most useful choice for city living, since both slip easily under trousers. Our favorite way to wear a tall rubber boot is with a skirt, thick socks and a long coat. Insulated or lined styles are worth it if your winters get properly cold. Check the sole for deep grooves, because grip matters more than anything on icy days. And size up slightly if you plan to wear thick socks, so your toes have room to stay warm.