Best Rain Boots Reviewed & Tested
Most people garden during their free time, either to provide vegetables and herbs for the family or as a hobby. As such we don’t put much thought into the gardening shoes we use. After all, why would anyone need a pair of rain boots just for gardening while you can use an old pair?
Our Top 3 Picks
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If you have your reservations about getting gardening rain boots, read on, please. In this guide, we have gone through the benefits of investing in gardening rain boots, a buying guide, and finally our top recommendations. We believe that this should be enough to convince you to get rain boots and help you pick the right product. However, if you are still doubtful, by the end of this piece, we welcome you to ask any questions in the comments below.
Why get gardening rain boots?
Unlike most shoes with insoles that suck up water and squelch every time you walk, rain boots hold up to getting soggy and ensure you are comfortable whenever you are gardening. Moreover, they are easy to rinse as most are waterproof. They also dry fast and can withstand repeated washes without sustaining any damage.
Most are also quite comfortable for gardening as they are designed for that purpose. Finally, they have deep treads to prevent falls and will protect you from dirt and murky water.
10 Best Rain Boots
1. Sloggers Women's Waterproof
Another fascinating feature is the fun patterns. If you are in the market for rain boots that are not only functional but stylish, we recommend you pick these boots. They have animal print, polka dots and mid-summer patterns that will elicit reactions from friends and strangers alike.
Traction – This is where the Sloggers Women’s knock the ball out of the park thanks to their deep treads. They grip both wet and dry surfaces and even on steep angles.
Insole – The Sloggers are designed to be comfortable, and feature the company’s “All-Day-Comfort” insoles. The insoles are 5mm thick at the ball, feature a molded arch, and 7mm thick at the heel. Thus they cushion your feet and absorb any impact.
All-day-comfort insole
Height: 11-inches
Circumference: 16-inches
Made in the USA
Made of recyclable materials
Who is it for?
Sloggers are designed for light gardening tasks in light rain. Moreover, it is great for ladies looking for cute gardening rain boots, and environmentalists as it is made of recyclable material.
They are stylish
The traction is unparalleled thanks to the deep treads
They are affordable
They are 100% waterproof
The wide lip can let precipitation in, and they don’t do much to keep you warm
2. Hunter Women's Original
This boot is highly durable thanks to the rubber and since it is handcrafted in 28 parts. Another fascinating feature is the narrow ankle as it results in a snug fit and better maneuverability. However, they are not difficult to take on or off. Finally, they run larger and thus it is best you get a size smaller if you are a half size.
Our best features though were the adjustability and traction.
Adjustable – Thanks to the rubber gusset, you can adjust the opening anywhere from 14-inches to 19-inches. The close fit increases the flexibility of the boot while keeping precipitation out. Moreover, it holds warmth better than our top pick. Another fascinating feature of the adjustable top is that it makes it easy to get into and out of the boots.
Traction – Thanks to the calendered-outsole, i.e., extended lugs with mini-shallow zigzags, the traction is excellent. It grips both wet and dry surfaces and any inclines.
16-inches tall
Platform: 0.25
Material: Latex
Who is it for?
The Hunter Original adjustable boot is a women’s rain boot designed for mid to heavy gardening in mild weather. It is especially suitable for farmers thanks to the durability and adjustable top that ensures you are dry throughout. They can also be used for dog-walking or short walks.
It is durable and handcrafted at 28 places
Tall, keeping your feet dry at all times
These have unmatched traction
They are cute
One drawback is the hefty price of the boots
3. Bogs Womens Classic
The boots are 15” high and will protect you even in deep snow, and have a 15” diameter at the top. The wide top makes it easy to take the boots on and off. Moreover, they are well-built and can withstand long hours of use and still be in mint condition. The rubber is natural hand-lasted and will serve you for more than 3-years. Furthermore, you will appreciate the 4-way stretch inner bootie increases comfort and is ideal for people with thick feet.
High Handles – One exciting feature of the bogs is the handle as it saves time when putting on these boots. The handles are especially handy when your hands or gloves are slippery.
Insulated – Unlike most options, the Bogs Classic will keep you warm in temperatures below -30®F.
Height: 15-inches
Circumference: 15-inches
Material: 100% rubber
Who is it for?
These are ladies boot and are great for gardening in cold areas as they are insulated. Moreover, we recommend them for full-time farmers owing to the durability and handles that save time when taking the boots on.
The boots include an Aegis odor protection inner sole that eliminates all scents
The soles are non-marking, self-cleaning and can be used indoors
Comfortable
They are 100% waterproof
They are pricey, and there are complaints of the boots beginning to wear after 3-years of use
4. Xtratuf 22490-CTM-080
They are also highly priced, but we believe they are worth the price. The boots are available from size 6 to 11, and half sizes aren’t available. We suggest you buy up if you are a half size. The boots too happen to be top-quality and will keep you safe as they are hand-layered and are chemical and acid resistant.
The traction could be better as they fall short on slippery rocks and ice, but given what they are made for, the traction should suffice. The chevron outsole is also non-marking and ideal for use on hard floors. Other fascinating features include the toe and heel guards. Nevertheless, our top features were the comfort and weather protection.
Comfort – The Xtratuf have light and flexible uppers which you can fold over to for a different look. Moreover, they have enough space between the rim and calf (14.75-inches diameter), so they are effortless to wear and take off. The neo-shaft is flexible, and the foot box is roomy to accommodate thick socks. Finally, the insoles are breathe o-prene and absorb moisture and shock and reduce the drying time.
Weather protection – Despite the flexibility, the Xtratuf are 100% waterproof. The soles are also thick for heavy-duty tasks.
Circumference: 14.75-inches
Height: 15-inches
Who is it for?
The Extratuf is designed for water applications but can be used for heavy gardening. We recommend it for people who are ever on the farm and will appreciate the flexibility of the uppers.
The insole softens every step reducing fatigue
The heel and toe guards protect against bumps and scrapes
The quality is exceptional, combining toughness with flexibility
They are light for use over long periods
These are pricey and don’t grip well on ice and slippery rocks
5. UGG Women's Shaye
The UGG Women’s Shaye are 13.75” inches from the ground with a 15.5” rim. The wide top is both a strong point and a drawback; more on this later. The boots are true to size, and we recommend you buy up if you are a half size. You will also appreciate the comfort thanks to the lambswool insole and lining of the foot box. This is especially handy when working for more extended hours.
Finally, the boots are made in the USA, and thus better quality control. However, our best features were the PVC uppers and wide shaft.
PVC Uppers – Unlike rubber, PVC is lightweight and affordable. This allows one to work for extended hours without fatigue.
Broad shafts – With a 15.5-inch rim circumference, and a wide shaft, the UGG allow for a comfortable wear over trousers. Moreover, the foot box has enough room to accommodate thick socks.
Material: PVC
Height: 13.75-inches
Circumference: 15.5-inches
Who is it for?
Despite the sheepskin lining, the UGG Shaye are for use in warm areas, preferably above 50F.
Furthermore, it is for light work as PVC isn’t as reliable as rubber. Finally, they should be used on flat gardens, and rarely on inclines.
These are affordable
They are true to size
Comfortable thanks to the fur inside
Includes arch support for stability
The wide rim allows precipitation through and has a loud clap of the shaft against the calf
6. Kamik Women's Heidi
Another exciting feature of this unit is the price. The Kamik Heidi are excellent bang for the buck, and we recommend it for anyone on a tight budget. These are a true bargain for the style and functionality. As for weather protection, these are 100% waterproof, but will not protect you in deep puddles or from splashed water. The comfort could be better, but it is enough for all day use. We recommend you get custom insoles for comfort over extended periods. Nevertheless, our top features were the shorter shaft and remarkable traction.
Traction – One would not expect the Heidi rain boots to compare to the Bogs, given the latter’s price and sporty look. However, despite their low cost they grip is excellent on wet inclines, on snow, ice, and slippery rocks. It was far better than most premium boots.
Shorter Shaft – The Heidi shaft only measures 12-inches from the ground. This can be a drawback but happens to be its selling point as they are easy to take on and off. Moreover, they shorter shaft makes it easy to tuck trousers in. Finally, the thin rim, at 13.75-inches traps warmth while keeping out cold.
Circumference: 13.75-inches
Height: 12-inches
Material: rubber
Who is it for?
This is a ladies boot for anyone in the market for a rain boot that can be used to travel or for family gatherings.
It offers excellent value for a fraction of the cost
It is fashionable and easy to spot in the dark
Easy to use, thanks to the shorter profile
The short profile is limiting as you cannot use the boot in heavy storms
Moreover, the comfort leaves a lot to be desired
7. Crocs Women's Jaunt Shorty Boot
The Crocs Jaunty aren’t your typical rubber boots but are made of croslite, and thus lightweight (more on this later). However, the outsole is rubber for its superior water resistance. They are also stylish with bright colors, contra stripe on the midsole, a decorative logo button, and contrast pull circles on the side. The pull circles aren’t for mere decoration as they aid in taking the boots on. However, you will rarely need them, thanks to the generous (12.75-inches) rim circumference.
The Crocs Jaunty Shorty also happen to be warmer than other boots given that they are unlined. We would not recommend them for use in winter, but they can do for more than just mild-weather.
Nevertheless, our best features were the lightweight design and the roomy foot box.
Lightweight design – At 1.05 pounds, the Crocs Jaunty are the lightest of the boots on this list. Thus they are easy to pack, carry, walk and play in.
Roomy foot box –This gives you enough space to add customized insoles and wear thick socks without discomfort. Moreover, they are ideal for ladies with thick feet.
Height: 7.75-inches
Circumference: 12.5 inches
Material: Croslite uppers, and rubber outsoles.
Who is it for?
The Crocs Jaunty Shorty are for light gardening tasks. Furthermore, they are great for people on the hunt for rain boots that are easy to walk in and carry.
They are easy to take on and off, thanks to the large circumference and low profile
They are great to walk in as they are lightweight
The pull holes reduce the water protection to 5.25-inches in what is already a short boot
8. Muck Boot The Original
You will also appreciate the uppers as they are 100% waterproof and easy to clean.
They measure 14.6-inches from the ground which is enough to keep out splashing water and waves, and the neoprene upper is flexible for comfort. Furthermore, they include a versatile temperature range as they can keep you warm and comfortable between 25°F and 65°F. However, we would not recommend for use in extreme weather.
Finally, they are not fashionable but rather practical. However, the light green color is a nice touch. Nevertheless, our best features were the top line and the weight.
Lightweight – The Muck boots are likely to be the lightest mid-height rain boots available and thus enable you to work for lengthy periods.
Topline – The stretch-fit topline makes it easy to take the boots on and off, but snugs the calf to keep precipitation and splashing water out.
Moreover, it keeps warmth in and the cold out allowing you to work in cold climates. Couple this with wide shafts and you have unrivaled comfort as the shafts accommodate trousers and other clothing.
Rubber sole
Height: 14.6-inches
15-inch shaft circumference
Who is it for?
We can only recommend the Muck boots for intermittent gardening — nothing requiring extended hours of work. Also, they are for light tasks and use in mild weather.
They are comfortable for people with thick calves
Have extra room to accommodate thick socks
They are simple for people who appreciate simplicity
The insulation is unmatched and will keep you warm in cold weather
The traction could be better as you cannot use the boots on inclines, snow, or ice
9. Baffin Men's Enduro PT
First, these aren’t fashionable but functional. They are for heavy-duty work with generous outsoles. Moreover, they are ideal for heavy storms as they are high measuring 16.25-inches. The generous height reduces the likelihood of splashed water getting into your boots.
Another exciting feature is the generous foot box and the roomy ankle area as they leave enough space for thick socks. You will also appreciate the build as the chunky outside will not break down quickly. First, the uppers will not scratch thanks to Baffin special construction, and the company uses more than one compound to make the outsole. However, our best features were the traction and comfort.
Traction – The Buffin Enduro has numerous studs on the outsole for superior traction. They provide tremendous grip on steep inclines and wet grass. Moreover, the grip on snow and ice is unmatched. And these are surfaces that challenge most options.
Comfort – The Enduro is designed to be comfortable to use and cozy. The Gel-flex shock absorbing insoles absorb pressure and impact when walking on surfaces hard surfaces. They also include a generous circumference at 17.5-inches, so they are easy to take on and off. They are true to size, and we recommend you buy up if you are a half size. Finally, the lining adds comfort though it does not keep you warm.
Circumference: 17.5-inches
Height: 16.25-inches
ESR/EH certification
Who is it for?
The Buffin Enduro PT is an entirely functional boot and is for heavy storms.
They are true to size but still roomy
They are durable, and you will not need another pair anytime soon
Easy to take on and off as they are roomy
Though they are uninsulated, they perform well albeit with the use of some thick socks
They have a super ugly warning emblem on the side which is an eyesore
10. Muck Chore Classic Men's
First, they are effortless to get in and out. With a 17-inch opening, you can wear them over your pants with ease. Moreover, the shaft is wide and stretchy but more on this later. You will also appreciate the traction. Though they are not studded, they hold up well on steep inclines, and slippery rocks thanks to the deep treads. Finally, the insides are foamed neoprene which increases the comfort. Our top features though were the shaft, and fit. Well
Shaft – Most individuals with thick calves find it challenging to get rain boots that fit. Well, the Muck Chore Hi features spacious and stretchy uppers to serve such people. However, avoid using it with thick trousers or socks. Furthermore, the shaft measures 15.5-inches which will keep you dry why walking through puddles.
Fit – These boots are true to fit, and we suggest you buy up for half sizes. Nonetheless, you will need some thick socks of a pair of insoles for comfort.
Height: 15.5 inches
Circumference: 17-inches
One year warranty for defects
Who is it for?
The Chore Hi is a fully functional boot. If you intend to spend long hours gardening, we recommend you get the Chore Hi.
They are easy to get on and off thanks to the wide rim
They are flexible and with a bit of arch support for use over long periods
They have roomy uppers for people with large calves
Well, the boots are bulky and are pricey even for such a sturdy boot
Gardening Rain Boots Selection Criteria
Weather Resistance
Gardening rain boots take the brunt of extreme weather. They are subjected to harsh conditions and need to have the durability to withstand this abuse.
- Waterproof – First, all options should be waterproof seeing as they are designed to keep your feet from coming into contact with mud and water. That is why rubber is a gardener’s best friend owing to its excellent water-repelling properties. Furthermore, it is flexible for comfort. Reinforced nylon is also waterproof and comfortable.
- Lining – Consider the lining as well, as it will determine the difference between pleasant gardening, and a dreadful If you reside in a cold area, we recommend fur or any fluffy lining as it will keep your feet insulated. However, we suggest you get a rain boot with mesh or cotton lining for warm regions. Cotton and mesh wick moisture, are airy and prevent odors.
Durability
Consider how well the boots withstand abuse. Gardening shoes should endure long hours in wet, warm, and muddy conditions and thus should be made of quality materials, and the construction should be sturdy.
Rubber happens to have all the above qualities plus a firm grip. Nylon too is breathable and sturdy. We would not recommend a mesh rain boot as it cannot protect you from sticks and rocks, but it makes for excellent lining material.
Protections
Gardening exposes you not only to water, and mud, but to sticks, rocks, and insects. Furthermore, you are at risk of being injured by gardening equipment. As such, we recommend you get full-cover gardening boots, with sturdy outsoles. The full cover, allows you to wade through murky water, without running the risk of infection or discomfort.
Comfort
You should also consider the coziness of the rain boot. First, ensure that it fits close around your feet and ankles as then it maneuverable, and prevents water, mud, and debris from getting in. Furthermore, acquiring a pair with handles make it a breeze to pull the shoes on or off. This is especially important in case you have slippery gloves or sweaty palms and can save you time in the long run.
You should also consider the sole as it is the foundation of the boot. The outsole should be waterproof and long-lasting as it is the part that is ever in contact with the ground. It should have deep treads for stability. The midsole can either be soft or hard, and it is responsible for cushioning your feet and absorbing any impact. A soft midsole provides better cushioning but wears and tears faster than a hard sole. It is also lightweight and more flexible. Hard midsoles, on the other hand, are sturdy but lack flexibility.
Finally, consider the insoles as they are the footbed. Soft insoles cushion your feet but wear out faster and a less stable. Conversely, thick insoles are firm in durable but have poor shock absorption properties.
Now that you know what to look for, below are our top gardening rain boots.
FAQs
How should I clean my boots?
Cleaning them will ensure they serve you longer. However, given the various materials used to make rain boots, cleaning will be different.
Leather uppers are the most difficult to clean. They also get scuffed and dirty faster than nylon or rubber. We recommend you get a leather cleaner and a conditioner for the best results. These are available at most footwear dealers, but it is best you contact your manufacturer to get an ideal product.
Nylon boots, on the other hand, should be hand washed using cold water and a mild detergent. Rinse them, and let them dry away from any heat. Finally, rubber boots should only be wipe clean using warm water and left to dry out in the open.
What is the difference between women’s and men’s shoe sizes?
A man’s shoe size 7 is not the same as a woman’s size 7. As a rule, a woman’s shoe size is two sizes smaller compared to a man’s shoe size. A lady’s size 8 is a man’s shoe size 6. Therefore for boots that are available in men’s sizes, a lady should get two sizes smaller. However, it is an unwritten rule to get one size smaller to keep it from running small.
Should I size up or down if I am half size?
Most options are not available in half sizes posing a challenge for people who wear half size shoes. The boots are too roomy when they size up, or they run small when they size down.
First, your rain boots should be the same size of your regular shoes, and as a rule of thumb, you should size up if you wear a half size, and especially if the boots have a thin profile. However, of the rain boots are roomy, such as the Crocs Jaunty Shorty, we recommend you size down.
What should I look for in an insole?
For extra comfort, we recommend you get insoles for your rain boots. First, they are denoted by the shoe range, and thus you should get insoles that are within your range. You can trim them if needed. Furthermore, get an insole that conforms to your arch type; neutral, medium, and low arches. Finally, consider the footbed type, which is heavily dependent on why you need the insole.
Conclusion
Gardening rain boots don’t have to be difficult, nor do they have to be difficult. They only need to be functional, and a bit fashionable should you need to step out into town or for a casual shindig on a rainy day.
Feel free to leave a comment below if you feel there is something we have missed.
