Running in the rain can be oddly satisfying, until your feet are soaked, your socks are squelching, and every step feels heavier than the last.
Fully waterproof running shoes are one solution, but they often cost more than standard trainers. If you only deal with wet conditions occasionally, buying a weather-specific pair might not feel worth it.
The good news? You don’t necessarily need a brand-new pair of waterproof shoes to stay dry. There are several effective alternatives that can help protect your feet in wet conditions.
Here’s how to waterproof your running shoes (or at least make them far more water-resistant), depending on your climate and needs.
Option 1: Use Running Gaiters
Best for: Light rain, wet grass, muddy trails, and splashes from above.
Running gaiters are lightweight covers that attach around your ankle and connect to your shoe. They don’t make your shoes waterproof, but they stop water, mud, and debris from entering through the top.
They’re especially useful if:
- You’re running through wet underbrush
- It’s drizzling rather than pouring
- Most of the water is coming from splashes or vegetation
The big advantage is breathability. Your shoes can still vent heat, and gaiters are easy to take on and off mid-run.
The limitation? If you step into a puddle deep enough to submerge your shoe, your foot will still get wet. Gaiters protect from above, not below.
Option 2: Wear Waterproof Socks
Best for: Cold, wet runs where foot warmth and dryness matter more than shoe weight.
Waterproof socks are built with layered construction; usually an outer fabric, a waterproof membrane in the middle, and a soft inner lining against your skin. Think of them as mini rain jackets for your feet.
The benefit is simple: even if your shoes get soaked, your feet stay dry.
They’re particularly effective for:
- Winter running
- Long rainy runs
- Creek crossings
- Snow or slushy conditions
The trade-off is bulk. Waterproof socks are thicker and less breathable than regular running socks. They also trap water if it gets in from the top, so pairing them with gaiters can improve performance in heavy rain.
If you live somewhere that’s damp but not constantly flooded, waterproof socks are one of the most reliable and low-effort solutions.
Option 3: Use a Waterproofing Spray
Best for: Budget-friendly, occasional wet-weather protection.
If you’d rather treat the shoes themselves, waterproofing sprays are the simplest DIY option. They won’t turn your standard trainers into fully waterproof models, but they can add meaningful water resistance.
These sprays work by coating the fabric fibres and helping water bead off instead of soaking in.
A few important points:
- Use a fabric and synthetic-safe spray suitable for running shoes
- Avoid heavy wax treatments unless your shoes are leather
- Expect to reapply periodically
Waterproofing spray is ideal if:
- You run in light-to-moderate rain
- You want to extend the life of older shoes
- You don’t want to invest in a second pair
Keep in mind that standard running shoes often don’t have gusseted (attached) tongues, so water can still seep in around the laces even if the upper repels moisture well.
How to Waterproof Running Shoes with Spray (Step-by-Step)
Total time: about 30 minutes
Drying time: 24 hours
1. Remove the laces
Take the laces out before spraying. Waterproof treatments can stiffen them and affect how they tie.
2. Clean the shoes thoroughly
Use mild soap and warm water to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Waterproof spray works best on clean material.
Avoid harsh detergents that leave residue, as they can reduce effectiveness.
3. Rinse and leave the shoes slightly damp
Many waterproofing treatments bond better to damp fabric. Follow the instructions on your specific spray.
4. Apply the spray evenly
Hold the bottle about 6 inches away and coat the entire upper. Pay extra attention to seams and stitched areas.
Don’t oversaturate. You want full coverage, not dripping.
5. Wipe away excess
Use a clean cloth to blot any pooled spray.
6. Let the shoes dry naturally
Stuff them with newspaper or use a shoe tree to maintain shape. Leave them to dry for at least 24 hours, away from direct heat or sunlight.
After drying, water should bead on the surface rather than soaking in.
What waterproofing can and can’t do
It’s important to set expectations.
Waterproof spray can:
- Repel light rain
- Reduce absorption from wet surfaces
- Extend shoe life in damp conditions
It cannot:
- Make mesh shoes fully waterproof
- Prevent water from entering through the ankle collar
- Replace a purpose-built waterproof membrane
If you regularly run in heavy rain or wet trails, a proper waterproof shoe may still be the better long-term solution.
Which option should you choose?
If you mostly deal with drizzle or wet grass, gaiters are lightweight and breathable.
If it’s cold and consistently wet, waterproof socks are the most reliable way to keep feet dry.
If you want an inexpensive, occasional fix, waterproof spray is the simplest DIY method.
For runners who only see bad weather occasionally, combining methods often gives the best balance.
A final note
Wet-weather running can feel tougher than dry conditions, so if you’re building consistency or returning after a break, keep your sessions sensible and structured.
If you’re following a plan, it’s easier to adapt around the weather. Runna’s training plans (including free plans up to 5K) help you stay consistent year-round, without overdoing it.
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