The Best Rain Boots for Women of 2024

From muddy trails to rainy errands and everywhere in between, the best rain boots for women will keep you comfortable, stylish, and dry.

Our lead tester, Meg Carney, is no stranger to the importance of rain boots. She spent years working in muddy Midwestern outdoor conditions. Now, she lives in central Washington, where the rainy season (aka mud season) is long and sustained. She relies on waterproof rain boots for walking and hiking year-round, so she’s tested some of these boots for years, while others are new to her this year.

To rate performance, we took these boots hiking, wading through streams, and on daily chores during muddy, rainy days. We also subjected each model to a water immersion test, multiple hiking tests, and “slip tests” on wet terrain to see how they compared.

Whether you’re looking for the overall performance of our top pick, the Grundéns Deck Boss Ankle Boots, or a budget-friendly option like the Asgard Ankle Rain Boots, we have you covered.

Check out our comparison chart, buyer’s guide, and price and value below to learn more about how each of the best rain boots for women stack up against each other.

Editor’s Note: We updated this buyer’s guide on October 11, 2024, by adding a price and value section and two new products, our favorite classic rain boots, the Bogs Floral Rain Boots and the Kamik Heidi 2 Rain Boots.

The Best Rain Boots for Women of 2024

• Best Overall Rain Boots for Women: Grundéns Deck Boss Ankle Boots
• Best Budget Rain Boots for Women: Asgard Ankle Rain Boots
• Best Classic Rain Boots for Women: BOGS Floral Rain Boots
• Best Tall Rain Boots for Women Xtratuf Salmon Sisters 15” Legacy Boots
• Best Insulated Rain Boots for Women: Muck Arctic Sport II MID Boot

Rain Boots for Women Comparison Chart

Rain Boots	Price	Sizes	Materials	Weight	Insulation
Grundéns W’s Deck Boss Ankle Boots	$110	5-11	Rubber, neoprene	1 lb., 11 oz.	No
Asgard Ankle Rain Boots	$30	5-13	Rubber, EVA foam, PVC	1 lb., 8 oz.	No
BOGS Floral Rain Boots	$75	6-11	Algae-based EVA footbed, rubber	14 oz.	No
XTRATUF Salmon Sisters 15-inch Legacy Boots	$160	6-11	Rubber, neoprene	5 lbs., 5 oz.	No
Muck Arctic Sport II MID Boot	$160	5-11	Rubber, 5 mm CR Flex-Foam neoprene, EVA midsole	1 lb., 7 oz.	Fleece lining
BOGS Holly Chelsea Rain Boots	$90	6-12	Algae-based EVA footbed, rubber	2 lbs., 14 oz.	No
Western Chief Garden Play Tall Rain Boots	$40	6-11	Rubber, polyester cotton blend lining	1 lb., 10 oz.	No
Kamik Heidi 2 Rain Boots	$60	6-11	Phthalate-free synthetic rubber	2 lbs, 11 oz.	No

How We Tested Best Rain Boots for Women

Our Expert Testers

To find the best rain boots for women, we conducted comprehensive testing to assess various features and provide accurate and reliable recommendations. Our lead tester, Meg Carney, grew up in the rural Midwest, which means a good, sturdy pair of rain boots was a must for her for a long time. She’s owned some boots on our list for five-plus years, and they’re still going strong, providing an excellent testament to their durability.

For boots new to her, she conducted testing over the course of a couple of months. To help get a more objective view of how the boots compared, she enlisted the help of a secondary tester of the same shoe size. They tested the boots during daily wear around town, doing yard work, and on multiple hikes where they walked on flat wet surfaces, rocky terrain, and within streams of moving water.

Throughout the month, they were able to do some primary tests together, but the rest of the time, they wore different boots for each activity, swapped boots, and compared notes. 

Testing Process

Our testing process involved several key steps to evaluate the performance and suitability of different rain boot models.

Waterproofing: We subjected the rain boots to simulated rain conditions and immersion in water to check for any signs of leakage or water penetration and determine their effectiveness in keeping feet dry.

Comfort/Fit: By wearing the boots for extended periods and walking on different surfaces, we noted cushioned insoles, adjustable closures, and ergonomic designs that enhance comfort and support.

Traction: To assess grip and stability, each boot was put to the test by walking on wet, slippery surfaces that included mud, rocks, and other potential hazards. 

Durability: WE examined the rain boots’ materials, construction, and overall build quality to ensure they could withstand regular wear and tear over time.

The testing process focused on evaluating waterproofing, comfort, traction, and durability to provide comprehensive insights into the performance of women’s rain boots. Though some of these rain boots work well for hiking, if you’re looking for recommendations for more specific boots, check out our guide to the Best Hiking Boots for Women.  If you’ll be mucking around in the water in warmer seasons, check out our guide to the Best Water Shoes for Women. And, if you’re looking for boots to keep the guys in your life dry, check out our guide to the Best Rain Boots.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Rain Boots for Women

When selecting the perfect pair of women’s rain boots, several features should be considered, including waterproof materials, durable construction, proper fit, and traction-enhancing outsoles. 

Materials and Durability

Many of the best rain boots use waterproof materials like rubber, PVC, or neoprene, known for effectively repelling water. While neoprene offers waterproof properties, its production relies on petroleum, emits carbon dioxide, and lacks biodegradability.

Other common rain boot materials also pose environmental challenges. PVC, though recyclable, may release dioxins and contain phthalates, while rubber sourcing can be environmentally destructive.

For environmentally conscious consumers, longevity becomes paramount. Our XTRATUF Rain Boots and Muck Arctic Sports have lasted upward of 5 years with no signs of stopping, and our Grundéns Ankle Boots have withstood three years of near-daily wear in the shoulder and winter seasons.

The best option is to maximize the lifespan of your rain boots since these materials are hard to avoid. Wear them for as long as possible, maintain them, and avoid replacing them unless necessary. Durability is a key focus in our testing processes, emphasizing the importance of investing in boots built to last.

Certain areas of rain boots are more prone to damage or wear much faster than others. Seams, for instance, are among the most common points of failure in rain boots. Keep boots in good working condition by inspecting the seams and bonding methods used in the boots’ construction.

Heat-sealed or vulcanized seams offer superior durability compared to glued seams, so while shopping, it can help to look for these features. Additionally, check for reinforced areas like the toe cap and heel, which are prone to wear and tear over time.

Consider the outsole design and material. Look for rain boots with durable rubber outsoles featuring deep treads or lug patterns. By carefully examining materials and durability features, you can identify the best rain boots for women with long-lasting performance and reliable protection.

Breathability

When analyzing the breathability of rain boots, consider comfort and find ways to prevent moisture buildup inside the boots. It is important to note that quality rain boots are made from solid materials that typically don’t allow much airflow through the materials. Still, you can look for breathable linings that allow air circulation while effectively wicking away sweat and moisture from the feet.

A proper fit with enough room for air circulation can also enhance breathability. Avoid overly tight or constrictive boots that may restrict airflow and lead to discomfort. Since finding a “breathable” rain boot is near impossible, we look at other aspects related to breathability, like odor resistance.

Most BOGS rain boots, like the Floral Rain Boots featured as our favorite classic rain boots, are made using DuraFresh natural biotechnology to combat odors and prevent the growth of bacteria.

Comfort and Fit

Look for soft, flexible, and lightweight materials that provide a comfortable fit without causing discomfort or chafing. Cushioned insoles or footbeds can provide support and shock absorption, and anatomically shaped footbeds or contoured arch support can also enhance comfort.

Finding rain boots that fit correctly helps provide enough room for your toes to wiggle, and materials don’t pinch or rub against your feet. We might prefer a boot like the Grundéns Deck Boss Ankle Boots over the Asgard Ankle Boots because they have a wider toe box and better cushioning for extended wear.

Here are some tips for finding rain boots that fit:

Measure Feet: Measure the length and width of your feet. Refer to size charts provided by rain boot manufacturers to determine the appropriate size for you.

Consider Sock Thickness: If you plan to wear thick socks with your rain boots, consider their thickness when selecting the size, and try boots on with the socks you plan to wear. You may need to size up to accommodate thicker socks.

Check Toe Room and Width: There should be enough room in the toebox for your toes to wiggle comfortably, as we experienced in the BOGS Floral Rain Boots. Your toes should not feel cramped or squeezed against the front of the boots.

Consider Calf Circumference: If you have wider calves, look for rain boots with adjustable gussets or wider shafts to accommodate your calf size.

By following these tips and ensuring a proper fit, you can find rain boots that are comfortable to wear for daily wear, work, or rainy-day dog walks. 

Insulation

Insulated rain boots are not necessary for all users. If you are someone who lives in a colder climate, having insulated rain boots, like the Muck Arctic Sport, is an excellent option for winter wear. For standard daily wear when insulation is less of a priority, you may want to try the Kamik Heidi 2 Rain Boots. But, pay attention to the linings and inner materials to better understand the insulating properties. 

Materials like neoprene or rubber offer better thermal protection against cold temperatures. Rain boots with an insulated lining, such as fleece or synthetic materials like Thinsulate, provide warmth by trapping body heat inside the boots. Taller shafts, like the XTRATUF 15″ boots, cover more of the leg, providing additional insulation and protection from cold weather.

Some rain boots feature removable liners that can be added or removed based on temperature conditions, allowing for customizable insulation. If you’re looking for winter-specific hiking boots, check out our Best Winter Hiking Boots guide. 

Traction

Even just walking around town, if you’re wearing rain boots, it is likely wet, muddy, or even a little bit icy. In those conditions, you need a pair of boots with adequate traction. When choosing rain boots with good traction, consider the following factors:

Outsole Design: Look for rain boots with outsoles featuring deep treads and lug patterns or specific slip-resistant grips, like the Grundéns Deck Boss Ankle Boots. These designs provide better grip and traction on wet, slippery surfaces.

Material: Rubber outsoles offer excellent traction on wet surfaces, providing a firm grip and resistance to slipping.

Lug Depth: Lug depth refers to the height or depth of the tread patterns on the outsole of a shoe or boot. These patterns typically consist of raised, ridged, or grooved sections that provide traction and grip.

A few brands known for offering rain boots with excellent traction include BOGS, Muck Boots, and XTRATUF. Fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts favor the XTRATUF Rain Boots for their slip-resistant outsoles, which offer reliable traction on wet decks and slippery surfaces. If you’re ever in Alaska, you’ll notice it is a trendy brand up there.

Height and Style

Choosing the best height and style of rain boots depends on personal preference, intended use, and practicality. Knowing the options available to you and identifying their intended purpose is a good place to start. 

There are three standard rain boot heights:

1. Ankle-height rain boots offer ease of mobility and are suitable for casual wear or urban settings.
2. Mid-calf rain boots provide more coverage and protection against splashes and puddles. They are versatile and suitable for both urban and outdoor activities.
3. Knee-high rain boots offer maximum coverage and protection and are ideal for heavy rain, deep puddles, or outdoor activities like gardening or hiking.

For everyday wear, look for versatile styles and a height that can transition between activities. I often choose ankle-high boots like Grundéns Deck Boots for daily wear, especially in the spring. 

Taller rain boots that offer more durability and protection may be desirable for outdoor activities. XTRATUF and Muck Boots are popular options when seeking boots for gardening, outdoor work, or daily chores. 

Beyond height, style may be a factor. The three most common styles of rain boots include: 

1. Classic rain boot styles like the Western Chief Rain Boots feature a variety of colors or patterns, offering timeless appeal and versatility.
2. Fashion rain boots come in trendy designs, colors, and patterns, allowing you to make a fashion statement or blend in seamlessly with daily workwear like the Kamik Heidi 2 Rain Boots.
3. Functional rain boots prioritize practicality and performance, with features like adjustable straps, reinforced toes, or insulated linings for added functionality.

Ultimately, choose rain boots that reflect your style preferences and lifestyle while meeting your practical requirements for comfort, functionality, and protection.

Price & Value

Rain boots can vary widely in price. The boots we’ve tested start around $30 but can cost up to $160. Determining how much to pay for rain boots will depend largely on how you plan to use them and how often.

Budget

You’ll find options like the Asgard Ankle Rain Boots ($30) and Western Chief Garden Play Tall Rain Boots ($35) in the budget range, which spans $30 to $60. Both offer effective waterproofing and stylish designs ideal for casual or urban wear.

However, expect to sacrifice some durability and support at a lower price point. The Asgard boots are the most narrow and least suited for rocky terrain. The Western Chief boots are comfortable but are made with a flimsy and less durable material, shortening their lifespan.

Mid-Tier

BOGS Vintage Floral Rain Boots ($75) and Grundéns W’s Deck Boss Ankle Boots ($110) are solid mid-tier options ($75-120). They provide a significant step up in comfort and functionality compared to budget picks.

The BOGS Floral boots feature a lightweight design and great aesthetics, perfect for short trips, while the Grundéns offer stunning durability and traction for more versatile wear. Although you gain better materials and support, you still miss out on features like insulation, sometimes found in premium options.

Premium

For those willing to invest in a premium boot ($130-160), the Muck Arctic Sport II MID Boot ($140) and XTRATUF Salmon Sisters 15-inch Legacy Boots ($160) are necessary for the most rugged cold and wet conditions. You’ll be hard-pressed to find boots that outperform these.

The Muck boots offer exceptional insulation, comfort for all-day wear, and optimal traction on slippery surfaces. The XTRATUF Legacy Boots are a common sight in climates like Alaska, speaking to their functionality and durability. We feel the extra cost is justified, especially for serious outdoor work or extreme weather.

Frequently Asked Questions