When it comes to protecting your feet from water, having the right pair of shoes is essential. And while many shoes claim to be either water-resistant or waterproof, there's a big difference between the two. So, what's the difference between water-resistant and waterproof shoes?

 

Water-Resistant vs Waterproof

Water-resistant shoes are treated with coatings that help to repel water and keep your feet dry. However, this type of shoe isn't 100% waterproof and will eventually let in moisture after prolonged exposure. Water-resistant shoes will protect your feet from splashes and light rain, but they won't keep your feet dry in heavy downpours.

Waterproof shoes, on the other hand, combine a water-repellent outer layer with a waterproof, breathable internal layer. This double layering makes them completely impermeable. Waterproof shoes will keep your feet dry no matter what the weather throws at them. They’re ideal if you spend a lot of time outdoors in wet conditions or if you work in a job where you’re likely to encounter a lot of water.

 

Which type of shoe is better for different activities?

When it comes to deciding between water-resistant vs waterproof shoes, it really depends on what you're doing and how much protection you need. So, when should you opt for water-resistant shoes, and when should you go for waterproof footwear?

Water-resistant shoes are a great choice for:

  • Rain
  • Light snow
  • Splashy puddles

Waterproof shoes are ideal for:

  • Heavy rain
  • Deep puddles
  • Snowy or icy conditions
  • Any environment in which the upper could be submerged in water

 

How can you tell if a shoe is truly waterproof?

So, how can you tell if a shoe is truly waterproof? The first thing to look for is the material: leather and synthetic materials are more water-resistant than canvas and cotton. Additionally, rubber soles are often waterproof. You can also check for specific features, such as taped seams, gusseted tongues and sealed zippers. These all help to ensure that water won't get inside your shoe.

However, if you want to be certain whether or not a shoe is waterproof, all you have to do is to check the label on the inside of the tongue. If you see the letters WR, it means that the shoe is waterproof. This can be a little confusing, since the letters stand for “water-resistant”! To make things clear, the code that identifies a shoe that’s water-resistant (not waterproof), is WRU.

WRU means “water-resistant upper”: it describes a shoe that’s been treated with a water-repellent coating, but doesn’t have a waterproof membrane inside. This means it won't be fully impervious to water.

 

So there you have it: the differences between water-resistant and waterproof shoes! Whether you're out for a walk in the snow or a hike on a rainy day, make sure you're wearing the right footwear to keep your feet comfortable and dry. Investing in quality waterproof or water-resistant shoes is a small price to pay for comfort and protection.

 

Head to our online shop at Finily.com today, to check out our wide selection of trainers. With so many styles available at amazing prices, you’re sure to find a pair of shoes that’s perfect for you!