Do you want to go for a hike, or even a trip to the grocery, but are sick of your feet getting soaked?
It’s never fun running around in wet socks or shoes, so I thought I’d list out my favorite ways to stay dry no matter the weather!
Keep reading to find out multiple options and tips so that you never get stuck with uncomfortable wet feet.
1 – Use Rain Boots
Rain boots are designed for the rain, so of course, they are going to be your best option to keep your feet dry in the rain.
They are made out of thick rubber to keep the water out. Many go as high as your knees or shins to keep your legs dry too.
Some kinds of rain boots are insulated for the winter so you can walk through slush or snow and still stay toasty dry.
2 – Wear Wool Socks
Cotton retains moisture. That is why there is such a big joke about skiing in jeans.
Merino wool is breathable, lightweight, and most importantly, wicks moisture. This means that even if your feet do get very wet, the socks will dry quickly and get your feet dry in no time.
Double up on water-resistant or waterproof shoes and wool socks and you should be all set to go.
Wool socks will quickly become your favorite and you will start wearing them even when it’s not raining because they wick away sweat.
You can even wear them in the spring and summer because they ventilate so well.
3 – Get Water-Resistant Shoes
Synthetic fabrics are the best at resisting water. Some examples include Gore-Tex and nylon.
Leather is a natural material that is water-resistant. Full-grain leather is the most effective kind of leather for rain.
Find a pair of shoes that are only made of one piece of fabric because water can get through weaves when walking through puddles or if it is pouring.
Start with brands you already trust. They likely have a pair of water-resistant shoes.
4 – Put on Shoe Covers
Shoe covers go directly over your shoes and cinch at the ankle to create a buffer against standing water and rain.
The best part of shoe covers is that you can wear any shoes you want without worrying about if they’re waterproof or not.
The shoe covers will do the work and you can take them off when you get inside. You can find them in shoe stores or in the rain gear department of outdoor stores.
Shower caps work too if you have small feet and don’t have shoe covers when you need them.
5 – Waterproof the Shoes You Own
If you want to wear your normal shoes in the rain, that’s not a problem. There are ways to waterproof them!
Treat leather and textile with a silicone or oil spray. Rub canvas down with all-natural beeswax.
These products work because their oils repel water, keeping the rain from even touching your shoes.
You can usually find these products at outdoor or shoe stores, but if you can’t find them in person you will certainly be able to online.
Reapply periodically for the best effect.
6 – Wrap Your Shoes in Plastic Bags
When you have no other choice, covering your feet with plastic bags can do the trick just fine.
Put on some dry socks (wool is your best option) and bundle a plastic bag around each of your feet. Use tape to secure the plastic at your ankles.
When your feet go into your shoes, you want as little plastic to show as possible. Another trick is to put a second pair of socks over the bags.
This is a great trick for boots and sneakers but won’t protect you very well if you’re wearing slip-on shoes or something similar.
Your shoes will still get wet with this method. Air-dry them when you get inside and don’t wear them until they’re dry again. You can put them next to an air vent or a protected fireplace to dry them more quickly.
When your shoes dry out, spray them with disinfectant to get rid of any organisms that might cause fungus or foot odor.
7 – Bring an Extra Pair of Socks
If you’re wearing a thicker pair of shoes or boots, it’s not the biggest deal when they start to get wet. You might not even actually notice that it’s happening until your socks start to soak up the water.
Having damp socks will keep your feet feeling gross and wet which is why I always say finding the right material is the most important part. When I’m planning on hiking where the ground will be wet I always bring an extra pair of socks.
They’re lightweight so they don’t take up much room, and it makes a world of difference when you can easily swap them while out on the trails.
Final Thoughts
It is important for foot health to keep your feet dry. Wet feet can cause a slew of problems beyond discomfort.
Use our tips to help stay dry in even the wettest weather conditions! Don’t be afraid to layer two tips – for example, rain boots and shoe covers.
The more protection against the rain the better!
