

Choosing Waterproof Footwear
Many work shoe and boot styles feature certain waterproof elements, but when you’re working in heavy duty mud and muck, chances are, you’re looking for a truly waterproof chore boot.
Waterproof Footwear Features and Facts
Knowing what key waterproof footwear features and benefits to look for help you shop based on what’s most important to you.
- Waterproof materials: Common materials include TPE, PVC or rubber which keeps water out and is easy to clean.
- Temperature: Insulated work boots provide warmth, as well as an element of comfort, but may be too hot for warm work days.
- Slip-resistance: Slippery surfaces can be dangerous, as they can put you at risk of falls and slips. Choose boots with protective and slip resistant outsoles. A deep lug or tread can also help with traction for outdoor work.
- Durability: Quality of material used as well as construction matters. Rubber, PVC, waterproof neoprene and TPE are great material options for waterproof boots. In general, they may not last as long as waterproof leather work boots, but they’re intended for a different purpose, like chores in wet weather, spraying and wet work in manufacturing conditions.
- Washability: A key advantage of waterproof chore boots made of a non-porous material like rubber or PVC is that they rinse off with a hose, which can be a key advantage for outdoor pros that use waterproof boots for wet, sloppy weather or for protection when spraying chemicals.
- Comfort: Look for materials and features that build comfort into your waterproof work shoe. For example, cushioned insoles. These insoles, often made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) are similar to what you’d find in athletic shoes and give "rubber-like" softness and flexibility. Choosing a boot that fits well and won’t rub or chafe is also key to all-day comfort.
Waterproof Work Boots for Safety
In addition to keeping your feet dry, some waterproof work boots also feature safety toes. This is critical for hardworking pros whose workplace requires protective toe footwear or for those who simply want to protect their toes in hazardous working conditions.
Composite toe waterproof work boots are becoming increasingly popular, since they’re lighter-weight than steel toe boots and don’t conduct heat and cold or electricity. However, they are not as strong as their metal counterparts. A boot’s outsoles also play a vital role in protecting you from slipping and falling. Look for slip-resistant outsoles that provide good traction with rubber lug outsoles to grip the ground and channels to redirect water. Slip-resistant rubber soles with puncture-resistant features are a big plus too.
Work Boot Height as a Function of Protection and Comfort
One key factor in choosing the best waterproof footwear is deciding what boot height works best for you. If your work involves wading through deep water or mud, you need tall boots with a high boot shaft. Some waterproof work boots, like Sugar River Waterproof Chore Boots for example, come in a variety of heights to choose from. Common boot shaft heights are 6-inch (just above the ankle), 12-inch (mid-calf) and 16-inch (just below the knee). Temperature may also play a part in your decision, since taller boots provide more warmth.
Top Waterproof Footwear Picks

Value-Driven Quality
Sugar River Plain Toe Chore Boots
- Best value on the market
- Rubber traction soles Removable cushion insoles
- Rear kick plate for easy on / off
- Available in 6″, 12″ and 16″ heights
- 100% waterproof neoprene and easy to rinse off

Tried & True Favorite
Muck Boot Co. 16″ Plain Toe Chore Boots
- All day comfort and maximum durability
- Sturdy, oil-resistant, blown rubber outsole stays flexible in any condition
- Thick lug outsole & defined durable heel
- Removable cushioned insole

Value-Driven Rubber Boot
Brown Bear Plain Toe and Composite Toe Boots
- Best value on the market in a no-nonsense chore boot
- TPE Strong: Lighter than PVC, and fares better against chemicals, extreme temps and abrasions
- Adjustable Height: 16-inch boot comes with a cut line at 12 inches

Farm-Favorite PVC
Servus 15″ MAX™ Plain Toe Boots
- Soft molded footbed hugs your foot comfortably
- Waterproof and chemical-resistant
- Replaceable insoles to keep boots fresh

Cold Weather Waterproof
BOGS Bozeman Mid Men's Insulated Waterproof Boot
- Seamless construction is super durable and lightweight
- Insulated with neo-tech stretch bootie and lined with EveryDry and Bogs Max-Wick to evaporate sweat
- Non-marking, self-cleaning BioGrip chemical and slip resistant outsole

No-Nonsense Classic
Servus 14″ Plain Toe PVC Boots
- Extremely pliable and soft-feeling PVC that’s tough and comfortable
- Great anti-skid outsole provides traction
- Easy-clean exterior with removable, hand washable insole

Safety Toe Boots
Sugar River Composite Toe Chore Boots
- Guaranteed to meet or exceed ASTM F2413-11
- Rubber soles keep a grip on slick surfaces
- Removable EVA Footbed for comfort
- 100% waterproof neoprene outer

Women's Top Boot
Muck Women’s Chore Plain Toe Mid
- Built-in Airmesh™ lining keeps feet cool
- Thick 5mm CR Flex-Foam uppers for flexibility and protection from the cold
- Rugged outsole for traction

Women's Waterproof Shoe
Muck Boot Co. Muckster II Women's Waterproof Shoes
- The perfect slip-on to keep by the back door
- Comfortable cushioned inner boot
- Breathable Airmesh™ lining
Overboots
An economical way to keep your feet dry using your current work boots is with overboots. Gemplers has a large selection including basic rubber overshoes, calf-height boots, even insulated winter boots with built-in ice cleats.
SHOP ALL OVERBOOTS HEREDarn Tough Socks
Up your sock game with moisture-wicking wool-blend socks that keep your hardworking feet dry and comfortable. Darn Tough moisture-wicking socks won’t slip or bunch up. Wool blend insulates, yet wicks moisture, for comfort as good in the cold as in the heat.
SHOP ALL DARN TOUGH SOCKS HERE
Need Help?
Still have questions about what gear you need to stay dry? We’re here to help. Give us a call at 800-382-8473 or email customerservice@gemplers.com