Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (2024)

This post may contain affiliate links, which help to keep Discerning Cyclist rolling. Learn more.

As a cyclist, there are many irritating things about bad weather. There’s the discomfort of soggy feet that can literally start to feel like ice blocks if it’s wet and cold. The stench of wet feet isn’t so great, either. But there’s also the issue of how to retain your impeccable sense of cycling style if, through reasons beyond your control, your feet are in danger of becoming sodden.

There are all kinds of imaginative and cheap ways to keep your feet dry and warm on those all too frequent UK rainy days. But if you’re commuting, it may not be appropriate to tramp into the office with plastic bags on your feet, effective as they are.

To be fair, none of my work places would have minded this, but if yours (or you) have anything that resembles a style standard, it may be time to invest in a set of waterproof shoes that does the job, keeps you dry, and keeps you looking good while they’re at it.

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Commuting

  1. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (1)

    Chrome Storm 415 Traction Boot

    check price read more

  2. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (2)

    On Cloud Waterproof

    check price read more

  3. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (3)

    Adidas Velosamba Cycling Shoes

    check price read more

  4. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (4)

    Vessi Weekend Trainers

    check price read more

  5. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (5)

    Tretorn Chelsea Classic Wool Boot

    check price read more

  6. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (6)

    Ecco Citytray with Gore-Tex

    check price read more

  7. Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (7)

    Vans Ultrarange Exo MTE

    check price read more

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (8)

Waterproof Shoes for Cycling Commute

When thinking about good footwear for bike commuting, you should be looking for shoes that offer comfort, versatility and support. They also need to be effectively waterproof. Given that if you commute every day, many of those days will be rainy ones.

What to Look for in Shoes for Commuting by Bike

  • Stiff/sturdy sole
  • Waterproof
  • Not too heavy
  • Comfortable materials
  • Support
  • Good grip
  • Design – important if you’re keeping them on for the working day
  • Something you can walk easily in

Why You Can Trust UsBest Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (9)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (10)

Discerning Cyclist’s expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing cycling products so you don’t have to.

Testing stylish gear since 2012

Hundreds of hands-on product tests

Unfiltered opinions from experienced cyclists

Learn more about Discerning Cyclist here.

Best Waterproof Cycling Trainers, Boots and Shoes

We recently asked the Discerning Cyclist audience to recommend top tips for keeping their feet dry while commuting by bike. Below we’ve compiled a list of the most popular recommendations (including some quotes) so you too can keep your feet dry as you ride.

1. Chrome Storm 415 Traction Boot

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (15) £160
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (16) $160
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (17) €180

Prices are approximate

  • Waterproof oiled full-grain leather upper
  • 4-layer breathable waterproof internal membrane
  • Durable rubber heel cup with reflective safety hit
  • 100% vulcanized rubber construction

Full-grain leather upper with vulcanized outsole

Contoured impact-resistant PU crash pad insole

Waterproof membrane with taped seams

Chrome Industries have been on our radar for some time now as manufacturers of cycling gear that is not only built to last, but looks great too. Style is the key here, and the enduring popularity of Chrome is testament to the fact that it’s possible to find premium quality cycling footwear that is versatile enough for pretty much anything.

Following on from the 415 Workboot, the Storm 415 Traction Boot offers next-level protection for foul wet weather without compromising on style.

The materials of this boot are tough enough for any scenario, with full-grain leather and 100% vulcanized rubber for lasting durability. And the 4-layer internal membrane is not only waterproof but breathable, adding to the overall comfort.

The stiff soles improve cycling performance but are still comfortable to walk in and don’t require a long period of breaking in. So, if you’re after a truly versatile and handsome shoe for all-weathers, on and off the bike, then this could well be the one for you.

buy here Read Review

2. On Cloud Waterproof

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (18)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (19)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (20)

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (21) £140
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (22) $150
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (23) €160

Prices are approximate

  • 100% wind and waterproof membrane upper
  • Outsole with Zero-Gravity foam and Cloud Technology
  • Advanced abrasion pads for a secure grip
  • Reflective elements

100% wind and waterproof membrane

Outsole with Zero-Gravity foam

Advanced abrasion pads for superior grip

Available in four colours, the On Cloud Waterproof is a shoe that’s designed for all-day use, whatever the weather. Made for performance first and foremost, but with an understated simplicity and style, it’s something that you can cycle, run and walk in with ease.

This shoe is certainly not short on comfort. The outsole is rugged and robust, but the Zero-Gravity foam and Cloud technology provide cushioning for those urban streets. Advanced abrasion pads give an excellent grip, and the molded heel ensures a secure fit. The speed-lacing system, along with the step-in heel loop, makes it an easy shoe to slip on and off without fuss.

With a wind and waterproof membrane, the Cloud Waterproof is engineered to keep your feet dry and warm in wet, cooler conditions. And as wet weather often means dark and dreary, there are reflective elements for greater visibility.

Combining style and practicality, this is a shoe that balances versatility, safety and comfort – ideal for your commute, and everything else. An appealing package all round.

buy here

3. Adidas Velosamba Cycling Shoes

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (24)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (25)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (26)

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (27) £100
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (28) $120
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (29) €120

Prices are approximate

  • Samba-inspired design
  • Full-length reinforced plate
  • Reflective details on the upper and heel
  • Secure heel fit with two-bolt cleat compatibility

Cycling-specific hybrid outsole

Reflective details on the upper and heel

Full-length internal plate

The Adidas Samba shoe is a classic beauty that has held its popularity over time, and has been reinvented in the form of theVelosamba– retaining the iconic style, with the inclusion of ingenious features specifically for cyclists.

We do love shoes that don’t ‘look’ like cycling shoes, and in this respect the Velosamba delivers above and beyond. It is a gorgeous thing to look at, coming in three colours – core black, wonder white and victory crimson. The reflective 3-stripes not only look great, but keep you visible in low light.

And as a cycling shoe, it delivers in abundance. The hybrid outsole is designed for cycling and walking. It has a reinforced, full-length plate for pedalling efficiency and features two-bolt cleat compatibility – so the pedal choice is yours. The secure heel fit ensures comfort and stability.

Adidas just seem to keep on giving. The Velosamba is a winner both in style and functionality, perfect as a commuter shoe. Available also in men and women’s sizes, it’s something that everyone can enjoy.

Are Adidas Velosamba Waterproof?

Adidas states that the coated leather upper “helps resist cold, damp weather”. Whereas these shoes may not be completely waterproof in torrential conditions, they should protect and keep the feet warm on an average wet day.

These are probably not shoes that you’ll want to hide from view withcycling overshoes, but you may want to invest in some decentwaterproof socksfor added protection in heavy rain

buy here

4. Vessi Weekend Trainers

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (30)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (31)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (32)

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (33) £100
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (34) $139
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (35) €119

Prices are approximate

  • 100% waterproof knit
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Improved arch support
  • Machine washable

100% waterproof

Lightweight, breathable knit

All rubber tread

The Vessi Weekend trainers don’t disappoint. Firstly, as with all Vessi shoes, they look good – oozing urban style in their simple sneaker design. They’re also lightweight with a breathable knit that is 100% waterproof and machine washable.

We’re big fans of Vessi shoes at Discerning Cyclist. Indeed, theVessi Cityscape shoessaw our co-founder, Pete, through a three-week Georgian travel adventure that included hiking in the wilderness, and were a triumph in all conditions.

The Weekend trainers combine style with comfort and convenience, for a shoe that is as happy on a bike as it is treading you through city streets, or up a mountain. There are also a huge range of colours to choose from, with five original colours and six limited edition, with sizes for men and women.

And that’s not all. These trainers are also made from vegan materials and have improved arch support. And this is (as a vegan who needs arch support), supremely exciting stuff. What’s not to love about these good-looking and eco-friendly shoes? Absolutely nothing.

The only downside is that Vessi don’t yet ship directly to the UK. However, UK-based customers can shop through the international Vessi site and use a parcel forwarding company.

Are Vessi Shoes Good for Cycling?

Vessi shoes are a great option for cycling, particularly if you want to look good while doing so. They’re not exclusively designed for cycling – but being lightweight, waterproof, breathable and easy to clean – they’re an excellent shoe for your bike commute, and much more.

buy here

5. Tretorn Chelsea Classic Wool Boot

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (36)

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (37) £110
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (38) $140
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (39) €120

Prices are approximate

  • Elastic on both sides of shaft
  • Warm inner lining of wool/acrylic
  • Metal shank in midsole for extra stability
  • Sole with extra comfort grip

Warm inner lining

Sole with extra comfort grip

Metal shank in midsole for extra stability

The Chelsea Classic Wool boot, with its wool/acrylic lining, is a warm version of the popular Chelsea Classic. Styled and made with typical Tretorn craftmanship, this can be worn for your cycle commute, and the whole day. Ideal, if trainers aren’t part of the office dress code.

The design is simple and elegant, but this is a quality, durable boot, built to withstand wear and tear. All of Tretorn’s boots are handmade, and the Chelsea Classic Wool has a metal shank in the midsole along with a natural rubber outsole for grip and comfort. With elastic on the sides and two pull tabs, it’s easy to pull on and off. Nothing faffy or complicated, here.

In short, this boot looks like a thoroughbred, but behaves like a workhorse, and will serve you well in all urban conditions.

buy here

6. Ecco Citytray with Gore-Tex

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (40)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (41)

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (42) £150
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (43) $200
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (44) €160

Prices are approximate

  • Full-grain leather
  • Gore-Tex waterproof construction
  • Rubber outsole for stability and grip
  • Removable, leather-covered insole for added comfort

Crafted in full-grain leather

Gore-Tex waterproof construction

Rubber outsole for stability and grip

Exuding pure sophistication, the Ecco Citytray is a beautifully designed shoe for those commuters who have more “elevated office dress codes”, and don’t want to have to change their footwear. They’re also perfectly suited for more formal occasions, so you’ll literally never have to carry spare shoes to work again.

The Citytray is made with full-grain leather, and beneath the classic exterior, the waterproof Gore-Tex technology will ensure that your feet stay dry and comfortable.

And on the subject of comfort, this shoe goes the extra mile to keep your feet happy. The reduced-weight platform responds to the weight of the foot for a more natural feel, and the sole design is state-of-the-art, providing flexibility with Ecco Fluidform Direct Comfort Technology. And if that isn’t enough, for even more comfort, there’s a leather-covered insole (that can be removed).

buy here

7. Vans Ultrarange Exo MTE

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (45)

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (46)

  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (47) £110
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (48) $130
  • Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (49) €130

Prices are approximate

  • UltraRange all-terrain treads
  • High quality thermal insulation system
  • Comfort UltraCush foam cushioning mid-sole
  • HydroGuard wrap around shoe and over the toe

Performance treads for grip and protection

High quality thermal insulation system

Comfort UltraCush foam cushioning mid-sole

Vans created Mountain Edition (MTE) for adventure, with the attitude that adventure happens in mud, rain, snow, sleet and wind – as well as those occasionally sunny days.

The Ultrarange Exo MTE is crafted to be an all-weather shoe, and has a lot of technology to ensure that weather needn’t be an issue. Combining the comfort of the Ultrarange with MTE weatherproofing features – the result is a good-looking, comfy boot that is bad-ass enough to take on anything.

Available in grapeleaf/marshmallow (my personal favourite), and pewter/black, the colour options aren’t huge. But you probably won’t care, with features such as the high quality microfibre thermal insulation system, Ortholite sockliner and UltraCush midsole. This combination allows the air to circulate and keeps your feet drier.

Created for ‘ultimate versatility’, this innovative addition to the Vans range will support and protect you on your commute, and far beyond.

buy here

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (50)

Read More:

  • Best Waterproof Overshoes for Cycling
  • How to Keep Your Feet Dry While Cycling in the Rain
  • Top 4 Waterproof Cycling Socks

Discerning Cyclist Store


Visit the Discerning Cyclist's Shop

Best Waterproof Cycling Shoes for Bike Commuting: Top 7 (2024)

FAQs

What shoes to wear biking in rain? ›

  • ShimanoEX900 Explorer Mountain Bike Shoes - Men's. $300.00.
  • 45NRTHWolfgar Insulated Cycling Boots. $495.00. ...
  • Colors. ...
  • Five TenTrailcross GTX Mountain Bike Shoes - Men's. ...
  • 45NRTHWolvhammer Boa Winter Cycling Boots. ...
  • RaphaWinter Overshoes. ...
  • ShimanoGF8 GORE-TEX Mountain Bike Shoes - Men's. ...
  • 45NRTHRagnarok Tall Bike Shoes.

What cycling shoes do the pros wear? ›

Shimano's S-Phyre shoes (RC901 model) are popular in the peloton. Rigoberto Uran races in Sidi Shots while EF Pro Cycling teammate Tejay Van Garderen uses Giro Imperial shoes. Israel Start-Up Nation is racing on the Mavic Comete Ultimate. Valentin Madouas of Groupama-FDJ is racing the older Shimano S-Phyre shoes.

What is the difference between Shimano and Giro cycling shoes? ›

Shimanos are pretty bog standard in terms of sizing. Giro Empires are narrow in the forefoot, but the uppers are flexible enough conform around wider feet. Sidis are narrow in the forefoot with an aggressive taper in the toebox AND they have low height/volume. That's why some people go a half-size larger.

How do I keep my feet dry when cycling? ›

Wear overshoes

Waterproof overshoes will help keep your feet dry for longer when cycling in the rain. Even when wet does get in, overshoes should help keep your feet warmer.

What do you wear on your legs when cycling in the rain? ›

To protect your legs from the wet and at the same time to keep warm we recommend the matching Tech rain pants. These pants also have reflective elements and are completely wind and water-resistant. Thanks to the long zipper on the leg, the pants can easily and comfortably be worn over your normal pants.

What do you wear when riding in the rain? ›

If a rain suit is not for you, having a weatherproof riding jacket will also keep you dry in the rain. You will need a rain jacket with a high collar that seals around your neck so that no water will drip inside and also seals tight around the wrists so that no water goes up your arms either.

Why do pros wear white cycling shoes? ›

A white shoe is the most versatile all-round colour to go for, and it's guaranteed to match whatever you're riding in. That said, if you're wearing white shoes, they've got to be clean. Dirty white is never a good look.

What are the disadvantages of cycling shoes? ›

Some cycling shoes (notably road bike shoes) can be challenging to walk in. According to Trek Bikes, road cycling shoes have the stiffest soles and widest cleats and probably won't be suitable for riders looking to keep jumping on and off the saddle.

Is Shimano high end? ›

Shimano Dura-Ace (R9200)

This is Shimano's flagship road bike groupset, designed for professional and high-end racing. It features a 2x12-speed drivetrain with hydraulic disc brakes and Di2 electronic shifting option.

How much difference do good cycling shoes make? ›

There are many benefits of cycling shoes, but in general they will keep you more comfortable and help you ride better than non-cycling shoes like running or training shoes. This goes for both flat-pedal shoes as well as clip-in shoes.

Do clip in cycling shoes make a difference? ›

Once you're clipped in, you have more control over your bike and your feet remain in an optimal position on your pedals. This way you can enjoy your ride or focus on training hard without needing to readjust your feet every few pedal strokes.

Why do my feet go numb in my cycling shoes? ›

Due to the pedaling, the foot tires and loses its naturally arched shape. This leads to additional compression in the area of the metatarsophalangeal joints. Nerve branches and blood vessels are constricted, and the toes begin to tingle or become numb.

Why do my feet hurt in cycling shoes? ›

Cyclists often report symptoms of tingling, numbness and burning in the feet and toes. The pathological cause can often vary, but poor shoe fit is often the root cause when we peel it all back. Most often, inadequate width around the toes is the culprit.

Why do my feet hurt while cycling? ›

Most foot issues in cycling are caused by compression of the nerves (and blood vessels) that run along the sole of the foot. This can manifest as pain, pressure, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations around the ball of the foot, and is sometimes referred to as Metatarsalgia or “Hot foot”.

Is it OK to ride my bike in the rain? ›

Things to know:

Bike brakes are much less effective when wet. Take it slower than normal and give yourself LOTS more time to stop. Metal, painted, and brick surfaces in the roadway can become very slippery during and after the rain. This means watch out for train tracks, utility hole covers, bike lane markings, etc.

How do I protect my bike shoes in the rain? ›

Get gaiters. These fit over your boots and will keep your boots dry and you put them on over your boots up to the bottom of your rain suit. Be sure you can pull your rain suit down tight to cover up as much of the boot as possible.

Are bikes OK to ride in the rain? ›

Because wet roads mean less traction, you need to adjust your riding accordingly. However, as long as you do this, it's not that much more dangerous (because most modern bike tires are rated for riding in the rain).

Is it OK for a bike to get rained on? ›

Rain on its own won't hurt your bike, but leaving it to marinate for days definitely will.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Eusebia Nader

Last Updated:

Views: 6644

Rating: 5 / 5 (60 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Eusebia Nader

Birthday: 1994-11-11

Address: Apt. 721 977 Ebert Meadows, Jereville, GA 73618-6603

Phone: +2316203969400

Job: International Farming Consultant

Hobby: Reading, Photography, Shooting, Singing, Magic, Kayaking, Mushroom hunting

Introduction: My name is Eusebia Nader, I am a encouraging, brainy, lively, nice, famous, healthy, clever person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.