Waterproof trail shoes are not about bravery, they’re about keeping the run simple

The last thing you want late in a tough run is route maths. Do I hop that puddle? Is that mud deep? Can I thread the needle between wet grass and a stream that used to be a path?

That’s the appeal of GORE-TEX and waterproof membranes. You stop tiptoeing. You stop dodging. You just run.

Waterproof trail shoes used to feel like compromises, stiff uppers, sweaty feet, and that slightly boxed-in sensation. Most modern builds are far less noticeable. You still need to be realistic, waterproof shoes keep water out, but if water gets in from the top, it can take longer to get out. In proper downpours and deep bogs, gaiters and smart sock choices still matter.

But for UK trail running most of the year, waterproof shoes are the difference between “fun mess” and “miserable mess”.

Below are some of the best waterproof trail running shoes you can buy, from road-to-trail hybrids to proper off-road workhorses.

What to look for in waterproof trail running shoes

A waterproof badge alone is not enough. The best ones get the full package right:

• A membrane that doesn’t feel bulky

• Grip that matches your terrain (hard-packed trails need different lugs to sloppy mud)

• Cushioning that suits your distance (short and nimble vs protective and cruisy)

• A secure upper so your foot doesn’t slide around when the ground tilts

• A fit that works with thicker winter socks without squeezing your toes into a bad mood

Our top picks: best waterproof trail running shoes

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX

A familiar name, rebuilt into a proper everyday trail shoe that works on pavements and trails alike. The ReactX midsole gives a durable, lightweight, more responsive feel, and it does a great job smoothing out uneven ground without feeling clunky.

Best for: door-to-trail routes, everyday mileage, mixed terrain
Watch out for: if your trails are very muddy and technical

HOKA Challenger 8 GORE-TEX

The ultimate “my route is everything” shoe. Pavement, path, field, woodland, back through the streets, it fits that reality. Big cushioning, smoother road feel than many trail shoes, and enough traction to stay confident when the surface changes. Invisible Fit GORE-TEX helps keep the waterproof layer more flexible and less noticeable.

Best for: road-to-trail runs, long steady miles, comfort
Watch out for: if you want aggressive bite in deep mud

New Balance Hierro v9 GTX

A cushioned, protective trail shoe built for miles. Dual-density Fresh Foam brings that buttery comfort, while the Vibram Eco Step outsole and 4.5mm lugs give traction you can rely on for climbs, descents, and mixed off-road terrain.

Best for: longer trail runs, comfort with real grip
Watch out for: if you prefer a low, nimble feel

adidas Terrex Agravic GORE-TEX Trail

A proper wet-weather trail option, pairing a waterproof upper with an outsole designed to grip confidently when conditions turn. Lightstrike 2.0 in the midsole keeps it light, stable, and comfortable, making it a strong pick for runners who want a more responsive ride off-road.

Best for: varied trail terrain, wet conditions, stable responsiveness
Watch out for: if you want max cushion softness

On Cloudvista 2 Waterproof

Not GORE-TEX, but waterproof, and it feels more agile than many shoes in this category. Lower to the ground for precision, CloudTec and Helion foam for a forward rolling feel, and MissionGrip rubber with short 2.5mm lugs that work best on hard-packed earth and gravel.

Best for: faster trail days, hard-packed trails, nimble feel
Watch out for: sloppy mud, soft ground, deep winter mess

Nike Juniper Trail 2 GORE-TEX

The value pick. Waterproof protection, durable trail build, and a locked-in feel thanks to Flywire cables. Tapered lugs give traction uphill and down, and the price makes it an easy entry point if you want dry feet without going premium.

Best for: budget waterproof trail running, everyday off-road runs
Watch out for: if you want a more premium cushion feel for longer distances

New Balance Nitrel v6 GORE-TEX

A road-to-trail shoe with a waterproof outer at a sensible price. It’s built for runners who want to leave the house and cover parks, trails and pavements without swapping shoes. No-sew overlays add protection without piling on weight.

Best for: mixed routes, daily use, value
Watch out for: technical trails and very wet, soft ground

HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX

The classic technical trail workhorse, updated to feel lighter, faster, and more agile than before. The Speedgoat name is famous for a reason. Cushioned, protective, and built to handle a wide range of terrain, with that smooth HOKA forward feel that keeps you moving when the trail gets rough.

Best for: proper trail running, rougher terrain, longer runs
Watch out for: if you mainly run on roads and light paths

On Cloudsurfer Trail Waterproof 2

A road shoe turned trail shoe turned waterproof option, built for comfort over moderate terrain. The slanted CloudTec Phase design adds momentum through the stride for an effortless feel. MissionGrip rubber handles mixed ground well, and the waterproof membrane keeps the worst of winter out.

Best for: door-to-trail comfort, moderate terrain, daily miles
Watch out for: deep mud and highly technical trails

Merrell Agility Peak 5 GORE-TEX

The “bring it on” option. Cushioned, protective, built for everything from short runs to ultras, with Vibram MegaGrip rubber and 5mm lugs for serious traction in wet or dry conditions. This is the shoe you pick when the terrain is the point, not a small section of your route.

Best for: tough trails, wet ground, long runs, maximum grip
Watch out for: if you want a lighter, more road-friendly feel

Runner’s checklist: choosing the right waterproof trail shoe

• Mostly pavement with some trails? Go Pegasus Trail GTX, Challenger GTX, Cloudsurfer Trail WP

• Hard-packed trails and gravel? Go Cloudvista Waterproof

• Longer trail miles and comfort? Go Hierro GTX or Speedgoat GTX

• Tough, technical terrain and proper winter conditions? Go Agility Peak GTX

• Need waterproof on a tighter budget? Go Juniper GTX or Nitrel GTX

Myth vs reality

Myth: Waterproof shoes keep your feet dry in all conditions.
Reality: They keep water out from below and the sides, but water can still get in from the top in deep puddles or heavy rain.

Myth: More lugs always means more grip.
Reality: Lug depth helps in soft ground, but rubber compound and lug shape matter just as much on wet rock and hard-packed trails.

Myth: Waterproof means you should wear thick socks only.
Reality: Thick socks can help warmth, but the best choice is what prevents rubbing and manages sweat for your foot.

Final runner truth

Waterproof trail shoes are freedom shoes. They let you stop tiptoeing around winter and just run the route you wanted to run in the first place.

Choose the pair that matches your terrain, and the puddles stop being obstacles. They just become part of the day.