Wet sidewalks, surprise showers, and dewy morning trails don’t care about your training plan. You need a running shoe that shrugs off moisture without turning every step into a slog. This list rounds up six options built to keep your feet dry while still feeling like running shoes, not rubber boots.
The Choices Worth Comparing
On Cloudhorizon Waterproof
ASICS Gel-Contend 9 Road Running
A Deeper Look At The Lineup
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof sits at the trail-meets-pavement end of the spectrum, built for runners and fast hikers who don’t want to switch shoes when the weather shifts. Its waterproof construction, a key feature here, means a fully sealed membrane between your foot and the elements, so puddles and morning dew stay outside the shoe. CloudTec Phase cushioning, a segmented outsole design that compresses on landing, gives the platform a soft, rolling feel that absorbs impact without feeling mushy.
You get the most out of this shoe on mixed terrain: gravel paths, wooded trails, and wet pavement. Unlike pure road shoes like the Brooks Ghost 15, this one is geared for off-pavement conditions. The trade-off shows up in weight and ground feel, since trail-ready builds tend to feel a touch stiffer underfoot. For runners who split their miles between road and trail, that compromise is usually worth it.
What Stands Out
- Waterproof membrane keeps feet dry through puddles and wet grass
- CloudTec Phase cushioning softens landings on hard-packed trails
- Versatile enough for both trail runs and casual hikes
- Roomy toe box accommodates natural foot splay on uneven ground
Things To Consider
- Heavier than a pure road running shoe, which you may notice on fast tempo days
- Not as breathable as a mesh-only trainer in warm, humid weather
Who It Suits Best
Trail-curious runners and hikers who want one shoe that handles wet, mixed terrain without sacrificing all-day comfort.
Skip It When
The Saucony Triumph 22 will suit road-focused runners better, since its plush foam and lighter build feel livelier on long paved miles.
The Brooks Ghost 15 is a workhorse neutral trainer that has earned its reputation through years of iteration. It’s designed for runners who land without a strong inward roll, called overpronation, or outward roll, called underpronation, making it a safe middle-of-the-road choice for a wide swath of foot types. The midsole delivers a balanced mix of softness and responsiveness, so it disappears under your foot during easy miles.
Compared to the trail-leaning On Cloudhorizon, the Ghost 15 is firmly a road shoe, lighter and more flexible, with a smoother transition from heel to toe. For daily training on pavement, a treadmill, or a track, that road focus is exactly what you want. Runners logging consistent weekly mileage tend to appreciate the predictable, no-fuss feel.
What Works In Its Favor
- Neutral support suits a wide range of footstrikes and gait patterns
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition feels natural on long, easy runs
- Well-cushioned midsole reduces leg fatigue over high weekly mileage
Worth Noting
- Not built for technical trails, so aggressive off-road runners may want more grip
- Owners commonly report the upper losing some structure after many months of regular use
Made For
Neutral runners and walkers who rack up steady road miles and want a forgiving, predictable daily trainer.
Look Elsewhere When
The Saucony Cohesion 18 is a smarter pick for shoppers on a tighter budget, since it delivers similar neutral cushioning at a noticeably lower cost.
The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 is built around comfort first, with an engineered jacquard mesh upper, a knit-style fabric woven for breathability and stretch, that wraps the foot in a soft, sock-like fit. The polyester upper, lining, and insole work together to keep the foot cool during long efforts, while the lace-up closure lets you dial in a secure midfoot hold. Underneath, ASICS’ GEL cushioning, a silicone-based insert that absorbs shock at landing, softens each step.
For casual runners, walkers, and people on their feet all day, the Gel-Excite 11 makes a lot of sense. It feels lighter on foot than the On Cloudhorizon, but it lacks the waterproof membrane, so it’s better suited to dry conditions. The breathable upper, in our view, is the real selling point during warm-weather months.
Key Advantages
- Jacquard mesh upper breathes well in warm weather
- GEL cushioning absorbs impact for joint-friendly comfort
- Lightweight build reduces leg fatigue on casual runs
- Versatile enough for the gym, errands, and easy jogs
Trade Offs
- No waterproofing, so wet pavement will soak through quickly
- Stack height, the thickness of material between foot and ground, is lower than premium trainers, which matters less for short runs but shows up on longer efforts
Quick Facts
Best Suited To
Casual runners and active walkers in dry climates who prioritize all-day comfort over trail-ready features.
Consider Something Else When
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof is a smarter pick for runners who train through wet weather, since it adds a waterproof membrane the Gel-Excite 11 simply doesn’t have.
The ASICS Gel-Contend 9 is a straightforward road trainer aimed at beginners and budget-minded shoppers. It uses AMPLIFOAM cushioning, a lightweight midsole foam designed for durability, paired with rearfoot GEL technology to soften landings. The OrthoLite sockliner, a removable insole made of breathable open-cell foam, adds a layer of step-in comfort that makes the shoe feel more expensive than it is.
Trusstic Technology, a structural shank under the midfoot, adds stability without much extra weight, which helps runners who feel wobbly in softer shoes. Compared to the pricier Gel-Excite 11, the Contend 9 is a touch firmer, but it covers the same general use case. The trade-off shows up in long-run plushness, where the higher-tier Saucony Triumph 22 pulls ahead.
A Favorable Mix
- AMPLIFOAM midsole balances cushion and durability for daily use
- OrthoLite sockliner enhances step-in comfort
- Trusstic shank adds midfoot stability for newer runners
- Accessible price point for first-time road runners
Points To Note
- Less plush than premium trainers on runs over 5 miles
- Not designed for trail use, so aggressive off-road terrain is out of scope
- Some owners report the outsole wearing down faster with heavy weekly mileage
Whose Shelf It Belongs On
New runners and casual joggers who want a reliable, supportive road shoe without paying for premium cushioning.
A Better Fit Elsewhere
The Brooks Ghost 15 is the upgrade path when you start logging more miles, since its smoother ride handles higher training volume with less fatigue.
The Saucony Triumph 22 is a max-cushion daily trainer designed for runners who want one shoe that does everything well. Its PWRRUN PB superfoam midsole, Saucony’s lightest and most responsive foam, delivers a noticeably springy feel that makes longer runs feel easier. The broader platform and updated rocker geometry, a curved sole shape that encourages forward rolling, work together to create a smooth, balanced ride from heel-strike to toe-off.
Full-length XT-900 rubber, a durable carbon-rich compound, covers the outsole for solid grip and longevity. Against the On Cloudhorizon, the Triumph 22 is lighter and more energetic, but it skips the waterproof membrane, so it’s a fair-weather road shoe. For high-mileage training, you may find this is the most comfortable option in the lineup.
What Earns Its Place
- PWRRUN PB foam delivers plush yet responsive cushioning
- Updated rocker geometry promotes smooth transitions
- XT-900 rubber outsole extends shoe lifespan under heavy mileage
- Roomy fit accommodates wider feet comfortably
Minor Gripes
- Premium price makes it less appealing for casual runners
- No waterproof barrier, so wet conditions will soak through
Feature Snapshot
Perfect Match For
High-mileage runners and marathon trainers who want maximum cushioning without giving up a lively, responsive feel.
Swap It Out When
The ASICS Gel-Contend 9 makes more sense for shoppers who run only a few times a week, since it covers the basics at a fraction of the cost.
The Saucony Cohesion 18 is a no-frills neutral trainer that prioritizes straightforward comfort and value. It features VersaRun cushioning, Saucony’s versatile midsole foam designed for all-day wear, and a comfortable, secure fit that works for a range of foot shapes. It’s the kind of shoe you can grab for a quick jog, a dog walk, or an errand run without thinking twice.
Versus the pricier Triumph 22, the Cohesion 18 skips the premium foam and rocker geometry, so it feels firmer and more traditional underfoot. For runners who only need a shoe for a few weekly miles, the trade-off is fair. The catch is that the lower price comes with a less refined ride, which you may notice on longer efforts.
Practical Pluses
- VersaRun cushioning handles everyday mileage comfortably
- Secure, traditional fit suits a wide range of foot shapes
- Budget-friendly entry point into Saucony’s running lineup
Potential Drawbacks
- Firmer ride than premium trainers on runs past 4-5 miles
- No waterproofing, so it performs poorly in wet conditions
- Less energetic feel than higher-end options like the Triumph 22
Who Should Grab It
Casual runners and walkers on a budget who want a dependable, comfortable neutral shoe for light weekly use.
Reach For A Different Pick When
The Saucony Triumph 22 is the upgrade move once your mileage climbs, since its superfoam midsole and rocker shape make long runs feel noticeably easier.
What Separates a Waterproof Running Shoe From the Rest
A waterproof running shoe relies on an internal membrane, a thin layer of material that blocks water while allowing some vapor to escape, sandwiched between the upper and the lining. The best implementations feel nearly identical to non-waterproof versions, so you don’t sacrifice weight or breathability for dry feet.
Fit matters more than most shoppers expect. A waterproof shoe that runs narrow will trap heat and moisture from the inside, defeating the purpose. Try on shoes later in the day when feet are slightly swollen, mimicking post-run conditions, to get a realistic sense of fit.
Durability tells the real story. A waterproof membrane loses effectiveness once the upper gets punctured or the seams wear, so check the toe box and side panels for reinforcement if you plan to run on rough pavement or light trails.
Quick Tips Before You Commit
Common Shopping Slip Ups
Don’t assume “waterproof” means “breathable” in the same way a mesh-only shoe is. Membranes block water but also reduce airflow, so a fully waterproof shoe can feel clammy in hot, humid conditions. For warm-weather running, a water-resistant upper with quick-dry mesh is often a better trade-off.
Ignoring fit breaks more waterproof shoes than anything else. A shoe that’s too tight compresses the membrane and creates pressure points; one that’s too loose lets water in through the ankle collar. Always test fit with the socks you plan to run in.
Where The Extra Money Goes
Premium running shoes justify their higher cost through lighter foams, more durable outsoles, and refined upper construction. The PWRRUN PB foam in the Saucony Triumph 22, for example, returns more energy per step than entry-level cushioning, which adds up over many miles. The trade-off is real: you pay more, but you also get a shoe that handles high weekly mileage without breaking down as quickly. For casual runners logging under 15 miles a week, that premium often isn’t worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do waterproof running shoes really keep feet dry in heavy rain?
They handle steady rain, puddles, and wet grass well, but they’re not fully submersible. Standing water over the ankle collar will eventually seep in, so avoid deep puddles.
How long does the waterproof membrane typically last?
Most membranes hold up for 300 to 500 miles before water resistance starts to decline. After that, the shoe still runs fine but loses its ability to repel moisture.
Can I use a waterproof shoe on hot summer days?
You can, but expect warmer feet than a breathable mesh option. The membrane traps heat, so most runners prefer non-waterproof shoes above 75°F.
Will waterproof shoes make my feet sweat more?
Yes, to some degree. The membrane reduces airflow, which means more interior moisture from sweat. Moisture-wicking socks help a lot here.
How do I clean a waterproof running shoe without damaging the membrane?
Use mild soap, cool water, and a soft brush. Skip the washing machine and skip harsh detergents, since both can break down the membrane over time.
Closing Remarks
A good waterproof running shoe should disappear on your foot, dry or wet, so the miles feel the same either way. Match the shoe to your actual terrain and mileage, and you’ll get far more value out of whichever pair you choose.