Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Shoes: What’s the Difference?
Footwear descriptions use words such as waterproof and water-resistant, but they aren’t interchangeable. If keeping your feet dry is the reason you’re buying a pair, it’s worth checking the precise wording.
Water-resistant
A water-resistant material may shed some moisture, but that claim alone does not promise dry feet in prolonged rain. Treatments can also need renewing over time. Follow the care instructions for the actual material.
Waterproof
A shoe sold as waterproof is intended to prevent water passing through its protected construction under the conditions described by the maker. The design still has limits: water can enter over the top, especially with a low-cut shoe. Wear, damage and poor care can affect performance too.
What to check before buying
Read the specific model’s product description for a waterproof claim or named membrane. Then consider shoe height, grip and the type of walking you do. A waterproof upper says nothing by itself about how a sole behaves on slippery stone.
Browse our ladies’ outdoor range, men’s ECCO range or the ECCO Track collection for current options. Check each individual listing before choosing a pair for wet weather.