Water-resistant footwear: A splash of style in every step

On my way home to write this very story, I found myself standing at the edge of the road with a leaking umbrella, pants covered in mud up to my knees, with the biggest victim being my shoes – drenched in water and stained beyond saving with mud.

The irony of the day was not lost on me while I saw my beautiful white shoes get ritually sacrificed to the poor drainage of Dhaka city roads.

However, fortunately, you do not need to witness your shoes face the same fate. We have prepared a list of some of the best water-resistant shoes, from casual to semi-formal. 

The shoes we have listed are water-resistant yet breathable, making them perfect for rainy days.

Hush Puppies Rainmaker formal slip-on shoes 

This water-resistant formal shoe is crafted from premium full-grain leather, making it an excellent choice for men attending formal occasions without sacrificing style – even in wet weather. In light rain, you will not need to worry about water seeping into the shoes and the inner soles getting wet.

However, it is still advised to avoid exposure to heavy rain for too long, as the shoes are only water-resistant. If they remain wet for a prolonged period of time, there is a chance they may develop stains and cracks from absorbing excess water.

As a precaution, we recommend using a leather protectant or waterproofing spray to increase the durability of leather in the long term.

At such a steep price and with its premium build, they are probably the best pair to wear at upscale events, or when you simply want to look and feel your best.

While it is originally priced at Tk15,999, you can avail a 50% discount right now, making it Tk8,000.

Price: Tk15,999
Where to buy: Bata

Men's waterproof closed sandal

This sandal is an affordable, easy-to-clean, casual option to wear without any fear in this rainy season.  Priced at Tk390, it eliminates the burden of constantly worrying about the damage your sandals may face.

Even with an attractive price, the shoe is built to last. Both the upper and lower soles are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is water-repellent, making sure the soles do not become wet.

It creates a watertight barrier that makes it easy to clean and maintain while offering a reassuring durability and flexibility in navigating the muddy puddles.

The shoe is not entirely sealed – tiny gaps around the upper sole edges offer essential breathability, especially in Bangladesh's humid climate. If you are looking for footwear suitable for year-round use and prefer to avoid sandals, this shoe might be the right fit for you.

This also means, however, that the shoes are not built for heavy use in the rain. It might protect you from splashes and puddles, but you may have to avoid submerging your feet in water. 

Price: Tk390

Where to buy: Apex

Floatz sandals 

Bata's Floatz sandals are partially enclosed sandals that are priced between Tk600 to Tk800, available for children and adults.

The shoes are made with a high-quality waterproof material, which is excellent for both heavy rain and puddles. It is perfectly suited for casual and heavy use without having to worry about maintenance.

The series offers options for women, men, and children in vibrant colours, perfect for beach days, lounging beside the swimming pool, and on casual days. However, the women's sandals offer no coverage, unlike the men's and children's options.

The shoes are designed to be skid-resistant, offering safety on slippery surfaces. According to the website, these shoes are also anti-bacterial and easy to clean, making them an ideal addition to your footwear lineup.

Price: Tk600-Tk800

Where to buy: Bata

Azuca black sandals

Part of La Mode's monsoon collection, this is one of the few sandals for female consumers that is made in mind for surviving rainy days.

With a waterproof sole and faux leather, these open-toe sandals prevent water absorption, ensuring comfortable walking.

The straps on the sandals are as functional as they are stylish. They make sure your foot is strapped in the sandal, preventing the shoe from slipping off your foot despite the slippery material. The best part about it is that even after regular use, you will not have to worry much about the wear and tear of the sole, as it is made to withstand water.

While the faux leather of the straps is water-resistant, it is still susceptible to degrading over time with prolonged exposure to water. You can still manage it, however, with additional care such as a waterproofing spray.

With that in mind, the shoe's design does not allow for much protection or coverage, so you must be careful while treading through puddles. 

Price: Tk950

Where to buy: La Mode