When you think about GORE-TEX sneakers, you probably envision traipsing through snow and ice in winter, which would be typical if global warming weren't a thing. But, now that we're actually heading out for hikes again, it's worth guarding against unexpected showers. Seasonal armor doesn't get much stronger than when equipped with GORE-TEX — the ultimate power in waterproofing and breathability.
GORE-TEX isn't just a reserve of outerwear, though. A far superior cold-weather wardrobe can be achieved by decking yourself out head to toe in the stuff, and every solid fit starts with the feet. Enter GORE-TEX sneakers.
Over recent seasons, sportswear names have become increasingly fond of using GORE-TEX for casual sneakers, resulting in weather-ready footwear that isn't a bulky mountain boot. Even more recently, we've seen the introduction of luxury names into the scene, too. Below, we've picked out a handful of pairs that put W. L. Gore's pioneering fabric to use, ranging from purist trail runners to luxury reboots.
Shop the best GORE-TEX sneakers on the market below.
New Balance 2002RX
2002RX
New Balance
The 2002r was already one of our favorite New Balance sneakers, but this brown-hued colorway combined with its waterproof capabilities takes the model up to the next level.
Nike Air Jordan 1 Element GTX
Air Jordan 1 Element GTX
Nike
The introduction of GORE-TEX into the world of sneakers has meant that our favorite silhouettes are now made for more and more situations. Now, you can viably go for a wet hike in a pair of Jordan 1s. What a time to be alive.
Merrell Moab Speed GORE-TEX 1TRL
Moab Speed GORE-TEX 1TRL
Merrell
If you're not sure your sneakers are thoroughly weatherproof, the large GORE-TEX print along this sneaker should serve as a good reminder. Merrell's roster of trail-ready sneakers is great for all occasions, but this all-white pair seems like it was made for the streets.
Vans x Palace Half Cab '92
Half Cab '92
Vans x Palace
Don't worry skaters, we haven't forgotten about you. These waterproof Half Cabs will numb some of the pain of finding out your favorite spot's wet.
Salomon Quest 4D GTX Advanced
Quest 4D GTX Advanced
Salomon
Part trail-running sneaker, part military-grade outdoor boot, this Salomon shoe is made for hardcore adventurers so it will be more than functional enough for rainy days in the city.
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX
Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX
Nike
Like with so many other trail running sneakers, these offer more than just stability when covering tough conditions at speed. We're already planning the gorp-y outfits we can include them in.
New Balance Rainier
Rainier
New Balance
New Balance has given your typical hiking boot a more sporty look and added a GORE-TEX upper in the process.
ASICS HS4-S GEL-Sonoma 15-50 GTX Sneakers
HS4-S Gel-Sonoma 15-50 GTX
ASICS
ASICS' ongoing partnership with designer Kiko Kostadinov is one of the more exciting aspects of the sneaker world right now — and this is one of our favorite releases from the partnership so far.
11 By Boris Bidjan Saberi x Salomon Bamba 2 GTX High Sneakers
Bamba 2 GTX High Sneakers
11 By Boris Bidjan Saberi x Salomon
Boris Bidjan Saberi is and always will be one of Salomon's best collaborators. This high-top pair is detailed with a dyed-ripstop upper, Contagrip® rubber sole, and of course a bit of GTX to keep your feet dry.
adidas Terrex Free Hiker
Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex
adidas
adidas' outdoor-focused subline uses the label's patented Primeknit fabric and wraps it in a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane to create a hi-top sneaker ready for hiking.
Mizuno Wave Daichi 7 GTX
Wave Daichi 7 GTX
Mizuno
Although the Wave Daichi was already designed for the trails its latest material update ensures you can navigate through any terrain, hassle-free.
Nike Air Force 1 GTX
Air Force 1 GTX
Nike
The Nike Air Force 1 is a stone-cold classic that forms the basis of rotations through every season. This GORE-TEX update makes the silhouette even more applicable throughout the year. Summer's not always dry and sunny, people.
ASICS Gel-Sonoma 6 GTX Sneakers
Gel-Sonoma 6 GTX Sneakers
ASICS
The only thing better than a pair of Gel-Sonoma's are ones that can protect you from the rain. If you're one to go for run even when it's lightly raining out, these ASICS will keep you on the right path.
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