Sure it's raining, but does that really mean you need waterproof running gear? The short answer is: It depends. If you plan to run in wet weather for a substantial length of time or if the temperatures are quite chilly, you will want waterproof gear to protect you from the elements.

The tricky part is that staying dry requires not just waterproofness but also breathability. Without breathability, running will cause you to overheat, sweat, and then get wet and clammy.

This is where GORE-TEX steps in. Not only has GORE-TEX (also written GTX) become synonymous with waterproof running, it has also taken over the casual fashion world as the trusted leader in water protection.

This article will take a deeper dive into what makes GORE-TEX technology work, why nearly all running rain gear now includes GORE-TEX, as well as how GORE-TEX technology repels water while still being able to provide the airflow needed for a comfortable run.

GORE-TEX is a type of innovative waterproof fabric that is breathable and durable. The brand began in 1959, but it wasn't until a decade later that the fabled GORE-TEX fabric membrane was created. The original fabric was made by rapidly stretching polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Doing this created an incredibly tough yet thin microporous material that is waterproof, windproof, lightweight, flexible, and breathable. This expanded material (ePTFE) was then bonded with the original polyurethane, which was sewn underneath the uppermost layer of the garment to create the GORE-TEX membrane.

Every square inch of GORE-TEX membrane has nine billion pores, and each of these holes is 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, meaning absolutely no rain or snow will penetrate the first layer. When it comes to breathability, these same pores are 700 times bigger than a sweat molecule. This means that when you turn up the intensity, sweat is able to escape, providing you with the airflow needed to stay dry.

Keeping your feet and body dry and comfortable is essential to achieving the best run possible. This unique type of breathability prevents water entering from the outside while limiting sweat build-up on the inside of the fabric, which helps stop blisters and chafing. With this level of comfort, you can devote your full attention to your run rather than your gear.

Now, moving to become more sustainable and reduce its carbon footprint, GORE-TEX has a new membrane made from ePe (expanded polyethylene), nonfluorinated materials. The GORE‑TEX ePE membrane is PFC-free, light, and thin while remaining strong. The all-new membrane includes combined textiles that are recycled, solution, or undyed.

GORE-TEX products have achieved a high waterproof rating and can withstand up to 28,000 mm of water pressure. That's even more than a monsoon rainstorm! So regardless of how bad the weather is, you can be confident that you are protected.

Being waterproof is only one third of the power that GORE-TEX products hold. The membrane is also windproof and breathable. It doesn't matter if you're scaling a mountain ridge or stuck in a brutal wind tunnel between skyscrapers, GORE-TEX products have you covered.

Why are we so excited about GORE-TEX? In a word, breathability. Breathability is what sets GORE-TEX apart from other waterproofing technologies, as the company continually works to raise the bar in this area. In addition to offering outstanding protection from the rain and wind while remaining breathable, GORE-TEX running products are also designed to be as light as possible.

GORE-TEX is used in a wide variety of performance clothing, including everything from hiking boots to ski jackets. Outdoor brands such as Patagonia, ARC'TERYX, and The North Face are known for using GORE-TEX to deliver the most lightweight and performance-driven products for their avid fanbases. Not only does GORE-TEX apply to apparel, but it is also popular in the world of sneakers. Legendary running brands such as Nike, adidas, and New Balance are incorporating GORE-TEX technology into their sneakers to create a shoe that can repel water and keep feet dry.

GORE-TEX's thin membrane can be bonded to a wide variety of fabrics to offer the perfect balance of weight, durability, and warmth needed for specific activities and conditions. These products are made waterproof by sandwiching the GORE-TEX membrane together with the main body fabric of the product. Another benefit of laminating lightweight products with GORE-TEX membranes is an increase in durability compared to many generic waterproof membranes.

Thanks to its durability and low weight, the GORE-TEX membrane can be applied to different fabrics in a variety of ways. The three different types of construction include:

Two-layer construction: In this construction, the GORE-TEX membrane is bonded only to the outer textile and not the lining. By not bonding the lining, this allows for a separate lining to be combined with insulation.

Three-layer construction: When using this method, the GORE-TEX membrane is bonded to both the outer textile and the lining. This leads to a more durable fabric, making this ideal for lightweight shell jackets.

Z-liner: This composition is similar to three-layer construction, but the GORE-TEX membrane is bonded to a supremely lightweight fabric that floats freely between the outer and the lining. This is the preferred construction for making winter gear with multiple layers and insulation.

If you want to start with just one piece of waterproof running gear, we recommend beginning with a rain jacket. This will help keep your core dry and warm, which will have the greatest impact on your overall comfort.

Tights and pants that feature GORE-TEX are also available, although this is usually a slightly different version of the technology called GORE-TEX Windstopper. These items are fully windproof and will keep most water off of your legs, but they incorporate added breathability at the cost of full waterproofness.

The Best Waterproof Running Shoes for 2024

• Best Highley Cushioned Waterproof Running Shoe Hoka Clifton 9 GTX
• Best Waterproof Running Shoe For Walking Saucony TR2 GTX
  
• Best Waterproof Trail-Running Shoe For Long Distance Hoka Speedgoat 6 GTX
  
• Best All-Arround Waterproof Trail-Running Shoe Hoka Challenger 7 GTX
  
• Best Waterproof Trail-Running Shoe For Wide Feet Altra Timp 5 GTX
  
• Best Waterproof Trail-Running Shoe For Mud, Snow And Ice Saucony Peregrine 14 GTX
  
• Best Waterproof Trail-Running Shoes On A Budget Asics Sonoma 7 GTX
  
• Best Waterproof Shoe For Walk The Dog Asics Cumulus 25 GTX
  

A waterproof version of one of our most popular road running shoes, the Hoka Clifton 9 GORE-TEX offers the perfect blend of cushioning and comfort for everyday runs (and casual wear too!). HOKA’s Clifton 9 GORE-TEX is a neutral everyday running shoe that boasts comfort and a low weight as its core principles. This iteration of the Clifton has been rejuvenated with an updated, lighter weight yet more responsive, CMEVA foam for a revitalized underfoot experience, and an additional 3mm of foam has been added in the stack height, enhancing cushioning without increasing the shoe's weight. The updated outsole design offers a high-level of durability and control on the road while a gusseted tongue offers a more secure fit and protects against rogue debris getting into the shoe. Finally, all these features are paired with HOKAs signature early-stage meta-rocker which delivers a smooth ride at any pace making the HOKA Clifton 9 GORE-TEX a tried-and-true daily trainer that any runner or walker can enjoy.

As the road-to-trail version of the classic Ride model, the Saucony Ride TR 2 GTX offers a balance of comfort, durability, and versatility that any runner and walker can appreciate. The midsole now features Saucony's PWRRUN+ foam, offering excellent cushioning and energy return to keep your legs feeling fresh, no matter how long you run. Meanwhile midsole cradles your foot for a stable and supportive fit, no matter the terrain. The durable yet breathable GORE-TEX mesh upper provides protection and ventilation. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or walker out, the Saucony Ride TR 2 GTX is a great choice for exploring the outdoors in any weather.

The HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX is a waterproof workhorse trail running shoe with a protective ride and grippy traction - ready to take on every day and all day trail runs alike. The ‘Goat is back for round 6, and the HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX aims to be THE trail running shoe for everyone and any trail, even in sloppy wet conditions. It’s the quintessential HOKA experience of high levels of cushioning and confidence-inspiring traction and has the versatility to meet the needs of trail runners, hikers, and ultramarathon athletes.

The HOKA Challenger 7 GTX is a hybrid trail running shoe that delivers a protective and comfortable ride on both roads and trails no matter the weather thanks to its waterproof upper.When your running route takes you from the road to the trails, the HOKA Challenger 7 GTX will assist in making that adventure a smooth and dry one. Highlighting this shoe is the GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology that directly bonds GORE-TEX membrane to the upper to create a lightweight and protective shield against the elements. Thanks to the increased stack height from previous models and the soft CMEVA foam in the midsole, runners will experience a plush landing mile after mile. The strategically placed lugs and the proprietary rubber in the outsole work together to provide excellent traction on singletrack trails and fireroads without sacrificing a smooth ride on paved surfaces. When the weather starts to turn and you're not exactly sure where or how far your run will take you, the Challenger 7 GTX is a do-it-all shoe that is ready for the call.

Grippy. Light. And ready to hit the ground running. That's trail running with the new Timp 5 GTX. Altra has equipped it with the same comfort you're used to, but saved a little weight. Thanks to the lighter weight, you can be out on the trail all day long. A new grippy outsole gives you the confidence to discover the magic of wild terrain. According to Vibram¨, the Vibram¨ Megagrip outsole offers unparalleled grip on wet and dry surfaces. Thanks to the Altra EGO™ MAX midsole with a new foam compound, you always get enough cushioning without losing your grip, even on the toughest trails. The new Timp 5 GTX offers you a wide toe box, 0 mm drop and a secure hold in the midfoot area so you can run naturally. Don't let them stop you. Keep on running. Thanks to waterproof GORE-TEX product technology, your feet are guaranteed to be protected from the elements and stay dry all day long.

The Saucony Peregrine 14 GTX stands out as a reliable daily companion for trail runners that offers a nimble and versatile experience on all terrains in any weather. Engineered with Saucony's advanced PWRRUN cushioning in the midsole paired with a PWRRUN+ sock liner, this trail running shoe delivers a perfect balance of responsiveness and protection, ensuring comfort during trail runs and hikes of any distance. To shield against sharp rocks and debris, a strategically placed rock plate beneath the midsole adds an extra layer of confidence, and the outsole is equipped with PWRTRAC rubber and 5mm lugs to ensure a slip-free experience on even the most technical of trails. Completing the Saucony Peregrine 14 GTX is a GORE-TEX Invisible Fit upper that provides waterproof protection that is surprisingly breathable to help keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Whether you're embarking on a trail run or a challenging hike in the rain, the Peregrine 14 GTX is equipped to handle the demands, offering the perfect blend of comfort, protection, and traction for any adventure.

Are you looking for a waterproof running shoe at a convincing price? Then the Asics Gel-Sonoma 7 GTX is an excellent choice. When it comes to comfort underfoot, the Gel-Sonoma 7 GTX leaves no stone unturned. The full-length AMPLIFOAM™ midsole provides a soft and responsive ride, absorbs shocks and offers excellent cushioning throughout the run. Complemented by strategically placed GEL¨ technology units, this shoe provides targeted cushioning exactly where it's needed most, increasing overall comfort and reducing stress on your feet. But the Gel-Sonoma 7 GTX is even more than that - it's the trail-specific outsole that really sets it apart. Designed to provide advanced traction, this outsole features a special pattern that allows you to stride confidently through challenging terrain, whether you're conquering inclines or tackling descents. With every step, you'll experience a secure and stable grip that empowers you to push your limits on the trails, knowing your footwear has your back.

If you're looking for a shoe for all situations, whether you're out and about with your dog in all weathers and you don't let bad weather put you off going out, then the Asics gel Cumulus GTX 25 is exactly the shoe you need. From the upper to the foam underfoot, the new GEL-CUMULUS™ 25 GTX now feels even softer and more responsive. The GORE-TEX™ membrane on the upper prevents rain and snow from penetrating the inside of the shoe. To increase comfort, the upper material has an improved heel fit. The mesh material improves breathability to keep your feet cool during your run. This sleek long-distance running shoe has also been updated with FLYTEFOAM™ BLAST cushioning. It keeps the shoe lightweight for a softer touchdown and a more dynamic footprint.

Many of the top running shoes on the market are also available in a GTX version, providing nearly the same running experience but with added GORE-TEX weatherproofing. The hot new innovation from GORE-TEX is "Invisible Fit" technology, which integrates GORE-TEX directly into a shoe's upper. This differs quite a bit from the traditional GORE-TEX application in running shoes, where the GORE-TEX liner is an additional stretch-bootie layer that wraps the entire upper of a running shoe to keep water out. The best thing about GORE-TEX Invisible Fit is that it offers the same fit and feel as the non-GORE-TEX version of the shoe while providing a dry and comfortable running experience.

As the seasons pass, the name GORE-TEX is becoming more synonymous with top-of-the-line wet weather clothing, both in the casual and active wear fields. GORE-TEX products cover all the bases for weatherproof gear; they keep the elements out without trapping the sweat in, and they're durable enough to stand the test of time. Investing in high-quality GORE-TEX running shoes and apparel will always be a solid purchase, as you will never miss a running day due to the weather again.