Rainy Day Shoes: Best Waterproof Footwear For Mums And Kids

We’ve braved the typhoons to find the most rain-resistant, waterproof shoes for Hong Kong’s weather

Whether you’re schlepping down the streets of Central in your favourite summer sandals, or heading to the waterfalls in Sai Kung in your favourite eco-trainers, the shoes you wear can make or break your day. With the Hong Kong Observatory issuing more than 30 rainstorm warnings last summer, it’s important to be prepared at all times!

Summer means the dreaded downpour is here and, as we know too well, when it rains in Hong Kong, it pours. We’ve all fallen victim to getting doused whilst in our favourite espadrilles or brand-new summer sliders (and let’s not even mention the brand-new school shoes we bought the kids!) but fear not! We’ve rounded up some tried and tested rainy-day shoes for mums and kids to help you out.

Read more: Seasonal Looks For Summer 2018: What’s Cool When It’s Hot 

We know what you’re thinking… flip-flops and rain? Surely a match made in hell right? Wrong! Flip flops are ideal for a morning work (or school) commute when the sky is gloomy. A pair of good quality flip flops are made from only the best durable rubber, they wont fall apart once wet, and they dry almost instantly once out of the rain.

The downfall? Yes, your feet are going to get drenched. So if you’re a working mum, we suggest popping your indoor shoes in your bag for your commute and once you get to work, slip off your wet flip flops. Ta daaaa!

Our picks:

For Mums: Black slim flip flops from Havaianas via Asos; “Goldy Fly” embellished thong sandals from UZURII available at Lane Crawford; Easy flip flops from Adidas originals available at Zalora

For Kids: The Classic Flip Flop from Crocs; Jewel flip flops with traps by Havaianas from Melijoe; Heroes Twins Flip Flops by Havaianas from Melijoe

There’s a reason wellies are such a popular option for feet all across the UK during the classic British summertime. These classic boots are designed for the wet and muddy English countryside so a T8 in Hong Kong is a breeze! The great thing about this option is that more and more brands are designing stylish options for this old school staple. They come in a range of colours and are long enough to deal with any taxi whooshing by. Perfect for any age.

Our picks:

For Mums: Bede Classic Welly Boot with Tartan Lining from Barbour available at Asos; Womens Original Colourblock Tall Wellington Boots from Hunter available at Hunter; Gransta Wellies from Asos available at Asos

For Kids: Kids boots from Hunter; Rubber Boots from Aigle; Green Transport Wellies from Next

If you’re not quite ready to ditch your new sliders when the rain comes in (or you’ve got a little fashionista who won’t part with hers!) we’ve got some good news for you…you don’t have to! Brands are introducing more and more waterproof rubber alternatives of our favourite summer sandals, meaning rainy days don’t always have to mean chunky unflattering shoes. One of the best things about this option is you can wear them rain or shine. Take them to the beach, a pool day, or for a full day shopping trip.

Our picks:

For Mums: Gizeh by Birkenstock (available in kids, men’s and women’s sizes and various colours!); Off Spray Printed Rubber Sliders by Off White from Net-a-Porter; PopCat Sliders in pink by Puma from Asos

For Kids: Bogs Girls Whitefish Sandal available at Zalora; Trekker sandals from Next; Keen Whisper Sandal from Amazon; Merrill Kids Hydro H20 Sandal from Amazon

These ain’t your mama’s galoshes! You can now find waterproof shoes that come in a range of styles and colours. Choose a fun loafer that is fun and flirty, a flat boot for when you’re out and about, and for kids, we think crocs are a good wardrobe staple.

Our picks:

For Mums: Classic Loafer from Swims; Out And About Flat Boots by Sorrel from Asos; Twenty Eight Shoes flats from Zalora

For Kids: Geox J Agata Mocassins from Fishpond; Keeley Springtime Flats by Crocs from Crocs; Uneek by Keen from Mirabell

Trainer lovers take note: wet season doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave your favourite pair at home! There are now more stylish water-resistant alternatives to keep you active around town, and next time your kids jump in that puddle, you won’t be worrying about soggy socks!

Our picks:

For Mums:  Alphabounce Beyond Pride Running Shoes by Adidas at Zalora; Classic Cortez Trainer in Retro Leather by Nike at Asos; Contrast Sneakers by Something Borrowed at Zalora

For Kids: The Pallaphoenix from Palladium Boots; Katinger Mountain Outdoor Waterproof shoes from Fishpond; Qianliuk Kids Trainers from Fishpond

Fancy footwear that will walk you through all the seasons. The timeless leather ankle boot is an option to take you straight from day to night. Whether you go all out Alexa Chung and team with a cute midi skirt or pair with your favourite vintage cut offs, this option is a sure and stylish answer to your rainy-day dreams.

For kids, we found some waterproof options that will get them through the rainy day and onto the playground, or even for when they take a hike with you!

Our favourite picks:

For Mums: Preston by La Canadienne available at La Canadienne; Impact Black Patent High Cut Ankle Boots by Public Desire at Asos; Anita Ankle Boots by Dorothy Perkins at Zalora

For Kids: Pampa High Cuff from Palladium Boots; Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Boot by Timberland from Shoes.com; Ugg Maple II Angkle Boot from Shoes.com

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on Sassy Hong Kong in July 2018 by Ciara Radburn.