6 Best Waterproof New Balance Sneakers 2026

Conquer muddy climbs and damp trails with unshakable confidence—the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V8 GTX is a trail warrior built for relentless terrain and unpredictable weather. Fueled by a high-stack Fresh Foam X midsole with 3% bio-based content, it delivers the plushiest underfoot feel in the Fresh Foam lineup, turning rocky descents into cloud-like strides. The GORE-TEX membrane is seamlessly integrated, offering true waterproof protection without that swampy, overheated sensation many trail shoes suffer from—ideal for runners who refuse to let rain or stream crossings dictate their route.

Out on technical singletrack, the Vibram Megagrip outsole claws into wet rocks and slick roots with near-supernatural grip, while the fully printed upper shrugs off trail debris and light abrasions. We tested it through Pacific Northwest downpours and alpine scree fields, and it handled both with ease—no water intrusion, no hot spots. The increased midsole height enhances cushioning but does add a bit of top-heaviness on sharp switchbacks, where lower-profile shoes might feel nimbler. Still, for long-distance trail efforts in wet conditions, the stability and comfort outweigh the minor agility trade-off.

Compared to the budget-focused DynaSoft Nitrel V6, the Hierro V8 is in a different league—more refined, more protective, and built for serious trail abuse. It’s not as nimble as a racing flat, but that’s not the point: this shoe excels for hikers and trail runners who demand maximum cushioning, weather defense, and rugged durability. If you’re eyeing the Fresh Foam X 880 V15 GTX for road-to-trail versatility, know this: the Hierro V8 offers superior traction and trail-specific armor at a slightly lower price point, making it the smarter pick for off-road dominance.

Affordable doesn’t mean compromised—the New Balance Men’s DynaSoft Nitrel V6 GTX punches well above its price tag with a smart blend of comfort, traction, and full waterproofing. The DynaSoft midsole strikes a sweet spot between softness and responsiveness, making it ideal for beginners or weekend adventurers who want cushioning without that sluggish, mushy feel. Wrapped in GORE-TEX fabric, it seals out puddles and slush while allowing just enough breathability to prevent mid-run sauna feet—a rare win in budget waterproof shoes.

We took it on mixed terrain—gravel paths, damp grass, and muddy forest trails—and the AT Tread outsole held up admirably, offering reliable grip on wet pavement and packed earth. It’s not Vibram-level aggressive, so don’t expect it to dominate steep, rocky ascents, but for light-to-moderate trails, it’s more than capable. The no-sew upper keeps weight down and fit smooth, though aggressive runners may notice less structure during fast turns. At higher speeds or on technical ground, the shoe feels a bit underbuilt compared to premium models.

When stacked against the Fresh Foam X Hierro V8, the DynaSoft Nitrel V6 is clearly the entry-level option—light on features but heavy on value. It’s perfect for commuters, casual trail walkers, or anyone who needs a dependable, waterproof shoe without overspending. While the Fresh Foam 680 V8 offers similar affordability, the DynaSoft’s trail-tuned outsole and better ankle flex make it the superior choice for off-road use. It won’t win awards for performance, but it delivers essential waterproof protection and solid comfort at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.

Stability meets waterproof agility in the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Garoé V1 Midcut GTX—a shoe engineered for uneven ground and erratic weather with a focus on ankle support without bulk. The midcut silhouette wraps the ankle in structured cushioning, reducing roll risk on side-sloping trails, while the Fresh Foam midsole keeps steps light and springy over miles of mixed terrain. Paired with a GORE-TEX membrane, it delivers full storm-ready defense, making it a standout for early-season hikes or rainy trail loops where ankle protection matters.

In real-world testing across muddy ridgelines and wet grasslands, the AT Tread outsole provided consistent grip, though it struggled slightly on slick rock compared to Vibram-equipped rivals. The synthetic/mesh upper dries quickly and resists tearing, but the midcut design adds a touch of warmth in summer—best saved for cooler months or damp climates. The adjustable lace system locks the foot down securely, eliminating heel slip even on steep descents. It’s not the lightest midcut on the market, but the trade-off is enhanced protection and a locked-in feel.

Compared to the full-height Fresh Foam X Hierro Hiker, the Garoé V1 is more agile and running-focused, sacrificing some hiking ruggedness for speed and flexibility. It’s ideal for trail runners who want extra ankle security without the weight of a boot. Against the Fresh Foam 680 V8, it’s clearly the more capable off-roader—better traction, better support, and true midcut coverage—making it the better investment for technical paths. If you need a do-it-all trail performer with waterproof confidence and smart support, this is your go-to.

Everyday resilience starts here—the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 680 V8 Waterproof is a no-frills, road-ready runner built for wet commutes, damp jogs, and budget-conscious athletes who still demand quality. The Fresh Foam midsole offers a smooth, energy-absorbing ride with a touch of eco-conscious design thanks to its 3% bio-based content, making each stride both comfortable and slightly kinder to the planet. The no-sew upper creates a sleek, irritation-free fit, ideal for daily wear, while the integrated rubber outsole delivers predictable grip on wet sidewalks and light trails.

We tested it on rainy morning runs and urban walks through puddled streets, and the waterproof upper kept feet dry without trapping excessive heat—a common flaw in entry-level wet-weather shoes. It’s not designed for technical trails, and the outsole lacks aggressive lugs, so muddy paths or loose gravel expose its limitations. The cushioning is soft but not dynamic, meaning it’s better suited for steady-paced runs than speedwork. Still, for a reliable, low-maintenance trainer, it performs admirably.

When compared to the DynaSoft Nitrel V6, the 680 V8 is more road-focused and less adventurous, trading trail grip for urban simplicity. It’s the ideal pick for runners who need a basic, waterproof daily trainer without the need for off-road capability. Against the Fresh Foam X 880 V15 GTX, it’s clearly the stripped-down sibling—fewer features, less traction, but a fraction of the cost. If your runs stay on pavement and you need dependable wet-weather protection, this shoe delivers essential performance without bells and whistles.

Built like a boot, cushioned like a runner—the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X Hierro Hiker GTX blurs the line between trail shoe and hiking boot, offering serious protection and long-mile comfort for backpackers and rugged trail explorers. The Fresh Foam X midsole provides the brand’s plushiest cushioning yet, turning multi-hour hikes into surprisingly soft landings, even under pack weight. Reinforced with GORE-TEX waterproofing and Toe Protect technology, it shields against stream crossings, trail debris, and jagged rocks—making it a fortress for your feet in harsh conditions.

We wore it on alpine scrambles and 10-mile forest hikes, and it excelled in every wet, rocky scenario. The Vibram outsole bit into mud and wet stone with unwavering confidence, while the padded collar eliminated Achilles pressure—critical for long descents. The easy on/off design is a small luxury that pays off after a long day, and the upper repelled water like a rain shell. It’s heavier than standard trail runners, but that’s the cost of its armor-like durability. On smooth trails, it feels overbuilt, but on technical terrain, that weight translates to stability.

Against the Fresh Foam Garoé V1, this shoe is more aggressive, more protective, and built for serious hiking—not just trail running. While the 880 V15 GTX offers road-friendly comfort, the Hierro Hiker dominates off-road with superior grip and foot coverage. It’s the most expensive option here, but for hikers who refuse to sacrifice cushioning for durability, it justifies every upgrade with relentless performance.

All-weather reliability meets daily-run comfort—the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 880 V15 GTX is the gold standard of waterproof road runners, blending plush cushioning, smart weather defense, and urban visibility into one premium package. The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a cloud-soft ride that absorbs impact mile after mile, making it perfect for long runs in rainy seasons. Wrapped in GORE-TEX fabric, it keeps feet dry in downpours without turning into a steam room, thanks to balanced breathability—rare in fully waterproof trainers.

We tested it on pre-dawn runs through sleet and wet pavement, and the Hydrohesion rubber outsole maintained grip where others would slip, while reflective details boosted visibility in low light—critical for winter safety. The upper feels supportive yet flexible, ideal for daily training, though it’s not designed for trail use. On gravel or mud, it lacks the lugs and protection of true trail models. Still, for commuters, early risers, or city runners, it’s unmatched in wet-weather confidence.

Compared to the Hierro V8, the 880 V15 is more road-focused and less aggressive, trading trail grip for smooth-road efficiency. Against the budget 680 V8, it’s a clear upgrade in cushioning, traction, and build quality. It’s the best overall waterproof running shoe here—not the cheapest, not the most rugged, but the most balanced for performance, protection, and daily usability.