Trainers & Sneakers Buying Guide & Comparison

Waterproof trainers for country and everyday wear

Compare trainers and sneakers by waterproofing, upper material, cushioning, grip and intended use—from wet-weather country trainers to premium leather and technical sailing styles.

The right trainers and sneakers depend on where you will wear them. A waterproof country trainer is designed for rain, wet grass and muddy paths; a premium leather sneaker works best for smart-casual outfits; a lightweight performance trainer prioritises cushioning and flexibility; and a technical sailing style adds quick-drying materials and wet-surface grip.

QUICK ANSWERChoose an Ariat Ranch Runner Waterproof for wet country use, a Barker or RM Williams leather sneaker for smarter everyday wear, a Peter Millar performance sneaker for lightweight cushioning, or a Dubarry technical trainer when fast drying and non-marking wet-deck grip matter most.

Shop trainers by use

Waterproof trainers

Men's sneakers & trainers

Women's trainers

Premium leather sneakers

Popular trainers and sneakers compared

Model	Best for	Upper & fit	Underfoot / protection	Shop
Ariat Ranch Runner Waterproof Women's	Wet grass, muddy paths, yard work and country errands	Mixed suede and leather upper; round toe and secure lace-up fit	Waterproof breathable DRYShield™; EVA midsole and durable Duratread™ outsole	Shop women's
Barker Seb Men's	Premium smart-casual wear with jeans or chinos	Premium calf leather; Barker 504 last in F fitting	Lightweight athletic sole with a cleaner dress-sneaker profile	Shop Seb
Ariat Ranch Runner Waterproof Men's	Everyday wet-weather country use without wearing a boot	Mixed suede and leather upper; round toe and lace fastening	Waterproof breathable DRYShield™; shock-absorbing EVA and Duratread™ grip	Shop men's
Peter Millar Glide V3 Men's	Lightweight all-day comfort and relaxed weekend wear	Padded tongue and performance mesh sockliner for a soft, secure fit	Three-piece flexible outsole, foam insole and herringbone traction	Shop Glide V3
RM Williams Sandbar Men's	Clean, understated smart-casual styling	Pebbled-grain leather; leather lining, round toe and regular width	Padded leather insole and durable Blake-stitched rubber sole	Shop Sandbar
Dubarry Mauritius Unisex	Active sailing, spray and wet-deck traction	Quick-drying mesh and Lycra; adjustable bungee-and-toggle lacing	D-Chassis™ heel support; water-dispersion channels and NonSlip-NonMarking™ sole	Shop Mauritius
Ariat Ranch Runner Women's	Dry-weather everyday comfort and casual country styling	Lightweight breathable upper with secure lace fastening	Cushioned footbed, flexible construction and grippy rubber outsole; not waterproof	Shop Ranch Runner

Selection method: six-month net sales and units sold were used to identify proven models, then distinct current styles were included to cover waterproof, leather, performance and sailing uses. Product specifications and availability can change; check the individual product page before ordering.

How to choose trainers

For country and wet-weather use

Prioritise an explicitly waterproof construction, a tread suited to wet grass and paths, and enough cushioning for long days. A waterproof trainer is lighter and lower than a boot but offers less ankle coverage in deep mud or standing water.

For smart-casual wear

Leather quality, lining, shape and sole construction matter more than aggressive grip. Premium leather sneakers bridge the gap between trainers and smarter shoes, working well with jeans, chinos and relaxed tailoring.

Waterproof or water-resistant?

A waterproof trainer uses a membrane or waterproof construction intended to stop water entering. Water-resistant leather can cope with light splashes after suitable care but is not equivalent. If waterproofing is essential, choose a model that states it explicitly rather than relying on the material alone.

Leather, suede or technical fabric?

Smooth leather is durable and relatively easy to clean, although pale colours need regular care. Suede feels softer but shows dirt and water marks more readily. Mesh and technical fabrics usually reduce weight and dry faster, making them useful for active or sailing use, but they may look less formal.

How should trainers fit?

Your heel should feel secure, the widest part of your foot should sit comfortably inside the shoe and your toes should have room to move without sliding forward. Try trainers with the socks you intend to wear. Leather may soften slightly with use, while technical mesh and synthetic uppers generally change less.

Use and sizing matter together: a smart leather sneaker may feel more structured than an athletic trainer in the same stated size. Check the fit notes and UK/EU conversion on the exact product rather than assuming every brand fits alike.

Looking after trainers and sneakers

Remove dry dirt after wear and use products suited to the exact upper. Condition smooth leather sparingly, use a specialist cleaner and protector for suede, and follow the maker’s instructions for technical fabrics and waterproof membranes. Allow wet footwear to dry naturally away from radiators or direct heat. Browse footwear care products for appropriate cleaners and protectors.

Frequently asked questions

Are waterproof trainers suitable for country walks?

Yes, for paths, wet grass and everyday country use. For steep, rocky or very muddy ground, a walking boot normally provides more support, coverage and outsole depth.

Can leather sneakers be worn in the rain?

Occasional light rain may be manageable with suitable care, but ordinary leather trainers should not be assumed waterproof. Choose an explicitly waterproof model if keeping feet dry is essential.

What is the difference between a trainer and a sneaker?

In UK retail the terms overlap. “Trainer” often suggests comfort or performance, while “sneaker” commonly describes a casual or premium leather style. The construction and intended use matter more than the name.

Can sailing trainers be worn every day?

Yes, although their quick-drying materials, non-marking soles and wet-surface grip are designed primarily for active marine use. Their appearance is usually more technical than a leather lifestyle sneaker.

Should trainers feel tight when new?

No. They should hold the heel and instep without pressure or numbness, with room for natural toe movement. Leather may soften but a poor initial fit is unlikely to correct itself fully.

How should wet trainers be dried?

Remove surface moisture, loosen the laces and dry them in a ventilated place away from direct heat. Stuffing them lightly with clean paper can help absorb moisture and retain shape.