Monsoon in India brings relief from scorching heat—but it also brings waterlogged streets, slippery floors, muddy roads, and unexpected downpours. If you’ve ever stepped out wearing the wrong footwear during heavy rain, you already know how uncomfortable (and dangerous) it can be.
Choosing the Best men shoes for monsoon season in India isn’t just about style. It’s about waterproof protection, anti-slip grip, quick-dry material, and long-lasting comfort. Whether you’re a college student, office-goer, delivery executive, or someone who walks daily, the right monsoon footwear can save you from soaked socks, fungal infections, and accidental slips.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down:
- What type of shoes work best during Indian monsoons
- Materials you should choose (and avoid)
- Top shoe categories for men
- Common mistakes people make
- Practical buying tips
Let’s dive in.
Why You Need Special Shoes for Monsoon Season in India
Indian monsoons are different from light drizzles seen elsewhere. Cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and parts of Kerala experience heavy rainfall, waterlogging, and muddy streets for weeks.
Regular shoes—especially leather or canvas—absorb water, become heavy, smell bad, and take days to dry.
Monsoon-friendly shoes solve these problems by offering:
- Water resistance or waterproof protection
- Anti-slip rubber soles
- Quick-drying material
- Breathable inner lining
- Lightweight construction
Key Features to Look for in Monsoon Shoes
Before buying any footwear, check these essential features:
1. Water-Resistant or Waterproof Material
Look for materials like:
- EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
- Rubber
- PVC
- Treated synthetic mesh
Avoid:
- Suede
- Pure leather
- Canvas
These materials absorb water and get damaged quickly.
2. Anti-Slip Sole Grip
During monsoon, roads become slippery due to algae, oil, and mud. Always check:
- Deep grooves on outsole
- Rubber traction
- Textured bottom grip
Flat, smooth soles are dangerous in rainy weather.
3. Quick-Dry Design
If your shoes get wet, they should dry fast. Good monsoon footwear:
- Doesn’t retain water
- Drains moisture quickly
- Has breathable lining
4. Lightweight Comfort
Heavy water-soaked shoes cause foot fatigue. Choose lightweight designs, especially if:
- You walk daily
- You commute long distances
- You use public transport
Types of Best Shoes for Monsoon Season in India
Let’s break down the best options based on usage.
1. Waterproof Sandals & Floaters
Best for: Daily wear, college, casual outings
Why they work:
- Open design prevents water accumulation
- Easy to wash
- Quick to dry
- Comfortable for long hours
Pros:
✔ Maximum ventilation
✔ Affordable
✔ Easy maintenance
Cons:
✖ Not ideal for formal office settings
✖ Limited protection from mud splashes
2. Rubber Slip-On Shoes
Best for: Office-goers & casual professionals
These shoes look neat but provide water resistance.
Why choose them?
- Closed design protects feet
- Rubber sole gives grip
- Stylish enough for semi-formal use
Avoid cheap quality versions, as low-grade rubber cracks quickly.
3. Waterproof Sneakers
Best for: Urban commuters & daily walkers
Modern brands now offer monsoon-friendly sneakers made with synthetic uppers and water-resistant coatings.
Ideal features:
- Sealed stitching
- Non-absorbent upper
- Deep outsole patterns
These are perfect if you want comfort + style during rainy season.
4. Gumboots (Rain Boots)
Best for: Heavy rainfall areas like Mumbai
If you live in high waterlogging zones, gumboots are the safest option.
Benefits:
- 100% waterproof
- Full foot protection
- Durable
However, they can feel sweaty in humid weather if worn long hours.
Comparison Table: Best Monsoon Footwear Options
| Shoe Type | Water Protection | Comfort Level | Office Suitable | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Floaters | Medium | High | No | Daily casual use |
| Rubber Slip-ons | High | Medium | Yes | Semi-formal wear |
| Waterproof Sneakers | High | Very High | Yes | Daily walking |
| Gumboots | Very High | Medium | No | Heavy rainfall zones |
Materials to Avoid During Monsoon
Many people make this mistake.
❌ Leather Shoes
They absorb moisture and develop cracks.
❌ Suede Shoes
Water stains permanently damage them.
❌ Canvas Shoes
Take long to dry and smell bad.
Common Mistakes People Make
1. Choosing Style Over Function
Monsoon is not the season for fashion-first footwear.
2. Ignoring Sole Grip
Many slips happen because of smooth soles.
3. Wearing Socks with Non-Breathable Shoes
This causes fungal infections.
4. Not Cleaning Shoes Properly
Mud and moisture reduce lifespan.
How to Maintain Shoes During Monsoon
To increase durability:
- Dry shoes under fan (avoid direct sunlight)
- Use anti-fungal powder inside
- Clean mud immediately
- Store in dry area
- Use newspaper stuffing to absorb moisture
Best Shoes for Monsoon Season in India for Different Needs
For Office
- Rubber sole loafers
- Waterproof sneakers
- Synthetic slip-ons
For College Students
- Floaters
- Lightweight waterproof sneakers
For Delivery & Field Jobs
- High-traction waterproof shoes
- Gumboots (for flooded areas)
For Daily Walkers
- Cushioned waterproof sneakers
- Anti-slip sole mandatory
Budget vs Premium: What Should You Choose?
If you’re buying monsoon footwear:
- Under ₹1000: Basic floaters, entry-level rubber sandals
- ₹1000–₹2000: Decent waterproof sneakers
- ₹2000+: Better grip, durability, comfort
Investing in good monsoon shoes prevents medical issues and accidents.
Pros and Cons of Monsoon-Specific Shoes
Pros:
✔ Prevents slipping
✔ Protects feet from infections
✔ Dries quickly
✔ Comfortable in rain
Cons:
✖ Some options may feel less breathable
✖ Limited formal styles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the best shoes for monsoon season in India?
Waterproof sneakers, floaters, rubber slip-ons, and gumboots are the best choices depending on your needs.
2. Can I wear leather shoes in monsoon?
Not recommended. Leather absorbs moisture and gets damaged quickly.
3. Are waterproof sneakers good for daily use?
Yes, especially if they have anti-slip soles and breathable lining.
4. How do I prevent shoe smell during monsoon?
Dry them properly and use anti-fungal powder or moisture absorbers.
5. Which sole is best for rainy season?
Rubber sole with deep grip patterns is ideal.
6. Are gumboots comfortable for long hours?
They protect well but may feel sweaty if worn for extended periods.
7. Should I wear socks in monsoon?
Avoid thick cotton socks. Use moisture-wicking socks if needed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the Best Formal shoes for monsoon season in India is about being practical, not just stylish. The right footwear keeps your feet dry, prevents slips, reduces infection risk, and improves overall comfort during rainy days.
Whether you prefer waterproof sneakers, floaters, or slip-ons, focus on grip, material, and comfort. Monsoon lasts for months in many Indian cities—so investing in the right pair is absolutely worth it.
If you walk daily, commute long distances, or work outdoors, don’t compromise. The right monsoon shoes can literally protect your health and safety.
Stay dry. Stay safe. Choose wisely.
