What are waterproof overshoes? At first glance, they seem to be products designed to protect shoes, be it rainproof shoe covers, water proof shoe covers, or cycling shoe covers, appear to be simply for the purpose of protecting shoes. Nevertheless, if we think about it, if your shoes are wet, your feet will be uncomfortable. If your feet are swamped in wet shoes, your mood will be ruined. So rather than saying waterproof overshoes are used to protect shoes, I prefer to say they are products developed for our delicate lifestyle.
Haha, it’s not unreasonable. Okay, returning to our main topic, since waterproof overshoes are products created to add convenience to our lives, how should we choose them? I’m going to analyze it from the following aspects, hoping that after reading this article, you will have a clear answer on how to choose waterproof overshoes.
Waterproof Overshoes Material
The general materials for waterproof overshoes can be categorized into: rubber boot covers, PVC rain shoe covers, and TPE rain shoe covers. Let’s analyze the pros and cons of these materials one by one.
Rubber shoes covers
Advantages:
Easy to clean: The smooth exterior of rubber shoes covers makes it easy to clean. Just wipe gently with a cloth, and it will be clean as new.
Waterproof: As rubber shoes covers are molded in one piece, their waterproof performance is particularly good.
Elasticity: It has a strong stretchability, whether it’s bigger or smaller, you can squeeze into it. Also, it’s compact to store.
Disadvantages:
Breathability: As it’s a one-piece molding process, considering the need for waterproofing, if it’s not worn for an extended period, you could opt for it.
Durability: The life span of rubber shoes covers usually lasts around three months. As the soles of rubber shoes covers are soft, their durability isn’t as good as that of other materials.
PVC rain shoe covers
Advantages:
Strong waterproof performance: PVC itself has excellent waterproofing, effectively preventing rainwater from seeping through.
Durability: PVC material is sturdy and durable, with extended lifespan.
Easy to clean: The surface is smooth, thus easy to wipe and clean.
Affordable: Compared to other high-end materials, PVC rain shoe covers are cheaper.
Disadvantages:
Average breathability: PVC material is not as breathable as fabric, if worn for an extended period, it may make your feet stuffy. It rather acts as a warmth retention feature during winter (well, considering the waterproof feature, haha).
Environmental concerns: PVC is a type of plastic product that decomposes slowly and causes significant damage to the environment.
Lack of flexibility: Although PVC material is durable, its hardness is relatively high.
TPE rain shoe covers
Advantages:
Environmentally friendly: TPE is a recyclable material that aligns with the current green environmental trend.
Elasticity: TPE rain shoe covers have good toughness, making it easier to wear and take off.
Waterproof: TPE material itself has excellent waterproof performance, effectively protecting shoes and feet from getting soaked in the rain.
Durability: TPE material is highly durable, with an extended life span.
Breathability: Compared to other materials, TPE rain shoe covers offer better breathability, increasing the comfort of wear.
Disadvantages:
Relatively high cost: The cost of TPE material is relatively high, which is why TPE rain shoe covers generally cost more.
Low heat stability: In a high-temperature environment, TPE material may become soft, impacting its performance and life span.
Limited market options: As TPE rain shoe covers are relatively new, the market choices may not be as diverse as that of other material’s rainproof shoe covers.
Three Rainproof Shoe Covers Usage
Rubber boot covers: Rubber boot covers are suitable for commuting. For instance, when we commute to or from work in bad weather conditions, especially during rain, when the roads are filled with water and even mud at times. In such scenarios, holding an umbrella and wearing waterproof shoe covers, we do not have to worry about our shoes being damaged by muddy water. Also, short-term wear isn’t a problem. This is a common scenario, but in snow, you can equally enjoy playing around fearlessly. Especially for children. Isn’t it every parent’s wish to let their children have a happy childhood? Shoe covers for snow and ice can bring them what they desire.
PVC rain shoe covers: PVC rain shoe covers are generally high-top, although there are low-top ones. They are typically used in regions with substantial rain and snowfall. Also, these are suitable for those who frequently maintain farms, as the grass on farms is generally taller than our shoes, and high-top PVC rain shoe covers would be a good choice. They are also used by city staff who need to work in damp environments due to their job requirements. Additionally, PVC rain shoe covers suit other scenarios like outdoor activities such as fishing.
TPE Rain Shoe Covers: The scope of usage for TPE rain shoe covers is incredibly broad, with advantages that cannot be matched by the other two materials. They can be used in almost any scenario. They not only have a solid waterproof performance but are also extremely comfortable and breathable. Regardless of whether it’s commuting to work, fishing, outdoor camping, hiking, climbing mountains, or even as a cycling shoe cover, TPE rain shoe covers are my favorite material to opt for. Although their price is relatively higher compared to other materials, how much can a pair of rain shoe covers cost? At most, around 15 dollars or so.
Rainproof shoe covers size
Regarding the size, I believe there isn’t an exact answer. The standards differ in every country, and even those manufactured in the same country may have discrepancies in sizes. Personally, I prefer choosing rainproof shoe covers by measuring the external outline length of the shoes, because it’s the simplest and most accurate method. I do not have a clear understanding of sizes, and often end up buying shoes or clothing larger or smaller than my actual size. I believe many girls experience the same. However, by using a measuring tape for comparison, and purchasing shoes of the length measured, is the most direct and effective way. In short, the brand that helps me understand the sizes is the one I’d choose. Haha, just joking, but comprehensive product sizes also indicate the professionalism of the brand.
Thus, in conclusion, do you now have a clear answer on how to choose waterproof boot covers? I hope my blog can assist you, and I thank you for your sharing and support. If there are any incompleteness, feel free to comment and tell me, and I will update promptly. Below, I’ll recommend a few different material rain shoe covers.
Cycling shoe cover
Rubber boot covers
PVC rain shoe covers
TPE rain shoe covers
Tall Rain Shoe Covers