Best shoes
9 best shoes for Amsterdam in December
highs of 45°F, lows of 37°F, 13 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.
Why these shoes for Amsterdam in December
Amsterdam in December averages highs around 45°F, lows near 37°F, 13 rainy days.
Amsterdam’s brick streets and canal bridges reward grippy, water-resistant pairs. Expect long walking days in Amsterdam: cobblestones reward grippy soles and ankle support.
Plan on two pairs — one built for the weather extremes and a lighter backup for evenings and dry stretches.
Our picks focus on waterproof boots, traction sneakers, packable rain shoes — enough range to cover day-to-day walking without overpacking.
How many pairs?
Pack two pairs
Recommendation: 2 pairs
- Primary: waterproof or water-resistant pair for wet sidewalks.
- Backup: drier/lighter pair for dinners and transit.
Best waterproof boots for Amsterdam in December
ForecastStyle pick
Black lace-up hiking boots
Ankle-height hiking boots in black with a waterproof finish and cushioned insole. Supportive on trails and easy to style with outdoor-adj…
Handles ~13 rainy days
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Dark
Dark Brown Weather-Ready Chelsea Boots
Dark brown Chelseas with a treated upper and rubber sole for light drizzle. Clean lines keep them looking city-smart, not trail-ready.
Handles ~13 rainy days
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Matte
Matte Black Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Sleek waterproof Chelsea boots with a pull-on elastic gusset and grippy rubber sole for wet sidewalks and airport security. Low shaft and…
Handles ~13 rainy days
Shop on Amazon →Best traction sneakers for Amsterdam in December
ForecastStyle pick
Navy Cobble-Ready Traction Sneakers
Navy cobble-ready sneakers with understated lug depth for European old towns. Stable toe box and flexible midsole for uneven streets.
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ForecastStyle pick
White Salomon Trail Sneakers
These technical sneakers provide excellent grip and support for light hikes or city errands. The streamlined design offers all-day comfor…
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ForecastStyle pick
Olive green slip-on sneakers
Slip-on canvas sneakers in olive green with a vulcanized sole. An easy everyday shoe with a slightly outdoorsy edge.
Shop on Amazon →Best packable rain shoes for Amsterdam in December
ForecastStyle pick
Grey Quick-Dry Waterproof Low Sneakers
Cool grey waterproof low sneakers designed to dry fast after puddles. Neutral color hides splash marks on multi-day wet-weather itineraries.
Handles ~13 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Black Waterproof Traction City Sneakers
Black waterproof city sneakers with multi-surface grip for rainy hills. Dual-purpose pair for wet cobbles and long museum days.
Handles ~13 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Black City Traction Walking Sneakers
Black walking sneakers with subtle multi-surface traction for cobblestones and wet plazas. Dark palette and low profile stay city-appropr…
Handles ~13 rainy days
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in Amsterdam in December?
Yes — with roughly 13 rainy days in the month, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a strong bet.
Do I need boots in Amsterdam in December?
A light boot is worth it for evenings, when temps drop to about 37°F. A sturdy sneaker also works.
Can I wear sandals in Amsterdam in December?
Not really — highs around 45°F are too cool for open shoes on most days.
Can I get by with one pair of shoes in Amsterdam in December?
Two pairs is safer — wet cold months punish a single pair. Pack a weather-ready primary and a dry backup.
What about dressy dinners in Amsterdam?
Most cities accept clean sneakers or light boots for smart-casual dinners. If you have a black-tie night, pack one dress shoe and wear your walking pair on the plane.
Any tips for packing shoes for Amsterdam?
Wear the bulkiest pair on the plane, stuff socks into the packed pair, and use a shoe bag so damp soles do not ruin clothes. Pack a thin spare pair of socks for rainy days.
Do cobblestones or hills change what shoes I need in Amsterdam?
Yes — cobblestones punish thin soles and tall heels. Choose grippy walking shoes or boots with ankle support.