Best shoes
9 best shoes for Edinburgh in December
highs of 45°F, lows of 34°F, 16 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.
Why these shoes for Edinburgh in December
Edinburgh in December averages highs around 45°F, lows near 34°F, 16 rainy days.
Waterproofing is the deciding factor — expect wet sidewalks and occasional downpours, so anything porous is going to soak through by lunch.
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 Edinburgh in December
Slate
Slate Blue Waterproof Trail-to-Town Boots
Slate blue waterproof boots that bridge a day hike and dinner in town. Moderate shaft height and a cushioned insole keep them travel-frie…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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Taupe
Taupe Waterproof Lug-Sole Ankle Boots
Neutral taupe waterproof ankle boots with a refined lug sole for grip on slick stone without aggressive trail styling. A travel wardrobe …
Handles ~16 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Olive waterproof hiking shoes
Low-cut hiking shoes in olive with a waterproof membrane and rugged outsole. Comfortable on day hikes and light outdoor terrain.
Handles ~16 rainy days
Shop on Amazon →Best traction sneakers for Edinburgh in December
ForecastStyle pick
Black chunky sneakers
Platform lug-sole sneakers in black. Adds height and works with straight-leg jeans, midi skirts, or wide-leg trousers.
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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.
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ForecastStyle pick
The Summit Chunky Trail Sneaker in Gray
A rugged sole provides all-day comfort and traction for city adventures or light trails. The versatile gray color and streamlined silhoue…
Shop on Amazon →Best packable rain shoes for Edinburgh in December
Stone
Stone Urban Traction Low Sneakers
Stone-colored low sneakers with urban traction for wet marble and brick. Clean upper keeps them looking everyday, not outdoor-specialty.
Handles ~16 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Grey All-Terrain City Walkers
Cool grey all-terrain city walkers with a hybrid sole for pavement, park paths, and light gravel. Travel-friendly cushion without aggress…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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Sand
Sand Beige Packable Waterproof Sneakers
Sand beige waterproof sneakers for humid, rainy destinations where boots feel too heavy. Lightweight build and breathable lining for warm…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in Edinburgh in December?
Yes — with roughly 16 rainy days in the month, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a strong bet.
Do I need boots in Edinburgh in December?
Yes — average lows near 34°F mean insulated boots will keep your feet from freezing on the walk back to the hotel.
Can I wear sandals in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?
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 Edinburgh?
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.