Best shoes
9 best shoes for Edinburgh in January
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 January
Edinburgh in January 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 January
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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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 ~16 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Black Lined Waterproof Winter Chelsea Boots
Black waterproof Chelsea boots with thermal lining for wet, freezing cities. Dual protection—sealed upper plus insulation—for rain-to-sno…
Handles ~16 rainy days
Shop on Amazon →Best traction sneakers for Edinburgh in January
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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ForecastStyle pick
Grey Suede Everyday Court Sneakers
Soft grey suede court sneakers with a retro-clean shape. Neutral enough for photos and capsule packing without chunky trail styling.
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ForecastStyle pick
Olive Water-Resistant Packable Trail Sneakers
Olive water-resistant trail-to-city sneakers with a light pack weight. Subtle traction for wet plazas without heavy hiking bulk.
Shop on Amazon →Best packable rain shoes for Edinburgh in January
ForecastStyle pick
Grey Road-Ready Walking Sneakers
Cool grey road-ready walkers with balanced cushion—not chunky trail, not dress flat. Designed for flat pavement, metro stairs, and long a…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Black Slip-On Walking Sneakers
Black slip-on walking sneakers for security lines and early trains. Supportive footbed with a closed toe for all-day urban miles.
Handles ~16 rainy days
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Charcoal
Charcoal Wide-Fit Walking Shoes
Charcoal wide-fit walking shoes for swollen travel feet and full days on hard floors. Stable sole and soft lining for comfort over style …
Handles ~16 rainy days
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in Edinburgh in January?
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 January?
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 January?
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 January?
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.