Best shoes

9 best shoes for London in December

highs of 46°F, lows of 37°F, 12 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.

Primary: Waterproof boots · Backup: Traction sneakers · Usually skip: Open sandals and flip-flops as your only pair

Why these shoes for London in December

London in December averages highs around 46°F, lows near 37°F, 12 rainy days.

London mixes rain, tube stairs, and museum marathons — versatile waterproof-capable shoes win. Expect long walking days in London: mixed terrain means a versatile sole wins.

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 London in December

Camel Camel Waterproof Chelsea Boots

Camel

Camel Waterproof Chelsea Boots

$$

Classic camel waterproof Chelseas that photograph well and survive wet European streets. A slim rubber sole keeps them light enough for a…

Handles ~12 rainy days

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Slate Slate Blue Waterproof Trail-to-Town Boots

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 ~12 rainy days

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Matte Matte Black Waterproof Chelsea Boots

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 ~12 rainy days

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Best traction sneakers for London in December

ForecastStyle pick Grey Road-Ready Walking Sneakers

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…

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Stone Stone Urban Traction Low Sneakers

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.

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ForecastStyle pick White cross-training sneakers

ForecastStyle pick

White cross-training sneakers

$$

Flat-soled training shoes in white with a supportive upper. Handles HIIT classes, pilates, and light outdoor workouts.

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Best packable rain shoes for London in December

ForecastStyle pick Navy Cobble-Ready Traction Sneakers

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.

Handles ~12 rainy days

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ForecastStyle pick Black-and-White Waterproof City Trail Sneakers

ForecastStyle pick

Black-and-White Waterproof City Trail Sneakers

$$

Waterproof low sneakers in black and white with city-friendly traction for wet sidewalks and short park trails. Packs flatter than boots …

Handles ~12 rainy days

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Stone Stone Grey All-Day Walking Shoes

Stone

Stone Grey All-Day Walking Shoes

$$

Stone grey all-day walking shoes with a smooth sole for museums and malls. Understated enough for work trips, cushioned enough for weeken…

Handles ~12 rainy days

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FAQ

Are waterproof shoes necessary in London in December?

Yes — with roughly 12 rainy days in the month, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a strong bet.

Do I need boots in London 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 London in December?

Not really — highs around 46°F are too cool for open shoes on most days.

Can I get by with one pair of shoes in London 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 London?

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 London?

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.

See the full packing list for London in DecemberOutfit ideas for London in DecemberAll months — best shoes for London