Best shoes
9 best shoes for Pittsburgh in December
highs of 39°F, lows of 25°F, 15 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.
Why these shoes for Pittsburgh in December
Pittsburgh in December averages highs around 39°F, lows near 25°F, 15 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 Pittsburgh in December
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 ~15 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 ~15 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 ~15 rainy days
Shop on Amazon →Best traction sneakers for Pittsburgh in December
ForecastStyle pick
Navy blue running sneakers
Cushioned running shoes in navy with a breathable mesh upper and grippy outsole. Pairs back to black, grey, or navy activewear easily.
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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.
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ForecastStyle pick
Grey Summit Chunky Trail Sneakers
A rugged sole provides superior traction on and off the trail, while the cushioned interior ensures all-day comfort. The chunky silhouett…
Shop on Amazon →Best packable rain shoes for Pittsburgh in December
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 ~15 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 ~15 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Navy Soft-Knit Walking Shoes
Navy knit walking shoes that flex with every step and slip through security without drama. Soft collar and steady sole for museum marathons.
Handles ~15 rainy days
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in Pittsburgh in December?
Yes — with roughly 15 rainy days in the month, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a strong bet.
Do I need boots in Pittsburgh in December?
Yes — average lows near 25°F mean insulated boots will keep your feet from freezing on the walk back to the hotel.
Can I wear sandals in Pittsburgh in December?
Not really — highs around 39°F are too cool for open shoes on most days.
Can I get by with one pair of shoes in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh?
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 Pittsburgh?
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.