Best shoes
9 best shoes for Pittsburgh in January
highs of 34°F, lows of 20°F, 16 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.
Why these shoes for Pittsburgh in January
Pittsburgh in January averages highs around 34°F, lows near 20°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 Pittsburgh 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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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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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
Shop on Amazon →Best traction sneakers for Pittsburgh in January
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
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 …
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ForecastStyle pick
Grey trail running shoes
Waterproof trail runners in grey with a grippy lug sole and reinforced toe. Good for light hiking and off-road runs.
Shop on Amazon →Best packable rain shoes for Pittsburgh in January
Cloud
Cloud White Cushioned Walking Sneakers
Lightweight white walking sneakers with max cushion for 15k-step city days. Clean silhouette that pairs with jeans or joggers and packs f…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
White Quick-Dry Waterproof City Sneakers
White waterproof city sneakers that rinse clean after wet streets. Packable silhouette with cushioned midsoles for airports and rainy sig…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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Charcoal
Charcoal Waterproof Sneaker-Boots
Hybrid sneaker-boots in charcoal with a waterproof membrane and cushioned footbed for all-day city miles. Looks like a fashion sneaker, b…
Handles ~16 rainy days
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh in January?
Yes — average lows near 20°F mean insulated boots will keep your feet from freezing on the walk back to the hotel.
Can I wear sandals in Pittsburgh in January?
Not really — highs around 34°F are too cool for open shoes on most days.
Can I get by with one pair of shoes in Pittsburgh 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 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.