Best shoes
9 best shoes for Toronto in January
highs of 28°F, lows of 16°F, 14 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.
Why these shoes for Toronto in January
Toronto in January averages highs around 28°F, lows near 16°F, 14 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 Toronto in January
ForecastStyle pick
Black lace-up hiking boots
Ankle-height hiking boots in black with a waterproof finish and cushioned insole. Supportive on trails and easy to style with outdoor-adj…
Handles ~14 rainy days
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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 ~14 rainy days
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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 ~14 rainy days
Shop on Amazon →Best traction sneakers for Toronto in January
ForecastStyle pick
White Salomon Trail Sneakers
These technical sneakers provide excellent grip and support for light hikes or city errands. The streamlined design offers all-day comfor…
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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
Olive Mesh Travel Walking Sneakers
Olive mesh walking sneakers that vent heat on warm city days. Cushioned enough for hills without aggressive trail lugs or neon colors.
Shop on Amazon →Best packable rain shoes for Toronto in January
Charcoal
Charcoal Grip-Sole City Sneakers
Charcoal sneakers with a refined grip sole for hills and slick stone. Cushioned enough for 12k-step days without looking like outdoor boots.
Handles ~14 rainy days
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ForecastStyle pick
Black Foldable Waterproof Travel Rain Sneakers
Black foldable waterproof rain sneakers that tuck into a packing cube. Dedicated wet-weather pair so your primary shoes stay dry for even…
Handles ~14 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 ~14 rainy days
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in Toronto in January?
Yes — with roughly 14 rainy days in the month, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a strong bet.
Do I need boots in Toronto in January?
Yes — average lows near 16°F mean insulated boots will keep your feet from freezing on the walk back to the hotel.
Can I wear sandals in Toronto in January?
Not really — highs around 28°F are too cool for open shoes on most days.
Can I get by with one pair of shoes in Toronto 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 Toronto?
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 Toronto?
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.