How to Buy Rain-Beating, Office-Appropriate Formal Leather Shoes for Men

With the September showers well underway, it’s time to think about footwear that can handle the rain without sacrificing style. After all, no matter how important your job is, turning up to the office in wellington boots is hardly going to make the right impression.

So, what type of formal leather shoes for men should you be looking for during the wet season? And how can you make your current favourites from Silver Street London more rain-resistant?

Leather Chelsea Boots

We spoke with British shoemaking expert Tim Little, of Grenson, to share his tips on wet-weather shoe shopping, the best soles for slippery streets, and how to care for your formal shoes when they get soaked.

What Materials Are Best for Wet Weather?

Look out for grained leather, waxed leather, oiled leather, or high-shine leather. These materials are thicker and tougher, offering much better protection from the rain.

During the tanning process, wax and oil are added to these leathers to make them more resistant to water. So when choosing formal leather shoes for men, it's worth investing in a good quality pair made from these materials—like those available from Silver Street London.

Which Soles Are Best on Rainy Streets?

Rubber soles are much better than leather soles in wet conditions. A Dainite sole is a smart rubber alternative that’s thinner and looks more elegant, making it ideal for office wear. For extra grip, especially if you're walking a lot outdoors, a commando sole is a chunkier option with great traction.

Both types of soles can be found on some of Silver Street London’s formal leather shoes, offering both safety and style.

Can You Wear Boots to the Office?

Absolutely! As long as they’re sleek and polished. Options like a toe-cap Oxford boot, brogue boot, or classic Chelsea boot are all acceptable in formal settings—especially when made from quality leather and fitted with a neat Dainite sole.

Many Silver Street London designs follow these classic styles, giving you the confidence to wear boots that are both smart and weatherproof.

How Can You Make Leather Shoes More Waterproof?

The easiest way is to keep your shoes polished. The wax in shoe polish helps form a barrier on the leather, stopping rainwater from soaking in. Regular polishing will not only keep your shoes looking sharp but also protect them from the elements.

What Should You Do If Your Shoes Get Soaked?

If your shoes get wet, don’t wear them again for at least 48 hours. Let them dry naturally—never near a radiator or heater, as that can warp the leather. Use shoe trees to help them dry back into shape. If you don’t have shoe trees, stuff them with newspaper to draw the moisture out.