Buzz
Unless otherwise noted, all sizes mentioned in this article are for women.
When searching for footwear that can withstand harsh weather or muddy terrains, there’s no better source of advice than those who deal with such conditions daily. Zookeepers at the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pennsylvania, emphasize that the perfect work shoe must be long-lasting, durable, comfortable, and affordable — a rare combination that’s hard to come by.
“We typically spend over $100 on shoes at least twice a year, unless we resort to duct tape and shoe glue,” Kate Olsen, the zoo’s assistant curator of behavioral husbandry and conservation, shared with us.
Olsen mentioned that each zookeeper has their preferred shoe styles and brands, as what suits one may not suit another. However, she highlighted that a shared objective among the team is to find comfortable footwear that endures more than six months of heavy use and keeps their feet dry during long days outdoors.
“‘Waterproof’ and ‘water-resistant’ are entirely different,” Olsen noted, humorously adding that even some so-called waterproof shoes fail to keep feet completely dry.
Theresa Wilson, the director of ZooAmerica in Hershey, Pennsylvania, pointed out that shoe height is another key consideration for staff.
“Some prefer full boots, while others opt for low hikers,” Wilson explained. “It all comes down to personal preference and comfort.”
Although Wilson didn’t recommend specific brands or styles, she emphasized that a reliable zoo shoe should offer good traction, handle wet conditions, and be comfortable enough for eight-hour shifts.
To assist you in finding the best footwear for wet, muddy, or general outdoor conditions, Olsen and other zookeepers shared their top shoe recommendations for work.
1. Salomon hiking boots
Kate Olsen, the assistant curator of behavioral husbandry and conservation at the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pennsylvania, mentioned that her colleagues favor Salomon's hiking boots, particularly these grippy Gore-Tex models. "We strive to find boots that remain waterproof for as long as possible, and Gore-Tex typically helps achieve that," she explained.
Purchase them from Salomon for $175 in women's sizes (available in sizes 5.5–11 and five colors) or in men's sizes for $131.25+ (originally $175; available in sizes 7–14 and five colors).
2. Danner boots
3. Keen waterproof hiking boots
"Keen offers a solid warranty on their boots for outdoor professionals," Olsen noted, adding that Keen waterproof hiking boots are a favorite among zookeepers. These boots feature a sole that’s fused, not glued, ensuring exceptional durability.
Purchase them from Keen for $165 in women's sizes (available in sizes 5–12 and three colors) or in men's sizes (available in sizes 7–14 and four colors).
4. Merrell sneakers or hiking boots
Olsen emphasized that Merrell is a reliable choice.
She added that many staff members prefer both sneakers and boots from this outdoor brand. These low-profile Moab Speed 2 hiking sneakers with Gore-Tex are a standout option. They’re lightweight, easy to wear, and provide excellent stability and support. Plus, they come in a variety of vibrant colors for both men and women.
Purchase them from Merrell for $170 in women's sizes (available in sizes 5–11, including wide options, and seven colors) or in men's sizes (available in sizes 7–15, including wide options, and seven colors).
5. Kuru sneakers
Kelsey Wise, a primate keeper at the Philadelphia Zoo, prefers lace-up sneakers for her work. While she has worn brands like New Balance and Saucony, she recently switched to Kuru for their heel-hugging design.
"Kuru stood out to me because they market shoes based on specific foot pain issues," Wise explained. "Since I’m on my feet all day, I need supportive footwear. I also need something I can easily switch out for boots when cleaning habitats. Kuru has been the most durable and supportive shoe I’ve used so far, and I plan to keep buying them."
Kuru's user-friendly website helps you find shoes tailored to conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, heel spurs, and bunions.
Purchase them from Kuru for $160 in women's sizes (available in sizes 5–12, including wide options and nine colors, with waterproof options) or in men's sizes (available in sizes 6.5–14 and five colors, with waterproof options).
6. Keen Whisper sandals
7. Waterproof boots from Muck Boot Co.
For tasks involving water, Olsen mentioned that staff members often rely on waterproof boots from Muck Boot Co.
"We’ve found that Bogs and Muck Boots are particularly durable for the amount of water work and hosing we handle," she noted.
Muck Boot Co. — known as the original creator of the "muck boot," designed for mud and messy conditions — offers a wide range of waterproof boots to keep your feet dry and protected. Their classic chore boots, featuring a flexible and durable neoprene upper, are a comfortable and practical choice.
Purchase them from Muck Boot Co. for $130 (available in men's sizes 5–16).
8. Bogs waterproof boots
Olsen also highlighted Bogs, a brand offering a wide range of footwear, from low-rise garden shoes to knee-high winter boots. Their collection includes numerous stylish rain boots, such as these lace-up waterproof boots with a sturdy sole and convenient zipper.
Purchase them from Zappos for $76.97 (originally $110; available in sizes 6–12 and two colors).
9. Dr. Scholl's insoles
