rain boots for April in Central Europe?

Elizabeth - I doubt rain boots are necessary, but I would take a pair of waterproof walking shoes. We've been to Central Europe in April and May and had lots of rain on both trips, but did fine with a good waterproof leather walking shoe.

Boots -- no. But certainly waterproof shoes. Not weather resistant, not water resistant but truly waterproof.

thanks for the feedback, just fyi, when i wrote "rain boots, i really meant short Sörel rain booties...does that make a difference? if not, can you give me an example of what kind of waterproof shoe you wear for touring?

thanks!

You could pack XtraTuf boots, but my footwear is either low-cut hiking boots or running shoes. Despite being caught in heavy rain at times and experiencing some frost, my feet were fine and I don’t recall ever having thoroughly soaked feet and wishing for WATERPROOF shoes. YMMV. Also, I’d strongly recommend wearing quality merino wool socks if your feet allow.

Ahnu waterproof hiking shoes. I purchased mine from REI. I've worn on rough trails, smooth streets, cobblestone streets and in terrific downpours. I also just wear them around town because they are so comfortable. I wear merino socks from Costco and have comfortable feet :)

I have sorrel snow boots and wouldn't want to do a LOT of walking in them. Not sure if your boots are more comfortable. My favorite hiking shoe is a keen waterproof similar to this.

https://www.keenfootwear.com/p/W-TARGHEE-III-WP.html?dwvar_W-TARGHEE-III-WP_size=6&dwvar_W-TARGHEE-III-WP_color=1018154&cgid=activity_hiking_womens

It's what I've worn on our last 4 trips, but we tend to do a lot of walking with some hiking and biking mixed in so comfort is a big deal. We only take one pair of shoes and have had good luck with this type of shoe. Even if it's very rainy they are always dry the next day.

The rain booties you have are everywhere in the US (I was just home for Christmas and musing over the comeback of these duck boots) but in Europe you will stick out like a sore thumb with them as they are not common here. In fact, in the 10+ years in this region, I’ve worn my rain boots maybe three times ever. Are you trying to be fashionable or practical? Just wear something comfortable. Rain in this area is seldom more than a drizzle.

I have Clark waterproof walking shoes -- have gone through rain many times. And yes, Costco merino wool socks.

I swear by my Salomon hiking shoes for all weather and terrain. I buy the gortex ones and with wool socks my feet stay warm and blister free. I prefer the standard shoe but also have a low ankle boot version for when water may be higher or need for ankle support or bug/leech protection. I was trying to be fashionable in Spain, but due to other foot problems resorted back to my Salomons. A would recommend a second pair of walking shoes if doing a lot of walking, but otherwise these may be your prime footwear. They are a bit heavy, so get used to wearing them beforehand and wear them on the plane - particularly if going carry on only.

sounds good! drizzle I can handle! i live in Texas and rain here means a flood which is why i think 'rain boots' when i read 'rainy weather'.

thanks for all the replies!