Hey Dudes Shoes: What Makes Them Work in Ireland’s Weather

When you see Hey Dudes shoes, a lightweight, slip-on casual shoe originally designed for relaxed, beach-ready wear. Also known as slip-on loafers, they’re popular for their easy fit and soft foam footbeds. But in Ireland, where the ground stays wet for months and sidewalks turn to mud after a light drizzle, people start asking: can these really work here? The answer isn’t simple. They’re not waterproof, not insulated, and not built for cobblestones—but that doesn’t mean they’re useless. Many Irish people wear them in spring and summer, especially in cities like Dublin, Galway, and Cork, where the weather clears for a few weeks and comfort matters more than protection.

What makes Hey Dudes shoes surprising in Ireland is how often they show up alongside gear that’s totally different. You’ll see them paired with waterproof jackets, wool socks, and even rain boots in the car trunk. That’s because they’re not meant to be your all-season shoe—they’re your casual walking shoe for dry days, quick errands, or when you’ve been on your feet all day and just need relief. They’re not replacing Irish runners—the local term for everyday trainers—but they’re filling a gap. People who work in cafes, walk the kids to school, or commute on flat city paths find them lighter than boots and easier to slip on than laced shoes. And since they come in neutral colors like beige, navy, and grey, they match jeans, dresses, and even smart-casual outfits without looking out of place.

But here’s the catch: if you’re wearing them in October, you’re probably regretting it by November. The foam soles absorb water, the uppers aren’t sealed, and the thin tread offers little grip on wet stone. That’s why most Irish buyers who like Hey Dudes shoes buy them in May and store them by September. Some even buy two pairs—one for indoor use, one for quick outdoor trips. Brands like Clarks and ECCO offer similar comfort with better weather resistance, but they cost more. Hey Dudes are the budget-friendly alternative for when you don’t need protection, just peace. If you’ve ever stood all day and felt your feet ache, you know how powerful that is.

So if you’re thinking about buying Hey Dudes shoes in Ireland, don’t expect them to be your winter solution. Do expect them to be your go-to when the sun comes out, your commute is short, and you just want to feel like you’re walking on clouds. They’re not the toughest shoe on the shelf, but they’re one of the most comfortable—and sometimes, that’s all you need.

Below, you’ll find real stories from Irish people who wear them, reviews from those who tried and returned them, and guides on how to make them last longer in damp weather. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or already a fan, there’s something here that’ll help you decide if Hey Dudes shoes belong in your closet—or your shoe rack, next to the rain boots.