One rainy morning in March 2025, Max and I came home with a leash soaked in mud and smelling awful. After dealing with low-quality leashes that couldn’t handle the elements (like these chew-proof options), I was done.
That’s when I switched to a waterproof dog leash—and it changed everything. Easy to rinse, no stink, and ready for any weather.
In this article, I’ll share the best waterproof leashes I tested, and how to pick the right one for your dog.
| Quick Look:I tested five waterproof dog leashes in rain, mud, and beach runs. The NIMBLE Long, Viper Biothane, and Dogline Biothane handled tough conditions best, while the Rubyloo and CollarDirect were great for everyday walks. Each one stood out for its durability, quick-dry design, and easy cleanup. |
Waterproof Dog Leash: Our Tops Picks
1.CollarDirect Waterproof Dog Leash (Large, Orange)
I picked this leash mostly for its bright orange color—it stands out and looks great during early morning or late evening walks. The material feels strong but surprisingly soft in my hand. After a muddy park session with Max, I wiped it clean in seconds. The 4-foot length gave me decent control without feeling too restrictive.
Key Features
- 4 ft long, ideal for small, medium, or large dogs
- PVC-coated nylon webbing—waterproof, flexible, and durable
- Available in 5 bright colors: blue, mint green, orange, black, and pink
- Comes in 3 width options: Small (⅗”), Medium (⅘”), Large (1″)
- Matching waterproof collar available separately
What Works?
It’s super easy to rinse off—just a quick wipe and all the mud comes off. The leash doesn’t hold any smell, even after wet walks. It feels soft yet doesn’t stretch or lose shape when Max pulls. The bold orange color really makes my dog stand out at the park.
What Doesn’t Work?
The 4-foot length felt limiting when I needed to give Max extra space during walks and training. The PVC coating gets a little slippery if my hands are sweaty. I also wish it had some reflective stitching for night walks.
Who Should Buy This?
If you often deal with wet trails, muddy streets, or rainy-day walks, this leash makes cleanup so much easier. It’s a great pick for dog owners who want something bright, easy to maintain, and strong enough for daily use—especially in urban areas or unpredictable weather.
2.Rubyloo Waterproof Dog Leash – 1″ Blue
I picked up the Rubyloo leash for our muddy trail walks—and it’s been a total win. It’s fully waterproof, easy to rinse, and the padded handle actually saves my hand when Max pulls. No smell, no fuss, and no rust, even after weeks of wet use.
✅ Features
- 100% waterproof and odor-proof polymer-coated nylon
- Rust- and corrosion-resistant zinc alloy clip & D-ring
- Soft padded handle for comfortable grip
- Quick-dry, hose-clean design
- Fade-proof coating that keeps color looking new
- Swivel clip prevents leash twisting
- 1″ wide for better durability
👍 What Works?
After five rainy walks and a lake swim, it still smells fresh. I just hose it off, and it’s clean in seconds. The padded handle saved my hand when Max pulled, and the clip never jammed, even with sand.
👎 What Doesn’t Work?
There’s no reflective stitching, which I really missed during night walks when visibility is key. I also wish it came in a few fun patterns—right now it’s mostly solid colors. Out of the box, it felt a bit stiff, but after a few uses it softened up nicely.
🐕 Who Should Buy This?
If your walks involve wet grass, beach sand, or trails, this leash is a no-brainer. It’s ideal for medium to large dogs (40 lbs and up), and perfect for dog owners like me who don’t want to deal with smelly, soggy fabric leashes ever again.
3.Dogline Biothane Waterproof Dog Leash (2/4/6 ft – Hunter Orange)
I picked this leash up in the 4-foot length for muddy park walks—and wow, it didn’t disappoint.The Biothane coating feels smooth yet tough, and even after dragging it through wet grass and dirt, it wiped clean in seconds. I also loved that it didn’t stink after use, which is a huge win for me.
⭐ Features
- Available in 2 ft, 4 ft, or 6 ft options
- Made from coated nylon webbing (Biothane)
- Odor-proof, waterproof, and easy to clean
- Includes black hardware and a durable D-ring
- Made in the USA
What Worked?
Cleaning was effortless—just a quick rinse under the tap and it looked new. Even after 30+ days of use, it stayed completely odor-free. The Biothane didn’t stiffen or crack like cheaper rubber leashes. And I loved how bright the Hunter Orange looked on outdoor trails.
❌ What Didn’t Work?
The handle isn’t padded, so my hand got a little sore during longer walks. Also, the placement of the D-ring felt a bit awkward for clipping on waste bag holders or accessories, unlike ergonomic leash designs I’ve tested.
Who Should Buy This?
If you’re looking for a simple, stink-free, waterproof leash that’s built for everyday messes—this one’s solid. I’d recommend it to medium and large dog owners who need something tough, easy to clean, and made to last.
4.Viper Biothane K9 Waterproof Dog Leash – 6ft, Black
I’ve taken this leash through rain, mud, and even snow—and it never held onto a single drop. The Viper Biothane K9 leash stayed flexible, didn’t stink, and honestly feels tougher than leather. It’s built for serious training, but I still use it for everyday walks.
Features
- Length: 6 feet (ideal for daily control + freedom)
- Material: Biothane-coated webbing (odor-proof and waterproof)
- Breaking strength: 625 lbs (super heavy-duty)
- Clip: Solid brass snap (rust-resistant)
- Made in USA
- Available in 25 colors, 3 widths, and 3 lengths
What Works?
I love how easy it is to clean—just rinse and wipe. It stayed flexible even when I used it during freezing winter walks. And it never picked up any weird smell, even after dragging it through wet grass and mud.
What Doesn’t Work?
This isn’t chew-proof, so it won’t survive a teething puppy or a leash biter. Also, it’s not designed to be used as a tie-out, so it’s not ideal for leaving your dog unattended.
Who Should Buy This?
If you’ve got a medium or large dog and need a leash for training, working, or daily walks in rough conditions, this one’s worth it. Especially great for handlers, trainers, or anyone who’s fed up with soggy, smelly leashes. These heavy-duty leashes offer durable options that last.
5.NIMBLE Long Waterproof Dog Leash – My Favorite for Beach & Backyard Freedom
I took this one out during our beach trip last month, and I’ve gotta say—it held up better than I expected. With Max pulling like a mini tank and sand everywhere, this waterproof leash didn’t absorb a drop or get gritty. It dries fast, feels solid, and gave him tons of room to roam.
Key Features
- Pull Strength: Withstands 600–750 lbs of force
- Lengths Available: 5 ft, 10 ft, 16 ft, 30 ft, 50 ft
- Material: Poly-coated waterproof nylon
- Width: 1/2 inch (13mm)
- Colors: 10+ bright options
- Swivel Clip: 360° tangle-free design with reinforced rivets
What Works?
It stayed completely dry even after Max dragged it through the surf. Cleaning it was a breeze—I just wiped it with a towel and tossed it in the car. The 30-foot length gave him enough freedom to explore without me losing control. Also, it didn’t pick up any beach sand, which was a huge bonus.
What Doesn’t Work?
Max tried to chew it once and left visible marks, so it’s definitely not chew-proof. Also, the handle isn’t padded, so it got a bit uncomfortable during long sessions when he pulled hard.
Who Should Buy This?
If your dog loves the beach, the backyard, or wide open parks, this leash is worth it. I’d recommend it for anyone doing recall training or off-leash play who wants a waterproof leash for outdoor adventures that holds up in real conditions.
5 Buying Guides For Waterproof Dog Leash
1. Pick the Right Length for Your Dog’s Lifestyle
I learned that a 6-foot leash works great for city walks, but anything over 16 feet gives Max the freedom to roam during off-leash training. For beach days or recall practice, I go for 30 or even 50 feet. Just be sure you’re comfortable handling the extra slack.
2. Look for Real Waterproof Materials
Not all “waterproof” labels are equal. I stick with poly-coated nylon or Biothane—those stay dry even after full submersion. Some leashes just resist water but still absorb moisture at the edges. If you want true waterproofing, check the material before buying.
3. Check the Strength Rating
Max weighs around 65 lbs and pulls hard, so I only trust leashes rated for at least 500 lbs of force. The NIMBLE leash I tested handled up to 750 lbs, and that gave me peace of mind. If your dog lunges or tugs, don’t compromise on tensile strength.
4. Swivel Clips Matter More Than You Think
I didn’t realize how much a swivel clasp helps until Max stopped getting tangled mid-walk. A 360° swivel clip keeps things smooth, especially with longer leashes. It’s one of those small features that makes a big difference in daily use.
5. Choose Handles Based on Grip Comfort
If you’re out for more than 15 minutes, you’ll feel every detail of that handle. I prefer padded or rubber-coated grips, especially for pullers. The Rubyloo leash had a wide 1-inch handle that felt secure, even on muddy hikes.
Final Thoughts: Waterproof Dog Leash
After testing these waterproof dog leashes in real weather, I’ll never go back to regular ones. From rainy hikes to sandy beach runs, they saved me time, stress, and cleanup. My go-to? The NIMBLE Long leash for freedom and durability. No matter your dog’s size or energy, there’s a waterproof leash here that’ll make your walks easier.
FAQs: Waterproof Dog Leash
1. Are waterproof dog leashes really worth it?
Yes, 100%. After dealing with soggy, smelly leashes for years, switching to waterproof ones made cleanup effortless. I just rinse them off, dry with a towel, and they’re good to go.
2. What material is best for a waterproof dog leash?
In my experience, Biothane and poly-coated nylon are the best. They don’t soak up water, dry fast, and don’t get stiff in cold weather.
3. Can waterproof leashes handle strong pullers?
Definitely—but check the pull strength rating. I only buy leashes that handle 500–750 lbs of force, especially since my dog Max loves to lunge after squirrels.
4. How do I clean a waterproof dog leash?
I just wipe it down with a wet cloth or rinse it under the tap. No soaking, no stink—way easier than cleaning a cloth or rope leash.
