MANILA, Philippines?Now that it?s rainy season again, ditch your trusty summer flip-flops for practical footwear that can protect your feet from the rain and mud puddles.

However, practical doesn't have to mean boring, as in bulky rain boots or sneakers.

Rather than choosing a dark pair of sneakers (popular during the rainy season, as mud splatters don't show), you can opt for plastic shoes or canvas sneakers that require little maintenance and don't easily get damaged by water.

Check out some of the season's freshest rainproof styles. Pair them with socks, funky colored stockings or wear them on your own.

E-mail the author at biancaconsunji@yahoo.com