We have tested the best snow boots for women for every occasion, from waterproof and insulated models to those with good traction.
Winter weather calls for rugged snow boots that can handle all conditions, from icy sidewalks to snowy commutes. But not all boots are created equal: some have excellent traction, while others are insulated for extended stays in the cold. A boot meant for winter hiking offers different benefits than a boot meant for a fancy après-ski lodge. Regardless of where you wear them, the most important requirements for the best snow boots are that they keep your feet warm and are water-repellent, if not completely waterproof.
To help you find the best pair for your needs, we tested 27 pairs of women’s snow boots. We looked at fit, support, durability, performance in different weather conditions and terrain, waterproofness and overall value. The tests will run for a period of six months and we will update our results accordingly. Whether you’re looking for a pair of comfortable boots that offer just enough support and warmth to walk your dog on a freezing morning, or an extremely insulated and waterproof pair to get you through long days on the slopes, there’s a model for you on this list. Read on to find out our favorites for every type of outdoor excursion.
Our top picks
- 👉 BEST OVERALL:The North Face Shellista IV Boot at Amazon
- 👉 MOST STYLISH:Baffin Chloe Boot at Amazon
- 👉 BEST SHORT:Dr. Martens Combs Padded Casual Boots at Amazon
- 👉 BEST INSULATED:Helly Hansen Women’s Garibaldi VL Boots at Amazon
- 👉 BEST TALL:Hunter Insulated Tall Snow Boots at Amazon
- 👉 MOST VERSATILE:Keen Revel IV Polar Boot at Amazon
- 👉 BEST TRACTION:Merrell Thermo Rogue 3 Mid Gore-tex at Amazon
- 👉 BEST LIGHTWEIGHT:Merrell Women’s Bravada 2 at Amazon
- 👉 BEST WATERPROOF:Muck Boot Company Arctic Ice Tall AGAT Boot at Amazon
- 👉 BEST FOR HIKING:Oboz Ousel Mid Boot at Amazon
1. Best overall performance
The North Face Shellista IV Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These durable boots keep feet warm and dry whatever the weather. They’re comfortable from the first wear and we love the stylish faux fur lining.
What to consider: While this weight is great for everyday errands, they might be too heavy for hikers.
These everyday snow boots from The North Face meet all our requirements: They’re fully waterproof, ultra-comfortable, insulated with recycled materials and have rubber soles with excellent traction. Plus, comfort doesn’t come at the expense of style – we love the look and feel of the soft faux fur collars, which didn’t shed or lose their fluff during our testing period. We found these boots to be comfortable enough to wear for hours on end and our feet never felt cramped. During the two-month testing period, we wore these boots in ice, snow, slush and rain, and regardless of the weather conditions, the boots provided plenty of traction control.
The boots are equipped with padded ripstop tongues for extra warmth and comfort. The waterproof rubber shells are specially shaped for women’s feet and equipped with molded OrthoLite insoles and lightweight EVA midsoles that provide excellent arch support. These mid-height boots are perfect for everyday use in cold or snowy conditions thanks to their waterproof exterior, grippy rubber soles and 200 grams of insulation made from 85 percent recycled polyester. We had no trouble pairing them with all kinds of socks, from hiking socks to fluffy socks. Considering the affordable price, we think these shoes are excellent value for their high quality and versatility.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 2.14 pounds | Leather, nylon, recycled polyester insulation
2. Most stylish
Baffin Chloe Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These warm and extremely breathable boots are moisture-wicking, waterproof and windproof and have a stylish faux fur upper.
What to note: Baffin’s proprietary multi-layer insulation system adapts to the foot over time, so it can take a few days for the boot to break in.
Designed with style and superior comfort in mind, these faux-fur trimmed boots from Baffin feature exceptional multi-layer insulation technology that allows you to customize their warmth and fit. While they’re fashionable on the outside, inside you’ll find removable layers including a moisture-wicking one to keep feet fresh, a B-tek foam lining for increased comfort and B-tek insulation designed for maximum breathability in a range of temperatures. Additional layers include a polyester-wool blend for breathable warmth and multi-layer insulation that seals out wind, water and slush. While we had no issues with break-in, the layers are designed to mold to your feet once worn, so they can feel tight at first. However, after two months of testing, these boots keep our feet warm and dry in all weathers.
These high boots reach to mid-calf and offer adequate protection from the elements thanks to their waterproof construction. They stayed completely dry when we held them under the tap during testing and when we wore them in the rain. Although they’re a little heavy for activities like hiking – they weigh over four pounds – they’re good for keeping your feet comfortable and stylish in everyday life.
The details: Sizes 6 to 11 | 4.6 pounds | Suede upper, faux fur trim, rubber shell, EVA midsole, rubber outsole, polyester wool blend insulation
3. BEST SHORT
Dr. Martens Combs Padded Casual Boots
Our ratings:- Support 4/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: The elegant lacing ensures a perfect fit, while the lightweight construction makes the shoes a breeze to wear for everyday errands.
What to note: After two months of testing, we advise against wearing them in deep snow, as the cuff is quite short.
Imagine wrapping your feet in your coziest quilted jacket – that’s how comfy these cushioned ankle boots are. We love that they’re almost like walking on clouds while still offering solid arch support and the brand’s signature thick rubber outsole, which kept our feet warm and dry even in wet and slushy conditions. Due to their low height, these shoes may not keep out snow or slush, but their flexibility and breathability make them ideal for everyday use in cold or rainy weather. We liked that the wide and rounded footbed provides plenty of room, so you can easily pair them with thick socks on colder days.
The thick rubber outsole features deep, wide lugs that provide excellent traction – we felt they were grippy enough to cope with snow and ice, and loved that there was noticeable shock absorption that provided a nice bounce to our steps as we walked. We also appreciated the flexibility of the quilted nylon fabric, which gave us full freedom of movement when walking.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | nylon, PU-coated leather
4. Best insulated
Helly Hansen Women’s Garibaldi VL Boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love them: After two months of regular wear, we’ve found these to be some of the most comfortable snow boots we’ve ever worn.
What to watch out for: The white faux fur cuffs may not stand up to the dirty slush in the city.
These are definitely not your dad’s clunky old snow boots. Helly Hansen has long been a trusted brand for outdoor gear, and these tall, stylish snow boots are a perfect example of why. Ultra-lightweight and flexible, they offer full freedom of movement – we found they flexed easily with our feet and still provided good arch and ankle support thanks to the OrthoLite Eco comfort footbed. We would wear these shoes sledding, walking in snowy parks, running errands, and maybe even on a light hike. Weighing in at just over a pound, the featherweight construction feels more like comfortable sneakers than traditional clunky and restrictive snow boots, making them suitable for a variety of activities.
Equipped with 100 grams of PrimaLoft insulation and high-quality, waterproof leather, they kept our feet warm and dry even in a flash flood. Although the insulating layers felt a little tight at first, within a few hours they fitted our feet perfectly and were a perfect fit. We would have liked the shoes to be a little more breathable, but our feet never overheated. Our only real criticism is the white faux fur, which isn’t completely waterproof and will probably get dirty after a season in the slush of the city.
The details: Sizes 5.5 to 10 | 1.1 pounds | Upper: PU leather, polyester, leather; Lining: polyamide, polyester, EVA; Insole: EVA; Outsole: rubber
5. BEST TALL
Hunter Insulated Tall Snow Boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These waterproof, calf-high boots feature a buttery-soft lining and an adjustable toggle closure at the top so you can tuck in your sweatpants or pull them tight to keep the snow out.
What to note: They run large, so you should choose one size smaller if you are between two sizes.
Hunter may be famous for its trendy, minimalist rain boots, but once you slip into a pair of the calf-high snow boots, you’ll realize that the company’s stylish heritage extends to winter fashion too. Some of the chicest snow boots on the market, they’re made from a puffcoat-like material that keeps you warm thanks to a recycled fleece lining (though note that they don’t offer quite as much warmth as a wool or sheepskin version). We found that these boots were ultra-comfortable right out of the box and didn’t cause any blisters or aches.
You’ll feel as good as they look because they’re certified vegan and made almost entirely from recycled materials, from the nylon exterior to the fleece interior. The unique Ortholite footbed is flexible and lightweight, making these shoes an ideal choice for muddy sidewalks. The higher design also makes this the perfect shoe for snow drifts or heavy snow days. We love the lace-less design – aside from its minimalist aesthetic, it’s especially practical for pregnant women and anyone who prefers to slip on their shoes and start walking. There’s also a toggle closure at the top, which can be adjusted to provide enough room for jogging bottoms or pulled tight enough to keep snow and rain out. We also appreciate how easy it is to clean: even in the light cream color, we were able to easily wipe off dirt with a damp towel.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | nylon outer, fleece lining
6. Most versatile
Keen Revel IV Polar Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These lightweight hiking boots offer 200 grams of insulation and exceptional traction on snow and ice, making them a great choice for a variety of outdoor adventures.
What to keep in mind: Although they are ultra-lightweight, their chunky design means they still take up a lot of space in your suitcase – but given their versatility, they are worth packing for any cold-weather trip.
These waterproof boots are perfect for everything from cold weather hikes to rainy day errands to muddy gardening. Their sporty style is versatile enough to pair with activewear and casual wear – we’ve worn them on everything from outdoor excursions to trips to our local brewery. We found these shoes needed no break-in period and felt comfortable from the first wear, thanks to the roomy toe box and generous arch and ankle support. If you prefer extra support, there’s enough room to slide in an insole. We like that the shoe has an ideal amount of give, allowing freedom of movement while still keeping the foot secure.
Hikers will appreciate that this shoe weighs just over a pound and features a sturdy upper for lightweight support and an odor-resistant lining. Perhaps the best part is the excellent traction, which remains extremely grippy even on slick rock. The 200 grams of insulation and three layers of heat-retaining materials underfoot keep you warm in extreme conditions; even when we stepped into a deep puddle during the test, our feet stayed dry and warm. And after wearing these boots regularly for two months, they still look like new.
The details: Sizes 5 to 12 | 1.3 pounds | Upper made from waterproof leather and performance mesh, textile lining, insulation made from recycled PET, rubber outsole
7. Best traction
Merrell Thermo Rogue 3 Mid Gore-tex
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: The Vibram lugs on the outsole not only provide maximum traction, but also ensure that debris is deflected with every step.
What to consider: After two months of regular wear, we recommend combining them with thick socks for extra insulation.
The Thermo Rogue 3 from Merrell is ultra-lightweight and suitable for any terrain, from icy sidewalks to snowy trails, rocky chasms and slippery supermarket floors. They are equipped with Vibram lugs that provide the best possible traction while repelling potential debris along the way. Whether you’re out for a winter walk or running to the supermarket on a snowy day, these shoes will keep your feet warm, dry and supported – and most importantly, prevent slipping on wet floors. We also liked the fact that they are easy to ride in.
They reach a few centimeters above the ankle and provide stable support, but are still flexible enough to move with our foot when climbing over branches or rocks. Our only criticism is that the integrated laces were difficult to tighten enough to achieve a super-comfortable fit, although the shoe still felt very secure.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 1.8 pounds | Jacquard and TPU upper, mesh lining, synthetic Primaloft Gold Eco Series insulation, foam midsole, rubber outsole
8. Best lightweight
Merrell Women’s Bravada 2
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 4/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 4/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: Each shoe weighs just 12.4 ounces yet offers 100 grams of insulation to keep you warm and dry in cold temperatures.
What to note: The shoes need to be worn several times to get used to them and they run tight.
Those going on cold-weather hikes or looking for a pair of lightweight shoes for the commute will appreciate these breathable, comfortable lace-up shoes from Merrell. At just 12.4 ounces per shoe, these waterproof boots provide all-day comfort without weighing you down. We love that they fit like a sneaker while providing extra support and insulation around the ankle thanks to the easily adjustable laces, recycled fleece lining and 100 grams of low-bulk insulation for added warmth. Whether heading to work or walking the dog, our arches felt supported by the removable EVA foam footbed and shock absorption built into the midsole. We also liked the fact that the shoes are equipped with natural odor protection.
After wearing them a few times – they run a little narrower – they were very comfortable, and we found that the Merrell Quantum Grip outsole provided excellent traction in snow, mud and on the trail. During our two-month test period, we were even able to shovel snow with these boots, and they kept our feet warm and dry.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 1.5 pounds | Waterproof nubuck and nylon upper, recycled fleece lining, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole
9. Best water resistance
Muck Boot Company Arctic Ice Tall AGAT Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These boots are not only warm and completely waterproof, but also very grippy in slippery conditions.
What to watch out for: After two months of testing, we concluded that they do not insulate well and are best suited to rainy conditions.
If you live in an area where it rains a lot, these knee-high wellies are a must. They provide excellent traction on slippery grids and sidewalks, and the thick rubber outer combined with the soft neoprene lining keeps the warmth in and the elements out. While their height already helps to keep feet warm and dry in snow and slush, it’s the stretchy binding on the top that ensures the boots stay snug on the leg and prevent moisture from seeping in. During our tests, we trudged through deep puddles for over an hour – these boots kept our feet and legs completely dry up to the knees, and there was no feeling of seeping cold either.
While their height is a boon for protection from rain and cold wind, it restricts mobility, even with longer legs: The thickness of the rubber can make it difficult to bend the knee when climbing stairs. Nevertheless, these boots are warm and comfortable. They also feature Vibram lugs for top-notch traction on all surfaces, from slippery roads to icy driveways. You can stay dry for a few seasons with regular wear in wet or muddy conditions with these boots, but be aware that the thick rubber exterior can crack over time.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 2.75 pounds | Rubber outsole, fleece lining, EVA midsole
10. Best for hiking
Oboz Ousel Mid Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: The thermal insole supports the arch of the foot and ensures comfort on long hikes, while 200 grams of insulation keep your feet cozy and warm.
What to note: These are not the most breathable shoes on our list.
Planning a hike in cold or snowy weather or looking for the right snow boots for a winter camping trip? These insulated, waterproof boots from Oboz feature thermal insoles and a high lined cuff to keep your feet dry, warm and supported on long hikes. Available in regular, wide and half sizes, the nubuck leather boots feature a specially molded insole designed for maximum comfort and thermal regulation to help you go the distance. After hours of running through the rain and splashing in deep puddles, our feet were still completely dry – even after standing in a stream. Plus, there was no break-in period. We found these shoes to be ideal for winter weather and rainy or snowy days thanks to their excellent traction and 200 grams of Freeze Guard insulation. As a feel-good bonus, Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold.
The details: Sizes 5 to 12 | 1.1 pounds | Nubuck leather upper, Freeze Guard 200g insulation, recycled polyester lining
11. Best for wide feet
OrthoFeet Florence Boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 4/5.
Why we love it: These lightweight and cushioned boots feature removable spacers to help you find your perfect fit and are available in multiple wide sizes.
What to note: Due to their low height, these boots are not ideal for prolonged use in areas with heavy snowfall.
For people with wider feet, limited mobility or who need extra arch support, these ankle boots from OrthoFeet are a dream. The wide opening, pull-on construction and sturdy fabric closures make them a breeze to put on and take off. We’ve worn them on local trails, driving and walking around the neighborhood and found them to be comfortable from the first wear, while the supple leather keeps our feet warm and dry. The orthopedic, antimicrobial insole gently cradles the heel and cushions the foot, while removable arch supports provide additional support. We love that the shoes come with adjustable spacers to ensure a comfortable fit. The boots offer a good balance between ankle support and freedom of movement – and they are completely waterproof. Unlike traditional snow boots, these are offered in a wider range of sizes, including narrow, regular, wide, extra wide and extra wide. During our two-month test, we wore these boots on two-mile night walks and found them incredibly comfortable and supportive.
The details: Sizes 5 to 12 | 10.93 ounces | Leather upper, rubber outsole
12. Best value
Ryka Brae Winter Boot
Our ratings:- Support 4/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love them: These stylish and functional boots are just as comfortable as Uggs, but cost only a fraction of the price.
What to note: They are water-repellent rather than fully waterproof, and the flexible material doesn’t offer much ankle support.
If you’re looking for a pair of boots that combine comfort, style and winter-ready performance, look no further than these smart boots from Ryka. Although they’re not technically waterproof, we found them to be extremely water resistant – during our tests they repelled water with ease and remained completely dry inside, even after we ran them under the tap in the sink. They’re among the most comfortable and lightweight snow boots we’ve tried, and the combination of puffy nylon and classic lacing makes them versatile enough to wear for both après-ski and everyday errands. The soft, fluffy nylon provides a cushioned and snug fit, but isn’t sturdy enough to support the ankle – we found these boots to be better suited for snowy walks around the neighborhood than active outings. With four cute colors to choose from and a wide range of sizes, it’s easy to find the perfect pair.
The details: Sizes 5 to 12 | Nylon upper, microsuede, insulating foam, EVA midsole, TPR outsole
13. Most durable
Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP Boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: During our two months of testing, we wore these boots while shoveling over a meter of snow and our feet stayed warm and dry the whole time.
What to note: The rigid, ski boot-like construction is not for everyone, and lacing is time-consuming.
Whether hiking, snowshoeing or shoveling the driveway, these waterproof boots from Salomon are up to the task. The rugged construction of durable leather and Aerogel insulation is initially reminiscent of ski boots. The stiff exterior limits flexibility but provides excellent ankle support and cushioning. We felt incredibly secure hiking in slippery conditions. We found that it took us several days to break them in, but they felt comfortable from the first wear and never caused any pain or hot spots. Plus, the interior is warm and cozy thanks to the fluffy polyester lining. Thanks to the lining and insulation, they keep you warm even in winter temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius. They are also equipped with extremely grippy studs on the sole that can handle snow, ice and slippery paths with ease. The skate-style laces are a little time-consuming, but another plus point for anyone who values an extremely secure fit, as they make it easy to adjust the shoes to the desired fit.
The details: Sizes 5 to 11 | 13.75 ounces | Leather and textile upper, polyester lining, rubber outsole
14. Best for outdoor activities
Sorel Caribou Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 4/5, Performance 4.5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate how warm, waterproof and robust these boots are.
What to note: They run large to allow room for thick winter socks. So if you want to wear them with thinner socks, you should choose half a size smaller.
The Caribou Waterproof Boot from Sorel is a fashionable and practical boot that will keep you comfortable for a whole season. The brand is famous for its high-quality outdoor gear, and these rugged, seam-sealed waterproof boots are a great example of why. Whether you’re running errands, hanging out at the ice rink or hiking in the snow, these boots will keep your feet warm and comfortable for hours in cold temperatures. The removable ThermoPlus liner made from recycled felt hugs the ankle for added support and warmth. We found that they require no break-in period and that we experienced no foot, ankle or calf pain during long hikes or long days at the office.
It’s important to consider what type of socks you’ll be wearing with these boots in the first instance, as they’re designed for thicker socks – if you want to wear them with thinner socks, you might want to go down half a size. We also like that they provide excellent traction on snowy paths or slippery surfaces – typical of any good duck boot.
The details: Sizes 5 to 12 | 3.97 pounds | Upper made of suede and ballistic nylon, removable fleece lining, rubber outsole
15. Most comfortable
Ugg Adirondack III Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 4/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: Nothing beats the coziness and warmth of Ugg’s classic sheepskin lining.
What you should note: They are one of the most expensive pairs on this list.
Perhaps no other footwear brand has earned a reputation for being as comfortable as Ugg, thanks to the brand’s famous fluffy sheepskin lining. These winter-ready Adirondack boots are weatherproof to -25.6 degrees Fahrenheit, with a waterproof leather and suede upper and a water-repellent tongue to keep out any rain or snow. Our feet stayed warm and cozy all day when we wore them on long walks and errands, and we found them to provide excellent grip on wet and slippery surfaces. We appreciate that they provide excellent ankle support but still offer plenty of flexibility when walking. Best of all, the fold-down shaft makes it feel like you have two pairs of boots in one: You can fold it down to expose the fluffy interior, or fold it up for extra height and warmth. While these boots are a slightly bigger investment than others on this list, we think they’re worth it for their durability, superior comfort and the trustworthiness of the Ugg brand.
The details: 5 to 12 | 3.97 pounds | Leather and suede upper, polyknit lining, rubber outsole
Other snow boots for women that we liked
We tested so many pairs of boots that we felt there were a few more worth mentioning, although we did encounter a few minor inconveniences.
Kamik Lea Pull Winter Boots: Winter pull-on boots are a huge time-saver, and we loved this cozy, fleece-lined pair. The soft lining is moisture-wicking and helps to lock in warmth, but ultimately we didn’t feel like these boots were snug enough around the ankle to wear for extended periods of time.
Sorel Women’s Kinetic Impact Nxt Boots: These plush, fashionable boots from Sorel are comfortable from the first wear. We love the top toggle closure that allows you to adjust the fit and breathability while keeping the rain and snow out. Ultimately, the design is more fashionable than functional, and we think these boots are more suited to mild winters and city wear than harsh winter use.
Our test procedure
The Travelers team tested 27 pairs of women’s snow boots over a five-month period, evaluating fit, support, durability, performance, waterproofness and overall value in real-world conditions. The products that scored the highest and performed the best have earned a place on this list.
Our first task was to check the quality of the material and fittings of the boots straight out of the box, before wearing them for an hour to see if they needed to be broken in. We then wore the boots several times, paying close attention to how comfortable they felt over several hours and whether they provided adequate arch and ankle support. We also tested their breathability and grip on different surfaces. To test how waterproof they are, we stuffed each pair of shoes with paper towels and poured water over them.
We also received expert advice from Scott Wilfling, Oboz Outreach and Education Coordinator, and Devon Vanoostveen, Merrell Global Marketing Manager, on important details to look out for when testing the products.
Tips for buying snow boots for women
Prefer warmth
When investing in a new pair of snow boots, it’s important to make sure they are suitable for whatever conditions you need them for in the first place, be it standing in the snow, trudging through slushy sidewalks or driving on icy roads. Regardless of your intended use, you should choose a well-insulated boot that will keep your feet warm. Basic insulation such as shearling or faux fur is a good start, but longer outings in cold weather and extreme climates will require boots that are rated for sub-zero temperatures. Be sure to read temperature ratings, as these will depend on how long you spend outdoors and how your individual metabolism works, so real feedback can be more useful than the manufacturer’s recommendations.
“Another factor you should consider is: do your feet normally sweat? If so, you should pay attention to the insulation in your shoes,” says Wilfling.
Make sure they are waterproof
Soaked toes defeat the purpose of well-designed snow boots. Look for boots with rubber or waterproof leather bottoms to prevent snow and water from seeping in. A certain height will also help prevent you from sinking into the slush. Waterproof boots are a good choice if you’re mainly wearing them for short distances through cold or lightly snowy areas, but if you’re expecting heavier snowfall or slush, invest in waterproof boots. If you opt for a suede boot, you should coat it with waterproof spray or make sure it is coated with a layer such as polyurethane.
Know what you want to wear them for
The key factor when buying snowshoes is to know what environment you will be wearing them in most often. Take the time to ask yourself the question, “Will you be wearing them in the ski store? Will it be worn on the mountain? Will it be worn after après-ski? Will it be shoveling the driveway?'” suggests Wilfling.
Once you figure that out, you can decide how much insulation and warmth you need, and how high and intense the pull should be. “Take into account what temperature you will be wearing the shoes and how warm you want your feet to be,” adds Wilfling, pointing out that depending on the shoe, you should choose a size larger if you prefer to wear thick socks.
The height of the boots should also take into account the intended use, says Vanoostveen. For casual wear or city dwellers who only have an inch or two of snow to contend with, a warm and cozy ankle boot might be just the ticket. “I also think looking at the outsole and the type of traction you need for snow boots is very helpful. If you’re snowshoeing or doing something that’s mainly in the snow, rather than on a sidewalk that might be icy, then you should also look at different levels of traction,” Vanoostveen explains.
Frequently asked questions
Are hiking boots suitable for snow?
While most hiking boots have improved traction and light insulation, it’s important to choose a winter-ready pair for use in the snow. This means boots that are waterproof and have some insulation – even more insulation in freezing temperatures – as well as traction to keep you safe on slush, ice and slippery snow surfaces.
Can you wear rain boots in the snow?
In a snowstorm, rain boots are probably not sufficient in terms of traction and warmth. Rain boots are usually waterproof and have a strong enough tread to provide good traction on wet or slippery surfaces. However, they are often not insulated enough to keep you warm in the snow and do not have a tread suitable for ice and snow. Also, most Wellington-style rain boots have an open, wide top that you can tuck your pants into, so snow or slush can easily get in, either causing you to freeze or eventually melt and make a big mess.
Which material is the warmest for snow boots?
Wool, shearling and sheepskin ensure that your toes stay nice and warm all winter long. For maximum warmth, throw on a pair of thick wool socks and slip into a pair of fleece-lined boots with an insulated outer to lock in all that warmth. Vegan options such as faux sheepskin are also a great alternative and often much more affordable.
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