Bottom Line
The Sperry Cold Bay Chukka is a versatile, stylish boot with moderate warmth and waterproofing for casual winter conditions. Its waterproof leather upper and fleece-lined interior offers comfort and reliable protection without feeling bulky. The lightweight design makes it easy to wear for extended periods, and the rubber outsole provides decent traction on snow, ice, and wet surfaces. This insulated boot is not designed for extreme cold or rugged conditions. If you need heavy-duty protection, you’ll prefer other picks in our guide to the best rain boots. The Cold Bay Chukka is better for everyday winter activities.
How We Tested
We tested the Sperry Cold Bay Chukka over 90 days in moderate cold, light snow, and wet conditions in small towns and on park hikes in the greater Twin Cities region of Minnesota, using them for daily walking commutes and casual outdoor activities.
Quick Specs
Sperry Cold Bay Chukka
Best Duck Boot Mid
CleverHiker Rating: 4.1/5.0
Price: $120
Weight (Pair): 2 lb. 13.9 oz.
Height: 6in
Insulated: Yes
Pros
- Stylish
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Versatile
Cons
- Less suited for hiking due to heel
- short height limits weather-proofing
- Need leather treatment preiodically
Weather Resistance
When it comes to weather resistance, the waterproof Cold Bay Chukka excels, keeping feet dry in light snow, slush, and rain. The leather upper is treated to block moisture from seeping in, and the fleece lining helps maintain warmth. During testing, the Cold Bay Chukka held up well in moderate winter conditions. It kept our tester’s feet comfortable during short walks in snow and wet environments.
If you’re looking for a boot that can handle harsh winter storms or extremely wet weather, this boot might not be your best option. For mild to moderate winter weather, though, the Chukka does a great job.
Comfort
The Cold Bay Chukka shines in the comfort category. The fleece lining feels soft and cozy against the foot, and the lightweight design doesn’t leave you feeling fatigued after wearing them for long days. The cushioned footbed offers springy support, making these boots comfortable for daily wear, even when walking for extended periods.
The fit is snug but not too tight, secure but not restrictive. Additionally, the boot’s flexible construction allows for a good range of motion. It’s an ideal choice if you need a boot that’s easy to wear for everyday winter tasks but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Traction
Concerned about traction? The Chukka’s rubber outsole delivers a vise-like grip on wet, snowy, and icy surfaces. The tread is purpose-designed for winter conditions, so slick and uneven terrain are no problem. Our tester cruised fast hikes up paved and gravel trails and never missed a step.
The Cold Bay Chukka may not be the best option for more demanding outdoor activities and extreme winter weather. Its outsole is less effective on deeply icy or uneven surfaces compared to boots designed specifically for harsh conditions. The tread is not as aggressive as more rugged boots, but it’s sufficient for casual winter activities like walking around the neighborhood, light snowshoeing, or running errands.
Warmth
The Chukka also offers moderate warmth, thanks to its fleece lining. It performed well during testing in temperatures hovering around freezing, providing warmth and comfort for light outdoor activities and casual winter wear. However, the boot is not as insulated as some heavier-duty winter boots, so it may not provide sufficient warmth in colder temperatures, especially if you’re standing still for long periods. For frigid temperatures or extended exposure to the cold, you may consider a more heavily insulated option.
Should You Buy the Sperry Cold Bay Chukka?
The Sperry Cold Bay Chukka is a great choice for those looking for a stylish and comfortable boot that offers moderate warmth and waterproofing for casual winter activities. If you’re after a boot for light snow, wet conditions, or urban winter environments, this is a great option. However, if you’re facing extreme cold or need a boot for rugged outdoor use, you may want to look for a more insulated and durable boot. This chukka combines performance with fashion, making it a versatile boot for daily wear.
What Other Men’s Rain Boots Should You Consider?
If you want to explore other options, here are a few from our men’s rain boots guide to check out:
Kamik Forester Review: A similar waterproof, insulated option with more durability for harsher winter conditions, offering more warmth and protection.
Bogs Classic High Review: A taller boot with more insulation for colder conditions, perfect for those who need extra protection in deeper snow or extreme cold.
Muck Boot Wetland Review: An excellent option if you want a more flexible, lightweight boot that still provides waterproof protection and warmth for outdoor work or activities.
