We’ve covered hundreds of miles in winter conditions to recommend the best winter boots available. Based in Alaska, CleverHiker Gear Analyst Miles Knotek trudged through everything from local Anchorage trails to the peaks of Chugach State Park to evaluate the comfort, warmth, traction, weather resistance, and durability of twelve promising models.
We have something for everyone – whether you spend hours standing in the ice, mud, and snow or trek up snow-covered mountains. We’ve also covered the best winter boots for women. If you need more than the lugs on your shoes to navigate deep snow and ice, you should check out our reviews of the best snowshoes and winter traction devices, so you can climb with confidence.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Men’s Winter Boots
Check out this quick list of our favorite winter boots, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.
Best Winter Hiking Boots Overall: KEEN Revel IV Polar ($190)
Best Winter Boots for Wet Conditions: BOGS Bozeman Tall ($160)
Boots with the Best Traction: Salomon Crosstrak Powder ($200)
Comfortable Boot for Long Days on Trail: The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated ($185)
Best Warm Snow Boots: Sorel Caribou ($200)
Great All-Around Winter Boot: The North Face Chilkat V 400 ($159)
Lightweight Boots with Great Durability: Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX ($220)
Best Budget Winter Hiking Boots: Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid ($150)
Stylish Boots with Good Traction: Kamik Atwater ($120)
Iconic Style with Increased Warmth: Blundstone Thermal ($265)
Trail-to-Town Boots for Winter: Columbia Fairbanks ($130)
Rugged Boot for Hiking and Snowshoeing: Oboz Bridger 8″ Insulated ($210)
What’s new
We’ve gone all out to test these winter boots to add some new models to our long-time favorites:
- The Salomon Crosstrak Powder is the only boot in our lineup with a quick lace system, and its aggressive tread quickly made it one of our favorites.
- With its rockered sole and excellent cushion, The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated is a favorite for its comfort for long days on the trail.
- From renowned boot maker Scarpa comes the Moraine Polar GTX, a rugged boot fit for high mountain adventures.
KEEN Revel IV Polar
Best Winter Hiking Boot for Men
Price: $190
Weight: 3 lbs
Insulation: recycled synthetic
Height: 8 in
Pros
- durable
- warm
- great weather resistance
Cons
- break-in time
- not as tall as some winter boots
The KEEN Revel IV Polar is a versatile winter boot that excels in both hiking and cold-weather performance. Its durable leather upper offers excellent weather resistance while the thick rubber toe cap and all-metal eyelets add to its rugged design. Though the boot fits slightly wider, making it ideal for those with broader feet, narrow-footed users may need to cinch the laces tight for a secure fit. In doing so the long laces can be easy to trip on, and their round shape makes them easy to come untied.
Although the Revel IV Polar features a relatively low shaft height, it provides solid warmth and weather resistance, making it suitable for moderate-depth snow and winter activities. Its recycled synthetic insulation offers ample warmth during high-output activities like hiking and snowshoeing but may not be ideal for low-output tasks in extreme cold. The boot’s traction shines on packed snow, dirt, and rocky terrain, though it struggles in loose snow and gravel.
Durable and well-constructed, the KEEN Revel IV Polar is designed to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures. The leather holds up against abrasions, and the boot’s reinforced pull tabs, double-stitched seams, and metal lace eyelets ensure long-lasting durability. Though not suited for deep snow, its weatherproof design and gaiter attachment points provide reliable protection in most conditions. Weighing 3 pounds, this boot is perfect for those seeking a durable, lightweight winter boot for hiking and light winter activities.
BOGS Bozeman Tall
Best Winter Boots for Wet Conditions
Price: $185
Weight: 4 lb
Insulation: 7mm neoprene
Height: 15 in
Pros
- extremely durable
- waterproof
- warm
- impact protection
Cons
- bulky
- fit too loose for hiking
- handles let in snow & debris
The BOGS Bozeman Tall is an incredibly durable option designed for wet and cold environments. Featuring a 14.5-inch shaft and insulated with Neo-Tech neoprene, these boots provide exceptional warmth – even when wet. Their rubber lower and the neoprene shaft’s seamless construction keep feet dry – though the handles at the top can let in snow or debris.
These boots are extremely comfortable, too, thanks to supportive midsoles and cushioning around the heel that keeps the foot securely in place. At 4 pounds, they are heavy – best suited for standing and working rather than long hikes. If you’re seeking a tough, weather-resistant boot for outdoor chores or work in cold, wet conditions, the Bogs Bozeman Tall boots are an excellent choice.
Salomon Crosstrak Powder
Boots with the Best Traction
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $200
Weight: 2 lb. 8 oz.
Insulation: Primaloft
Height: 7.25 in
Pros
- Great traction
- Solid weather resistance
- Warm
- Lightweight
Cons
- Quick lace system can be finicky
- Runs large
The Salomon Crosstrak Powder stands out as a rugged, adventure-ready boot built for those who need solid traction, dependable warmth, and excellent weather protection for adventures in deep snow. After extensive testing in Alaska’s frigid conditions, it proved itself capable of handling everything from icy sidehills to long snowshoe approaches without missing a beat. Its aggressive tread and wraparound midsole lugs offer some of the best traction in our lineup, making it an ideal choice for backcountry travel or variable, slippery terrain. The tall, 7.25-inch shaft height adds standout coverage, pairing well with the waterproof construction to keep your feet dry in slush, puddles, and fresh powder.
The Crosstrak Powder is comfortable for long days on trail. The lightweight construction, secure micro-adjustable quicklaces, and an easy-on design make it easy to use and a breeze to hike in. It packs impressive warmth for such a streamlined boot, offering reliable insulation for active use in temperatures down to zero degrees. That said, the Quicklace system can be finicky, especially with gloves on, and the fit runs slightly large, which may require sizing down for best fit.
Overall, the Crosstrak Powder is an excellent match for hikers, snowshoers, and winter enthusiasts who want a single boot that excels in serious conditions. If maximum traction, durable weatherproofing, and lightweight warmth are your top priorities, this Crosstrak Powder is an excellent choice.
More: Salomon Crosstrak Powder Full Review
The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated
Most Comfortable Boot for Long Days on Trail
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $185
Weight: 2 lb.
Insulation: 200g synthetic
Height: 6.5 in
Pros
- Comfortable for hours
- Lightweight
- Good weather resistance
- Rockered sole for comfortable gait
Cons
- Traction limitations
- Snow can enter at the ankle
The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated delivers an impressive blend of speed, warmth, and comfort that makes it stand out in our lineup of winter boots. Built for hikers who like to move quickly, this boot brings trail-runner energy to snowy terrain without sacrificing protection. Its lightweight build and excellent weight-to-warmth ratio make it a strong match for long days in the mountains, and the high-rebound EVA midsole keeps each step feeling smooth and supportive. The rockered sole is a highlight, creating a natural rolling stride that minimizes the clunky feel common in traditional winter boots.
The Vectiv Fastpack also has impressive lightweight warmth. The 200 gram synthetic insulation punches above its weight, keeping feet comfortable through active hiking in single digit temperatures. Weather resistance is equally solid thanks to the leather outer and DryVent membrane, which kept moisture out during creek crossings and stormy days.
Traction is reliable on packed snow and mixed winter surfaces athough the rubber lugs struggle a bit in loose, sugary snow. The lower shaft height is the only real limitation, as the ankle opening can let in snow during deep post-holing. Even so, the Vectiv Fastpack Insulated remains one of the most comfortable and versatile lightweight winter boots for hikers who want to move fast without giving up warmth or protection.
More: The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated Full Review
Sorel Caribou
Best Warm Snow Boots
Price: $225
Weight: 5 lb 1 oz
Insulation: synthetic, 9 mm felt liner
Height: 10 in
Pros
- Great value
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Excellent traction
- Removable liner (quick-drying, washable & replaceable)
Cons
- Heavy/Bulky
- Loose-fitting (clunky for long walks)
Sorel’s Caribou Snow Boots are designed for extreme cold and winter outings that require the warmest boots. Renowned for their warmth, these boots excel in frigid temperatures with a removable felt liner that kept our feet warm for hours, even in temperatures as low as -10°F. When it comes to weather resistance, the Caribous are impenetrable to snow and water through their burly construction. However, their breathability is limited, and snow can occasionally seep in through the top of the shaft if you walk through deep snow. We like the Caribou’s traction on smooth, icy surfaces more than on loose snow or deep powder. They’re not the best choice for mountain hiking or the deepest snow trekking – but they’re perfect for city walks, local trails, and outdoor work. Ideal for those who need warmth and weather protection, the Sorel Caribou is a dependable choice for standing or walking in cold environments.
The North Face Chilkat V 400
Best All-Around Winter Boot
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7
Price: $159
Weight: 3 lb 2 oz
Insulation: 400g synthetic
Height: 8 in
Durability: 4.5
Pros
- durable
- warm
- great weather resistance
Cons
- Bulky
- Heavy
- Not suited for long hikes
The North Face Chilkat V 400 is a versatile winter boot built for comfort and performance in cold conditions. With 400 grams of synthetic insulation and a durable TPU shell, it offers reliable warmth and protection against snow, slush, and wet weather. The 8-inch shaft height provides adequate coverage, though it may not be high enough to prevent snow from entering the boot while walking through deep drifts. Despite its solid warmth and traction, the boot’s stiff construction can make it feel bulky and tough to tighten for optimal ankle support.
Weighing 3 pounds 2 ounces, the Chilkat V 400 is affordable, given its all-around capabilities. Its aggressive, multi-directional tread ensures excellent grip on various surfaces, though it may not be compatible with most microspikes or ice cleats due to its bulky size. Although the boot does well in cold temperatures, it can feel too warm in milder weather, and its breathability is limited, potentially causing sweat to build up during exertion. The boot’s lower price point offers good value, though the overall durability could be better, with minor creases appearing after extensive use.
Overall, the Chilkat V 400 is a reliable choice for winter enthusiasts seeking an affordable, weather-resistant boot that is ideal for short- to medium-length hikes. Those wanting a boot for long treks, where weight and flexibility are priorities, may not find this boot the best choice.
Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX
Lightweight yet Durable Winter Boot
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $220
Weight: 2 lb. 6 oz.
Insulation: 200g synthetic
Height: 6 in
Pros
- Durable
- Stiff sole for kicking in septs in firm snow
- Lightweight
- Pairs well with traction devices
Cons
- Expensive
- Narrow
- Rigid sole may not be comfortable
The Scarpa Moraine Polar is a purpose-built winter boot that thrives in steep, demanding terrain where durability is a priority. Rooted in Scarpa’s history in technical European footwear, this boot brings serious mountain performance to winter hiking. Its defining feature is the extremely stiff sole, which performs more like a light mountaineering platform than a casual trail boot. That rigidity shines when kicking steps into firm snow, edging across icy side hills, or navigating loose scree.
Despite its streamlined shape, the Moraine Polar’s Primaloft Pure insulation offers reliable warmth for most winter temperatures, and the GORE-TEX Storm Laminate ePE delivers excellent waterproofing during creek crossings and slushy trails. Despite being lightweight, the Moraine Polar has extreme durability. The leather upper, tough rubber rand, and firm outsole have repelled sharp rocks and abrasive terrain with barely a mark.
However, all that stiffness comes at a cost. The rigid heel cup, minimal midsole cushioning, and narrow fit make the Moraine Polar less comfortable for long miles on more mellow terrain. It lacks the taller cuff or gaiter attachment points needed for deep snow travel. Still, for dedicated mountain hikers who want a lightweight but rugged boot built for steep, technical adventures, the Moraine Polar is a dependable and long-lasting choice.
More: Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX Full Review
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid 2
Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $150
Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz.
Temperature Rating: Not rated
Insulation: 200 g synthetic, micro-fleece lining
Also Available In: None Listed
Sizing: Fits a bit tight, we recommend sizing up half a size
Pros
- Very water resistant
- Gaiter attachment loop
- Reflective strips for nighttime visibility
- Grid fleece lining
- Light weight
- Affordable
Cons
- Ankle design may not be comfortable for everyone
- Traction is a bit lacking for a winter boot
Those looking to purchase a year round hiking boot with stellar performance in wet conditions should consider the Merrell’s Thermo Chill Mid Boots. We were incredibly impressed with this boot’s ability to stay dry even when submerged in water for extended periods. Given how lightweight this boot is, it makes an excellent choice for long hikes when puddles or other moisture are likely. It even features a gaiter attachment loop to increase water resistance.
These boots provide average insulation, making them well-suited for walking all day rather than spending extended periods without movement. Because they are specifically designed for hiking, they can be less convenient to put on and take off and do not blend in well at the office or in more casual settings. Instead, they incorporate elements like reflective strips for visibility and metal shoelace eyelets for adjustability.
We did experience some discomfort from the shape of these boots rubbing our ankles, but this can vary from person to person, depending on the size and shape of both the boots and the wearer’s feet. Overall, these are worth a try as they are affordable.
More: Women’s Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Winter Boot Full Review
Kamik Atwater
Stylish Boot with Good Traction
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4
Price: $119
Weight: 2 lb 8 oz
Insulation: 90g synthetic
Height: 6.9 in
Traction: 4.6
Pros
- stylish
- warm
- comfortable
- traction
Cons
- Snow gets in opening
- possible long-term durability issues
The Kamik Atwater winter boot blends style and performance, making it ideal for casual outings and short winter hikes. Tested in the cold of Anchorage, Alaska, these boots provided impressive warmth and traction in sub-zero temperatures. They kept our feet warm on brisk days, even in negative temps. The cushioned midsole and large, triangular lugs offered excellent grip on ice, snow, and concrete.
The Atwater boots offer great value, but durability may be a concern for long-term use. Though comfortable and supportive for everyday wear, they showed signs of wear, including loose threads and creases at stress points. The 7-inch shaft provides adequate coverage but lacks the height for complete weather resistance in deep snow.
Ideal for city streets and local trails, the Kamik Atwater is a stylish, affordable boot that performs well in moderate winter conditions. However, for rugged, extended outdoor use, you might want to consider more durable options.
Blundstone Thermal
Iconic Style + Winter Warmth
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $275
Weight: 2 lb 2 oz
Insulation: Thinsulate
Height: 6 in
Pros
- stylish
- lightweight
- versatile
- comfortable
- durable
- slip-on
Cons
- expensive
- leather requires maintenance
- may need warm socks
Adding insulation to the original, the Blundstone Thermal boots are a stylish and durable choice for those seeking comfort and versatility in cold weather. Weighing 2lb 2oz, these boots offer a lightweight, slip-on design that’s both practical and comfortable. The six-inch shaft is made from premium leather and waterproof elastic while Thinsulate and plush sheepskin insoles provide warmth and insulation. The Blundstone Thermals are ideal for casual outings, light hikes, and yard work.
Though initially stiff, the boots break in comfortably, with the sheepskin packing down to offer both support and warmth. However, they require thick socks for optimal winter readiness, and leather care is essential for maintaining waterproofing and preventing the leather from drying out. The shallow lugs of the Vibram sole provide good traction on wet surfaces but are less effective on loose snow and icy conditions.
Though not the best for deep snow or extended cold exposure, the Blundstone Thermal boots excel in urban and light outdoor environments, offering great weather resistance, durability, and a timeless style. Though pricey, they are built to last, making them a great option for those looking for a reliable and versatile winter boot for around town.
Columbia Fairbanks
Trail to Town Boots for Winter
Price: $125
Weight: 2 lb 4 oz
Insulation: 200 g synthetic, Omni-heat™ reflective lining
Height: Mid
Pros
- Warm
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Not bulky
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Stylish
Cons
- Need gaiters to keep deep snow out
- Minimal traction
If you’re looking for a versatile boot you can use for a variety of winter activities, the Columbia Fairbanks Snow Boots are an excellent option. They’re fully waterproof and lightly insulated to keep your feet toasty when you’re active, but they’re also breathable so you won’t overheat. With thick socks, these boots are plenty warm unless the temperature is below freezing or you’re inactive for long periods.
The Fairbanks’ best assets are how flexible, lightweight, and relaxed they feel. They aren’t overly stiff or super supportive, so they’re not the best choice for snowshoeing or intense hikes. But they’re comfortable and very well-suited to leisurely hikes in wet, cold conditions and casual use around town.
Oboz Bridger 8” BDry Insulated
Rugged winter boots for hiking and snowshoeing
Price: $210
Insulation: 200 g. Thinsulate
Weight: 3 lb. 1.2 oz.
Height: 8 in
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Gaiter hooks
- Snowshoe compatible
Cons
- Expensive
- Need gaiters to keep deep snow out
The Oboz Bridger 8” BDry Insulated delivers durability and reliable weather protection, making it a solid winter boot for cold-weather adventures. Constructed with waterproof nubuck leather and Oboz’s B-DRY membrane, these boots kept our feet dry through the wet, slushy, and snowy days of the Alaskan winter. The 200g Thinsulate insulation provides ample warmth for most winter outings, and a heat-reflective insole adds more warmth for extra comfort.
Although durable and stylish, the Bridger requires a lengthy break-in period. The stiff leather, particularly around the ankle, felt cumbersome during initial use and took longer than others to soften. We also found the traction is underwhelming on icy or deep snowy trails. This makes the boots better suited for shoulder-season hikes or ice-free trails than for slippery, technical trails. Still, the insulated version of the Oboz Bridger is a versatile, all-around option for casual winter hikes and warm enough for mid-winter outings.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Insulation | Height | Comfort | Warmth | Traction | Weather Resistance | Durability | 0 |
KEEN Revel IV Polar View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$190 | 3 lbs | recycled synthetic | 8 in | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 1 |
BOGS Bozeman Tall View at Amazon View at Bogs |
$185 | 4 lb | 7mm neoprene | 15 in | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 5 | 2 |
Salomon Crosstrak Powder View at REI View at Salomon
|
$200 | 2 lb. 8 oz. | Primaloft | 7.25 in | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 3 |
The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated View at REI View at AMAZON |
$185 | 2 lb. | 200g synthetic | 6.5 in | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4 |
Sorel Caribou View at REI View at Amazon
|
$225 | 5 lb 1 oz | synthetic, 9 mm felt liner | 10 in | 4.4 | 4.9 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 |
The North Face Chilkat V 400 View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$159 | 3 lb 2 oz | 400g synthetic | 8 in | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 6 |
Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX View at SCARPA |
$220 | 2 lb. 6 oz. | 200g synthetic | 6 in | 3.8 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 7 |
Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid View at REI View at AMAZON
|
$150 | 2 lb. 2 oz. | 200 g synthetic | 5.75 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 8 |
Kamik Atwater View at AMAZON View at KAMIK |
$119 | 2 lb 8 oz | 90g synthetic | 6.9 in | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 9 |
Blundstone Thermal View at REI |
$275 | 2 lb 2 oz | Thinsulate | 6 in | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 10 |
Columbia Fairbanks View at REI View at Amazon |
$125 | 2 lb 4 oz | 200 g synthetic, Omni-heat™ reflective lining | Mid | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 11 |
Oboz Bridger 8” BDry Insulated View at REI View at Amazon |
$210 | 3 lb. 1.2 oz. | 200 g. Thinsulate | 8 in | 4.1 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.3 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
COMFORT
Everyone’s feet are different, and everyone has different standards for the comfort of their boots. Some feet work best in wide and cushioned boots, while others fit well in narrow and firm boots. That being said, we try to evaluate some of the factors similar to everyone.
We evaluate the toe box of the boots to determine their width and assess which types of feet will fit them best. We spend hours hiking to see how the feet are impacted by the ground and evaluate how well the boots support and protect our feet and how well the ankles are supported in off-camber and hilly terrain.
WARMTH
Warmth is one of the most essential considerations for boots, as it can make or break your experience recreating in the winter months. We test the warmth of the boots in a variety of temperatures, ranging from above freezing to below zero.
We hike in the boots and evaluate their warmth at rest to test their warmth at different levels of exertion. Lastly, we use the boots with socks of different thicknesses to see how well the boots work with or without added insulation.
TRACTION
For traction, we start by evaluating the lug pattern of the sole. There are numerous different styles of treads, but the best treads for winter incorporate negative space between lugs, deep lug depth, and a variety of orientations to grip loose snow and ice.
Flatter, wider, lugs with more surface area provide grip on smooth surfaces like ice and concrete, and deep and sharp lugs work best for deep snow and loose surfaces. We then use the boots on a variety of surfaces like icy sidewalks, packed snow trails, or deep snow off-trail. We then evaluate for any feelings of insecurity, slippage, or sliding when using the boots across different terrains and surfaces.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
When testing weather resistance in winter boots, we primarily look at two key things: How well the boots keep moisture out, and how well they breathe moisture vapor from within the boot. We hike through deep snow, slush, mud, and puddles to examine how the material of the boots keeps moisture out. When hiking at a pace high enough to sweat, we evaluate the boots for any feelings of clamminess and judge them based on how well they can transmit moisture vapor from the inside to the outside.
DURABILITY
When testing each boot’s durability, we take them through the wringer, hike after hike. We put enough hours and mileage on each pair to the point where we can notice wear and tear on the boot. This may come as nicks out of the foam midsole, worn-down tread, or scuffs on the upper materials. We evaluate how the boots stand up to the test of time and whether their performance has changed over time.
Why Trust CleverHiker
At CleverHiker, we put real-world experience at the forefront of our testing process. We own and use everything we recommend, and our testers live and breathe the outdoors. All the products we recommend have spent days on the trails and in the mountains as we put them to the test.
As a born and raised Alaskan, Gear Analyst Miles Knotek has been recreating in harsh winter conditions since before he could walk. Spending hours in the wet and cold is his idea of fun, and he spends most of his winter season finding the limits of his gear in some of the harshest conditions Alaska can deliver. Miles has stood in knee-deep ice water, trudged uphill in thigh-deep snow, and spent hours in below-zero temps finding the best-performing boots so you don’t have to.
Analysis and Results
VALUE
Purchasing outdoor gear is an investment. It’s an investment in gear that keeps you safe and happy – and an investment in your experience in the outdoors. If you’re anything like us, you’re trying to get the most out of the gear bought with your hard-earned dollars.
For the best value, we reach for the Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid. Their combination of high performance and low price make them the perfect option for someone who wants to buy one boot to tackle multiple conditions. If you’re looking for a dedicated winter boot with a tall height and superb insulation, The North Face Chilkat V 400 is an excellent choice. At a price that is much lower than many other winter boots, it still provides top-notch warmth but without the high price tag.
COMFORT
We placed comfort at the forefront of our testing for the simple reason that if you’re not comfortable in your boots, then that is going to have a seriously negative impact on your experience in the outdoors. It’s hard to beat many of the boots designed for style and casual uses when it comes to comfort.
The Kamik Atwater and the Blundstone Thermals are two that stand out to us in particular. The Atwaters have a flexible sole that makes walking easy and smooth, a secure lacing system, and excellent ankle support. The Blundstone Thermals take a slightly different approach with a slip-on style without any laces. We love the ease and comfort of the slip-on and the feel of the leather once broken in.
When it comes to more performance-oriented boots, there are a couple of clear leaders. Merrell’s long history of designing running shoes blends over to their winter boots as well. Both the Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid and The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated are exceptionally comfy boots. Feeling more akin to running shoes, these lightweight and supportive boots provide the feel of a running shoe but with the warmth of a boot.
We love how lightweight yet supportive the Thermo Chill 2 Mid is and The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated’s rockered sole makes for a smooth ride when walking down the trails. We recommend these boots for hikers wanting to cover some serious ground while keeping their feet pain-free and happy.
WARMTH
What’s a winter boot without warmth? For the best cold-weather performance, the Sorel Caribou is a timeless classic that continues to perform. Its Pac-style insulation, thick rubber lower boot, and removable felt liner provide superior insulation for some of the coldest days of the year. We loved using these in below-zero temps or for times when standing for hours in the cold was necessary.
Also standing out to us, but for two distinct reasons, are the BOGS Bozeman Tall and The North Face Chilkat V 400. The BOGS achieve their high levels of warmth from seven millimeters of neoprene. Providing both exceptional warmth and weather resistance, neoprene may bring to mind images of wetsuit-clad surfers, but it works equally as well as insulating boots for time spent in wet places.
We also love the more conventional style and construction of the North Face Chilkat V 400. For those who have cold feet or know they will be out in colder temperatures, 400 grams of insulation is a great choice over lesser weights.
TRACTION
Getting a grip is crucial when heading outside in the winter. When faced with a variety of slippery surfaces, you need to know that you can rely on your boots to keep you upright on your winter adventures without fear of taking a fall.
For that, we love the Salomon Crosstrak Powder. Armed with impressively deep lugs and innovative midsole lugs on the sides, the Crosstrak is perfect for getting a grip in anything from deep powder to glare ice.
Also ranking highly for their traction are the BOGS Bozeman Tall and The North Face Chilkat V 400. The Bogs stood out in icy, muddy conditions where their deep lugs bit into loose surfaces and kept us upright in exceptionally slippery conditions. The North Face Chilkat V 400 worked very well in deep powder and loose snow conditions where other boots couldn’t get a grip. We loved these boots most for walking where others hadn’t through deep powder on steep slopes.
Although casual shoes may not be the first to come to mind when it comes to traction, walking icy city streets can be just as treacherous as scaling a snow-covered mountain. For those times when we need excellent traction while wearing a boot stylish enough for town, we reach for the Kamik Atwater. Their large surface area lugs provide excellent traction on ice and large space in the tread pattern bites securely into snow.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Topping our charts for weather resistance with its impressive shaft height and nearly impenetrable combination of neoprene and rubber is the BOGS Bozeman Tall. The neoprene provides exceptional weather resistance, not letting in a drop of water. Its only drawback is the cut-out handles, which decrease the effective height of the shaft. But for most uses, it’s already plenty of height for most.
When heading out into deep snow, a tall boot is a must. We found that The North Face Chilkat V 400 was our boot of choice for venturing into deep powder or off-trail. The rubber lower transitions into an insulated and waterproof upper that is tall enough to keep most snow out. The lace system kept the boot closed and tight, and the rubber lower was impervious to all snow and water. This is one of our top picks for winter sports and long days in the snow.
The leather upper of the KEEN Revel IV Polar is one of the most weatherproof of the hiking dedicated boots we tested. We loved these for splashing through puddles, stomping through slush, and sliding through snow. Their biggest weakness is their relatively low shaft height compared to the aforementioned boots. That problem is easily fixed with gaiters thanks to the boot’s built-in gaiter attachment loops.
If you’re looking to move fast and light but don’t want to compromise on weather resistance, the Salomon Crosstrak Powder is an excellent choice. At 7.25”, it has one of the highest shaft heights of any lightweight boot, and its waterproof construction kept us dry in creeks and deep snow.
DURABILITY
When taking your boots out day after day, season after season, you’ll want to know you can keep relying on them to keep you warm and dry. When it comes to a long-lasting and highly durable boot, look no further than the BOGS Bozeman Tall. This boot withstood getting hit by firewood and glancing blows from a splitter while chopping firewood, long walks on sharp rocks, and abrasions in gravel and concrete. It’s a boot that can take a beating and keep on working.
The Sorel Caribou makes an appearance near the top of the list as one of our most durable boots. With a simple yet sturdy combination of a rubber lower and leather upper, these boots are proven to work year after year. If you feel like the liner is losing some of its loft and warmth after years of use, trade it out for a new one, and the boot will work like new. If the durability of a leather boot is what you’re after, then the KEEN Revel IV Polar is another excellent choice. With a burly toe cap encapsulating the front of the boot, kicking roots, rocks, and logs doesn’t leave a dent. The leather of the boots is supple yet can withstand multiple abrasions and scrapes with only minor cosmetic damage.
For lightweight boots, the Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX has excellent durability. An abrasion-resistant upper material welded to a thick rubber rand repels all scrapes, and a stupor stiff sole and outer sole is sure to withstand miles of use in the toughest terrain.
How to Choose Winter Boots
When choosing winter boots, the two questions that guide our selection process are:
- What activities do I intend to do with these boots?
- What temperatures and conditions do I expect to encounter while using them?
When choosing your winter boots, start by examining what you intend to use the boots for the most. If you’re the type of person who likes to have one product for multiple uses, then versatility is key for your winter boots. Finding one boot to fit a variety of uses can be easier said than done. But with a little planning and research, finding the right boot will make your winter experience more enjoyable.
Alternatively, you might be the type of person to have several different pairs of boots for different activities. Snowshoeing and hiking require boots with excellent weather resistance, traction, and durability. Working and wet weather require durability, weather resistance, and comfort while boots for casual uses require style and comfort without as much emphasis on weather resistance or durability.
Recreating in the winter poses its own unique set of challenges from the summer. The cold and damp conditions are often the biggest hurdles followed by reduced traction and an increased need for durability. Start by carefully considering where you live and where you will be using the boots the most. Are they going to be used for the occasional cold snap or winter vacation? Or will you be using these boots day in and day out in deep snow and below-freezing temperatures?
Different boots serve different purposes and excel in different conditions. Matching boots to the conditions is vital to being comfortable and safe for any outdoor adventure. Whether it’s splashing through puddles on the way to the brewery or trekking across the tundra while snowshoeing, our feet are the part of our body most in contact with the elements. By choosing the correct boots to fit the conditions, you will not only have a more comfortable and enjoyable experience but be safer and able to enjoy the outdoors to their fullest.
LINERS
Some boots have removable liners (like the Sorel Caribou), which makes it easy to wash them, dry them out quickly, and replace them as needed. But they can also give the boot a looser, less specific fit. A boot dryer can be helpful for quickly drying out wet/sweaty boots with non-removable liners. A loose fit isn’t really an issue for snow boots you’ll use primarily for shoveling the walk. For boots you’ll be hiking or walking around town in, more close-fitting liners will feel less cumbersome and floppy to walk in.
INSOLES
Upgrading your insoles to cushier, warmer, or more supportive aftermarket ones like Superfeet can improve the fit and comfort of most boots. Just remember that you’ll need a little extra room to accommodate thicker insoles.
WEATHERPROOFING
Rubber, treated leather, or waterproof membranes (like GORE-TEX), are typical materials used to weatherproof boots. Always take the time to read reviews about boots that claim to be waterproof and find out if they require any treatments or maintenance (especially leather). A good winter boot should keep your feet dry since moisture leads to heat loss.
BRAND
Sometimes it can pay off to try inexpensive off-brands, but we’ve found that it’s usually worth paying a bit more for the quality and durability of tried-and-true brands that have been around for a long time. Generally, we find that we’re more satisfied with the materials and craftsmanship of products from bigger footwear brands that continually take feedback from their customers to improve their products.
CONCLUSION
We’ve taken the guesswork out of navigating the maze of options out there for winter boots. We’ve covered miles in the sleet, snow, and slush to bring you the best options for a variety of uses and settings this winter. We own and use everything we test to bring you the most authoritative and exhaustive research possible.
