Whether you’re planning a trip to your favorite ski resort or simply need weather protection for your outdoor work, a reliable pair of snow boots is key to staying warm in sub-zero temperatures. Many different factors come into play – from the height of the boot to waterproofing and insulation – and it’s important to carefully consider your exact requirements. If you’re going to be outside for long periods in extreme cold, insulation is likely to be a top priority. For high-intensity activities such as hiking, breathability may be more important, while for everyday use on cold city streets, looks matter.
To help you find the right pair of snow boots, we’ve combined our own experience with insights from the experts at Oboz and Merrell to select 23 models for a real-world test. Each model was evaluated for fit, support, durability, performance, waterproofness and value for money. We will update the results as the tests continue for another six months.
Our top picks: 👇
- 👉 BEST OVERALL: Columbia Fairbanks Omni-heat ankle boot at Amazon
- 👉 BEST OVERALL PERFORMANCE, SECOND PLACE: Baffin Snow Monster boots at Amazon
- 👉 MOST CONVENIENT: Ugg Butte boots at Amazon
- 👉 BEST TRACTION: Salomon Quest Winter TS CS WP snow boots at Amazon
- 👉 BEST FOR EVERYDAY LIFE: Danner Arctic 600 Side-zip at Amazon
- 👉 BEST FOR HEAVY SNOW: Baffin Impact at Amazon
- 👉 MOST SUPPORTIVE: Merrell Thermo Chill Mid boots at Amazon
- 👉 BEST PULL-ON STYLE: Bogs Men’s Bozeman Tall Boot on Amazon
- 👉 BEST FOR HIKING: The North Face Vectiv Fastpack insulated Futurelight hiking shoes on Amazon
- 👉 BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Oboz Andesite Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots at Amazon
1. Best overall performance
👉 Columbia Fairbanks Omni Heat Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These well-crafted, attractive boots offer outstanding comfort and performance at a very affordable price.
What to consider: They can get a little too warm when worn in the transitional period.
The Columbia Men’s Fairbanks Omni-heat Boots scored top marks across the board in our test. Even after two months of wear in a variety of weather conditions, they kept feet warm and dry. With a Cordura textile upper and seam-sealed membrane, they are both waterproof and breathable for multi-sport use in snow, mud, slush and rain. After dousing them with water during testing and walking through lots of puddles and mud, we can confirm that they stay completely dry inside. The thermo-reflective Omni-Heat lining and 200 grams of synthetic insulation are so effective that we were almost too warm (although we started our testing in October and will wear the boots in colder winter temperatures).
We found these boots extremely comfortable straight out of the box. The fit was perfect, and we appreciated how lightweight they are compared to traditional snow boots – meaning that even after a full day on our feet, we didn’t feel any fatigue. The cushioned midsole provides good energy return, while the high-top design with laces around the ankles ensures a complete, reliable fit. Finally, we praised the impressive traction of the abrasion-resistant rubber outsole.
The boots are surprisingly affordable considering their high-quality construction. We also think that even the most fashion-conscious men will be pleased with the stylish colors on offer. Ranging from titanium and warm copper to graphite and dark moss, with two widths and several half sizes available to ensure you get the perfect fit.
The details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 1.96 pounds | Cordura textile upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole
2. Best overall performance, runner-up
👉 Baffin Snow Monster boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: High-quality construction, reliable waterproofing and a clever snow collar make these boots a worthwhile investment for heavy snowfalls or winter gardening.
What to note: Due to their height and relative stiffness, the boots are not suitable for long-distance hiking or other high-intensity activities.
The snowshoe-compatible Baffin Snow Monster Men’s Boots offer high-quality materials and a construction so robust that they survived our tests without any signs of wear and tear. During our two-month test, where we spent two hours shoveling in the snow, the traction was supportive and our feet stayed completely dry. The upper is made of full-grain leather with a nylon collar that prevents deep snow from penetrating over the top. The sole is made from waterproof Arctic rubber and the seams are sealed to ensure complete waterproofness – a claim we were able to prove by dipping them in a stream. They are designed for moderate activities in extreme cold, such as shoveling snow or carrying firewood.
In our opinion, they would be too restrictive for long walks or hikes. However, they are comfortable. We appreciated the generous toe box and excellent arch and ankle support, while the EVA midsole provides plenty of insulating cushioning. Much of the boot’s warmth comes from the technologically advanced, multi-layer Comfort Fit insulation system, which can be removed in warmer weather to increase breathability. Finally, we found that the polar rubber outsole provided reliable traction even in slippery mud.
The details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 6.3 pounds | Leather and nylon upper, EVA midsole, arctic rubber shell, polar rubber outsole
3. Most comfortable
👉 Ugg Butte boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These boots are completely waterproof and have a cozy wool and fleece lining and an EVA midsole that provides perfect cushioning for long days outdoors.
What to note: Half sizes are only available up to 11.5, so those who wear a larger half size may struggle to find the perfect fit.
Weatherproof to -25.6 degrees Fahrenheit, the Ugg Butte boots are suitable for everything from light rain to heavy snowfall and are some of the most comfortable we’ve tested. They’re made from full-grain leather with a waterproof membrane and a cuffed shaft. When we doused them with a full cup of water, the drops simply rolled off. The construction is so robust that the boots looked practically new during and after the test. We found them to fit well and true to size, providing perfect comfort right out of the box.
We tested our boots with standard tube socks, but felt that they were also suitable for thicker socks. The soft upcycled wool and fleece lining was a particular highlight, while the EVA midsole provides good support even when standing or walking for long periods. We recommend the boots for everything from short dog walks to extended snowmobile excursions. Choose your boot in black, tan or gray and appreciate the excellent traction of the Vibram outsole, which remains flexible even in freezing temperatures.
The details: Sizes 7 to 18 | Leather upper, fleece and wool lining, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole
4. Best traction
👉 Salomon Quest Winter TS CS WP snow boots
Our ratings:- Support 4/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 4/5.
Why we love it: The special Winter Contagrip outsoles offer exceptional flexibility and traction even in icy temperatures, making these shoes an ideal mix of hiking and snow boots.
What to note: After a two-month test phase, we noticed that the arches of our feet hurt when we wore them for long periods.
When traction is a top priority, the gaiter- and snowshoe-compatible Salomon Quest Winter Thinsulate Climasalomon boots are hard to beat. Their rubber outsoles are equipped with Winter Contagrip, a special compound that remains grippy even in icy temperatures. We had the impression that the aggressive grooves on the underside of the boots, similar to snow tires, guide the slush away from the sole to the back of the boot. The boots are also waterproof, which we proved during the test in the swimming pool.
We found them to fit true to size and have a comfortably roomy toe box. The heavy Thinsulate insulation can make the boots feel a little tight around the sides, but that’s a small price to pay for unbeatable warmth (and you can always go up a size if needed). We like that the high profile keeps water and snow from seeping in over the top of the boots, and that you can adjust the level of ankle support depending on how high and how tight you lace them up.
The details: Sizes 4 to 14 | 1.3 pounds | Leather and synthetic upper, polyester lining, Thinsulate insulation, rubber outsole
5. The best for everyday
👉 Danner Arctic 600 Side zip
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These boots are super comfortable, warm and well-made and practical for everyday use thanks to the low profile and zipper.
What to note: We found that the way the sole curves slightly at the front leads to extra pressure on our big toe when walking long distances on hard ground.
The Danner Arctic 600 snow boots with side zipper feature a sturdy, double-layered zipper that makes putting them on as easy as your regular tennis shoes. Designed with attention to detail, these high-quality boots feature a full-grain leather or suede upper that is completely waterproof. After a two-month test, they kept our feet dry, comfortable and warm even in the coldest conditions. We’d recommend them for everything from hiking to shoveling snow – just be aware that the 200-gram PrimaLoft insulation can get warm on milder days.
We like that they are relatively flat and not too heavy, while the removable Ortholite footbed provides just the right amount of cushioning. The boots are supportive and comfortable from the outset, although we felt they became even more comfortable after a week of wear. The Vibram outsole promises good traction, and the colors are designed to go with everything, whether you choose roasted pecan/burnt brick or jet black/mojave.
The details: Sizes 8 to 14 | 2.8 pounds | Leather upper, Primaloft insulation, Vibram midsole and outsole
6. Best for heavy snow
👉 Baffin Impact
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: Nine layers of special insulation technology make these polar-approved boots the best choice for extreme cold.
What to note: Mobility is affected by the height and rigid construction of the boots, so they should only be used in situations where they are actually needed.
If you are traveling in one of the coldest places in the world, the Baffin Impact Men’s Boots are just right for you. They offer the highest level of cold weather comfort in the Baffin range and have been field tested at both the South and North Poles. They’re compatible with snowshoes, have a high profile that ends between mid-calf and just below the knee depending on your height, and a locking collar to keep out deep snow. We found them super supportive – although anything other than slow, careful walking is laborious.
Despite their stiffness, the boots were super comfortable from the first wear, with a soft, fluffy, padded interior. Insulation is provided by a removable comfort-fit system with no less than nine layers of technical materials that provide top-level warmth, wind protection, thermoregulation, moisture management and breathability. All this means, of course, that it will quickly become too hot to wear in your garden on an average fall day. We recommend going up a size to get the best fit. However, after two months of wear in the cold, rain and snow, the boots still look like new and are sure to last for many seasons to come.
The details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 7.4 pounds | Nylon upper, EVA midsole, arctic rubber shell, polar rubber outsole
7. Highly supportive
👉 Merrell Thermo Chill Mid boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 4/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These boots offer the best arch support of any boot we tested, with a molded nylon shank, contoured footbed and air cushion heel.
What to note: We have some concerns about breathability, and the break-in period is longer than other models on this list.
Available in medium and wide widths, the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof is one of the most supportive boots we’ve tested. It features a molded nylon shank, an air cushion heel that absorbs shock and provides extra stability, and a removable, molded footbed. During our two-month test period, we wore these boots in slush, heavy snowfall and icy conditions and felt comfortable and well supported. We found that our feet warmed up quickly, but this could also be due to the fact that the weather was never really cold during our initial test period (we will continue the long-term test through the winter).
The boots passed the waterproofness test with flying colors thanks to the coated leather upper and waterproof membrane. We liked the cozy fleece lining, while the 200 gram synthetic insulation offers sufficient protection against ice and snow without being overly thick. We expect the high-profile rubber outsole to perform well on all terrains and in all conditions. Overall, this is a quality boot for winter hiking at an extremely fair price.
The details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 1.25 pounds | Leather upper, fleece lining, EVA midsole, rubber outsole
8. Best pull-on style
👉 Bogs Bozeman Tall boots for men
Our ratings:- Support 4/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: The flexible neoprene upper makes these boots lighter, more flexible and more breathable than comparable models, while at the same time allowing you to put them on like rain boots.
What to note: After wearing the shoes regularly for two months, we recommend doubling up the socks during the break-in period to avoid blisters.
Our first impression on unboxing the Bogs Bozeman Tall Yulex boots was that they would last for years, with durability clearly at the heart of the design process. They seamlessly combine a rigid natural rubber base with a flexible neoprene upper. The latter gives the boots a versatility that other calf-high styles can’t offer, making them more flexible, breathable and noticeably lighter. They are also easy to put on and take off thanks to the integrated, cut-out handles.
The boots are fully waterproof and suitable for temperatures down to -72 degrees Fahrenheit. Four-way stretch liners with effective sweat-wicking lining provide comfort, while algae-based EVA footbeds offer eco-friendly support. Our feet felt secure every time we wore them and never slipped out of the heel cup. Although we weren’t able to test the non-marking, self-cleaning rubber outsoles on ice during our initial testing period, they look like they’ll provide excellent traction. All in all, we think this is a premium boot at a mid-range price.
The details: Sizes 6 to 16 | 2.38 pounds | Yulex natural rubber upper and insulation, EVA footbed, Biogrip rubber outsole
10. Best for hiking
👉 The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated Futurelight Hiking Shoes
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: A rockered midsole provides extra propulsion, while the deep-tread outsole offers reliable traction on any terrain.
What to note: We found the lacing system unnecessarily complicated.
The North Face Men’s Vectiv Fastpack Insulated Futurelight Hiking Boots are made for winter hiking with 200 grams of insulation and a waterproof but breathable membrane that kept our feet dry even when crossing a creek. They are gaiter and snowshoe compatible and have the expected fit with plenty of room in the toe box – all features to consider when packing for a winter camping trip. We liked that they felt more like regular hiking boots than snow boots and that they were fully broken in within a few hours. They are also much lighter than we expected.
Unique design features include the rocker-style EVA midsole (for forward propulsion and high energy rebound) and the 3D TPU plate under the forefoot for improved stability. Deep lugs on the rubber outsole suggest that these boots will also offer plenty of grip on snowy or icy surfaces. After testing these boots for two months, they got quite muddy but were easy to clean. They come in two color options: black/grey and olive/black. We tested the olive green version and found it as fashionable as it was practical.
The details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 2.1 pounds | Leather upper, polyester insulation, EVA midsole, rubber outsole
10. Best lightweight
👉 Oboz Andesite Mid Insulated Waterproof 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 found them to be roomy, yet supportive and much, much lighter than expected. They are the ideal boots for rain and snow.
What to note: We would like to see a larger selection of color variants.
Weighing in at just 1.18 pounds per pair, the Oboz Andesite Mid Insulated Waterproof Boots are surprisingly lightweight and infinitely comfortable. We loved their roomy fit, which took the pressure off our ankles (something our team member who tested these often struggles with boots) and left plenty of room for our toes while still providing ample support. It took about an hour to fully break the boots in, while the waterproof, oiled nubuck leather upper and breathable membrane provided just the right mix of breathability and puddle-tested waterproofness.
The boots are very well made and still looked like new after our test period, even though we wore them in bad weather in challenging terrain. With 200 grams of Primaloft Bio insulation, they kept our feet perfectly warm. The Vibram Arctic Grip AT outsole provides flexible traction even in icy temperatures. Another plus point is the shoes’ sustainability: laces and webbing made from recycled plastic, insoles made from algae biomass and a tree planted for every pair sold.
The details: Sizes 8 to 14 | 1.2 pounds | Nubuck leather and ripstop textile upper, Primaloft bio-insulation, Vibram outsole
11. Best Chelsea boot
👉 Dr. Martens 2976 Warmwair leather Chelsea boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 4/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These are classically cool, effortlessly stylish boots that instantly fit comfortably in winter in the city.
What to watch out for: After a two-month test, we found that they lack insulation.
For decades, Dr. Martens boots have been the ultimate fashion statement. The Warmwair Leather Chelsea Boots have reinterpreted the brand’s classic style for winter, with a heavyweight Valor WP leather upper, a scratch-resistant tumbled finish and a soft fleece lining. Elastic gussets make the boots easy to put on and take off, and we were pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they were straight out of the box (unlike regular Dr. Martens, which often require weeks of breaking in).
The toe box offers plenty of room for thick socks, and the water-repellent upper kept our feet dry even in the rain. However, they are best suited to casual urban use rather than extreme adventures, as prolonged exposure to rain or snow can allow water to seep through. The heat-sealed Smoke DMS outsole also offers good traction on slippery subway steps and scores points with the brand’s iconic yellow welt stitching.
The details: Sizes 6 to 14 | Leather upper, elastic gusset, fleece lining, PVC outsole
12. Best value
👉 Nortiv 8 Insulated snow boot
Our ratings:- Support 4.5/5, Durability 4.5/5, Performance 4/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: Despite the lower price, these boots are well-made, durable and attractive and can withstand all-day outdoor use.
What to note: After two months of testing, we found that the boots can feel heavy when worn for long periods of time.
For less than half the price of our overall winner (which is already one of the cheapest on this list), the Nortive 8 Insulated Snow Boots for men offer amazing value for money. In fact, during testing we found that we’d happily pay even more for them. We wore them at least 12 times over the course of the test period, often on full work days, but also when gardening, walking the dog and on family hikes. The shoe was comfortable from the start, had plenty of room in the toe box and a stable ankle hold.
The arch support is less noticeable, which is something to consider for those who need it. With faux fur lining and 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation, they are very warm but not particularly breathable – although the padded insole can be removed and washed if it gets sweaty. We appreciated the traction of the rugged rubber outsole and would happily wear these boots ice fishing or hiking through untracked snow – and even hauling a sled up the mountain. They also passed our waterproofness tests perfectly.
The details: Sizes 6.5 to 15 | Synthetic upper, Thinsulate insulation, rubber outsole
13. Best duck boot
👉 Sorel men’s 1964 Pac nylon boots
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These lightweight but totally waterproof and cold-resistant boots feel as good as they look.
What to note: We loved everything about these boots, but they may be a bit pricey for those on a budget.
The Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Boots offer retro style and complete protection from the elements. They’re designed for heavy snow, with a waterproof nylon upper, sealed seams and a vulcanized rubber shell. We were very impressed with the overall quality of the materials and construction. Even after prolonged use, there were no signs of wear and tear (and no leaks – an impressive feat as we actively sought out puddles to trudge through). Despite their durability, the boots are surprisingly lightweight considering their design and purpose.
We found that they fit as expected and were incredibly comfortable. Although they were snug, we still had enough room to move our toes and the arch and ankle support was very good. The herringbone outsole provided excellent traction on slippery surfaces. Finally, we liked that the recycled felt lining is removable and washable in case it does get a little sweaty. After two months of testing, the boots do show minor signs of wear and tear, but nothing significant that would affect the strength of the boots. The color palette ranges from ink/rubber to tobacco/black and is designed to enhance the aesthetics of your winter outfit.
The details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 4.1 pounds | Nylon upper, recycled felt lining, felt midsole, rubber outsole
14. Best water resistance
👉 Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Sport Mid Boots
Our ratings:- Support 4/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 5/5, Waterproofing 5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: After two months of testing, we are delighted with the durability of these boots, which have kept us dry even in deep water and snow.
What to consider: As there are no half sizes, it can be difficult for some people to find the perfect fit.
The Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Sport Mid Boots may not be the most stylish option on the market. However, they are superbly crafted and unsurpassed in durability for outdoor work in extreme weather conditions. Our tests have confirmed that they are 100 percent waterproof, even when submerged in water for extended periods. A 5-millimeter neoprene liner combined with a soft fleece lining promises perfect warmth and comfort.
The top of the boot stretches to accommodate larger calves, while also pulling back to keep out cold air and deep snow. We found them tight when putting them on and then a little big once we were in them (but that just means there’s plenty of room for thick winter socks). They’re relatively heavy, but also instantly comfortable with good arch support and a cushioned EVA midsole. The rugged outsole has a deep tread for uncompromising traction and reinforcements at the instep, heel and Achilles heel. We were able to remove all signs of wear with a quick rinse and wipe.
The details: Sizes 5 to 15 | 2.5 pounds | Neoprene and rubber upper, neoprene inner, EVA midsole, rubber outsole
15. Most versatile
👉 The North Face ThermoBall Lifty II Boot
Our ratings:- Support 5/5, Durability 5/5, Performance 4.5/5, Waterproofing 4.5/5, Value 5/5.
Why we love it: These boots combine rugged quality with just enough style to transition easily from the snowy slopes to the city streets.
What to note: We found them a little uncomfortable for the first hour until the stiff upper material adjusted to our feet.
The overall impression these boots give is one of high-quality materials and construction. They are ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities, but also stylish in an understated way, whether you choose black or brown with black accents. We think they look just as good for après-ski as they do for shoveling the garden. The PU-coated leather upper is fully waterproof, although we did notice a few drops seeping in around the tongue during testing.
The Thermoball Eco insulation provides plenty of warmth and the fit is true to size with room in the toe box for thick winter socks. Initially the boot was a little uncomfortable due to the stiffness of the upper, but this quickly subsided once the boots were broken in. They are thick, robust and support the arch of the foot and ankle. The rubber outsole provides excellent traction on all surfaces. They are also incredibly lightweight and after two months of testing, the boots still look and perform like new.
The details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 2.6 pounds | PU-coated leather upper, recycled polyester insulation, EVA midsole, rubber outsole
Other snow boots that we liked
We tested 23 pairs of snow boots, so not all of them could make the shortlist. However, we believe that these boots are also a good choice, despite some minor problems that arose during the test.
👉 Columbia Men’s Bugaboot III XTM Boots: The Bugaboot III XTM is a well-made, fully waterproof boot with good support, breathability and traction. However, the sizes run small, which caused considerable discomfort during testing, so we recommend choosing one size larger or trying them on before buying.
👉 Keen Anchorage III Waterproof Boots: We loved these boots for their cradling arch support, quality construction and impressive traction. The only real downside is that the elastic sections at the ankle are not waterproof, which could be a problem in deeper snow.
👉 L.L.Bean Men’s Storm Chaser Boots 5, Zipper: These boots were comfortable and durable, with good traction and reliable water resistance. However, we felt that the texture of the leather upper was thinner than expected.
👉 Kamik The William Winter Boot: These boots needed to be worn five times to fully break in, and they offer little arch and ankle support. Nevertheless, they are well made, breathable, lightweight despite their robust construction, and fully waterproof.
Our test procedure
For this article, the travel experts tested 23 different pairs of snow boots over a period of five months under real-life conditions. Each pair was tested in the same way over a two-week period, and the tests continue for another six months to give the boots the full winter experience. First, we examined each part of the snow boots to get a first impression of the overall material and construction quality. We also looked at the weight of the boots. The first time we wore them, we wore them for at least an hour to check the fit and comfort. We then wore them on at least two more outings and used them for a range of different activities, from hiking to running errands.
Each time we assessed comfort, breathability, arch and ankle support and traction. We noted how long the break-in period lasted, if relevant, and checked whether the boots showed signs of wear after the test period. Finally, we tested the waterproofness of the boots by stuffing them with paper towels, pouring a cup of water over them or holding them under a running tap and leaving them for five minutes. We then checked to see if any moisture had penetrated through to the towels. Each pair of boots was rated on a scale of one to five for fit, support, durability, performance, waterproofness and value.
Tips for buying snow boots
Prefer warmth
Devon Vanoostveen, Global Marketing Manager at Merrell, emphasizes the importance of insulation when choosing a good snow boot. Two hundred grams of insulation is the most common amount for everyday use, which can be increased up to 400 grams for active use in harsh winter conditions. There are even specialty boots with up to 2,000 grams of insulation for sedentary activities in extreme cold such as hunting or ice fishing.
Synthetic insulation types such as Thinsulate or Primaloft offer the best combination of durability and effectiveness. They work with microfibers that trap the warm air. Boot height also has an impact on overall warmth. Vanoostveen points out that for recreational or urban use, an ankle-high boot will suffice, whereas someone heading into the unplowed backcountry will likely need a pair that extends from mid-calf to just below the knee.
Make sure they are waterproof
There are certain groups of people for whom their snow boots do not necessarily need to be waterproof. These include city dwellers for whom a warm, waterproof boot is enough to get from A to B quickly, or anyone for whom breathability and lightness are absolute priorities (see below). But for most purposes, complete waterproofness is an important part of what makes a snow boot: it keeps you dry and therefore warm, no matter how much precipitation you get. Look for boots with a waterproof membrane that allows sweat to escape while keeping water out.
Know what you want to wear them for
Scott Wilfling, Outreach and Education Coordinator for Oboz, says that the most important factor in choosing snow boots is to think about what you want to use them for. The answer to that influences what features you should look for. For example, if you’re putting in a lot of effort shoveling snow, light insulation is important to prevent overheating and ensure breathability. However, if you’re standing still for hours on end (when working outdoors or playing sports on the sidelines), thicker insulation is a must.
The situation is similar with waterproof snow boots: if you value breathability and lightness – for example a hiker – you may be prepared to forego these features. Higher boots offer more protection from deep snow, but restrict freedom of movement in a way that is not absolutely necessary if you don’t want to trudge through large snowdrifts. If you want to wear your boots with snowshoes, look for an integrated heel kick; if you want to pair them with gaiters, look for an integrated D-ring attachment point. For frequent use on slippery ice, outsoles with a robust tread and plenty of grip are essential.
Frequently asked questions:
Are hiking boots suitable for snow?
Although hiking boots provide sufficient grip in light snowfall, they do not offer the same grip as snow boots with a deep-tread outsole specially developed for this purpose. Snow boots typically use a special rubber compound that can withstand freezing temperatures without becoming brittle, while some – like the Vibram Arctic outsole recommended by Wilfling – contain glass chips that provide unparalleled traction on ice. Standard hiking boots are not necessarily waterproof, which is a problem for obvious reasons. Most lack the necessary insulation to keep your feet warm for more than a few minutes in the cold. Snow boots are by far the better choice if you know you’ll be spending extended periods of time outdoors in extreme conditions, so they’re ideal for a winter outing.
Can you wear rain boots in the snow?
Rain boots and other types of waterproof boots are good for keeping your feet dry in the snow (as long as the water doesn’t seep in through the loose tops). Without insulation, however, you will quickly become uncomfortable and possibly even dangerously cold. Snow boots typically offer at least 200 grams of insulation and are designed to keep out rain and snow, whether it’s with a gusseted tongue, elasticized top binding or a fluffy snow cuff. If you’re looking for a true hybrid, duck boots are the way to go.
Which material is the warmest for snow boots?
Snow boots can be made from many different materials. Some of the warmest materials for the upper are waterproof leather or neoprene, while the inner insulation is made from a synthetic material such as Thinsulate, Primaloft or – more rarely – natural fleece. Some boots come with an inner sock made of fleece or neoprene that you can remove when the weather gets warmer.
Top 14 Berlin Cheap Hotels: Best Affordable Stays 🇩🇪
Where to stay in Berlin? The 6 best areas and places to stay + avoid! 🇩🇪
