If you live in an area where winter weather strikes, your search for reliable snow boots that will keep your feet warm and dry is probably at the top of your shopping list. It’s important to find a solid pair that offers insulation and protection against harsh conditions, such as rugged soles to prevent slipping on icy surfaces and waterproof materials to shield your feet from slush.
Instead of wasting time and money on winter boots that don’t live up to their claims, we have consulted a team of experts, including podiatrists, outdoor enthusiasts, and travel experts, to determine the best winter boots worth buying. In this list, you’ll find the top 15 winter boots from beloved brands like L.L.Bean, Ugg, North Face, and Columbia.
L.L.Bean
Pros: Warm, waterproof, comfortable, available in men’s and women’s sizes
Cons: Can be too hot to wear indoors
During a poll of our team’s favorite snow boots, three staff members, including myself, listed L.L.Bean as their go-to brand. These boots, available for both men and women, are incredibly warm thanks to their cozy shearling lining. They are also waterproof, allowing you to walk through snow and puddles without getting your feet wet. Each pair is hand-sewn in Maine, making them durable and long-lasting. Our contributing editor, Lisa Schweitzer, and I have had our L.L.Bean boots for several years, and they still look good as new. These boots are not overly bulky, weighing less than four pounds, and they feature a rugged rubber sole for excellent traction. However, our managing editor, Scott Simone, mentioned that they can be too hot for indoor wear, so it’s best to bring a change of shoes if wearing them to the office.
$299 at L.L.Bean
$289 at Zappos
Baffin
Pros: Tundra-rated, good traction, tall silhouette
Cons: No half-sizes
These Baffin boots are tundra-rated, ensuring that your feet will stay warm in any conditions. They are highly recommended for activities like snowshoeing in deep snow. These tall boots are both waterproof and breathable, featuring a thick rubber sole with a honeycomb design for excellent traction. They are laceless, making them easy to put on and take off with elastic toggles for a secure fit. Keep in mind that they don’t come in half-sizes, so it’s recommended to size up if you’re unsure.
$163 at Baffin
$163 at Backcountry
Dream Pairs
Pros: Affordable, cushioned, comfortable, slip-resistant
Cons: Some shoppers noted issues with the zipper
Travel blogger Nadia Podrabinek recommends these fashionable and functional boots due to their waterproof design and warmth retention. They are lined with faux rabbit fur for ultimate coziness and feature both zipper and lace-up closures to keep the elements out. The slip-resistant rubber sole ensures safety on slippery surfaces. Many Amazon shoppers love the cushioned insole for all-day comfort. These boots are especially praised for their warmth, with one customer noting that their feet stayed extremely warm even in Quebec’s cold winter weather.
$77 at Amazon
Backcountry
Pros: Excellent traction, stability on ice
Cons: Expensive
Backcountry’s Icebug boots are highly regarded for their ruggedness and tacky traction on ice. They provide confidence and safety while shoveling snow or walking on icy surfaces. The front zip makes them easy to put on and take off, and the synthetic fleece and polyester insulation keep your feet warm even in freezing temperatures. These boots are also lightweight and stable on ice and packed snow, with built-in traction soles.
$220 at Backcountry
$220 at REI
Columbia
Pros: Waterproof, warm, great traction
Cons: Pricey
Sports enthusiast Georgy Lowell recommends Columbia boots for their waterproof, insulated, and traction capabilities. These boots keep rain and snow out while allowing your feet to breathe. They have 200 grams of insulation and patented heat-trapping technology for ultimate warmth. Customers have praised their support, lightweight design, and ability to keep feet dry.
$135 at Amazon
$150 at DICK’S Sporting Goods
$150 at Zappos
Sorel
Pros: Super warm, comfortable, feet stay dry, good traction
Cons: Outside of shoe can get damp
Senior Beauty Editor Jennifer Romolini chose Sorel boots for her winter hike in Iceland and loved how they performed. These boots are warm, rugged, and provide stability on slippery surfaces. They offer 100 grams of insulation for maximum warmth. While they are waterproof on the inside, the suede on the outside can get damp in snowy or rainy conditions.
$144 at Amazon
$165 at Zappos
$165 at Tractor Supply
Sorel
Pros: Celeb-approved, fashionable, waterproof, warm
Cons: Expensive, on the heavy side
Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots are not only stylish but also endorsed by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston. They are incredibly warm and fully waterproof, making them ideal for frigid conditions. These boots are seam-sealed and comfort-rated to -25 degrees Fahrenheit. They feature a faux-fur trim and offer excellent grip on slippery surfaces. While they may add weight to your steps, they enhance any winter outfit.
$240 at Amazon
$240 at Zappos
$240 at DICK’S Sporting Goods
Backcountry
Pros: Very warm, good traction, waterproof
Cons: Expensive
Oboz boots are another recommended choice by Backcountry. With 400g of insulation, these boots keep your feet extremely warm in arctic temperatures. They have a thick rubber sole and waterproof and breathable liner for maximum comfort and protection. Customers have praised their performance, quality, and durability in various winter conditions.
$220 at Backcountry
$220 at Oboz
Zappos
Pros: Warm, water-repellent, comfortable
Cons: Not tall enough for deep snow
For quick trips outside, The North Face boots from Zappos are a great option. They offer warmth, water-repellency, and comfort for small outdoor excursions. While they may not be suitable for deep snow, they provide adequate protection for short walks.
$150 at Zappos
By following this list of the best winter boots, you can find the perfect pair to keep your feet warm and dry during winter weather.
