For those living in cold, snowy climates, having the right footwear is essential for staying warm, dry, and safe during the winter months. If you’re searching for the best boots for walking in snow, you’ve come to the right place.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The best boots for walking in snow are waterproof winter or snow boots with insulation, good traction, and a high ankle cut for stability and keeping snow out.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss what to look for in snow boots, review the top-rated options for men and women, and provide tips for walking safely and comfortably in snowy conditions.
What to Look for in Snow Boots
Waterproof Materials
When choosing snow boots, it is crucial to prioritize waterproof materials. Walking in snow can quickly turn unpleasant if your boots absorb moisture, leaving your feet wet and cold. Look for boots made with materials such as Gore-Tex or treated leather, which are known for their excellent waterproofing capabilities.
These materials create a barrier that prevents water from seeping into the boots, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
Insulation for Warmth
Keeping your feet warm is essential when walking in snow. Look for boots with insulation to provide the necessary warmth in cold conditions. Common insulation materials used in snow boots include Thinsulate and Primaloft.
These insulating materials trap heat, keeping your feet cozy even in frigid temperatures. The higher the insulation rating, the warmer your boots will be, so consider the average winter temperatures of your area when choosing the right insulation level for your boots.
Slip-Resistant Soles
One of the most important features to consider in snow boots is the sole’s slip resistance. Walking on snowy or icy surfaces can be treacherous, and having boots with a reliable grip is crucial for your safety.
Look for boots with rubber soles that have deep treads or patterns designed to provide excellent traction on slippery terrain. Some boots even come with innovative technologies like Vibram Arctic Grip, which enhances traction on ice.
High Ankle Support and Cut
Walking in snow often involves navigating uneven and slippery surfaces. To minimize the risk of ankle injuries, opt for snow boots with high ankle support and cut. These boots provide stability and help prevent your ankles from twisting or rolling.
Look for boots with padded ankle collars and sturdy lacing systems that allow you to secure the boots tightly around your ankles for added support.
Comfort Features
When spending extended periods of time in snow boots, comfort is essential. Look for boots with features that enhance comfort, such as cushioned insoles and padded tongues. Additionally, consider boots with adjustable closures, as they allow you to customize the fit according to your comfort preferences.
Remember, comfortable boots will not only make your winter walks more enjoyable but also help prevent blisters and discomfort.
The Top-Rated Snow Boots for Women
Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot
When it comes to snow boots, the Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot is a top choice for women who value both style and functionality. These boots are designed to keep your feet warm and dry, thanks to their waterproof nylon upper and moisture-wicking lining.
The 200g Thinsulate insulation provides excellent warmth, while the faux fur snow collar adds a touch of luxury. With a durable rubber sole and a comfort rating of -40°F, these boots are perfect for extreme winter conditions.
Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot
The Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot is another highly-rated option for women who want to stay warm and comfortable in the snow. These boots feature a waterproof leather and textile upper, along with a cozy faux fur collar.
The 200g insulation provides excellent warmth without adding bulk, and the Omni-Grip rubber outsole offers great traction on slippery surfaces. With a lightweight design and a comfort rating of -25°F, these boots are a fantastic choice for winter adventures.
Sorel Women’s Joan of Arctic Boot
If you’re looking for a stylish and durable snow boot, the Sorel Women’s Joan of Arctic Boot is a fantastic option. These boots are made with a waterproof suede and leather upper, and they feature a removable felt inner boot for added warmth.
The vulcanized rubber shell provides excellent protection against the elements, while the herringbone outsole offers superior traction. With a comfort rating of -25°F, these boots are perfect for cold winter days.
Bogs Women’s Classic High Snow Boot
The Bogs Women’s Classic High Snow Boot is a popular choice among women who need a reliable and comfortable boot for snowy conditions. These boots are constructed with waterproof, hand-lasted rubber and a four-way stretch inner bootie.
The 7mm Neo-Tech insulation provides warmth, while the non-slip outsole ensures excellent traction on wet and icy surfaces. With a comfort rating of -40°F, these boots are designed to keep your feet cozy in even the coldest temperatures.
KEEN Women’s Durand Mid Waterproof Winter Boot
The KEEN Women’s Durand Mid Waterproof Winter Boot is a top-rated option for women who want a versatile and durable snow boot. These boots feature a waterproof nubuck leather upper and a KEEN.Dry waterproof breathable membrane, ensuring that your feet stay dry in any conditions.
The 400g KEEN.Warm insulation provides superior warmth, while the dual-compound rubber outsole offers excellent traction. With a comfort rating of -25°F, these boots are perfect for winter hikes or everyday wear.
The Top-Rated Snow Boots for Men
Columbia Men’s Bugaboot Plus IV Snow Boot
The Columbia Men’s Bugaboot Plus IV Snow Boot is a top-rated choice for men venturing into snowy terrain. With its durable construction and advanced technology, these boots provide excellent protection and insulation.
The waterproof leather and textile upper keep your feet dry, while the 200g insulation keeps them warm in temperatures as low as -25°F. The Omni-Grip outsole offers superior traction on icy surfaces, ensuring you stay steady on your feet.
These boots are also equipped with a Techlite midsole for superior cushioning and energy return, making them comfortable for long walks in the snow.
Sorel Men’s Caribou Boot
The Sorel Men’s Caribou Boot is another highly recommended option for men looking for reliable snow boots. These boots are made with waterproof full-grain leather and a vulcanized rubber shell, ensuring durability and protection from the elements.
The removable 9mm ThermoPlus felt inner boot provides insulation, keeping your feet warm in sub-zero temperatures. The lugged rubber outsole offers excellent traction on slippery surfaces, making these boots perfect for snowy conditions.
The Sorel Men’s Caribou Boot is a classic choice that combines style, functionality, and ruggedness.
Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot
The Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot is a popular choice among men for its sturdy construction and exceptional performance in snowy conditions. These boots are made with waterproof leather and feature a seam-sealed construction, keeping your feet dry even in wet snow.
The 200g Thinsulate insulation provides warmth in freezing temperatures, while the moisture-wicking lining keeps your feet comfortable and dry. The rubber outsole offers excellent traction on icy surfaces, ensuring stability and safety while walking in the snow.
The Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot is a reliable and affordable option for winter adventures.
Baffin Men’s Iceland Winter Boot
The Baffin Men’s Iceland Winter Boot is a high-quality snow boot designed to withstand extreme winter conditions. These boots are made with a combination of leather and nylon, providing both durability and flexibility.
The 7-layer removable inner boot system offers exceptional insulation, keeping your feet warm in temperatures as low as -40°F. The Arctic Rubber shell and outsole provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces, making these boots ideal for icy and snowy terrains.
The Baffin Men’s Iceland Winter Boot is a reliable choice for those who need maximum protection and warmth in the harshest winter environments.
The North Face Men’s Chilkat III Boot
The North Face Men’s Chilkat III Boot is a popular option for men seeking comfort and performance in snowy conditions. These boots feature a waterproof leather upper and a durable TNF Winter Grip rubber outsole, providing both protection and traction.
The 200g Heatseeker insulation ensures warmth in cold temperatures, while the compression-molded EVA midsole offers cushioning and support. The Chilkat III Boot also features a gaiter-compatible D-ring for attaching snow gaiters, adding an extra layer of protection from the snow.
The North Face Men’s Chilkat III Boot is a reliable and versatile choice for winter adventures.
Tips for Walking Comfortably in Snow
Walking in snow can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and gear, you can make the experience much more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you walk comfortably in the snow:
Wear Warm Socks
One of the most important things to consider when walking in the snow is keeping your feet warm. Make sure to wear thick, insulated socks that will keep your feet cozy and dry. Merino wool or synthetic materials such as polyester or acrylic are great options for winter socks as they are known for their moisture-wicking properties.
Use Ice Grippers Over Shoes If Needed
If you’re walking in an area with icy or slippery surfaces, using ice grippers can provide additional traction and stability. Ice grippers are designed to be worn over your shoes and feature metal spikes or rubber studs that grip onto the ice, reducing the risk of slipping and falling.
They are a great investment for added safety during winter walks.
Take Shorter, Slower Steps
When walking in the snow, it’s important to adjust your stride for better stability. Take shorter steps and slow down your pace to maintain balance. This will help prevent slipping and minimize the risk of accidents. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Keep Your Weight Over Your Feet
When walking in snow, it’s crucial to distribute your weight evenly over your feet. This will help you maintain stability and prevent sinking into the snow. Avoid leaning too far forward or backward, and instead, keep your weight centered over your feet.
This technique will make your walk more comfortable and reduce the chances of getting stuck in deep snow.
Stay on Packed Areas When Possible
Walking on fresh, deep snow can be exhausting and challenging. Whenever possible, try to stick to areas where the snow has been packed down by previous foot traffic. Packed snow provides a more stable surface to walk on, making it easier to navigate and reducing the effort required.
Remember, these tips can greatly enhance your walking experience in the snow, but it’s also essential to choose the right boots for the conditions. Make sure to invest in high-quality, waterproof boots with good insulation and traction. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy your winter adventures!
Conclusion
When shopping for the best snow boots, focus on key features like waterproofing, insulation, traction, and ankle support. Top-rated options from trusted outdoor brands like Sorel, Columbia, Kamik, and KEEN will keep your feet warm, dry and stable in the snow and ice.
With the right footwear, you can comfortably walk and safely traverse snowy, slippery terrain. For more wintertime tips, check out our guides on how to prevent hypothermia and avoid frostbite in cold weather.
