Baby, it’s cold outside! While winter weather can be unpredictable, your footwear doesn’t have to be. Unlike our favorite fall fashion boots, the best boots for winter have more to them, like insulation and a waterproof outer layer. To ensure you get winter boots that will stand up to the challenge, here are a few things to look for:
- Insulation: Insulation does several things for your feet in the winter. It keeps them snug and warm and adds extra padding for additional comfort. The higher the insulation rating, the warmer the boots will be. For example, a 600-gram insulation rating means they will protect your feet in extreme conditions.
- Rubber Soles: Even the easiest terrain becomes a hazard when wet and freezing weather hits. Combat this with a sturdy sole that will keep you upright with ease. The best for traction is rubber.
- Waterproof: A water-resistant or waterproof outer layer is bound to keep the damp weather out and your feet dry inside.
- Style: Yes, it is possible to find men’s and women’s winter boots that meet all the listed criteria and remain in high fashion. Just make sure they don’t have any imperfections and that they feel comfortable and sturdy from all angles.
We’ve compiled a roundup of the best women’s and men’s winter boots. To ensure the right fit, a word to the wise, try them on with socks and in the afternoon when your feet are larger.
Best Women’s Winter Boots
— Editors’ Pick —
Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged Winter 2.0
Deal Alert: Converse is celebrating Black Friday with some of the lowest prices of the year. Shop now to save an extra 40% off sale.
Why We Love It: These stylish waterproof leather boots will keep your feet warm and cozy no matter what weather you find yourself in. The newly designed utility outsole helps with traction on slippery surfaces and the soft fleece lining locks in warmth. Plus, they even feature memory foam and an EVA sock liner for all-day comfort.
Things to Consider: You can score these top-notch boots, and any other sale style, for an extra 40% off during the Converse Black Friday sale! But you’ll want to hurry — with some of the lowest prices of the season — these styles won’t last long.
The Cost: $66 (Orig. $110) at Converse
Kamik Women’s High Boots
Why We Love It: Stylish and practical, these boots have a 4.7-star rating on Amazon. Users say they have been through heavy snow and rain, and these boots still come out on top. They’re notably comfortable and keep the warmth in and the water out. Plus, you’re sure to find a style that suits you out of the seven different colorways available.
Things to Consider: These boots don’t claim to be waterproof. That said, reviewers report that they are, in fact, very waterproof.
The Cost: $119.95 at Amazon
Sorel Joan of Arctic Waterproof
Why We Love It: A personal favorite, I’ve owned these winter boots for nearly a decade and can attest that they are worth every single penny. Waterproof and warm in every way imaginable — no cold or water can break into the seam-sealed waterproof construction. With herringbone rubber traction, I’ve never slipped wearing these in all the years I’ve owned them.
Things to Consider: While super warm and comfortable, they are heavier boots. Each boot weighs two pounds, so you might want something lighter if you plan to hike several miles.
The Cost: $209.95 at Zappos.com
Sorel Women’s Whitney II Short Lace Boot
Why We Love It: On the lighter side, these boots are made to be ultra lightweight for miles and miles of hiking or walking through the elements. They’re waterproof, have molded rubber soles for traction and provide 200 grams of insulation. Users are very pleased with these fashionable women’s winter boots and appreciate that they are lightweight to accommodate all activities in the winter months.
Things to Consider: It is noted by Sorel themselves that the laces and zippers are not waterproof, although all other parts of this boot are. Users also report that these run a tad small, and it’s a good idea to size up.
The Cost: $120 at Sorel
L.L. Bean Women’s Bean Boots, 8″ Shearling-Lined PrimaLoft
Why We Love It: For a classic duck boot look, check out these rubber bottom boots with plenty of traction that boast 200 grams of insulation in addition to being lined with premium shearling. They’re handcrafted and feature gently tumbled leather. The soft leather and shearling combo has reviewers swooning over the comfort and warmth provided.
Things to Consider: Sizing can be a bit wonky with these boots, which seems to be the one complaint users have. L.L. Bean even states in the description, “Bean Boots have a unique fit; you may need to size up or down,” which doesn’t seem entirely helpful. We recommend reading through the reviews and sizing based on true user recommendations.
The Cost: $229 at L.L. Bean
Best Men’s Winter Boots
Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot
Why We Love It: The men’s counterpart to the highly rated women’s winter boots, these receive the same high ratings. They’re waterproof — seam-sealed waterproof and have a negative 40 degree F temperature rating. Reviewers are happy with these boots and report warm and comfortable feet after traversing winter weather.
Things to Consider: A few reviewers have noted that the outer rubber layer doesn’t hold up after time. Some cracking and peeling are reported.
The Cost: $79.99 to $182.66 at Amazon
SOREL Men’s Caribou Stack Waterproof Winter Boots
Why We Love It: Specifically built for heavy snowfall, these are seam-sealed waterproof and are built for superior traction. Judging from user remarks, these men’s winter boots do live up to the hype. Garnering nearly perfect reviews across the board, users love these for shoveling snow, making snow forts with the kids, walking and working in extreme conditions.
Things to Consider: The only gripes we noticed from reviewers were about sizing. A few reviewers found them to run big, and the recommendation is to size down.
The Cost: $179.99 at Dicks Sporting Goods
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Boots
Why We Love It: When reviewers report gifting something to family and friends, you know you’re onto a good product, as is the case here. Waterproof with 5 mm lug rubber soles for traction and 200 grams of lightweight insulation inside, these Merrell boots are perfect for winter hikes and snow activities.
Things to Consider: Despite the waterproof claims, some reviewers say that they aren’t entirely waterproof, and there are some reports of the waterproof material not holding up long term.
The Cost: $109.95 at REI
The North Face Men’s Chilkat 400 II Insulated Snow Boot
Why We Love It: These boots were made for walking, and that’s just what they’ll do. Waterproof and insulated to handle temperatures below 40 degrees F, they have a special winter grip rubber outsole that makes walking and hiking in the snow and ice that much easier. One user gives testament to how fantastic these boots truly are by detailing his seven-mile, six-hour hike up a mountain in them with zero issues.
Things to Consider: The main complaint we find in reviews is that these men’s winter boots tend to run a size small. Take heed and order up a size.
The Cost: $148.95 at Amazon.com
Best Boots for Kids
DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Insulated Waterproof Snow Boots
Why We Love It: With over 7,500 reviews on Amazon, these best boots for kids get a 4.7-star rating, and for good reason. They are waterproof, feature 200 grams of insulation, and have a convenient zipper closure with a drawstring top to keep snow from sneaking in. Even better, they come in a ton of colors that are sure to appeal to both boys and girls. They also garner a ton of positive reviews from parents.
Things to Consider: There are a few reports of the drawstring top breaking after a few uses, and several parents say these run small. Half sizes aren’t offered, so we recommend sizing up to the next whole size.
The Cost: $41.99 at Amazon.com
L.L. Bean Kids’ Northwoods Boots
Why We Love It: Available in grey, navy and lilac, these boots appeal to boys and girls. They are waterproof, with a drawstring closure to keep the top securely sealed away from snow and slush. One unique feature is that these best boots come with two removable liners that can be taken out to dry. Parents love these winter boots for kids, and many report buying the next size up when their child outgrows them.
Things to Consider: Several parents say that the removable liners tend to wear out faster than the rest of the boot, so handle them with care.
The Cost: $54 at L.L.Bean
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