Sturdy snow boots that can withstand icy sidewalks and snowy commutes are essential in the winter. However, not every boot is made identically; some are insulated for prolonged use in the cold, while others offer exceptional traction. A boot made for après-ski chalet style will have distinct advantages than one intended for winter hiking. The best snow boots must keep your feet toasty and be water-resistant, if not completely waterproof, regardless of where you want to wear them.
We carefully evaluated 27 pairs of women’s snow boots, noting their fit, support, durability, versatility in different weather conditions, waterproofing qualities, and overall worth, to help you choose the ideal pair for you. Six months of testing remain, and we will update our findings accordingly. There’s a style for everyone on this list, whether you’re searching for ultra-insulated and waterproof boots to get you through long days on the slopes or cozy boots with just the right amount of warmth and traction to walk your dog on a chilly morning. Continue reading for our top choices for all kinds of outdoor activities.
The North Face Shellista IV Boot
The North Face’s everyday snow boots meet all of our requirements: they are incredibly cozy, completely waterproof, insulated with recycled materials, and have highly traction-enhancing rubber outsoles. We adore the way the soft faux-fur top collars look and feel, and they never matted or lost their fluff over our testing period, proving that they don’t have to compromise elegance for comfort. Right out of the package, we discovered that these boots were comfy enough to wear for hours on end and that our feet never felt constrictive. We tested these boots in ice, snow, slush, and rain for two months, and in every weather scenario, they greatly increased traction control.
There is extra warmth and comfort thanks to the boots’ padded ripstop tongue. Because the waterproof rubber shells are specially shaped for women’s feet and combined with lightweight EVA midsoles and molded OrthoLite sock liners, they also have outstanding arch support. With their waterproof shell, grippy rubber outsoles, and 200 grams of insulation made from 85 percent post-consumer recycled polyester, these mid-calf boots are ideal for everyday wear in cold or snowy situations. We were able to wear them with fuzzy socks and hiking socks without any issues. We believe these are an exceptional value buy because of their exceptional quality and adaptability, especially considering the reasonable price point.
Baffin Chloe Boot
These stylish and incredibly comfortable faux-fur-trimmed boots from Baffin have amazing multi-layer insulation technology that lets you adjust the warmth and fit to your exact specifications. Although they have a fashionable exterior, the inside features detachable layers like as a moisture-wicking layer to keep feet feeling fresh, a B-tek foam lining for increased comfort, and B-tek heat insulation for maximum breathability across a range of temperatures. Additional layers include multilayer insulation to keep out wind, water, and slush, as well as a blend of polyester and wool for warmth that is more breathable. The layers are meant to conform to your foot with each use, so although we had no problem breaking them in, be aware that they may feel tight at first. Despite two months of testing, these boots continue to keep our feet dry and comfortable in all weather condition.
These tall boots are designed to hit mid-calf and are waterproof, so they offer plenty of protection from the weather. During testing, we ran them under the faucet, and when we took them outside in the rain, they remained completely dry. These weigh more than four pounds, so they’re a little too hefty for strenuous sports like hiking, but they’re perfect for keeping your feet comfortable and fashionable for daily wear.
Dr. Martens Combs Padded Casual Boots
Imagine putting these luxurious faux-fur-trimmed boots on top of your most cozy quilted winter jacket; that’s how comfortable these cushioned ankle boots are. They’re stylish and quite comfortable. We adore that they are almost as comfortable as clouds, with strong arch support and the brand’s recognizable thick rubber outsole keeping our feet dry and warm even in slick, rainy weather. These aren’t going to keep a lot of snow or slush out due to their cropped height, but they are perfect for daily wear in cold or wet weather because to their breathability and elasticity. We cherished the roomy, rounded footbed, which let us to easily wear these with thick socks on chilly days.
Deep, wide-set lugs on the thick rubber outsole offer great traction; we found them to be sufficiently sticky to tackle snow and ice, and we really liked the evident degree of shock absorption that made our steps bounce happily as we walked. We also value the nylon quilted fabric’s flexibility because it allowed us to move freely while we were moving.
Helly Hansen Women’s Garibaldi VL Boots
These aren’t the bulky, outdated snow boots your dad used. These tall, fashionable snow boots are a great illustration of why Helly Hansen has a long history of being a reliable name in outdoor goods. Their OrthoLite Eco comfort footbed allows them to bend easily with our feet while yet offering excellent arch and ankle support. They are incredibly lightweight and flexible, allowing us complete range of motion. We would use these for low-lift hiking, errands, sledding, and maybe even strolling around a snowy park. Their featherweight design, which makes them feel more like cozy sneakers than bulky, constricting snow boots, makes them ideal for a range of activities. They weigh little over one pound.
These improved with high waterproof leather and 100 grams of PrimaLoft insulation kept our feet dry and warm even amid a flash flood. The layers of insulation may feel tight at first, but after a few hours, they properly contoured to our feet, giving the impression of a tailored fit. Our feet never overheated in these, even though we wish they were a little more breathable. The white faux-fur, which isn’t completely waterproof and is prone to getting dirty after a season of trudging through city slush, is our main complaint.
Hunter Insulated Tall Snow Boots
Hunter may be best known for its sleek, contemporary rain boots, but if you put on a pair of the brand’s calf-height snow boots, you’ll see that it also has a fashionable history in winter wear. These are some of the trendiest snow boots available, and their recycled fleece lining keeps you warm just like a puffer coat would. However, bear in mind that they don’t provide as much warmth as a wool or sheepskin choice. We discovered that these were quite comfy straight out of the package and never hurt or blistered.
Knowing that they are certified vegan and composed almost completely of recycled materials, from the fleece interior to the nylon outside, will make you feel as good as they look. These are the perfect shoes for slick city streets because of the flexible and lightweight ortholite footbed. These shoes were ideal for managing snow banks and severe snow days due to their higher shape. Beyond its simple appearance, we adore the no-lace design since it is especially practical for expectant mothers and people who would rather just throw on their shoes and head out. Additionally, there’s a toggle at the top that you can tighten to keep snow and rain out or loosen enough to tuck in sweatpants. We also like how simple it is to clean these—even with the softer cream tint, we could easily remove debris with a damp towel.
Keen Revel IV Polar Boot
These waterproof boots are ideal for a variety of tasks, such as muddy yard maintenance, rainy-day errands, and hiking in chilly weather. They go well with both activewear and athleisure because to their sporty flair; we wore them for anything from outdoor adventures to outings to our neighborhood brewery. Because of their spacious toe box and generous arch and ankle support, we discovered that they needed no break-in period and felt comfortable right away. There’s enough space to slot in an orthotic if you’d rather have more support. We appreciate that the shoe has just the right amount of give, allowing for flexibility without compromising foot security.
These have an anti-odor lining and a stability shank for lightweight support, which hikers will appreciate. They weigh slightly over one pound. The excellent traction, which stayed incredibly gripping even when sliding down slick rock, is possibly the best feature. To keep you warm in harsh weather, they also include 200 grams of insulation and three layers of heat-trapping materials underfoot. During testing, we even stepped in a large puddle, and our feet were toasty and dry the entire time. Furthermore, these boots still seem brand new after two months of constant use.
Merrell Thermo Rogue 3 Mid Gore-tex
Merrell’s Thermo Rogue 3 is incredibly light and made to handle any surface, including slick grocery store floors, rocky outcroppings, snowy paths, and icy sidewalks. Vibram lugs, which guarantee the best traction while also removing any conceivable debris in their path, are fitted on them. These will keep your feet warm, dry, and supported whether you’re dashing to the store on a snowy day or going for a winter walk. More significantly, though, they’ll assist you avoid slipping on wet floors. We also cherished how simple it is to drive there.
These were just above the ankle, providing strong support without sacrificing flexibility to allow us to move with our feet as we climbed over boulders or tree limbs. The integrated laces were challenging to pull tight enough for a very snug fit, but the shoe still felt quite secure. That is our only complaint.
Merrell Women’s Bravada 2
These lightweight, breathable Merrell lace-ups are perfect for those hitting the trails in the winter or seeking for a comfortable pair of shoes for daily use. These waterproof boots provide all-day comfort without adding much weight to your frame at only 12.4 ounces each shoe. Thanks to the readily adjustable laces, recycled fleece inside, and 100 grams of low-bulk insulation for enhanced warmth, they fit like sneakers while providing extra support and insulation around the ankle. We adore how they do this. Our arches felt supported by the detachable EVA foam footbed and the integrated shock absorption in the midsole, whether we were walking the dog or commuting to work. We also like that they had a natural odor-blocking treatment.
These run slightly narrow, so you’ll need to break them in over time before you can wear them comfortably. We also discovered which the Merrell Quantum Grip outsole offers outstanding traction on the trail and in snow and slush. We were able to shovel snow during our two months of testing while wearing these boots, and they kept our feet dry and warm.
Muck Boot Company Arctic Ice Tall AGAT Boot
These knee-high rubber boots are essential if you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain. Their strong rubber exterior and plush neoprene interior keep warmth in and the weather out. They also provide excellent traction on slick grates and sidewalks. The elastic top-line binding guarantees a tight fit around your leg, keeping moisture out, even though their height already contributes to keeping feet toasty and dry in snow and mud. We waded through deep puddles for more than an hour during our testing, and these boots kept our legs and feet completely dry up to our knees without letting any chilly air penetrate through.
Although their height is advantageous for blocking out the wind and rain, it does restrict movement, especially for people with longer legs, as the thickness of the rubber can make it challenging to bend your knee when climbing stairs. Still, we discovered that these boots are cozy and warm. Their Vibram lugs provide excellent traction on a variety of terrain, including snowy driveways and slick roadways. Though the thick rubber surface is prone to cracking over time, these are fantastic for keeping you dry for a few seasons of ordinary wear and tear in rainy or muddy weather.
Oboz Ousel Mid Boot
Are you seeking for the best snow boots to bring on a winter camping trip or are you planning to hit the trails in cold or snowy conditions? Oboz’s insulated waterproof boots have a high-lined cuff and thermal insoles to keep your feet warm, dry, and supported throughout extended excursions. The nubuck leather boots, which come in regular, wide, and half sizes, include an insole that is carefully contoured for optimal comfort and thermoregulation to support you throughout the day. Even after standing in a creek and wandering through hours of rain and deep puddles, our feet were totally dry. There was also no period of break-in. Because of their superior traction and 200 grams of Freeze Guard Insulation, we discovered that these are perfect for winter weather and rainy or snowy days. However, because they’re not the most breathable pair on this list, they’re less suitable for shoulder seasons. We adore Oboz’s heartwarming bonus of planting a tree for each pair of shoes purchased.
OrthoFeet Florence Boots
These orthopedic ankle boots from OrthoFeet are ideal for people with broader feet, restricted mobility, or needs for additional arch support. They are very easy to put on and take off because to its large opening, pull-on design, and strong fabric closure tabs. Wearing them on neighborhood walks, local hikes, and car rides, we discovered that the smooth leather kept our feet dry and warm from the first time we wore them. The removable arch boosters provide extra support, and the orthotic, antibacterial insole softly cups and cushions the heel. The shoes’ adjustable spacers, which guarantee a snug fit, are a great feature. These are entirely waterproof and have a fantastic blend of being supportive around the ankle and providing enough flexibility for mobility. These are available in a wider range of sizes than regular snow boots, including narrow, standard, wide, extra wide, and extreme extra wide. We used these for nightly two-mile walks during our two months of testing, and we found them to be quite supportive and comfortable.
Ryka Brae Winter Boot
Go no farther than these stylish booties from Ryka if you’re looking for a pair of boots that combine comfort, style, and performance suitable for the winter. Although they aren’t technically waterproof, we discovered that they are incredibly water-resistant; in fact, throughout our tests, they easily repelled water, and even after we ran them under the sink faucet, they stayed completely dry inside. These are among the coziest, lightest pairs of snow boots we’ve ever worn. The basic lace-up design and puffy nylon outer make them adaptable enough to wear to après-ski events and everyday errands. We discovered that these are better suited for leisurely strolls around the neighborhood during the winter months than for strenuous excursions since the fluffy, soft nylon provides a snug and comfortable fit but isn’t strong enough to offer much ankle support. It’s simple to pick the ideal pair with four adorable colors and a variety of sizes.
Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP Boots
These Salomon waterproof boots are suitable for any activity, be it hiking, snowshoeing, or driveway shoveling. Made from durable leather and insulated with Aerogel, their tough design first fits like ski boots, with a stiff outer that reduces flexibility but offers superior ankle support and cushioning. When we hiked in slick circumstances, we felt very safe. Although they required multiple wears to break them in, we discovered that they were comfy right away and never gave us any pain or hot areas. In addition, the interior’s fuzzy polyester lining keeps everything warm and comfortable. These are made to keep you warm in winter circumstances that can reach -40 degrees Fahrenheit thanks to the lining and insulation. Additionally, they have improved lugs on the bottom that are incredibly grippy and can easily navigate slick trails, snow, and ice. Although they take a little longer to tie, the ice skate-style laces are a boon for anyone who appreciates an extremely snug fit because they make it simple to adjust the tightness to your preferred level.
Sorel Caribou Boot
The Sorel Women’s Caribou Waterproof Boot is a stylish and useful boot that will last you season after season. The brand is well-known for producing high-quality outdoor gear, and these robust, waterproof boots with a sealed seam are a prime illustration of this. Whether you’re trekking in the snow, running errands, or spending time at the ice rink, they’re made to keep your feet toasty warm for extended periods of time in cold weather. Extra support and warmth are provided by the detachable, recycled felt ThermoPlus inner boot that hugs the ankle. We discovered that there was no break-in period needed, and we never had any calf, ankle, or foot pain when wearing them for extended office hours or strenuous excursions.
Since these are made to fit a thicker sock, it’s crucial to think about what kind of socks you’ll wear with them most of the time. If you wish to wear them with thinner socks, you might want to go down a half-size. Like any good duck boot, we also adore how well-tractioned they are on slick surfaces and snowy trails.
Ugg Adirondack III Boot
Thanks to its well-known soft sheepskin lining, Ugg has arguably amassed the most comfy reputation of any shoe brand. With a waterproof leather and suede upper, a water-repellent tongue, and a weather rating of -25.6 degrees Fahrenheit, these winter-appropriate Adirondack boots are ready for any snow or rain. When we wore them for extended walks and errands, our feet stayed warm and comfortable all day. We also discovered that they offer great grip on wet and slippery surfaces. We like that these have enough of flexibility for walking around and provide excellent ankle support. The best part is that the cuffable shaft gives you the impression of receiving two pairs of boots for the price of one: roll it down to expose the fuzzy inner, or leave it up for more warmth and height. We discovered that these shoes are worth it because of their exceptional comfort, longevity, and the reliability of the Ugg brand, even though they are a bit more expensive than some of the other shoes on this list.
Other Women’s Snow Boots We Liked
We tried so many pairs of boots that, despite a few minor annoyances, we thought there were still a couple worth mentioning.
Kamik Lea Pull Winter Boot: We adored this warm, fleece-lined pull-on winter boot as they save so much time. Although the plush lining helps retain heat and wicks away moisture, we didn’t think these boots were secure enough around the ankle to be worn for long amounts of time.
Women’s Kinetic Impact Nxt Boot by Sorel: These opulent, stylish boots from Sorel are cozy right away. We adore the toggle at the top, which lets you customize how tight and airy they are while keeping snow and rain out. In the end, we think these are more suited for mild winters and urban environments than for bulky winter attire because the design leans more toward fashion than utility.
Our Testing Process
Over the course of five months, the Travel + Leisure crew examined 27 pairs of women’s snow boots, assessing each pair’s fit, support, longevity, functionality, waterproofing, and overall worth in real-world situations. Products that performed well and received the highest scores were included below.
Our first assignment was to inspect the boots’ material and hardware as soon as they were taken out of the box, then wear them for an hour and note whether they needed to be broken in. After that, we used the boots multiple times, closely observing how comfortable they were over the course of several hours and whether or not they offered adequate ankle and arch support. We also observed that they had good traction on different surfaces and were breathable. We filled each pair of shoes with paper towels and covered them with water to see how waterproof they were; every boot on this list demonstrated exceptional water resistance.
Additionally, we received professional advice on important things to look for when testing the items from Devon Vanoostveen, Global Marketing Manager at Merrell, and Scott Wilfling, Outreach and Education Coordinator at Oboz.
Tips for Buying Women’s Snow Boots
Prioritize warmth
Whether you plan to use your new snow boots mostly for walking on slippery roads, slogging through slushy sidewalks, or standing motionless in the snow, it’s important to be sure they are made to withstand those kinds of situations. Select an insulated boot to keep your feet warm, regardless of the purpose. For longer trips in severe weather and harsh locations, boots made for negative temperatures are essential. Basic insulation, such shearling or faux fur, is a good place to start. Make sure you read the reviews regarding the temperature ratings because they vary depending on your specific metabolism and how long you want to remain outside. As a result, actual user reviews may be more helpful than recommendations from manufacturers.
“An additional consideration is whether or not your feet typically perspire? If they do, you should pay attention to how much insulation is within your shoes, advises Wilfling.
Make sure they’re waterproof
Snow boots with good construction are great, but soggy toes defeat the purpose. To be sure that snow and water cannot get inside, look for boots with waterproof leather or rubber soles. Having a little height also keeps you farther away from the slush. If you plan to wear your boots largely for short commutes through cold or lightly snowy locations, water-resistant options are a good choice. However, if you anticipate significant slush or heavy snowfall where you are, you should get totally waterproof boots. If you decide on a suede boot, be sure it has a layer of polyurethane or waterproof spray applied to it.
Know what you plan to wear them for
Knowing the environment you’ll be wearing snow boots in most of the time will help you make the right choice when buying them. Spend some time thinking about whether this will be in the ski shop. Will it take place atop the mountain? Will it be after the ski lift closes? Will it include clearing the driveway? Wilfling asks.
Determining that will assist you in determining the height and force of the traction, as well as the quantity of insulation and warmth you require. Wilfling continues, “Assess the temperature where you will be wearing the boots and how warm you like your feet to be.” She also advises sizing up if you like to wear thick socks because that will affect the fit of the shoes.
According to Vanoostveen, you should also consider how you plan to use your boots while choosing their height. An toasty and warm ankle bootie could work well for casual use or for city inhabitants coping with an inch or two of snow. It’s also rather beneficial, in my opinion, to consider the outsole and the type of traction that snow boots would require. You should consider various levels of traction as well if you want to go snowshoeing or engage in other activities that need you to spend a lot of time in the snow rather than walking on a pavement that may include ice, according to Vanoostveen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are hiking boots good for snow?While most hiking boots feature enhanced traction and some form of lightweight insulation, it’s crucial to pick a winterized pair for use in snowy conditions. That means boots that are waterproof and feature some level of insulation — even more insulation for freezing temperatures — as well as traction that’s designed to keep you secure on slush, ice, and slick snowy ground.
- Can you wear rain boots in the snow?During a snowstorm, rain boots likely won’t cut it in terms of traction or warmth. Rain boots are typically waterproof and feature strong enough tread to provide great traction on wet or slippery ground, but they often aren’t insulated enough to keep you warm in the snow and aren’t equipped with the type of tread that can handle ice and snow. Additionally, most Wellington-style rain boots feature an open, wide top to tuck your pants into that would allow snow or slush to get in easily, either making you cold or eventually melting and causing a big mess.
- What material is the warmest for snow boots?Wool, shearling, and sheepskin will keep your toes toastiest all winter long. For maximum warmth, throw on a pair of thick wool socks and step into a pair of fleece-lined boots with an insulated exterior, which helps to keep in all the heat. Vegan options like faux sheepskin are also a great alternative and often are far more affordable.
Why Trust Travel+Leisure
Contributor Sophie Dodd to T+L used in-depth testing insights from our team, which examined dozens of women’s snow boots over several months to select the top 15 choices for each occasion and style, in addition to her own research for this piece. We also conferred with two professionals in the field: Devon Vanoostveen, Global Marketing Manager at Merrell, and Scott Wilfling, Outreach and Education Coordinator at Oboz.
