We’ve covered hundreds of miles on and off trail in winter conditions to bring you the best winter boots available. We put these boots to the ultimate test in Alaska, trudging through everything from local Anchorage trails to the peaks of Chugach State Park.
Over the years, we’ve researched hundreds of models and we test the best of the best, evaluating them on comfort, warmth, traction, weather resistance, and durability. From heavy-duty winter boots to those that feel more akin to insulated running shoes, we have something for everyone – whether you spend hours standing in the ice, mud, and snow or trekking up snow-covered mountains.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Men’s Winter Boots
Check out this quick list of our favorite winter boots, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.
Best Winter Hiking Boot for Men: KEEN Revel IV Polar ($190)
Best All-Around Winter Boot: The North Face Chilkat V 400 ($159)
Best Winter Boots for Wet Conditions: BOGS Bozeman Tall ($160)
Best Warm Snow Boots: Sorel Caribou ($200)
Supportive Boots for Winter Hiking: Merrell Thermo Chill Mid ($130)
Stylish Boots with Great Traction: Kamik Atwater ($120)
Iconic Style + Winter Warmth: Blundstone Thermal ($265)
Trail to Town Boots for Winter: Columbia Fairbanks ($130)
Lightweight Winter Hiking Boots: Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot ($160)
Insulated Boot with a Running-Shoe Feel: Merrell Nova 3 Thermo ($160)
What’s new
We’ve gone all out to test these winter boots, and our list includes our longtime favorites as well as some surprising new adds:
- The Kamik Atwater earns a spot on the list for being a well-styled boot with rugged traction.
- One of the lightest boots we’ve tested, the Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot is perfect for those who want hiking boot performance without the weight.
- The KEEN Revel IV Polar is a rugged and waterproof boot with a wide toe box that fits wider feet well.
- With its iconic style and increased warmth from the standard model, the Blundstone Thermal is one of our favorites for hitting the brewery and adventures around town.
- The Merrell Nova 3 Thermo fits like a running shoe but is warm like a boot for comfort and versatility.
- For long days working in the wet and cold, the BOGS Bozeman Tall can’t be beaten for durability and weather resistance.
- We used The North Face Chilkat V 400 across many miles and different conditions and found it to be one of the most well-rounded boots we tested.
Men’s Winter Boots Overall Testing Scores
KEEN Revel IV Polar
Best Winter Hiking Boot for Men
Price: $190
Weight: 3 lbs
Insulation: recycled synthetic
Height: 8 in
Pros
- durable
- warm
- great weather resistance
Cons
- break-in time
- not as tall as some winter boots
The KEEN Revel IV Polar is a versatile winter boot that excels in both hiking and cold-weather performance. Its durable leather upper offers excellent weather resistance while the thick rubber toe cap and all-metal eyelets add to its rugged design. Though the boot fits slightly wider, making it ideal for those with broader feet, narrow-footed users may need to cinch the laces tight for a secure fit. In doing so the long laces can be easy to trip on, and their round shape makes them easy to come untied.
Although the Revel IV Polar features a relatively low shaft height, it provides solid warmth and weather resistance, making it suitable for moderate-depth snow and winter activities. Its recycled synthetic insulation offers ample warmth during high-output activities like hiking and snowshoeing but may not be ideal for low-output tasks in extreme cold. The boot’s traction shines on packed snow, dirt, and rocky terrain, though it struggles in loose snow and gravel.
Durable and well-constructed, the KEEN Revel IV Polar is designed to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures. The leather holds up against abrasions, and the boot’s reinforced pull tabs, double-stitched seams, and metal lace eyelets ensure long-lasting durability. Though not suited for deep snow, its weatherproof design and gaiter attachment points provide reliable protection in most conditions. Weighing 3 pounds, this boot is perfect for those seeking a durable, lightweight winter boot for hiking and light winter activities.
The North Face Chilkat V 400
Best All-Around Winter Boot
Price: $159
Weight: 3 lb 2 oz
Insulation: 400g synthetic
Height: 8 in
Durability: 4.5
Pros
- durable
- warm
- great weather resistance
Cons
- break-in time
- not as tall as some winter boots
The North Face Chilkat V 400 is a versatile winter boot built for comfort and performance in cold conditions. With 400 grams of synthetic insulation and a durable TPU shell, it offers reliable warmth and protection against snow, slush, and wet weather. The 8-inch shaft height provides adequate coverage, though it may not be high enough to prevent snow from entering the boot while walking through deep drifts. Despite its solid warmth and traction, the boot’s stiff construction can make it feel bulky and tough to tighten for optimal ankle support.
Weighing 3 pounds 2 ounces, the Chilkat V 400 is affordable, given its all-around capabilities. Its aggressive, multi-directional tread ensures excellent grip on various surfaces, though it may not be compatible with most microspikes or ice cleats due to its bulky size. Although the boot does well in cold temperatures, it can feel too warm in milder weather, and its breathability is limited, potentially causing sweat to build up during exertion. The boot’s lower price point offers good value, though the overall durability could be better, with minor creases appearing after extensive use.
Overall, the Chilkat V 400 is a reliable choice for winter enthusiasts seeking an affordable, weather-resistant boot that is ideal for short- to medium-length hikes. Those wanting a boot for long treks, where weight and flexibility are priorities, may not find this boot the best choice.
BOGS Bozeman Tall
Best Winter Boots for Wet Conditions
Price: $160
Weight: 4 lb
Insulation: 7mm neoprene
Height: 15 in
Pros
- extremely durable
- waterproof
- warm
- impact protection
Cons
- bulky
- fit too loose for hiking
- handles let in snow & debris
The BOGS Bozeman Tall is an incredibly durable option designed for wet and cold environments. Featuring a 14.5-inch shaft and insulated with Neo-Tech neoprene, these boots provide exceptional warmth – even when wet. Their rubber lower and the neoprene shaft’s seamless construction keep feet dry – though the handles at the top can let in snow or debris. These boots are extremely comfortable, too, thanks to supportive midsoles and cushioning around the heel that keeps the foot securely in place. At 4 pounds, they are heavy – best suited for standing and working rather than long hikes. If you’re seeking a tough, weather-resistant boot for outdoor chores or work in cold, wet conditions, the Bogs Bozeman Tall boots are an excellent choice.
Sorel Caribou
Best Warm Snow Boots
Price: $200
Weight: 5 lb 1 oz
Insulation: synthetic, 9 mm felt liner
Height: 10 in
Pros
- Great value
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Excellent traction
- Removable liner (quick-drying, washable & replaceable)
Cons
- Heavy/Bulky
- Loose-fitting (clunky for long walks)
Sorel’s Caribou Snow Boots are designed for extreme cold and winter outings that require the warmest boots. Renowned for their warmth, these boots excel in frigid temperatures with a removable felt liner that kept our feet warm for hours, even in temperatures as low as -10°F. When it comes to weather resistance, the Caribous are impenetrable to snow and water through their burly construction. However, their breathability is limited, and snow can occasionally seep in through the top of the shaft if you walk through deep snow. We like the Caribou’s traction on smooth, icy surfaces more than on loose snow or deep powder. They’re not the best choice for mountain hiking or the deepest snow trekking – but they’re perfect for city walks, local trails, and outdoor work. Ideal for those who need warmth and weather protection, the Sorel Caribou is a dependable choice for standing or walking in cold environments.
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid
Supportive Boots for Winter Hiking
Price: $130
Weight: 2 lb 8 oz
Insulation: 200 g synthetic, micro-fleece lining
Height: mid
Comfort: 4.4
Pros
- Affordable
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Excellent traction
- Gaiter hooks
- Snowshoe compatible
Cons
- Need gaiters to keep deep snow out
- Lacks breathability
Merrell’s Thermo Chill Mid Boots are an excellent choice for cold-weather hikes on muddy or snowy terrain. Firm support in the midsole makes the Thermo Chills sturdy enough to handle a heavy load of winter backpacking gear, but they’re still quite lightweight, which means less strain on your body. We like the fleece lining because it keeps your feet warm but also helps wick sweat away to keep them dry. Overall, the Thermo Chills are a great value and solid performers.
Kamik Atwater
Stylish boot with great traction
Price: $119
Weight: 2 lb 8 oz
Insulation: 90g synthetic
Height: 6.9 in
Traction: 4.6
Pros
- stylish
- warm
- comfortable
- traction
Cons
- low shaft
- possible long-term durability issues
The Kamik Atwater winter boot blends style and performance, making it ideal for casual outings and short winter hikes. Tested in the cold of Anchorage, Alaska, these boots provided impressive warmth and traction in sub-zero temperatures. They kept our feet warm on brisk days, even in negative temps. The cushioned midsole and large, triangular lugs offered excellent grip on ice, snow, and concrete.
The Atwater boots offer great value, but durability may be a concern for long-term use. Though comfortable and supportive for everyday wear, they showed signs of wear, including loose threads and creases at stress points. The 7-inch shaft provides adequate coverage but lacks the height for complete weather resistance in deep snow.
Ideal for city streets and local trails, the Kamik Atwater is a stylish, affordable boot that performs well in moderate winter conditions. However, for rugged, extended outdoor use, you might want to consider more durable options.
Blundstone Thermal
Iconic Style + Winter Warmth
Price: $265
Weight: 2 lb 2 oz
Insulation: Thinsulate
Height: 6 in
Pros
- stylish
- lightweight
- versatile
- comfortable
- durable
- slip-on
Cons
- expensive
- leather requires maintenance
- may need warm socks
Adding insulation to the original, the Blundstone Thermal boots are a stylish and durable choice for those seeking comfort and versatility in cold weather. Weighing 2lb 2oz, these boots offer a lightweight, slip-on design that’s both practical and comfortable. The six-inch shaft is made from premium leather and waterproof elastic while Thinsulate and plush sheepskin insoles provide warmth and insulation. The Blundstone Thermals are ideal for casual outings, light hikes, and yard work.
Though initially stiff, the boots break in comfortably, with the sheepskin packing down to offer both support and warmth. However, they require thick socks for optimal winter readiness, and leather care is essential for maintaining waterproofing and preventing the leather from drying out. The shallow lugs of the Vibram sole provide good traction on wet surfaces but are less effective on loose snow and icy conditions.
Though not the best for deep snow or extended cold exposure, the Blundstone Thermal boots excel in urban and light outdoor environments, offering great weather resistance, durability, and a timeless style. Though pricey, they are built to last, making them a great option for those looking for a reliable and versatile winter boot for around town.
Columbia Fairbanks
Trail to Town Boots for Winter
Price: $125
Weight: 2 lb 4 oz
Insulation: 200 g synthetic, Omni-heat™ reflective lining
Height: Mid
Pros
- Warm
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Not bulky
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Stylish
Cons
- Need gaiters to keep deep snow out
- Minimal traction
If you’re looking for a versatile boot you can use for a variety of winter activities, the Columbia Fairbanks Snow Boots are an excellent option. They’re fully waterproof and lightly insulated to keep your feet toasty when you’re active, but they’re also breathable so you won’t overheat. With thick socks, these boots are plenty warm unless the temperature is below freezing or you’re inactive for long periods. The Fairbanks’ best assets are how flexible,lightweight, and relaxed they feel. They aren’t overly stiff or super supportive, so they’re not the best choice for snowshoeing or intense hikes. But they’re comfortable and very well-suited to leisurely hikes in wet, cold conditions and casual use around town.
Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot
Lightweight Winter Hiking Boots
Price: $160
Weight: 2 lb
Insulation: adv.WARM polyester
Height: mid
Pros
- lightweight
- affordable
- waterproof
- made for hiking
Cons
- shorter shaft height
- durability
- winter traction
The Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Winter Boots offer a lightweight alternative to traditional winter boots and are perfect for those who prefer a less bulky option without sacrificing warmth. At just 2 lbs, these lightweight boots provide surprising insulation for winter hikes, keeping feet comfortable in temperatures as low as the teens. Their waterproof design keeps feet dry, even when navigating puddles and wet terrain. However, their comparatively low shaft height and lack of gaiter attachment points leave them vulnerable to snow entry, which can compromise weather resistance.
Although the boots excel in warmth and moisture protection, comfort is a weak point. The thin insole and hard midsole can make extended use uncomfortable, even with cushioned socks. Traction is adequate on dry dirt and packed snow, but the boots struggle on icy or deep snow, with wet snow clogging the tread. Durability concerns arise as well, with signs of wear on the lugs and stitching after moderate use.
Ideal for high-output activities on packed snow or mixed trails, the X Ultra Snowpilot is best suited for hikers looking for light winter boots for moderate-length outings. However, they may not be the best choice for those requiring maximum comfort or durability.
Merrell Nova 3 Thermo
Lightweight winter hiking boot
Price: $160
Weight: 1 lb 15 oz
Insulation: 100g Primaloft
Height: mid
Durability: 3.9
Pros
- comfortable
- casual style
- good traction
- lightweight
Cons
- shorter shaft height
- waterproofing
- durability
Weighing just 2 lbs, the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo is a winter hiking boot with the feel of a running shoe. Featuring quilted Primaloft baffles and a brushed interior, these boots offer warmth and coziness, ideal for trails in moderate winter conditions. The rockered sole provides a smooth, running-shoe-like stride while a zipper on the shaft makes it easy to put on and take off.
During our testing, we found that the Nova 3 Thermo performed well on packed trails, offering good traction and comfort. However, its 4-inch shaft height and disappointing waterproofing became noticeable in deeper snow or wet conditions, where moisture seeped through the insulation quickly. The boots are best suited for less rugged outings and conditions where wetness or snow won’t overwhelm the lower shaft.
With 100g of Primaloft insulation, they offer warmth in temperatures just below freezing but struggle once the mercury dips further. The suede-like leather upper and lack of durability under harsh conditions suggest that the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo is best for casual winter walks or light trail use, not for intense winter adventures.
At 2 lbs, these boots are lightweight and comfortable, but their weather resistance and durability limitations prevent them from being ideal for extended, wet, or snowy hikes. If you’re looking for a cozy, stylish winter boot for mild conditions, though, the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo is a solid choice.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Insulation | Height | Comfort | Warmth | Traction | Weather Resistance | Durability | 0 |
KEEN Revel IV Polar View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$190 | 3 lbs | recycled synthetic | 8 in | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 1 |
The North Face Chilkat V 400 View at REI View at Amazon
|
$159 | 3 lb 2 oz | 400g synthetic | 8 in | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 2 |
BOGS Bozeman Tall View at REI View at Amazon |
$160 | 4 lb | 7mm neoprene | 15 in | 4.5 | 4.8 | – | 4.9 | 5 | 3 |
Sorel Caribou View at REI View at Amazon
|
$200 | 5 lb 1 oz | synthetic, 9 mm felt liner | 10 in | 4.4 | 4.9 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 |
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid View at REI View at Zappos 
|
$130 | 2 lb 8 oz | 200 g synthetic, micro-fleece lining | mid | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 5 |
Kamik Atwater View at REI |
$119 | 2 lb 8 oz | 90g synthetic | 6.9 in | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 6 |
Blundstone Thermal View at Backcountry |
$265 | 2 lb 2 oz | Thinsulate | 6 in | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 7 |
Columbia Fairbanks View at REI View at Amazon |
$125 | 2 lb 4 oz | 200 g synthetic, Omni-heat™ reflective lining | Mid | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 8 |
Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot View at REI View at Amazon |
$160 | 2 lb | adv.WARM polyester | mid | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 9 |
Merrell Nova 3 Thermo View at Amazon View at Backcountry |
$160 | 1 lb 15 oz | 100g Primaloft | mid | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 3.5 | 3.9 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
COMFORT
Everyone’s feet are different, and everyone has different standards for the comfort of their boots. Some feet work best in wide and cushioned boots while others fit well in narrow and firm boots. That being said, we try to evaluate some of the factors similar to everyone. We evaluate the toe box of the boots for how wide they are and assess which types of feet will fit them best. We spend hours hiking to see how the feet are impacted by the ground and evaluate how well the boots support and protect our feet and how well the ankles are supported in off-camber and hilly terrain.
WARMTH
Warmth is one of the most important considerations for boots that can make or break your experience recreating in the winter months. We test warmth by using the boots in a variety of temperatures from above freezing to below zero. We hike in the boots and evaluate their warmth at rest to test their warmth at different levels of exertion. Lastly, we use the boots with socks of different thicknesses to see how well the boots work with or without added insulation.
TRACTION
For traction, we start by evaluating the lug pattern of the sole. There are numerous different styles of treads, but the best treads for winter incorporate negative space between lugs, deep lug depth, and a variety of orientations to grip loose snow and ice. Flatter, wider, lugs with more surface area provide grip on smooth surfaces like ice and concrete, and deep and sharp lugs work best for deep snow and loose surfaces. We then use the boots on a variety of surfaces like icy sidewalks, packed snow trails, or deep snow off-trail. We then evaluate for any feelings of insecurity, slippage, or sliding when using the boots across different terrains and surfaces.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
When testing weather resistance in winter boots, we primarily look at two key things: How well the boots keep moisture out, and how well they breathe moisture vapor from within the boot. We hike through deep snow, slush, mud, and puddles to examine how the material of the boots keeps moisture out. When hiking at a pace high enough to sweat, we evaluate the boots for any feelings of clamminess and judge them based on how well they can transmit moisture vapor from the inside to the outside.
DURABILITY
When testing each boot’s durability, we take them through the wringer, hike after hike. We put enough hours and mileage on each pair to the point where we can notice wear and tear on the boot. This may come as nicks out of the foam midsole, worn-down tread, or scuffs on the upper materials. We evaluate how the boots stand up to the test of time and whether there have been any changes in their performance.
Why Trust CleverHiker
At CleverHiker, we put real-world experience at the forefront of our testing process. We own and use everything we recommend, and our testers live and breathe the outdoors. All the products we recommend have spent days on the trails and in the mountains as we put them to the test.
As a born and raised Alaskan, Gear Analyst Miles Knotek has been recreating in harsh winter conditions since before he could walk. Spending hours in the wet and cold is his idea of fun, and he spends most of his winter season finding the limits of his gear in some of the harshest conditions Alaska can deliver. Miles has stood in knee-deep ice water, trudged uphill in thigh-deep snow, and spent hours in below-zero temps finding the best-performing boots so you don’t have to.
Analysis and Results
VALUE
Purchasing outdoor gear is an investment. It’s an investment in gear that keeps you safe and happy – and an investment in your experience in the outdoors. If you’re anything like us, you’re trying to get the most out of the gear bought with your hard-earned dollars. For the best value, we reach for the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid. Its combination of high performance and low price makes it the perfect option for someone who wants to buy one boot to tackle multiple conditions. The North Face Chilkat V 400 also provides good value for its price.
COMFORT
We placed comfort at the forefront of our testing for the simple reason that if you’re not comfortable in your boots, that is going to have a seriously negative impact on your experience in the outdoors. It’s hard to beat many of the boots designed for style and casual uses when it comes to comfort. The Kamik Atwater and the Blundstone Thermals are two that stand out to us in particular. The Atwaters have a flexible sole that makes walking easy and smooth, a secure lacing system, and excellent ankle support. The Blundstone Thermals take a slightly different approach with a slip-on style without any laces. We love the ease and comfort of the slip-on and the feel of the leather once broken in.
When it comes to more performance-oriented boots, there are a couple of clear leaders. Merrell’s long history of out of the box comfort bleeds into its winter boots as well. Both the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid and Nova 3 Thermo are exceptionally comfy boots, feeling more akin to running shoes with the warmth of a boot. We love how supportive the Thermo Chill Mid is for hiking long miles, and the Nova 3 Thermo’s rockered sole makes for a smooth ride when walking down the trails. We recommend these boots for hikers wanting to cover some serious ground while keeping their feet pain-free and happy.
WARMTH
What’s a winter boot without warmth? Cold toes are a quick way to put a damper on a fun day out in the snow. Warmth in winter boots comes from both the quality of the boot’s insulation as well as the boot’s ability to provide insulation through dead air space. For the best cold weather performance, the Sorel Caribou is a timeless classic that continues to perform. Its Pac-style insulation, thick rubber lower boot, and removable felt liner provide superior insulation for some of the coldest days of the year. We loved using these in below zero temps or for times when standing for hours in the cold was necessary.
Also standing out to us, but for two distinct reasons, are the BOGS Bozeman Tall and The North Face Chilkat V 400. The BOGS achieve their high levels of warmth from seven millimeters of neoprene. Providing both exceptional warmth and weather resistance, neoprene may bring to mind images of wetsuit-clad surfers but works equally as well as insulating boots for time spent in wet places. We also love the more conventional style and construction of the North Face Chilkat V 400. For those who have cold feet or know they will be out in colder temperatures, 400 grams of insulation is a great choice over lesser weights. The rubber lower boot with plenty of room in the toes for warmth transitions to a taller insulated shaft for warmth to mid-shin height. This combination creates a well-rounded boot that provides excellent warmth across from wet slush, to deep snow.
TRACTION
Getting a grip is crucial when heading outside in the winter. When faced with a variety of slippery surfaces, you need to know that you can rely on your boots to keep you upright on your winter adventures without fear of taking a fall. For that, we love the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid. This boot surprised us when hiking up an icy trail through a thick forest when we didn’t even need to pull out our traction devices. Their excellent tread pattern, sharp-edged lugs, and stiff soles make climbing steep slopes covered in ice and snow a breeze.
Also ranking highly for their traction are the BOGS Bozeman Tall and The North Face Chilkat V 400. The Bogs stood out in icy, muddy conditions where their deep lugs bit into loose surfaces and kept us upright in exceptionally slippery conditions. The North Face Chilkat V 400 worked very well in deep powder and loose snow conditions where other boots couldn’t get a grip. We loved these boots most for walking where others hadn’t through deep powder on steep slopes.
Although casual shoes may not be the first to come to mind when it comes to traction, walking icy city streets can be just as treacherous as scaling a snow-covered mountain. For those times when we need excellent traction while wearing a boot stylish enough for town, we reach for the Kamik Atwater. Their large surface area lugs provide excellent traction on ice and large space in the tread pattern bites securely into snow.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Topping our charts for weather resistance with its impressive shaft height and nearly impenetrable combination of neoprene and rubber is the BOGS Bozeman Tall. The neoprene provides exceptional weather resistance, not letting in a drop of water. Its only drawback is the cut-out handles, which decrease the effective height of the shaft. But for most uses, it’s already plenty of height for most.
When heading out into deep snow, a tall boot is a must. We found that The North Face Chilkat V 400 was our boot of choice for venturing into deep powder or off-trail. The rubber lower transitions into an insulated and waterproof upper that is tall enough to keep most snow out. The lace system kept the boot closed and tight, and the rubber lower was impervious to all snow and water. This is one of our top picks for winter sports and long days in the snow.
The leather upper of the KEEN Revel IV Polar is one of the most weatherproof of the hiking dedicated boots we tested. We loved these for splashing through puddles, stomping through slush, and sliding through snow. Their biggest weakness is their relatively low shaft height compared to the aforementioned boots. That problem is easily fixed with gaiters thanks to the boot’s built-in gaiter attachment loops.
DURABILITY
When taking your boots out day after day, season after season, you’ll want to know you can keep relying on them to keep you warm and dry. When it comes to a long-lasting and highly durable boot, look no further than the BOGS Bozeman Tall. This boot withstood getting hit by firewood and glancing blows from a splitter while chopping firewood, long walks on sharp rocks, and abrasions in gravel and concrete. It’s a boot that can take a beating and keep on working.
The Sorel Caribou makes an appearance near the top of the list as one of our most durable boots. With a simple yet sturdy combination of a rubber lower and leather upper, these boots are proven to work year after year. If you feel like the liner is losing some of its loft and warmth after years of use, trade it out for a new one, and the boot will work like new. If the durability of a leather boot is what you’re after, then the KEEN Revel IV Polar is another excellent choice. With a burly toe cap encapsulating the front of the boot, kicking roots, rocks, and logs doesn’t leave a dent. The leather of the boots is supple yet can withstand multiple abrasions and scrapes with only minor cosmetic damage.
How to Choose Winter Boots
When choosing winter boots, the two questions that guide our selection process are:
- What activities do I intend to do with these boots?
- What temperatures and conditions do I expect to encounter while using them?
When choosing your winter boots, start by examining what you intend to use the boots for the most. If you’re the type of person who likes to have one product for multiple uses, then versatility is key for your winter boots. Finding one boot to fit a variety of uses can be easier said than done. But with a little planning and research, finding the right boot will make your winter experience more enjoyable.
Alternatively, you might be the type of person to have several different pairs of boots for different activities. Snowshoeing and hiking require boots with excellent weather resistance, traction, and durability. Working and wet weather require durability, weather resistance, and comfort while boots for casual uses require style and comfort without as much emphasis on weather resistance or durability.
Recreating in the winter poses its own unique set of challenges from the summer. The cold and damp conditions are often the biggest hurdles followed by reduced traction and an increased need for durability. Start by carefully considering where you live and where you will be using the boots the most. Are they going to be used for the occasional cold snap or winter vacation? Or will you be using these boots day in and day out in deep snow and below-freezing temperatures?
Different boots serve different purposes and excel in different conditions. Matching boots to the conditions is vital to being comfortable and safe for any outdoor adventure. Whether it’s splashing through puddles on the way to the brewery or trekking across the tundra while snowshoeing, our feet are the part of our body most in contact with the elements. By choosing the correct boots to fit the conditions, you will not only have a more comfortable and enjoyable experience but be safer and able to enjoy the outdoors to their fullest.
LINERS
Some boots have removable liners (like the Sorel Caribou) which makes it easy to wash them, dry them out quickly, and replace them as needed. But they can also give the boot a looser, less specific fit. A boot dryer can be helpful for quickly drying out wet/sweaty boots with non-removable liners. A loose fit isn’t really an issue for snow boots you’ll use primarily for shoveling the walk. For boots you’ll be hiking or walking around town in, more close-fitting liners will feel less cumbersome and floppy to walk in.
INSOLES
Upgrading your insoles to cushier, warmer, or more supportive aftermarket ones like Superfeet can improve the fit and comfort of most boots. Just remember that you’ll need a little extra room to accommodate thicker insoles.
WEATHERPROOFING
Rubber, treated leather, or waterproof membranes (like GORE-TEX), are typical materials used to weatherproof boots. Always take the time to read reviews about boots that claim to be waterproof and find out if they require any treatments or maintenance (especially leather). A good winter boot should keep your feet dry since moisture leads to heat loss.
BRAND
Sometimes it can pay off to try inexpensive off-brands, but we’ve found that it’s usually worth paying a bit more for the quality and durability of tried-and-true brands that have been around for a long time. Generally, we find that we’re more satisfied with the materials and craftsmanship of products from bigger footwear brands that continually take feedback from their customers to improve their products.
CONCLUSION
We’ve taken the guesswork out of navigating the maze of options out there for winter hiking boots. We’ve covered miles in the sleet, snow, and slush to bring you the best options for a variety of uses and settings this winter. We own and use everything we test to bring you the most authoritative and exhaustive research possible.
