The UGG Adirondack III was our top pick women’s winter boot for 2024 with great style and protection. Photo: Heather Hendricks/The Inertia

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Have you ever experienced the horror of post-holing, only to find your “winter” boots are wet and your feet soon frozen? Yeah, been there and shivered through that. But our pain is your gain, as we spent over a month testing the best women’s winter boots to see which ones hold up and which to skip.

This winter, we scoured the internet and local outfitters for the most promising women’s winter boots of 2024. As there’s no substitute for in-person, real-world testing (thank goodness!), we ordered the top selections and had them sent to our rural testing oasis outside Aspen, Colorado, where our lead women’s boot tester, Heather Hendricks, got to work. 

Snow, ice, slush, and frozen crud were on the menu for our test, ensuring each pair of winter boots was put through the paces. Our meticulous testing regime included daily dog walks, slick nights out and about, everyday errands on icy city streets, snowy hikes, shoveling, and more. We tested so many boots that our tester wore out a couple of pairs of socks. Which, by the way, were the central control of this test. After only a few blisters and holes in our socks, we’re confident in our selection of the best women’s winter boots of 2024. 

So whether you’re seeking tall, waterproof protection for outside errands and winter work, cozy après-ski anklets, or a blend of functional fashion, read on for insight into the best winter boots currently on the market.

To quickly see how things stack up, jump to our handy Comparison Table. For deeper insights, check out our Buyer’s Guide. And for more options and inspiration, check out our guide to The Best Men’s Winter Boots.

The Best Women’s Winter Boots of 2024

Best All-Around Women’s Winter Boots: UGG Women’s Adirondack III

Warmest Women’s Winter Boots: Baffin Chloe Women’s Boot

Best Budget Women’s Winter Boots: Tidwe Rubber Neoprene

Best Women’s Winter Hiking Boots: Merrell Siren 4 Thermo Mid Zip Waterproof 

Best Women’s Winter Work Boot: Muck Boot Women’s Arctic Sport II Tall

Classic Design: Sorel Caribou

Best All-Around Winter Boots

UGG Women’s Adirondack III ($250)

Weight: 19 oz per boot
Insulation: 80% upcycled wool, 20% synthetic
Boot Height: 7-inch shaft
Closure: Lace-up
Upper Material: Waterproof leather
Lining: 17mm UGGpure wool lining
Outsole: Molded spider rubber

Pros: Versatile, packed with cozy warmth and waterproofing
Cons: Pricey, traction could use an upgrade

At $250, the UGG Women’s Adirondack Boot III is pricey. But its versatility, durability, and warmth justify the cost. UGG isn’t typically known for technical footwear, so this lace-up model surprised us. The exterior shaft, which can be worn up or folded down for added style points, is made of waterproof leather and lined with luxurious upcycled wool shearling. Initially, our tester was skeptical of the mid-height design, but it offered surprising support and coverage. It feels like wearing a shoe. The adjustable lacing system further enhances the fit, allowing for quick tying when conditions call for it.  

Despite being filled with 200 grams of PrimaLoft insulation, this boot boasts a sleek silhouette that transitions easily from outdoor activities to indoor needs. We found this true after an evening outside by a snowy bonfire. These boots kept us warm and dry while standing on the snow. Inside of a bar later that evening, they were exceptionally breathable and stylishly low-profile. A beacon of quality, these winter boots are champions of warmth and style for seasons and storms to come. Read our full review of the UGG Adirondack III here.

Warmest Winter Boots

Baffin Chloe Women’s Boot ($185)

Weight: 37 oz per boot
Insulation: Synthetic Thermaplush
Boot Height: 11-inch shaft
Closure: Lace-up with quick-pull toggle
Upper Material: Timberwolf leather and natural shearling
Lining: B-Tek foam layer, PolyWool blend layer
Outsole: Grippy rubber 

Pros: Warmth you can trust with a removable liner that dries quickly
Cons: Narrow footbed and this style runs slightly small

Built for harsh climates, the Chloe shines as a burly, weatherproof option, boasting features designed for maximum warmth. The 11-inch shaft shields ankles and calves from the cold, while the Timberwolf leather and natural shearling upper provide an extended barrier against the elements. These boots were our tester’s go-to’s for shoveling the deck and driveway as the snow stacked up. 

Our tester found the removable Thermaplush liner traps heat effectively, keeping toes toasty. But it’s breathable enough to prevent overheating. Made with Baffin’s propriety B-Tek foam and PolyWool blend lining, we were impressed with the multiple layers of cozy (and removable!) insulation. 

The quick-pull lacing system with an adjustable toggle makes them easy to put on and take off, even while wearing gloves. While the narrow footbed might be a slight concern for some, we suggest sizing up by half to mitigate the problem if your feet tend to run wide. The Chloe’s undeniable warmth, weatherproofing, and quality construction make them advisable for women who need a burly boot. Read our full review of the Baffin Chloe here.

Best Budget Women’s Winter Boots

TideWe Rubber Neoprene Boots ($80)

Weight: 30.5 oz per boot
Insulation: 6 mm neoprene
Boot Height: 15-inch shaft
Closure: Pull-on
Upper Material: 100% waterproof flex-foam rubber with stretch nylon
Lining: Breathable Mesh
Outsole: Slip-resistant lug outsole

Pros: Dependable, waterproof boots for a justifiable price
Cons: Not a style everyone can pull off or need, feet can get moist after long days in temperatures above 46 F

When selecting a budget boot, many factors determine what makes it suitable. Plenty of junk boots claiming to be all that don’t live up to their hype. Unfortunately, budget boots are often knockoffs of classic styles and turn out to be plastic hunks of trash. Trust us, we’ve worn them, and subsequently had to pitch them when we wore holes through ‘em. So when it comes to suggesting the best budget boot on the market, we’ve tested enough to steer you to the right ones that hold up. 

The budget boot built to do it all is TideWe‘s Rubber Neoprene Boots. This unisex model boasts 6 millimeters of neoprene insulation in a rubber muck boot that’s 100 percent waterproof. They also stand at a whopping 16 inches tall, offering full coverage. The outer is smooth to the touch, and they pull on and off easily. As far as comfort, these boots molded to our feet within the first few times of wearing them. They soon became our go-to for honestly everything. Granted, we live in the mountains of Colorado, so their tall, rubber appearance isn’t out of the norm. The boots are likely too aggressive to wear in warmer climates but do great in wet, snowy, and moist locales.

If not for you, another budget-friendly option to consider is Columbia’s Women’s Ice Maiden II Boot. These slightly resemble Baffin’s Chloe model, with a slight twist of Sorel’s Joan of Arctic with their faux fur-equipped liner, but that’s about as far as the comparisons go. The Ice Maidens are pretty thin overall, and not the warmest or weatherproof. But they can get it done for those in milder winter conditions or where fashion over function is the top concern. 

Best Winter Hiking Boots

Merrell Siren 4 Thermo Mid Zip Waterproof ($180)

Weight: 19 oz per boot
Insulation: Synthetic PrimaLoft Gold Eco
Boot Height: ankle
Closure: Lace-up/zipper
Upper Material: Waterproof full-grain leather and knit upper
Lining: 100% recycled fleece lining
Outsole: Vibram Icetrek 

Pros: Traction is grippy and enhances confidence while hiking
Cons: Knit upper shows dirt easily

If you’re hiking in the winter, it’s a given you’ll need warm and rugged boots. You need something that will keep you dry and can maneuver on whatever trails you take them on. Enter Merrell’s Siren 4 Thermo Mid Zip. These shined for us while hiking a well-trafficked but still ice-prone trail outside Carbondale, Colorado. The nobby Vibram Icetrek outsoles allowed us to grab onto icy spots like velcro. We like how these boots manage moderately snowy treks without adding extra traction devices like Yak Traks. 

We found the 200 grams of PrimaLoft insulation kept our feet warm without too much additional weight. The full-grain leather and knit upper were durable (no scratches to report) and comfortable. Our tester also found the side weatherproof zipper makes for easy on-and-off, letting you keep the laces tied while getting in and out of the boots. However, we recommend loosening the laces and zipper when putting them on and off. We found this helps maintain the integrity of the laces and the boot’s overall stability long-term. This side zipper also stayed secure throughout all the activities we tested these in, which was a nice contrast to some of the other hiking boots we tested. 

Style-wise, these hiking boots should remain as such. Their sole is large and extra grippy, which our tester found to be a bit more than she would like for evening activities. We encourage wearers to remember that the knit upper can trap moisture and show dirt. But that’s avoidable by wearing a gaiter — a small price for such lightweight, technical performing winter hiking boots.

Best Women’s Winter Work Boot

Muck Boot Women’s Arctic Sport II Tall Boot ($150)

Weight: 20 oz per boot
Insulation: 5mm CR Flex-Foam neoprene bootie
Boot Height: 16.9 inches
Closure: Slip on and off
Upper Material: Extended neoprene
Lining: Fleece (very minimal)
Outsole: Rugged rubber 

Pros: Totally waterproof and super comfortable to work in all day, for days
Cons: The shaft might be too tall for shorter statures

Muck Boot Women’s Arctic Sport II Tall Boot is our workwear champion for women who demand comfort and performance. This 16.9-inch tall boot is crafted from extended neoprene, making it fully waterproof. Our tester found these boots ready to tackle any winter storm or messy job. But don’t let the rugged exterior fool you – the 5mm CR Flex-Foam neoprene bootie provides surprisingly plush comfort. We found this allowed us to work out in the elements without sacrificing warmth or ease of movement. 

The minimal fleece lining provides just enough warmth for moderate winter conditions. At the same time, the rugged rubber outsole delivers superior traction. Whether shoveling snow, doing outside errands, or simply making a statement, this boot proved dependable. However, if you’re petite or have shorter legs, consider trying the mid-calf version of the Muck Boot for a better fit. Overall, this boot is a workhorse in function and fashion, offering comfort, warmth, and waterproof protection at a reasonable price. Read our full review of the Arctic Sport II Tall Boots here.

Classic Design

Sorel Caribou ($200)

Weight: 27 oz per boot
Insulation: Synthetic, recycled felt liner
Boot Height: 9 inches
Closure: Lace-up
Upper Material: Waterproof nubuck leather
Lining: Felt
Outsole: Waterproof vulcanized rubber

Pros: Enduring style in a durable, warm, and weatherproof boot
Cons: Clunky, not great on ice

We stand behind this icon from Sorel, built for enduring warmth and classic style. Its 9-inch waterproof nubuck leather upper and seam-sealed construction shield feet, ankles, and shins from the elements. The inner, removable (and replaceable!) felt liner is 9 millimeters thick and made of recycled material. Our tester liked how cozy these boots are but noted that they are bulbous in the toe box.

The Caribou prioritizes fashion and warmth over function. Its weight and lugged outsole can feel clunky on the pavement. But this rubber outsole is waterproof, making these an excellent choice for shoveling fresh snow. However, these boots aren’t great for super icy conditions. But the classic lace closure can stay tied for easy on and off. We recommend this boot for those seeking timeless warmth and durability. Despite its less-than-sleek design, Sorel’s Caribou remains a winter staple, offering classic comfort. 

Best of the Rest

Runner-Up Best All-Around Winter Boots

The North Face Women’s Yukiona Mid Boots ($159)

Weight: 18 oz per boot
Insulation: PrimaLoft synthetic
Boot Height: 8 inch shaft
Closure: Lace-up
Upper Material: Recycled P.E.T. ripstop upper, Waterproof nubuck leather overlay
Lining: High Rebound OrthoLite footbed
Outsole: TNF Winter Grip rubber outsole with IcePick lugs

Pros: A stylish and versatile option for shoveling snow to a night out
Cons: Not suitable for super cold temperatures or extra gnarly weather

These winter boots from The North Face blend fashion with function. The Yukiona Mid Boot is our stylish runner-up for all-around winter wear. They’re lightweight enough for city strolls at just over one pound per boot. They also have some warmth thanks to 200 grams of PrimaLoft insulation. The sleek black design (with a white option also available) elevates winter wardrobes without sacrificing utility.

While not built for treacherous hikes or sub-zero temperatures, our tester found these boots excelled in everyday winter conditions. They looked good going from a meeting to being out in the elements. The recycled P.E.T. ripstop upper with waterproof nubuck leather overlays works to repel snow and slush. At the same time, our tester found the rubber outsole provides reliable traction on sidewalks and in light snow. Our tester also noted the TNF proprietary footbed kept feet comfy and supported.

Our tester loved these boots for their stylish warmth, geared toward everyday winter wear. These boots were the ones our friends in Aspen raved about the most. They liked the sleek style and low-profile option from TNF.

Most Slip-Resistant Winter Boot

Xtratuf Women’s Ice Fleece Lined Ankle Deck Boot ($155)

Weight: 20 oz per boot
Insulation: Ultra-thin faux shearling lining
Boot Height: 6 inches
Closure: Pull-on style with no zipper or laces
Upper Material: 100% waterproof rubber
Lining: Faux shearling lining
Outsole: Glacier Trek Pro, Xtratuf’s proprietary ice-gripping compound, is paired with an SRC-rated slip-resistant rubber

Pros: Lightweight, slip-proof sole for easy winter wear
Cons: Short and not great for super cold 

Xtratuf Women’s Ice Fleece Lined Ankle Deck Boot is our champion of slip-resistant winter wear. Time and again, these were our choices when navigating the slickest, iciest conditions. This was right outside Heather’s front door as the relentless freeze-thaw snow cycle at the cabin left a sheet of impenetrable ice. The Glacier Trek Pro outsole, Xtratuf’s proprietary ice-gripping compound, and the SRC-rated slip-resistant rubber actually worked to keep her upright. These boots’ traction is unmatched. Surprisingly, these short booties kept us surefooted. 

The ultra-thin faux shearling lining kept our feet warm, while the durable rubber kept us dry. However, the six-inch high boot isn’t ideal for deep snow or extreme cold. To combat that, consider pairing them with wool socks and waterproof gaiters. 

At just 2.5 lbs per pair, our tester noted these Xtratufs are lightweight workhorses. They are ideal for icy errands, commutes, and slick dog walks. They are our go-to before and after putting on snowboard boots—a solid selection for those prioritizing secure traction and easy wearability.

Most Versatile Winter Boot

Bogs Arcata Urban Leather Tall ($122)

Weight: 16 oz per boot
Insulation: 4 mm Dura-Light Eco recycled polyester insulation
Boot Height: 7.9 inches
Closure: Lace-up with eyelets
Upper Material: 100% waterproof gold certified leather upper
Lining: Plush MaxWick lining for moisture management and odor control
Outsole: Slip-resistant Dura-Trax rubber 

Pros: Surprisingly lightweight, with ultra-grippy tread
Cons: Not suited for weather extremes or deep, snowy hikes 

Our tester deemed the Bogs Arcata Urban Leather Tall the best winter boot to transition near flawlessly from city streets to snowier landscapes. These 7.9-inch beauties boast 4mm of recycled polyester insulation but feel thinner. Our tester said these are suitable for a meeting or night out, but also noted the ultra nobby and super grippy footprint that kept us from slipping while hiking.

The Arcata’s sleek, 100 percent waterproof leather upper transitions effortlessly from snowy walks to back into the boardroom. And our tester found these boots to be warm, but not too hot when you go inside. This is partly thanks to the plush MaxWick lining, which wicks away moisture, ensuring warmth and dryness even after heavy use. Unlike bulkier winter boot options, the lace-up closure provides a secure, shoe-like fit.

At 2.6 pounds per pair, these light but hearty boots make a worthy investment. Check out the Arcata Urban Leather Mid for a shorter version with a lower-profile design. 

Best Daily Winter Boot

Blundstone #584 Women’s Thermal ($250)

Weight: 21 oz per boot
Insulation: Thinsulate synthetic
Boot Height: 6 inches
Closure: Slip on with elastic side panels and front and back pull tabs
Upper Material: Waterproof leather treated with DWR
Lining: 100% sheepskin footbed
Outsole: Injected molded dual-density Thermo polyurethane 

Pros: Dual tabs allow them to pull on easily 
Cons: Pricey, popular style is not unique

If you’re tired of the struggle between warmth, style, and convenience during winter, the Blundstone #584 Women’s Thermal might be suited for you. This 6-inch boot boasts 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation, wrapped water-resistant leather upper material treated with DWR for added wetness resistance. 

No laces, no problem. The #584 glides on and off quickly thanks to elastic side panels and handy pull tabs. Whether rushing out the door for errands or dashing from work to drinks, these boots were made for doing it all in comfort.

Our tester found the 100 percent sheepskin footbed adds a touch of luxury and molds to your foot for personalized comfort over time with wear. The injected molded dual-density Thermo urethane outsole proved flexible enough for all-day wear, which is likely why these are so popular!

If you’re looking for a similar boot, priced $100 cheaper than these Blundstones, check out Vans Standard Mid Chelsea Snow MTE Shoe, below. Sure, they’re not entirely leather, but our tester found them to be similar, suitable options for daily winter wear. 

CHECK PRICE ON BACKCOUNTRY  

Vans Standard Zip Snow MTE Boot ($220)

Weight: 29 oz per boot
Insulation: Synthetic PrimaLoft Black Eco & fleece
Boot Height: 8.5 inch shaft
Closure: Lace-up/zipper
Upper Material: Leather and synthetic
Lining: Removable felt liner
Outsole: MTE rubber outsole with reverse waffle lug pattern

Pros: Slides on and off, there is no need to use the laces every time
Cons: Liner can take a while to dry if it gets wet, luckily, it’s removable

We love the relaxed fit and oversized nature of these Vans Standard Zip Snow MTE Boots. Made with leather and synthetic materials, these boots are durable, warm, and comfortable. The MTE’s rubber outsole with reverse waffle lugs can handle snowy streets. However, in icy patches or while hiking, you may want to consider Yak Traks, as this model from Vans doesn’t have a ton of traction by itself. It’s more of a style pick than a workhorse. And despite the height, 9.25 inches, these boots don’t offer much protection for ankles– they feel like wearing super soft slippers. But where they lack ankle support, they shine in warmth and style.

We found that the removable felt liner and PrimaLoft insulation were great for keeping warm while stomping through the snow. However, we also found that the liner dries slowly if snow gets inside, so it’s wise to avoid going into too deep of snow with these. The side zipper (available in newer styles, like the one we tested) and easy-to-leave-tied laces make slipping these boots on and off a breeze. 

Timberland Women’s Ski School 6-Inch Waterproof Puffer Boot ($170)

Weight: 14.5 oz per boot
Insulation: PrimaLoft ECO
Boot Height: 5.25 inch shaft
Closure: Lace-up
Upper Material: Waterproof Timberland leather and ReBOTL fabric containing at least 50% recycled plastic
Lining: ReBOTL fabric faux fur lining containing at least 50% recycled plastic
Outsole: High-traction rubber lug

Pros: Leather and puffy PrimaLoft upper creates a stylish piece unlike other options
Cons: Small toe box left the tester’s toes a bit cold

Toeing the line of eco-conscious and fashion-forward, Timberland’s Women’s Ski School Waterproof Puffer Boot is at the top —this unique style blends premium waterproof leather with ReBOTL fabric made from recycled plastic. Our tester liked these boots for their style and commitment to sustainability. 

But the Ski School Boots are more than just looking good. They boast 200 grams of PrimaLoft insulation, which we found kept the upper part of feet and ankles warm. The faux fur lining adds plush comfort. However, our tester’s toes did get cold in these. The high-traction rubber lug outsole is grippy but not as slip-proof as we hoped. 

For those who prioritize eco-friendly materials and a stylish silhouette, the Ski School Boot is a compelling option with its combination of performance, warmth, and sustainability. Just be sure to size up if you have wider feet and select a warm sock for the coldest days. 

CHECK PRICE ON TIMBERLAND  

Sorel Joan of Arctic ($240)

Weight: 27.5 oz per boot
Insulation: 6 mm washable recycled felt inner boot with faux fur cuff
Boot Height: 8.75 inch shaft
Closure: Lace-up
Upper Material: Waterproof suede upper with faux fur cuff
Lining: Microfleece lining
Outsole: Waterproof vulcanized rubber shell with a herringbone outsole pattern for traction

Pros: Dependable warmth
Cons: Style is tired. Snow and ice can mat into faux fur

Sorel’s Joan of Arctic, is a super dependable winter boot This 12-inch beast boasts waterproof suede upper and cozy faux fur details for classic winter style and warmth. But before you hit “buy,” consider this: the Joan of Arctic prioritizes function over fashion. Its weight (a hefty 3 lbs 7 oz per pair) and traditional design might appeal to only some. Think heavy-duty snowy days and cozy cabin nights. These beefy boots aren’t the most stylish for stomping through the city or into trendy cafes.

However, if warmth, affordability, and reliable waterproof soles are your top priorities, this boot is a steal. Our tester found the 6mm removable felt inner boot and microfleece lining to be warm. The vulcanized rubber sole with a herringbone pattern provides a decent grip but is still slippery on slick spots. 

Best Winter Boots Comparison Table

We tested a lot of winter boots this season. These ones came out on top. Photo: Heather Hendricks/The Inertia

How We Tested the Best Women’s Winter Boots

Within the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado lies our testing grounds, a mere stone’s throw from Colorado’s most notorious fourteeners. Here, our lead women’s boot tester Heather Hendricks bases for the winter in her rustic cabin near Aspen, Colorado. The Elk Mountains, a rugged range in the Rockies, is her backyard. Snow and variable weather are constants. It’s here Heather tested a literal truckload of boots in all the types of winter conditions that swirled through. 

These boots got a taste of winter from ice, snow, mud, frozen driveways requiring four-wheel drive, and side hustles up and down the snowy valley. But it doesn’t just take someone who lives off-grid to be an authority on boots. Heather has over a decade of professional boot testing under her feet. And beyond that, she’s been wearing boots since she was a toddler – that’s what happens when you grow up in Colorado! From a young age Heather’s had an affinity for boots, particularly cowboy, winter, and vintage styles. Professionally, from early roles as Gear and Travel Editor for TGR in Jackson, Wyoming, to lead women’s boot tester for TransWorld Snowboarding and many gear tests and guides in between, Heather has done her time, and knows what to look for.

In addition to her professional boot-testing accolades, Heather’s lifestyle requires quality products. She lives fast and in many variable conditions thanks to living part-time in a Sprinter van. Boots must prove their worth to survive HH’s daily orbit. 

Getting a grip in winter conditions on a trip to Southern California. Photo: Sarah Christine/The Inertia

The How

Heather used the same socks to maintain a constant, proper control within this test. These were several pairs of the same women’s Dickies moisture control socks made of synthetic material. HH earned a box of these last season after taking second place at the Silverton Banked Salolm. Since she had plenty of them, and they are the best socks she currently has, they were the chosen control of the test. That said, we did even try a couple of pairs barefoot to see how they did sans-socks. 

The Where

Each boot was unboxed and meticulously looked over before being tested. Then, Heather put the boots through the same daily routine. Every day during testing, Heather would select a pair of boots and subject them to daily winter activities, including navigating her icy deck, slick steps, and driveway outside the rustic cabin. 

As noted, the winter freeze-thaw cycle left this slightly inclined area of the driveway slicker than snot. Therefore, it became the perfect location to test each boot’s gripability. In addition to seeing how the boots reacted to ice, they also went for twice-daily snowy dog walks around the frozen pond outside. Tall boots were tested while it was snowing heavily and on deeper snow days. The hikers were put to work on the trails outside Carbondale. After a season of such testing this winter, the above is our results. 

A removable liner is a great call for boots that you’ll be using day after day in winter weather. Photo: Sarah Christine/The Inertia

Best Women’s Winter Boots Buyer’s Guide

Which boots are made for walking? Depending on where you live, travel, and your day-to-day winter footwear routine, there’s a winter boot that will work for you. At least there should be, and this Buyer’s Guide is here to inform you about which winter boot best suits your needs. Sometimes, we’re not totally sure of what those needs are from season to season, so we break down all the basics. The following criteria are what we use to review each boot. We want you to be informed and equipped to make a solid decision when selecting a new pair of winter stompers. 

Style and Use

Consider your intended use when looking into winter boots. Brands make bazillions of styles of boots each season, so you must look for the kind that will excel in your environment. Leather and shearling options like the UGG Adirondack III blend warmth with style. Performance-focused boots, like the hike-ready Merrell Siren 4 Thermo Mid Zip Waterproof prioritize function over flair.

Do you need something for the big snowstorms that happen a few times each winter? Or do you live and work in snow and ice every day? Most likely, you’re a mix of the two. We recommend considering several categories of boots based on your needs.  

Typical categories when considering winter boots are as follows:

Casual Winter Boots are fashionable enough to wear every day but should still keep you warm. This style often prioritizes comfort over technical features. We suggest The North Face Women’s Yukiona Mid Boots and the Blundstone #584 for two starkly different options within the casual category. 

Winter Hiking Boots are designed for outdoor activities and need to offer good traction, support, and weather protection. Burly tread and at least one type of lacing or tightening system are necessary for these technical options. Winter hikers are geared for lots of hours of wear and tear. They must also be breathable to keep feet from overheating while maintaining heat and dryness.

The tread one the TideWe Neoprene boots is rugged for uncompromising outdoor grip. Photo: Heather Hendricks/The Inertia

Work Boots: Of course, the definition of ‘work boots’ clearly depends on the type of work one gets into. But these types of winter boots are almost always durable, waterproof, and can be subjected to harsh working conditions day after day, storm after storm. The style of ‘work boots’ varies as much as their purpose. Take, for example, the Muck Boot Women’s Arctic Sport II Tall Boot and the Bogs Arcata Urban Leather Tall, both work boots, but depending on the task, you’d choose one over another.  

Après-Ski Boots: After shredding, if you end up at the base and start to party, it’s called après-skiing. You need a boot for that. After shredding, if you end up at the base and decide to head home, you’ll also need a boot for that. For some, it’s an easy-to-slide-off, lightweight, and waterproof pair, making the Xtratuf Women’s Ice Fleece Lined Ankle Deck Boot the right call. For others, Timberland Women’s Ski School Timberland® 6-Inch Waterproof Puffer Boot are perfect for post-ski hangs with a splash functional style. If you live somewhere with a lot of powder, you may want something with a higher shaft height. 

Other Considerations for Purchasing Winter Boots

Boot Height: The height of winter boots is something to consider when making your selection. Ankle boots offer flexibility, while taller options like the Baffin Chloe allow for more protection in deeper snow. Choose based on your activity and the depth of snow you’ll encounter.

Baffin’s Chloe boot comes with layers of removable insulation to dial in your warmth. Photo: Heather Hendricks/The Inertia

Insulation: Look for materials like PrimaLoft or Thinsulate for reliable warmth. Gram weights are often talked about in terms of thickness. For casual wear in mellow weather, 200 grams is suitable. For extreme cold, we recommend opting for 300 grams or more of insulation. This is the barrier between your feet and the shell of the boot, so material and millimeters matters. 

Insulation also comes in different textiles. Fleece, wool, and faux fur are typical in insulation liners. Different types of insulation vary in breathability. Synthetic materials tend to be the most breathable. Consider removable liners for drying convenience like the one included in the Sorel Joan of Arctic. 

Xtratuf makes use of a proprietary ice-gripping compound (those little blue pads) for extra traction on slick surfaces. Photo: Heather Hendricks/The Inertia

Traction: Slick, snowy, and icy landscapes require a surefooted grip. Look for outsoles made from rubber or manufactured by Vibram, ideally with aggressive lugs and tread. Rubber outsoles with aggressive treads can provide excellent grip on various surfaces and keep you upright when it’s slick. An easy way to test and check the visible tread is to flip the boot over, feel the sole, and look for rigid, high-profile lugs specifically designed for snow and ice.

Another essential element to good traction is tread depth. Deeper treads offer better traction in deep snow and loose terrain. However, they can be less grippy on packed surfaces like iced-over snow. 

It’s also important to look into the traction’s stability. Having a balance between flexibility and stiffness is essential to a high-performing boot. Flexible boots are more comfortable for walking, while stiffer boots offer better ankle support and stability for uneven terrain.

A zipper makes getting in and out super easy. Photo: Sarah Christine/The Inertia

Closures: Closures are how your boot cinches up and keeps the elements out. There are several types of closures. The most popular is lace-up. Versatile and adjustable, laces offer a customized fit for different foot shapes and activities. Pull-on boots are easy to put on and take off but may not provide as secure a fit as lace-up boots. Zippers and buckles offer ease of use and adjustability. Zippers are popular on the side of winter hiking boots, while buckles are often found on winter fashion boots.

Waterproofing: Keeping your feet dry is crucial for comfort and warmth in the winter. Look for boots with waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or seam-sealed construction. Waterproof materials include leather, nylon, and neoprene. Look for boots treated with a Durable water-repellent (DWR) finish for added wetness protection. Furthermore, winter boots with seam-sealed construction ensure water doesn’t seep through seams in heavy snow.

You’ll also want to check into whether or not the boot comes with gusseted tongues. These are simply tongues on a boot that are sew in. They help to prevent weather and wetness from entering through the top of the boot. The Sorel Caribou is a style of boot with a gusseted tongue that truly works. 

Sustainability: Minimize your environmental footprint by choosing boots made by brands that focus on sustainability. We’re talking brands that are switching (and using) 100 percent renewable energies, ditching plastic in place of recycled materials, and using eco-friendly materials. Brands will often communicate what sustainable practices they are using. This includes Bogs, Xtratuf, and some of The North Face styles that are committed to using source-able materials, along with paying fair wages. 

Recycled Materials: Polyester, nylon, and rubber can be recycled to create durable and warm boots. We wish more companies sought to use recycled materials. We know many are, and look for brands who are committed to these types of practices. However, it’s import to look into the brand of boots you’re looking into to see their stance on upcycled stuff. Also, we advocate for looking for actual upcycled boots. Thrift stores, second-hand stores, and gear swaps are great places to score upcycled boots.

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Editor’s Note: We’ve also reviewed the Best Men’s Winter Boots, and the Best Women’s Winter Jackets of 2024. For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.

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