10 Best Winter Boots Reviewed
Mike Valverde
In a Hurry? The test winner after 15 hrs of research
- Durable rubber shell and lugged AeroTrac outsole
- Removable Thermo Plus felt inner lining
- Nubuck waterproofed leather uppers
- Sealed seams
- Metal lace-up shaft
- Temperature rating of -40°F
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Sorel Caribou -
MuckBoots Hale
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KEEN Revel III
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Baffin Wolf
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Kingshow Globalwin
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The Original MuckBoots Arctic Sport Mid
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Salomon X Ultra Winter CS Waterproof Performance Boot
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Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV
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Kamik Brooklyn2
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Keen Summit County
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
10 Best Winter Boots
1. Sorel Caribou
- Durable rubber shell and lugged AeroTrac outsole
- Removable Thermo Plus felt inner lining
- Nubuck waterproofed leather uppers
- Sealed seams
- Metal lace-up shaft
- Temperature rating of -40°F
- Heavy
The Sorel Caribou winter boots are a great option for those who need a reliable boot that can carry them seamlessly from winter sports to daily life in cold climates. They’re a little heftier than other casual winter boots on our list, but they are meant to stand up to tough conditions.
Read moreStyle
Although these boots definitely have a heavy-duty look, they are casual enough to wear while running errands. There are a variety of styles available in both men’s and women’s sizes and the gorgeous leather uppers come in wide array of rustic and down to earth colors with practical faux fur accents.
Features
These boots are packed with features meant to make your winter much more enjoyable. The attractive Nubuck leather uppers have a waterproofed finish and the seams are sealed to keep moisture out. The shell and the soles are made of durable rubber and molded with rubber lugs to help with traction and give that edge over the slick and slush. The felt Thermo Plus inner lining is comfortable and designed to keep the heat in while also being removable and easy to air out. Sturdy lace-up rings and a metal shaft help keep laces secure and ensure a tight fit. The faux fur accents are not just stylish, they’re snow guards that help keep the elements from getting into your boots.
Specs
The shaft of the shoe measures 10.75 inches from the arch with a 1.25-inch heel and a half inch platform. The removable inner felt lining measures at 9mm. These boots are temperature rated to -40°F which means they are prepared to stand up against extreme temperatures.
Value
Compared to other boots on this list, the Sorel Caribou boots sit in the mid to high-cost range but are definitely worth the cost. They are reliably tough and built to withstand whatever winter activities you have planned while being versatile enough for everyday wear. If you can afford the initial cost they’ll offer great value long-term.
2. MuckBoots Hale
- Lightweight feel due to design and construction materials
- Fantastic water protection from rubber and neoprene
- Wide variety of available styles and colors
- High upper shaft can cause problems for women with large calves
- Some styles and sizes are much more expensive than others
These lightweight women’s snow boots resemble common rain galoshes due to their lightweight construction. While they do offer a similar level of moisture resistance, the use of additional materials helps to provide necessary heat retention as well as an excellent sense of style.
Read moreStyle
MuckBoots come in a variety of color and style options but all varieties feature a relatively plain looking lower portion made from black rubber. However, the differences between styles can be seen on the lengthy upper shaft, with many interesting patterns and color schemes available to choose from.
Features
Water protection is guaranteed due to the lower portion of these boots being made from rubber, which can come in handy when coming into contact with melting snow. Aside from this, the most notable feature is an extremely long shaft with a small calf loop to help wearers put these boots on.
Specs
As previously mentioned, rubber is used for the lower portion of the MuckBoots with what looks like neoprene on the upper shaft. Due to the excessive length of this upper shaft, some women with larger calves may have some difficulty fitting in these boots.
Value
Some sizes and color options for these shoes come at a very reasonable discount. However, the most expensive option for these MuckBoots is on the higher end of the cost spectrum for similar products. Customers should expect to spend about as a much as they would for a high-end pair of boots.
3. KEEN Revel III
- Amazing build quality due to high-quality materials
- Rubber outsole provides superior grip on dangerous surfaces
- Good insulation from padded collar and dry internal membrane
- Smaller than average fit due to extra internal padding
- Highest cost, albeit not without justification
Despite having a lower cut, no corners have been cut with these boots in regards to foot protection. Roebuck leather and a grippy rubber outsole ensure a powerful combo of traction, durability, and heat retention with these KEEN hiking boots.
Read moreStyle
The use of Roebuck leather gives these shoes a weathered and distinctive appearance that is sure to please any hard workers or outdoors enthusiasts. A few different color schemes are available as well, offering a small degree of versatility that helps to make these some seriously stylish boots.
Features
The leather used for these boots provide excellent protection from water. A padded collar and dry membrane on the inside provide further waterproofing as well as heat insulation. On the underside, a full rubber outsole provides enough grip to handle snow and rain.
Specs
With rubber on the bottom and leather on top, these winter boots are made from some of the strongest viable footwear materials. In regards to sizing, the manufacturers suggest ordering a half size larger than usual due to the extra cushioning causing these boots to fit tighter than normal.
Value
Being made from high-quality materials, it makes sense that these boots would come at a higher price. The cost is on par with a pair of very high-end trail running shoes but they are worth every penny. The exception is one or two sizes that seem to have highly inflated prices, most likely due to limited availability.
4. Baffin Wolf
- Seven layers of insulation provide warmth in extremely cold temperatures
- Excellent stability due to multiple straps and EVA midsole
- Lightweight despite bulky appearance
- Bulky and unfashionable style
- Limited color choices
This is the footwear equivalent of an armored truck, in that it offers terrific stability and protection through a ridiculously bulky package. These boots are not for the weak-legged weekend warrior; only hardy hikers should apply.
Read moreStyle
These are not stylish boots. When looking at the numerous straps and clasps the form the majority of this Baffin product, is is abundantly clear that fashion was not a primary concern when designing them.
Features
The most impressive feature of these snow boots, aside from the fantastic stability offered by its heavy-duty straps and EVA midsole, is the seven layers of insulation. No other boot or trail shoe is going to offer this sort of heat protection, which is guaranteed for temperatures as low as below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Specs
The majority of these boot’s construction is derived from leather and textile, with EVA foam being used for the midsole and heavy-duty rubber for the outsole. Surprisingly, these winter boots aren’t nearly as heavy as their appearance would suggest.
Value
The cost for an average pair of these Baffin winter boots is about the average for any other pair of high-end snowshoes. However, what gives this particular product an edge over its competitors is its unparalleled heat insulation.
5. Kingshow Globalwin
- Faux fur lining ensures warmth and comfort
- Cement bonding agents provide terrific durability
- Conveniently low price tag
- Somewhat stilted style with limited differences between models
- Not made from any authentic animal products
While these women’s winter boots may not look very impressive on the outside, the faux fur used for the internal lining makes this Kingshow product feel amazingly comfortable and consistently warm.
Read moreStyle
All available models of these women’s boots feature a similar design and pattern on the outside with the changes mostly involving the color. What makes these boots stand out from any other winter wear is the faux fur lining which can be tufted out the top for a bit of extra flair.
Features
Extra cushioning around the higher collar of these winter boots helps to avoid any discomfort that may otherwise be a result of this particular footwear style. On top of that, cement epoxies were used to bind these boots in a manner that guarantees high durability.
Specs
These boots are entirely made from synthetic materials. The lack of any authentic leather or wool may dissuade some purists from trying these boots on but those who are against the use of animal products will appreciate the design choices made by Kingshow for this product.
Value
One fortunate benefit to these boots being made from all synthetics is that the price is competitively low. Because of the low cost of entry, even those on a budget will have a tough time finding excuses to stay indoors on a cold winter day.
6. The Original MuckBoots Arctic Sport Mid
- Combination of neoprene, rubber, and leather materials
- 100% Waterproof
- Soft fleece lining that insulates
- Minimalist, sleek design
- Durable rubber outsole with grips
- Temperature rating -40°F to 40°F
- Lightweight design reduces calf strain
- Potentially a little pricey for those on a budget
- Plain, minimalist design
This original MuckBoots line of winter footwear shares many similarities with the Hale counterpart. The shorter design may be more breathable for some while still offering 100% waterproofing and lightweight comfort.
Read moreStyle
These boots are simple, having a very different look than most of the other winter boots on our list. They more closely resemble a pair of rain boots and have similar protection from moisture. Although the stark black of these boots may be a bit plain or too minimal for some, they are easy to match and won’t stand out in a negative or bulky way.
Features
The rubber outsoles of these boots are molded with grips for better traction and extend upwards into a shell that covers past the ankles for extra waterproofing protection. Additionally, leather uppers help to wick moisture and thermal foam cushioning helps with comfort and warmth. The MuckBoots winter shoes are impressively 100% waterproof while being lightweight and easy to wear over or under your pant legs. A fleece lining helps to retain warmth as well and is soft and comfortable.
Specs
Leather uppers, neoprene mids, and rubber shell and outsoles balance the makeup of these boots. The shaft measures 11 inches from the arch and the midsoles are contoured EVA, complemented by comfortable fleece lining.
Value
The price of these boots varies depending on sizing; at the lowest, they are fairly cheap for the quality and at the highest the price is reasonable. With the reliability of the MuckBoots brand and the quality of construction and materials as well as the versatility of these boots, the price is definitely worth the benefit.
7. Salomon X Ultra Winter CS Waterproof Performance Boot
Durable Contagrip and IceGrip rubber outsole
Climashield waterproofing
200g Thinsulate insulation
A combination of leather and fabric uppers
Rubber toe and heel caps for added protection
Molded footbed made from EVA Ortholite
Temperature rating -20°F
- Limited colors
- Narrow fit
- Weak lace hooks
The Salomon X Ultra Winter boots are meant to carry you through hiking, snowshoeing, and winter weather. You can expect all the technical features of the Salomon brand and all the necessary comforts of a reliable winter shoe.
Read moreStyle
These boots aren’t anything to write home about, but they aren’t an eyesore either and they’ll get the job done. The colors are limited (black and brown) and the basic design and accents are visually generic.
Features
It’s all in the name with these boots, sporting Climashield protection against the weather. The combination of leather and fabric uppers have CS waterproofing and offer Thinsulate insulation for warmth. The rubber outsoles also help keep out moisture with an added layer of protection; rubber caps on the toes and heels will help shield your toes from icy terrain, as well as using Contragrip and IceGrip designs for traction. The midsole is molded EVA and lightweight Ortholite and the chassis is designed to be ultra light as well.
Specs
The temperature rating on these boots means you’ll be comfortable in temperatures as low as -20°F, but some reviewers have said they are able to use the shoes comfortably in temperatures lower than that. They are made of leather, rubber, and a synthetic fabric blend. They also have a nice plush lining near the collar of the shoes for warmth and to prevent rub.
Value
The cost of these boots is about mid-range in comparison to others on the list. With plenty of features designed with winter in mind and decent performance, it’s a reasonable price tag for the Salomon X Ultra Winter boots.
8. Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV
- Omni heat insulation
- Can withstand freezing temperatures
- Secure feet
- Reflective lining helps to trap heat
- Dual-compound rubber soles with Omni-Grip for great traction
- Combination of leather, nylon, and webbed uppers
- Techlite midsole cushioning
- Lightweight construction
- Sleek design
- Limited colors
The previous model of the Columbia Bugaboots used to hold this spot and they have proven to be a great choice for the winter, yet again. This pair of winter boots will keep you warm and ensure you can make those treks you enjoy so much.
Read moreStyle
While these aren't trendy or stylish, they do look great and get the job done. They look great with neutral colors and won't look bulky or clash with your winter clothes. Features
They utilize Omni-heat insulation which uses a reflective lining to trap your body heat to keep your feet warm. The leather and nylon uppers are waterproofed and the dual-compound rubber outsoles wick water away.
Specs
These are durable and built to last. They can withstand temperatures of -22 Fahrenheit so they are built for the cold. They also have a cushioned midsole that provides added comfort and provides you with excellent energy return.
Value
These boots are pricey but worth the investment if you are looking for a long-term pair of boots.
9. Kamik Brooklyn2
- Sturdy fit maintained with high shaft and heavy laces
- Fur-like interior lining provides comfort and warmth
- Only one color option limits stylistic aspect
- No leather or wool used whatsoever
Despite being made mostly from textile and featuring an outsole made of synthetic materials, these boots are still fully capable of fulfilling the needs of an outdoorsy person in the cold weather.
Read moreStyle
These winter boots come in only one color: black. It’s a style that coordinates well with many other outfits but can also come across as rather simplistic and unappealing. Some fur-like material tufting out from the collar helps to make this product a bit more visually distinctive.
Features
These are a bog-standard pair of boots with several features that provide added convenience and comfort for colder temperatures. The higher shaft comes with additional laces for a sturdy fit and treading on the outsole allow for extra grip on certain surfaces.
Specs
As previously mentioned, these boots are entirely made from textiles and synthetics. No real animal products were used in the making of these winter boots; this will likely turn off many potential buyers but does come with the benefit of a lower price tag.
Value
Without much being offered that gives these boots an edge over competing products, it’s a good thing they aren’t priced very high. However, they’re still just expensive enough to disqualify as an impulse buy for the majority of prospective customers.
10. Keen Summit County
- Durable rubber outsole
- 100% leather
- Waterproof
- Lining that wicks moisture
- Pricey
The keen summit county winter boots have quickly become a favorite this season. They will keep you warm and ensure you are comfortable and able to continue no matter how cold it is.
Read moreStyle
If you’re looking for a shoe at the crossroads of high-performance and stylish design, look no further than these Ahnu hiking boots. They come in four different colors--two variations of plaid and basic black and brown--but for as simple as the colors they offer are they are also versatile and modern. The overall build is unique and aesthetic with a good combination of solid black rubber, shiny silver hardware, and light faux fur accents.
Features
These boots are designed to be waterproof--so they are really effective winter and snow proof. It's important to note these boots are not water-resistant but actually waterproof, so you don't have to worry about your feet getting wet while out in the snow.
Specs
These are made of 100% leather and have a rubber outsole for added protection and durability.
Value
Pricey, but worth the cost if you need a pair of boots to last you the long run.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
Winter boots come in many different shapes and sizes and styles. You can find functional boots that don’t have a lot of frills and additional features and you can find stylish boots that look good while also keeping your feet warm.
Shoes are a major fashion statement; after all, it’s important to put your best foot forward if you wish to impress your peers. This means that all boots on this list were evaluated based on how stylish they look and how many stylistic options they offer. We wanted to offer you a top ten list of boots that worked well but that you would also actually want to wear out of the house!
Our goal here at RunnerClick is to help you find a pair of winter boots that are both functional as well as stylish. We know you want to stay warm and dry while you are out and about but that you also do not want to always give up on stylish flair to get it. Our top ten list here features boots that are stylish as well as functional so you can get the best of both worlds!
Features
There is an almost endless list of features you can find for your winter boots. From the insulation used inside to the water proofing materials used on the outside, you can find boots that have everything you are looking for in a new pair of winter boots.
For the most part, all a winter boot needs to be considered a successful product is to completely cover the wearer’s foot and ankle while also keeping it warm. You need to take into account any additional features added to each product, such as a more comfortable insole or a more efficient lacing system. How much do these boots weigh? What are they made of? Do they offer sizes in both men’s and women’s? These all have to be answered to find the boot that is right for you!
Unique features found on some of the boost on our list include specially designed traction tread, comfortable fits and cushioned support, and unique styles and colors. You can get the look and feel you want and need so you still look your best and feel good while you are out and about in the cold wet winter weather. Our team of review experts carefully considered all the features available when making our list.
Value
It’s important to make sure you are making a smart investment when choosing winter boots for cold weather runs and workouts. We tried to find quality winter boots that are available at various prices so you can get what you are looking for.
Many people will compare the cost of each product to the quality of its construction and the features present in its design to determine whether or not it is priced reasonably and whether it is the one they want to purchase. This section of our criteria was focused on ensuring that you get what you pay for and that an investment in higher priced boots meant an investment in higher quality boots!
It is important to make the distinction between value and price when looking for new boots. The price tag is the cost of the boots in terms of monetary amount. But the true value of the boots will come from the features they offer and the benefits you can gain from their use. Investing more into quality shoes will ensure your choice pays for itself and that you will not be paying for replacements any time soon.
Use
While at the surface level there is one basic use for boots, there are many related uses and applications that you will need to consider as you make your choice. These secondary and complementary uses can have a huge impact on your boot choice!
Most customers think they have enough information from the criteria they have in mind what they know about the product to make an informed purchase. However, on thing many individual fail to think about enough it the use factor- how and when and how often will you be wearing your boots and what is it you need them to do for you every time you use them? These are important factors to consider.
A common consideration in your search for winter boots needs to be the kind of terrain and environment you will be out and about in. Do you take walks outside? Are you going to be walking though snow and melt puddles on a regular basis? Do you need enhanced traction to improve your balance and stability? The answer to these questions will help ensure your boots meet your wants and needs for use.
Materials
There are a number of materials that can be used on the inside and outside of the boots and each one has its own benefits and draw backs. We made sure to take these into careful consideration as we made our list for you here.
Certain kinds of material used in the construction of boots can lead to an allergic reaction to certain predisposed individuals. If you have some sort of allergic sensitivity to particular textiles or insulating material, it would be wise to closely examine the materials used in each product to ensure they won’t lead to discomfort. We tried to limit the use of allergy-prone materials in our listing but we cannot account for every allergy or sensitivity so be sure you do your own research before making your final purchase.
Warm insulating materials are a must for the interior to keep the cold at bay while you are out for a winter walk. A good wind and water-resistant outer material is also needed in order for your feet to stay dry and comfortable. The RunnerClick review team took into careful consideration the materials used on the boots we chose to include on our list and made sure they are all of the highest priority.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Use Features Materials Style Value 
When an article of clothing says that it is water-resistant, that doesn't mean you can completely submerge it in water and suffer no ill effects. Instead, these products can hold up to minor exposure to liquid, such as an errant splash or melting snow. Waterproof products are the ones that can more easily withstand complete submergence in water and other liquids.
Even with a sturdy and well-insulated pair of winter boots, you will need to put more effort into ensuring your feet stay warm and comfortable outside. A great companion to any of the boots on this list is a warm and well-made pair of socks. The best winter socks are those that incorporate Merino Wool, such as those designed by Rockay.
Other Factors to Consider
Accuracy
Sometimes, one pair of boots that costs more than another can actually provide a greater value. This can be due to the presence of an extended warranty, where the manufacturer offers to cover the costs of repair or replacement for a predetermined period of time after purchasing. While it probably shouldn’t make or break a purchasing decision, researching warranty options can help to pick one specific product over another.
Terrain
Generally speaking, boots are designed to handle the widest possible array of terrain. However, it may be wise to research whether or not these boots work well on the specific form of terrain you are likely to encounter. For example, individuals in a snowy environment will want to find boots with excellent water and snow resistance, while hiking and trail running enthusiasts will want to find good off-roading boots.
Stability
A good pair of winter boots will offer you a high level of stability while you are out and about in less than favorable conditions. Snow can hide patches of ice and water puddles. Black ice can cause sudden slips and increases fall risk. Good boots will have traction and sole design that help you stay balanced and stable, even when walking on these less than favorable conditions. Part of the stability puzzle that has to be carefully considered is the support and cushioning design of the boots. When your feet are comfortable and protected you are more sure-footed and are less likely to lose your balance or be thrown off balance.
Comfort
No shoe is worth anything if it is not comfortable and if you do not feel good while you are wearing them. For winter boots, comfort can come in two primary ways- keeping feet warm and dry or keeping them supported and protected. Feet that are warm and dry will not blister or bruise as easily and this will allow you to press on and finish that extra mile before heading back in. Good winter boots will also support your feet with a good design and will protect them from the elements that are so common during the winter. The RunnerClick team made sure to keep your comfort first and foremost during our search for the right winter boots for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
q: When should I replace my boots?
There is no consistent time period where you should always replace your boots but as a general rule, you will have to replace them sooner if you don’t perform regular repairs on them. Some good indicators that it is time to replace a pair of boots are when layers start separating, treading becomes worn down, discomfort is felt while walking in them, or water begins leaking through.
q: How do I clean my boots?
The first step when cleaning any kind of boot is to wipe away any dirt or grime with a soft cloth. For leather boots, the next step is to use a special leather conditioner to maintain the material’s quality. Other forms of boots may need to be treated with a non-silicone based waterproofing material periodically.
q: Will my winter boots stretch?
Leather boots are known to stretch and you can do so in a controlled manner as part of the process of breaking them on. If you have a hard time initially putting on your leather boots they probably aren’t too small–it may just be that they need time to stretch. Boots made of rubber should not stretch; if they do, it will likely cause damage to them.
q: How should I store my winter boots?
During the offseason, winter boots should be stored in an environment that isn’t too warm, is dry, and isn’t directly exposed to the sun. This is the best way to ensure they keep and can be used next winter. Failing to keep them in cool and dark environments can result in degradation of the material, and keeping them in a wet or humid and hot place can cause mildew.
q: What is the most durable boot material?
In general, the most durable and long-lasting boots are made from some form of leather. The most common form is cowhide but a similar level of resilience can be found in boots made from buffalo leather as well. In order to ensure long-lasting durability, any leather-based footwear will need regular cleaning and conditioning.
Sources
- , NYMag, Article
- , NYMag, Article
- , Switchback Travel, Website
- , The Wirecutter, Article
- , The Cut, Website
- , The Street, Article
- , Dick's Sporting Goods, Website
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