We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
Looking for the best pair of winter boots for your outdoor adventures? Maybe you just need a solid pair to run errands around town. It can be difficult to know which pair will provide the level of protection you need.
Our gear experts bought and tested the best men's and women's winter boots to put them through our extensive side-by-side testing. We spent hours braving storms and hiking through slush puddles, snow, and mud to help you find the ideal pair of boots.
The best winter boot for most men is The North Face Chilkat V 400. It has great traction on most surfaces and is lightweight and versatile while remaining waterproof and warm. For those looking for a basic boot at a bargain price, the Columbia Bugaboot III is a great option. Our testers found it incredibly comfortable and warm enough for most applications.
Our favorite winter boot for women is the Baffin Chloe. The Polywool and B-Tech lining kept our feet seriously warm and dry, while the construction promoted plenty of breathability to minimize sweating. The robust outsole has great traction when walking across snow and other slippery surfaces. If you'd like a more casual boot with a price tag that will make you smile, the Kamik Momentum offers great coverage, decent warmth, and it is easy to slip on and off.
The North Face Chilkat V 400 earned a place at the front of the pack by providing optimal warmth, comfort, and exceptional traction during testing. These boots have a luxurious feel in cold weather with bountiful synthetic insulation and a cozy lining that kept our feet happy even as the temperatures plummeted. Impressively, The North Face was able to keep the Chilkat relatively light at about 3.75 pounds while offering a great tread pattern we found effective around town and on slick trails. Tester Chris McNamara felt “These are the perfect balance of warmth and traction on ice without feeling big and clunky.” The Chilkat also provides noteworthy durability and craftsmanship, maintaining top-notch performance throughout our rigorous testing. One tester noted, “Other boots are warmer or have a higher cuff, but no other boot provides such a well-rounded performance.”
The North Face Chilkat V 400 isn't the most waterproof option available, and we noticed water seeping in at just over 7 inches in depth. If you plan on submerging these boots in deeper puddles or streams, that may be problematic, but it keeps deeper snow out just fine. We found the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip was equally as impressive, though it didn't match the traction and weather protection of the Chilkat. While we were happy with the warmth of the Chilkat, the Baffin Impact is even warmer, though its bulkiness is not as ideal for hiking and is overkill for most weather. Despite a few setbacks, the Chilkat V 400 is a worthy, award-winning option and will likely be the best boot for the year's colder months.
The Baffin Chloe earned top marks in every testing category, solidifying its position at the top of the winter boots podium. The quality of this women's boot was very apparent in testing, with Baffin's B-Tek Heat and Polywool insulation keeping our feet warm on those bone-chilling days. One of the testers said, “This is a seriously warm and comfortable boot.” Breathability was excellent with the Diamond Net layering; it kept our feet dry from the inside out, and the suede upper coupled with a 10-inch shaft will keep the storms at bay. If your wintery adventures include short hikes, this boot is a worthy companion, with a generous outsole we found had great traction. For longer hikes, many preferred the Keen Revel IV Polar or The North Face Chilkat V 400, both of which sport a classic lace-up system that offers more support around the ankle than the quick drawcord system of the Chloe Baffin. However, neither offers as much coverage with their shorter shafts.
The Chloe isn't the lightest boot tested, with our size 9 pair weighing just over three pounds. It is also a bit bulkier than other options, making for a relatively clunky boot if you're searching for more casual winter footwear. The Baffin Escalate X is a lighter option, weighing only 1 pound 9 ounces. While its performance can't match the Chloe, it is lighter and still offers acceptable weather protection and comfort. It is also one of the warmest options we tested, outmatched only by the Chloe. While we didn't mind the look of the Chloe, some may prefer a more stylish boot such as the UGG Adirondack III, though they aren't quite as warm and can't match the Chloe for traction, plus you'll have to pay a premium for the UGG branding.
Our testers agree that the Columbia Bugaboot III offers great winter performance in most settings without breaking the bank. This lightweight package provides plenty of warmth on colder days and provides enough traction and weatherproofing for most users as they venture further from town. We noted the Bugaboot to be one of the most comfortable boots we have tested, and it has an almost perfect fit right out of the box. “The first thing you'll notice when putting these boots on is their perfect fit,” one tester said. With fleece-lined insulation that molds to your foot over time, we look forward to putting them on.
While the Bugaboot III may lack the style of other options, a bigger concern was the decreased traction in deeper snow. We were impressed with this option's performance on slick surfaces, but as the trails got deep, we had to be more careful about slipping and sliding. If warmth is less of a concern, the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid truly excels at winter hiking. It isn't as warm as the Bugaboot but offers top-tier traction. The Chilkat is another great alternative to the Bugaboot with similar shaft height and puddle protection but has better traction at a slightly higher price. The Columbia Bugaboot III is a great option for a warm and comfortable boot with a very affordable price tag.
The Kamik Momentum 3 is a no-brainer as a high-value winter boot and is among the most comfortable options we tested. This Canadian brand uses a plush faux fur interior lining to keep your feet cozy and warm, even in arctic temperatures, and the bungee lacing system gifts an effortless slip-on entry. The Columbia Ice Maiden II is comparable with its exceptionally low price and ease of putting on. However, it's not as warm nor as comfortable as the cozy Momentum 3. The Momentum 3 was a delight for lighter-duty outings and kept us from sliding on most surfaces besides the slickest ice. The nylon upper is DWR-finished and sheds snow effectively, with the faux fur collar further gifting protection from the outside elements. One of our testers said, “At such a reasonable price, this boot is well worth the buy.”
The Momentum 3 isn't the best choice for more adventurous pursuits, with a naturally loose fit keeping your foot comfortable rather than secure. If you're seeking a tighter fit, look at the Columbia Minx Shorty III, which comes in at a similar price point as the Momentum but offers less warmth. While the Kamik offers acceptable traction and durability, better options exist for more technical pursuits. The Baffin Chloe and Muck Boot Arctic Ice are more durable and offer more traction, though the Muck Boot can't match the Kamik's comfort and fit. The Keen Revel IV Polar has impressive traction, but it is three inches shorter than the Momentum 3, giving less protection from the elements. Also, testers didn't find the Revel IV quite as comfortable. Ultimately, the Kamik Momentum 3 is a favorite comfort boot among our testers, and when considering its price, it is a worthy budget option for most shoppers.
We found the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid to be an excellent option for winter hiking. This isn't the warmest boot in our lineup, but it's warm enough for most cold-weather days, and when you're on the move, you'll likely have happy toes. “They'll be just fine in the occasional snowstorm or cold snap,” our tester said. With a stellar footbed and a low weight, this model is a joy to hike in for outings of any length, and it even comes in at an approachable price point. Our testers came to appreciate the more adventurous tests conducted in the Thermo Chill, and it is an excellent option for the winter hiker.
The Thermo Chill doesn't provide the most warmth or height for the coldest, snowiest days of winter. If you're looking for a warmer option, the Columbia Bugaboot or the more expensive Ugg Butte lend more warmth and more durable construction than the Thermo Chill, but can't compete with the level of traction. The Chilkat, while comparable to the Thermo Chill across most metrics, scored overall better for the simple fact that it is built to outlast the Thermo Chill. At the end of the day, the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid is a phenomenal boot for the activity-focused hiker who spends their winters in more temperate climates.
The Keen Revel IV Polar is a great women's winter hiking boot; with a sturdy enough shaft to support the ankles on sloped and slippery terrain, it's bound to keep your feet happy all day long. In testing, the Revel IV Polar offered some of the best-in-class traction and protection when the trail got icy and uneven, with only the North Face Chilkat V 400 and Salomon Toundra Pro giving it a run for its money. Just like the Keen Polar the North Face Chilkat is compatible with snow grips, snow shoes, or gaiters, however the Polar takes the clear lead when it comes to comfort. The versatility of this option is a favorite aspect of our testers, given that these are equally at home in the snow, rain, or mud as your outing's terrain or season changes. Our testers state, “We couldn't help but gravitate towards this winter boot all over again.”
The Keen Revel IV Polar has a technical aesthetic that some may find less fashionable for everyday wearing. While your typical fashion show is less likely to feature winter boots, options such as the Kamik Rogue or Sorel Out N About IV boast more style if your winter walk ends at a social gathering. While the Keen Revel performed well in all metrics, it still fell short of a few others. The Baffin Chloe and UGG Adirondack offered a more luxurious comfort and a better fit, while the Muck Boot Arctic Ice gave testers more protection from the elements thanks to its 16-inch boot shaft. Still, the Revel IV Polar belongs in your shopping cart if you prioritize hiking capabilities in your winter boot search.
"If you need the warmest option out there, the Baffin Impact is the boot for you," our testers said. These massive, heavy-duty boots have a removable synthetic liner and another layer of insulation fixed on the inside of the shell. The thick soles incorporate a honeycomb pattern in the footbed that traps warmth beneath the foot and keeps the cold at bay. Every aspect of this model's design is meant to provide warmth to its wearer, and Baffin has truly excelled at this. This is the warmest in-class boot we've tested at GearLab.
The Baffin Impact is best for short distances and long days spent in very cold weather due to its substantial weight and bulk. A size 13 pair weighed 6.42 pounds, the heaviest in our testing lineup. These boots also lack significant protection from water. During a submersion test, we noticed water entering the boot at the seams between the lower and upper, which is disappointing since they are one of the most expensive boots in the lineup. If you're looking for a more versatile boot that won't overheat your feet in milder winter weather, the Bogs Bozeman Tall is worth a gander. Our size 13 weighed 4.88 pounds, and they protected our feet in puddles up to 11.5 inches deep. Also, The North Face Chilkat and Danner Arctic offer more traction than the Baffin, and our testers found them far more comfortable for long walks. While the Baffin Impact lacks the versatility of other options, it provides more warmth than any model we have tested.
The Baffin is toasty warm but only good for short treks.
The Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall AGAT is a great waterproof boot with enough insulation for winter applications. The flexible neoprene is 8mm thick and can handle arctic temperatures while offering supreme waterproofing. Our testers said, “These will easily keep you warm and dry, whether standing in an icy stream or dry land.” The Bogs Whiteout offers comparable waterproofness and insulation; however, despite the burly-looking sole, it falls short of the Artic Ice when it comes to traction. One tester said, “The Arctic Ice offers some of the best grip we've seen yet on various surfaces and terrain.” This option has a workboot aesthetic that's very fitting for its durability, and it's likely to handle whatever weather you throw at it, especially if it involves snow or rain. Still, we'd keep your hiking on the shorter side.
The Arctic Ice Tall lacks the versatility of other options, with the classic trade-off of waterproofness and breathability. You'll likely develop foot sweat quickly on warmer days, making this model more of a cold-weather-only pair. “This is more of a winter than rain boot,” our tester said. It is unlikely to be the option you choose to stroll into town, especially if you have any fashion goals. For those looking for style and waterproofness, the Kamik Rogue Tall comes out top, but it doesn't compete with the Artic Tall in terms of waterproofness. This boot is a great option for cold, wet climates where the priorities are focused more on inclimate weatherproofness rather than hiking capability.
The Arctic Ice has impressive neoprene that keeps water out all the way up to the knee-high top.
Credit: Sara James
How We Tested
Year after year, we set out to find the best winter boots on the market. Our gear experts performed exhaustive testing on every pair of boots in our review, purchasing and testing every single model ourselves to ensure biases didn't influence a product's score.
We deliberately stood in icy rivers, braved snow hikes in record-setting cold temperatures, and quested into winter storms to investigate the merits and setbacks of each pair. Using buckets of icy water, we determined the exact point at which water seeped into each boot, as well as the temperature difference after prolonged submersion. We focused on each boot's warmth, comfort, weather protection, traction, and durability. Our testers kept detailed notes along the way, immediately making notations after each testing session before ultimately creating an informed final score. We tested women's winter boots, winter boots for men, and even investigated the best rain boots and best hiking boots, which can sometimes be used as wintery footwear.
Testing the internal temperature of each boot while being soaked in an ice bath after being worn.
Whether it be a trek in the snow or an ice bucket temperature evaluation, we tested each boot to find the best for your winter needs.
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing teams here at GearLab have put in thousands of hours testing boots across all four seasons for over a decade, from hiking to skiing to climbing footwear. For the winter boots category, we've researched and purchased over 100 pairs of the industry's best options before performing thorough and objective testing to find the best models for your various needs. We're obsessed with gear and have made it our life's work to conduct the highest quality analysis available today.
Leading our incredible review team for women's boots is led by Sara James. With a sharp eye for detail and a tough touch for testing, Sara has over a decade of experience in cold climates—from the damp chill of England to the deep snow of Tahoe—she knows firsthand what it takes to stay warm and dry. A seasoned GearLab tester, she has tested kayaks, paddles, water shoes, and down jackets.
Joining Sara is Liz Chamberlain. Liz is a self-proclaimed winter enthusiast based in Truckee, CA. Her background in functional design and material sourcing provides her with a keen eye for detail, which is supplemented by many years of using and selling outdoor gear for bike and ski shops around Lake Tahoe. While many of her winter hours are spent in a pair of ski boots, when she's not doing laps on the mountain, she's probably wearing snow boots.
Snowshoeing is a great way to travel cross country through the snow in the mountains, especially if the snow is too shallow for skiing. Here we're exploring the San Juan high country on Red Mountain Pass in the Chilkat 400 boots.
Testing waterproof boots through immersion.
Our team comes far and wide to bring you this extensive review of winter boots.
Heading our top-tier reviewers for the men's category is Travis Reddinger. Living in Minnesota, Travis is no stranger to freezing temperatures. He knows what gear will keep out the elements while hiking, snowboarding, hunting, running errands, or clearing snow. He spent plenty of time wearing these boots out on the frozen trails and lakes or for daily use, including commuting to work.
Joining Travis is Jeff Dobronyi. Rain, snow, or shine, Jeff spends the majority of his days outside. He is an IFMGA Mountain Guide who practically lives in winter boots when he's not skiing or climbing across North America or Europe. Based in Wyoming, he has experienced some of the coldest winters in the continental U.S. and demands the best of the best out of his winter footwear.
Our hands-on testing included trekking through the snow, doing chores around the house, and finding out how waterproof they truly were.
Credit: Briana Valorosi
How to Pick the Best Winter Boots for You
Winter boots are a category that can sometimes feel vast, but rest easy knowing we can help you navigate through the sea of warm boot options. The crucial first step is identifying what you plan to do in your boots, from long hikes to hanging around town to shoveling your driveway. Some may prioritize warmth, others may prefer traction, or some may need a blend of it all, but you'll need to size up your winter ambitions before putting a pair in your cart. After figuring out your footwear demands, it's time to go shopping.
Winter boots serve a variety of different needs from snowshoeing to walking around town, so take time to consider your intended uses.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Men's Winter Boots
After countless hours of testing, we've determined the best winter boots for men. The following chart summarizes the overall scores of the best options available today.
Key Metric Scores - Men's Winter Boots
Product
Warmth
Weather Protection
Comfort and Fit
Traction
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid
7
8
9
10
The North Face Chilkat V 400
8
8
8
9
Columbia Bugaboot III
7.5
8
8.5
8.5
Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip
7.5
7.5
8
8
Kamik Nation Plus
8
8
7
7
UGG Butte
8
8
8
5
Baffin Impact
10
7.5
4
7
Merrell Nova 3 Thermo
6
6
9.5
7
Oboz Bridger 10\" Insulated
8
8
7
5
Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid
7
8
7
5
Bogs Bozeman Tall
7
8
5
7
Sorel Caribou
7.5
8
5
6
Blundstone Thermal
5
6
9
5
Keen Revel IV Polar
6
6.5
7
5.5
Nortiv 8 Insulated
7
6
6
6
Aleader Insualted Shell
6
6
5.5
5.5
Women's Winter Boots
We conducted an exhaustive testing process to find the market's best winter boots for women. Below, you'll find bottom-line scores for the top options available in this category.
Footwear for wintery conditions varies greatly in design depending on the intended use. Manufacturers offer everything from lighter-weight hikers to bulky, warm boots best for standing around in the cold. We've broken down the main categories to aid you in your quest to find the best pair of winter boots.
General Use Boots
Many companies offer options that meet multiple demands, gifting warmth and walkability so you don't have to purchase multiple pairs of boots for cold weather living. This class of footwear generally provides ample warmth for most people and are comfortable enough to enjoy hikes, whether around town or on the trail. If your ambitions involve extreme cold or lengthy distances, we'd steer you toward a more specific category, but many shoppers will be happy with a general-use model. As you navigate through our various reviews, you'll find that some of our award winners excel as a true do-everything boot with hardly any compromises.
Options like The North Face Chilkat V 400 can handle most winter demands.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Winter Hiking Boots
Many enjoy the serenity of winter hiking and may seek an option that prioritizes comfort and performance over warmth. While many boots in this category will keep your toes happy, the traction and walkability stand out the most. In an effort to keep weight down, this class of boot (similar to general use) typically avoids using extensive rubber or neoprene on the upper, which boasts superior waterproofing but adds weight. We recommend another category if warmth and weather resistance are your top priorities, but in temperate climates, these types of boots are a great choice.
Keen's Revel IV Polar offers excellent walkability in more wintry conditions.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Insulated Rain Boots
Rain boots manufacturers often include a model that has insulation underneath the tough, waterproof exterior, which can qualify as a winter boot. Options in this category excel in durability and waterproofness, making for great footwear at work and in wet, muddy environments. While these aren't comfy to walk in long distances, they are easy to slip on and off, making them convenient for winter chores around the house for a quick shovel or to take out the trash.
Muck Boot is a leading brand in rain boots, and with their insulated options like the Arctic Sport, they can be used in colder environments.
Credit: Richard Forbes
Extreme Cold Boots
In the harshest winter environments, some designs keep your toes happy regardless of the thermometer. These boots are likely to be heavy and clunky, but in that below-zero storm, your feet are bound to be toasty and warm. However, they often don't have the flexibility or responsiveness needed to tackle big day hikes. The most substantial consideration with this category is the lack of versatility, as with more pleasant days, your feet are likely to sweat, so the usefulness of these boots will depend on your local climate.
The Baffin Impact is insanely warm, keeping your toes happy even in the coldest of places.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Stylish Footwear
As the chilly weather descends upon your city or town, warmer clothes are not only for functionality; they can offer some winter fashion. In this category, these boots can still gift warmth and weather protection, but they also provide style. This category might be worth looking into for heavy around-town use if you prioritize aesthetics first in your winter boots shopping. We'd recommend investigating the other categories if you're seeking more performance-focused designs.
Style is subjective, and you should pick a pair of boots that reflect your personal taste.
Credit: Briana Valorosi
Tips for Keeping Your Feet Warm
While tips and tricks for keeping your extremities warm are unique to your needs and locale, there are a few universal recommendations to keep in mind. Keeping your feet dry is among the most crucial components of toasty toes, so consider a fresh pair of socks when transitioning from your home to the outdoors in your winter boots. Many find this tip surprising, but it's common for socks to be slightly damp from foot sweat while hanging around the house, and once that moisture is introduced to your outdoor footwear, it can cause your feet to get chilly. We also recommend taking the time to warm up your boots before wearing them. This one may seem obvious, but if your boots are ice cold (if they were left in the garage, for example), your foot heat now has to warm the entire boot, which can be an impossible task depending on your activity level once outside. Another common mistake is over-tightening the boot laces, which can restrict blood flow to your feet.
If your feet are getting cold, consider loosening your boot laces, as they may be too tight.
Credit: Elizabeth Riley
Next, be proactive with your feet if they start to get cold. Rather than waiting until your toes are completely numb, consider shaking, stomping, or swinging your feet the second they start feeling cold. It's a lot easier to get your feet warm again when they're only slightly chilly. If they feel like blocks of wood, it can take substantially longer to bring back the feeling. Lastly, experiment with your sock layering if your feet get cold easily. Try out your full sock quiver from thin to thick and even a layering system of a thin “liner” sock and a larger sock over it. Interested in pairing some socks with your boots? Check out our extensive reviews on the best socks on the market.
Don't settle for cold feet, finding the best sock for you is a crucial part of any winter footwear.
Credit: Amber King
Circulation is also important for retaining warmth to your extremities, so be cautious of over-tightening your boots. If you have wide feet, consider a boot with a roomier toe box or one designed specifically for wide-footed individuals to ensure comfort and proper blood flow.
Boot Features
Although we've done the hard part for you with our exhaustive testing and scoring, we recommend some key features to consider while you're shopping. Firstly, determine whether you prefer laces, velcro straps, a combination of both, or no tightening system. This will significantly impact the walkability of your footwear and may impact the ease of putting on or taking off your boots. Also, the tread of each model is crucial, as it directly impacts the traction you have while on icy, firm surfaces. Next, consider how tall of a boot you need. While you may be able to get away with a low-cut tennis shoe on pleasant days, most winter footwear will go above the ankle for support and to ward off the snow, but boot heights vary wildly and can go all the way up to your knee. Ultimately, each review will unpack these features and more, so be sure to read all the way through the review of your prospective purchase.
Gear is our passion, rest easy knowing we've thoroughly tested every boot in our review to ease your purchase decisions.
Credit: Amber King
Conclusion
Winter boots have come a long way in the modern era. They can be fashionable, functional, warm, waterproof, and comfortable. While compromises may need to be made, these concessions are frequently minor, allowing you to find the exact boot for your needs and budget.
—Sara James, Travis Reddinger, Liz Chamberlain and Jeff Dobronyi
