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Looking for the perfect pair of winter boots to keep you warm and steady when the weather turns wild? Whether you're heading out for a snowy hike, trudging through slush on your commute, or just running errands around town, we've got you covered. Our gear testers spent hours battling freezing rain, icy sidewalks, and deep snow to identify the top performers. From waterproof protection to all-day comfort and reliable traction, we put each pair through rigorous real-world testing so you can find the winter boots that fit your lifestyle—and your climate—best.
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.
The best winter boot for women is the Baffin Chloe. The Polywool and B-Tech lining kept our feet seriously warm and dry, while the construction allowed plenty of breathability to minimize sweating. The robust outsole has great traction when walking across snow and other slippery surfaces. If you're looking for a more casual boot with a price tag that will put a smile on your face, the Columbia Minx Shorty IV offers cozy warmth, a secure fit, and is stylish to boot.
Editor's Note: On November 11th, 2025, our testing team updated this review to include new and updated products.
Who is it best for:The North Face Chilkat V 400 is a great overall option for those who experience cold and snowy climates. Our testers raved over the balance of warmth and ice traction while these boots manage to remain light and comfortable.
Why we love it: These boots have a luxurious feel in cold weather, thanks to their bountiful synthetic insulation, and they offer a great tread pattern that we found effective around town and on slick trails. The Chilkat also provides noteworthy durability and craftsmanship, maintaining top-notch performance throughout our rigorous testing. While no winter boot will give the precise feel of a hiking boot, when we laced these up tight, we felt much more confident on uneven terrain than most winter boots, which have a sloppier feel.
Should you buy it? The Chilkat is a great option for those who are looking for warmth and traction in a winter boot. However, if you need a boot that will keep your feet dry in wetter environments, these may not fit the bill.
Who is it best for: The Baffin Chloe excelled across all our test metrics, keeping feet warm and protected even in extreme cold. This boot is ideal for those who spend long hours outdoors in frigid conditions or need dependable protection for everyday winter wear. However, it's best suited for casual use rather than high-intensity activities.
Why we love it: The quality of this womens boot stood out during testing, thanks to Baffin's B-Tek Heat and Polywool insulation, which kept our feet toasty even on the most frigid days. The Diamond Net layering offered impressive breathability, effectively wicking away internal moisture to keep feet dry and comfortable. Meanwhile, the combination of a durable suede upper and a 10-inch shaft provided reliable protection, sealing out snow and slush when the weather turned rough.
Should you buy it? If top-tier performance is your priority, these boots are a worthwhile investment. They deliver outstanding protection from the elements, keeping your feet warm and dry in harsh winter conditions. However, their hefty build makes them less ideal for extended hikes or milder weather—if you're after something lighter or more versatile, you may want to explore a less heavy-duty option.
Who is it best for: Our testers agree that the Columbia Bugaboot III offers great winter performance in most settings without breaking the bank. These boots are perfect for the thrifty shopper looking for a general pair of winter boots that will get them through most cold-weather activities.
Why we love it: We noted that the Bugaboot is 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.
Should you buy it? These are great boots for the price, so if value is what you're looking for, these are a great option. Their traction is impressive, unless the trail leads you into deep snow. The shaft height also limits the depth of snow these boots can handle, and they may not last as long as some of their more expensive competitors.
Who is it best for: The Columbia Minx Shorty IV is ideal for casual winter wearers seeking a cozy, affordable boot for everyday cold-weather use. It shines for those who value comfort and warmth over technical performance, like running errands, walking the dog, or tackling outdoor chores on snowy days. Our testers found themselves reaching for this boot whenever the forecast turned chilly, appreciating its cozy comfort and reliable insulation for low-exertion winter outings.
Why we love it: The Columbia Minx Shorty IV stands out as one of the coziest and best-value boots in our winter lineup. Its plush faux-fur lining and 200g of synthetic insulation create a warm, slipper-like feel that our testers reached for on frigid mornings. The lightweight, flexible construction makes them easy to wear all day, while the quilted upper and soft-lace system offer a snug, secure fit. For a boot that combines warmth, comfort, and casual style at a budget-friendly price, the Minx Shorty IV is an easy favorite.
Should you buy it? One of our testers said, “At such a reasonable price, this boot is well worth the buy.” That said, these aren't the boots for more adventurous use. The construction isn't as waterproof nor durable as some other options, and if they do get really wet, you may get water stains on the fabric.
Who is it best for: For those who enjoy a crisp winter hike, the newly updated Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid feel much lighter and nimble than typical clunky winter boots. They're a bit low for deep snow, but the waterproofing and insulation keep them warm for cruising on packed snow trails and sidewalks. In addition to outdoor trails, they're great for running errands, navigating slush in parking lots, and walking the family dog.
Why we love it: The comfort is through the roof and the updated lacing eyelets promise to improve long-term durability. Unlike rubber boots that scream winter is here, the PU coated leather flies under the radar but is durable enough to fend off the elements. Better yet, the overall trim size, support, and traction give us confidence on slick, uneven ground where full rubber-bottomed alternatives feel squishy and loose.
Should you buy it? The Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid offers a great value for a competitive price, and they're a reliable buy that should last multiple seasons. For anyone who wants to avoid clunky boots, these are a lightweight cruising winner, but they're simply too low cut for snow much deeper than 6 inches.
Who is it best for: If adventure awaits you in your winter wonderland, the Keen Revel IV Polar may be the boot you need. They're perfect for trudging through the underbrush in the cold and wet of winter. They are also compatible with microspikes, gaiters, and snowshoes, making it one of the most versatile boots we've tested for active winter adventurers.
Why we love it: In testing, the Revel IV Polar offered some of the best-in-class traction and protection when the trail got icy and uneven. The versatility of this option is a favorite aspect of our testers, as it is equally at home in snow, rain, or mud, regardless of the terrain or season of your outing. Our testers state, “We couldn't help but gravitate towards this winter boot all over again.”
Should you buy it? These boots may come at a slightly higher price than others in our lineup, but if your goal is winter hiking, the perks may well be worth it. On the other hand, they have a technical aesthetic that some may find less appealing, and the lower shaft height makes them a poor fit for deep snow.
Who is it best for: "If you need the warmest option out there, the Baffin Impact is the boot for you," our testers said. This is the warmest in-class boot we've tested at GearLab. They are heavy, so they're best for those who aren't going to be walking long distances or doing anything particularly strenuous.
Why we love it: 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.
Should you buy it? 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, and are some of the most expensive in our lineup. Unless you encounter the worst of winter weather, these may be a little bit much for most uses.
The Baffin Impact is the most rugged option for extreme cold conditions.
Who is it best for: The Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall AGAT is a great option for cold, wet climates where the priorities are focused more on inclement weatherproofness rather than hiking capability. They have excellent traction and are waterproof all the way to the top, making them perfect for those who find themselves in deeper water or snow during the winter.
Why we love it: 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 on dry land.” Also of note is the incredible traction. Even across packed snow and ice, these boots kept us upright.
Should you buy it? The Arctic Ice 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 a 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.
Who is it best for: The UGG Butte is our favorite winter boot for navigating winter streets, snowy sidewalks, and exploring mountain towns. You can dial up the style by cuffing the top down to show off its sheepskin-like fuzzy insulation — or pull it up for a trimmer look. The relatively low tread depth delivers traction on slick surfaces, but it's not so aggressive that it tracks too much snow into restaurants or shops.
Why we love it: The wool blend insulation is not only warm, it feels luxurious — which is a hallmark of UGG's famous ultra soft slipper-like footwear. Better yet, the stout leather upper is waterproof and built to last, making it more durable and winter-ready than many boots we test.
Should you buy it? If you're not sure about showing off the insulation, the Butte works just as well, if not better, with the tops folded up. One less common feature is the relatively flat footbed compared to most winter boots that have heels positioned higher than the forefoot. If you don't mind that lack of extra heel height, you'll likely enjoy the stable, cold-fighting ride of the UGG Butte.
Don't let the stylish UGG Butte boots fool you into thinking they're just about looks. They are competitively warm, waterproof, and boast an outstanding build quality that's ready to take on freezing temperatures.
Who is it best for: The The North Face Shellista VI is an excellent choice for those who live in cold, snowy climates and want a boot that performs well without compromising on style. The sleek leather and nylon design transitions easily from outdoor adventures to casual outings, while the faux-fur collar adds a cozy, fashionable touch. With solid traction and reliable waterproofing, it's a smart pick for anyone navigating slush, snow, or icy driveways.
Why we love it: The Shellista VI pairs serious protection with refined comfort. The 200 g of Heatseeker™ Eco Pro insulation keep feet dry in frigid conditions, while the OrthoLite footbed and plush lining provide all-day comfort. Add in the durable craftsmanship The North Face is known for, and this boot earns top marks for performance, comfort andstyle.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a dependable winter boot that's equally suited for snow days, school pickups, or après-ski strolls through town, the Shellista VI is an easy yes. It's not the most technical boot in the lineup, but its mix of warmth, waterproofing, and urban-friendly style make it a standout for everyday winter wear. Those needing maximum traction on steep or icy terrain might opt for a more aggressive sole, but for most winter conditions, the Shellista VI strikes the perfect balance of function and fashion.
Who is it best for: The Nortiv 8 Winter Slip On is ideal for budget shoppers who don't want the hassle of laces and can accept a less-than precise fit and feel. We set out to find the cheapest boots that we could get on and off in seconds, and these have not disappointed. They have a wider toe box and work well with thick socks (although they slip on and off better with thin socks).
Why we love it: These are surprisingly warm. They are not quite as warm as the EC, but they kept us happy down to 20°F. We were expecting such cheap boots not to be durable. However, after 12 months of use, they are still going strong. The only sign of wear is a little pilling of the linger. No big deal.
Should you buy it? If you want a winter boot under $60 that is fast to get on and off, this boot gets the job done. Keepin in mind that this is not a true “slip on.” While you can get the boot on with no hands, you then need to zip it up. That said, it is still much faster to get on and off than traditional lace boots. They offer more precision than the “rain-boot” style slip-ons, but they lack the same confident feel of a lace boot.
The Nortiv 8 Slip on in Tahoe winter testing conditions.
How We Tested
Year after year, we set out to find the best winter boots on the market. Our gear experts conducted exhaustive testing on every pair of boots in our review, purchasing and testing each model ourselves to ensure that 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. Our testers kept detailed notes throughout the process, making notations immediately after each testing session and 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.
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 invested thousands of hours in 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 equips her with a keen eye for detail, which is further enhanced by her extensive experience working with and selling outdoor gear at 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.
Our team comes far and wide to bring you this extensive review of winter boots.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
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, as well as 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.
Long-time outdoor enthusiast and gear reviewer Chris Maxcer also took a half dozen men's winter boot options out into the wilds of Idaho for testing. He's laced up hundreds of pairs of footwear for evaluation over the years and can now identify spot-on fit characteristics before taking a single step.
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 assured, knowing we can help you navigate through the vast array 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 both, but you'll need to size up your winter ambitions before adding a pair to your cart. After determining your footwear needs, 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
Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP
8
8
9
8.5
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
8
8
Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid
7
7.5
9
7
Kamik Nation Plus
8
7.5
7
7
UGG Butte
8
7.5
8
5
Merrell Nova 3 Thermo
6
6
9.5
7
Baffin Impact
10
7
4
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 Insulated 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 significantly in design, depending on its intended use. Manufacturers offer a range of products, from lightweight hikers to bulky, warm boots designed for standing in the cold. We've broken down the main categories to help you 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.
Boots like the North Face Chilkat V 400 work well for most winter activities.
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, it is the traction and walkability that 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 boot 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 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.
Insulated rain boots can be an easy-on option for cold winter days.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
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.
Staying warm in very cold temps will take a boot ready to tackle frigid days.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Stylish Footwear
As the chilly weather descends upon your city or town, warmer clothes are not only functional; they can also 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 considering for heavy around-town use if you prioritize aesthetics over other factors in your winter boot shopping. We'd recommend investigating the other categories if you're seeking more performance-focused designs.
The Ugg Butte is one of the more stylish men's boots in our lineup.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
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. 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 (for example, if they were left in the garage), your foot's 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.
Loosening your boots can help avoid restricting blood flow to your feet.
Credit: Sara James
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.
Layering with warm socks can make a huge difference.
Credit: Sara James
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 specifically designed for individuals with wide feet 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 considering some key features while 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. Additionally, the tread of each model is crucial, as it directly impacts the traction you have on icy and 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 extend above the ankle for support and to ward off the snow. However, boot heights vary widely and can reach up to your knee. Ultimately, each review will unpack these features and more, so be sure to read through the entire review of your prospective purchase.
While the Nortiv 8 boots do not slip on as easily as some options, they strike a nice balance of ease of use and non-sloppy feel.
Credit: Chris McNamara
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.
