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We tested 17 pairs of men's winter boots from Muck Boot, The North Face, Bogs, Sorel, Salomon, and others to find the best options for your winter outings.
We tested many pairs of men's winter boots side-by-side in the snow to evaluate their warmth, traction, and weather resistance.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
By Chris Maxcer ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated November 11, 2025
It can be hard to determine which boots will give you the protection you need for the conditions you experience during winter in your area. The best ones will keep your feet warm, dry, and cozy no matter the cold-weather activity.
Our winter experts extensively tested the 17 best and most popular winter boots, noting what each pair does best. We confirmed weather resistance by standing in cold creeks and measured warmth and insulation by tracking the internal temps of the boots while submerged in an ice bath. Whether you're walking through the cold, slushy streets of a big city or chopping wood at a cabin in the middle of a storm, we share the lowdown on which will serve you best.
The The North Face Chilkat V 400 are the best overall winter boots for most people because they're warm, cushy, and deliver great traction on slick surfaces and snow. For the most bulletproof footwear for water and weather resistance, the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid are our top choice for cold-weather outdoor chores. If you don't like heavy, chunky boots, the newly updated Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid are the best lightweight winter boots for running cold-weather errands or hiking on packed trails.
Winter activities often require specialized cold-weather gear to keep you warm, safe, and cozy. Even a high-performing hiking boot won't cut it when temperatures plummet. To keep you protected from frigid temps and biting winds, essentials like a close-fitting base layer top and long underwear layered under a heavy winter jacket can keep you outside longer.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on November 11, 2025, to include new boots, new testing, and new media to illustrate our findings and recommendations.
The North Face Chilkat V 400 surprised our testers with its comfort and supreme warmth. The ample insulation combined with a comfortable liner creates an environment of luxury for your feet. One tester stated, “I tested a few pairs of boots that were warmer, but many of them were much bulkier. I loved the sleek, low-profile and comfortable fit of these.” The boot is fairly light, with a size 11 pair weighing in at 3.58 lb, so there isn't noticeable fatigue with longer walks. The excellent tread pattern ensured good grip in our testing on both paved and rough surfaces, dry or slick and when commenting on traction, our tester said, “This boot has an aggressive lug design that, to me, handles more like a hiking boot than a pac boot.” The combination of tough rubber sole and leather upper also provides plenty of weather resistance and durability for long life.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
7.2"
Measured Weight
3.58 lbs (size 11)
Measured Shaft Height
8.0"
Lining/Insulation
400g Heatseeker Eco
Appropriate Activity
Town, errands
The tongue gusset measures at about 8 inches, which is lower than some of the other boots on the market. We noticed water seeping in at just over 7 inches during testing, so avoid the deeper streams and puddles if you want to prevent wet feet. For deeper water protection, the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid can handle depths of up to 13 inches and is just as warm, though the traction ability isn't quite as good, and the size 13 weighs 5.09 lb. In short, the Chilkat boots are an excellent and relatively affordable option. “I'd recommend these if you want one winter boot to do it all,” says Jeff Dobronyi. They outperform many other options, and for most winter users who have to deal with snowy and cold weather, these are the boots we recommend.
During the testing process, we found the Columbia Bugaboot III to be a high-performance winter boot at an affordable price. This lightweight winter boot has plenty of warmth, weather protection, and traction for most winter conditions. One tester shares his experience, “I wore these boots in frigid conditions in the Colorado Rockies, and my feet never got cold.” In our warmth testing, they came head-to-head with the UGG Butte, although the Butte edged ahead slightly in weather protection. However, the Bugaboot III features a 7-inch shaft height and water protection up to the top, which is plenty of protection for most winter weather conditions. These boots are among the most comfortable we have ever tested, with soft fleece-lined insulation that molds to your feet over time. According to one member of our testing team, “They are downright comfortable. Immediately after putting them on, I never wanted to wear another snow boot.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
7.2"
Measured Weight
3.43 lbs (size 11)
Measured Shaft Height
7.0"
Lining/Insulation
200g synthetic
Appropriate Activity
Hiking, town, chores, errands
While these boots offer terrific comfort and warmth, we question their long-term durability due to tailoring discrepancies. The seam where the leather upper meets the rubber sole overlaps in places, creating a lip that can catch on branches and other obstacles. We had no problems during testing, and we didn't notice any wear, but the inconsistency of the seams left us doubting their longevity. They provide great performance and aren't too bulky, but some testers found them less aesthetically pleasing. If you need a taller shaft and better traction, our top recommendation is The North Face Chilkat V 400, which is not much more expensive. Alternately, the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid has some of the best traction we've found in a winter boot. Its price is comparable to the Bugaboot, but they are not as warm or weather-protective. The Columbia Bugaboot III is the best option if you need solid boots for harsh winter weather at a budget-friendly price.
We've tested multiple pairs of the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid over several seasons, and this is the boot we love most for cold-weather chores. Easy to slip on and off, it's great for quickly shoveling off a deck or porch in the middle of a snowstorm. If slush and mud are in our path, we know we can slog right through it without worry. The self-cleaning MS-1 lug outsole sheds sticky mud and snow with each step, making them great for rural driveways. “I trust the thick, burly rubber to fend off ice around puddles, sharp snow shovels, or rocks hidden under snow,” noted tester Chris Maxcer. “Plus, the warmth is better than I expected, especially when these boots are near constantly submerged in icy water.” To help keep the cold from transferring up through the sole to your feet, Muck added a 2mm thermal foam underlay for extra insulation. For the most warmth for all-day winter work, we recommend pairing them with thick socks. Of course, these boots aren't limited to work: If you prioritize easy-on, easy-off convenience in a boot that's a cinch to keep clean, these are the boots for you.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
13.0"
Measured Weight
5.09 lbs (size 13)
Measured Shaft Height
13.0"
Lining/Insulation
Fleece, 5mm CR Flex-Foam neoprene
Appropriate Activity
Chores
While the step-in Arctic Sport Mid boots are waterproof all the way up to their 13-inch height, that height and slip-on style makes the fit looser and sloppier than most winter boots. Also, if you have weak ankles, you can't lace these boots to provide extra support. We're not worried about it if we're shoveling the driveway, but for rougher terrain, we've found that thick wool socks can help fill the space inside these boots and add extra insulation. If you have wide feet, consider the Bogs Bozeman Tall, which have a similar design but have a much roomier toe box. If you want a super-stable sole for shoveling driveways, the classic Sorel Caribou offers additional warmth with the ability to snugly lace up the leather upper for support and to seal out drafts. Still, when you need a tall waterproof boot you can trust, the Arctic Sport Mid is hard to beat.
Despite the typically loose fit you get with slip-on rubber boots, the stability of the Arctic Sport Mid's footbeds surprised us while tromping through puddles and dropping down steep snow-covered banks.
The new and improved Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid is now better than ever, easily making it our favorite winter boot for exploring cold autumn trails, tromping through light snow, and cruising on packed trails and uncleared sidewalks. Merrell updated its tread pattern away from typical hiking lugs, now opting for a flowing pattern that gives more surface area for its sticky rubber compound to maintain traction on hard, slick surfaces like icy sidewalks. “There was enough deepness in the new lugs to let me explore off trail on steep slopes, so the Thermo Chill 2 Mid is still a good hiker,” noted Chris. “I'm really pleased to see the new, wider, more durable eyelets. I had no problems tightening or loosening the fit even with packed snow trying to freeze things in place.” Stability is excellent, and because they're so lightweight, we found these boots easier to drive in than some of the oversized pairs we tested. They're great for running winter errands and dog walking around the neighborhood.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
5.25"
Measured Weight
2.60 lbs (size 14)
Measured Shaft Height
7.5"
Lining/Insulation
200g M Select WARM
Appropriate Activity
Hiking, town
Made from a durable PU coated suede with an abrasion-resistant toe cap, the Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid lacks the height to make it a true backcountry explorer. Deep snow can sneak over the top, soaking our socks and chilling our feet. The relatively short 7.5 inches of height also reduces their ability to hold the heat in, and the 200-gram insulation is about half the amount we see in warmer, heavier boots. If you want a taller lightweight boot for shoveling the driveway or navigating deeper snowfalls, consider the Columbia Bugaboot III. However, if agility is what you value most, the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo weighs less and is still waterproof.
We're fans of the lightweight, agile Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid insulated boots for hiking in cold weather and exploring winter landscapes in snow up to around six inches deep.
The Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip is a versatile, utilitarian winter boot. Our testers found it provides a moderately high level of warmth, comfort, traction, durability, and weather protection. We put it to the test through an array of different scenarios, and it performed great, whether we were completing fairly arduous tree work in cold weather, a 10-mile hike through a few inches of snow, or chores and errands around the home and town. This boot maintains a lower profile and sleeker aesthetic without compromising warmth, durability, and all-day comfort.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
5.5"
Measured Weight
2.75 lbs (size 9.5)
Measured Shaft Height
8.0"
Lining/Insulation
200g Primaloft
Appropriate Activity
Hiking, town, chores, errands
Despite performing well all around, the Danner Actric 600 has some limitations. The shaft height provides ample ankle support and stability, but is only ankle height. One tester commented, “Some snow sneaks in when my pant cuff lifted while tromping in a foot of snow.” If you need a boot capable of tromping through deep snow, check out the The North Face Chilkat, which boasts a taller shaft. While hiking through warm-wet snow and then cold-dry snow, we noticed snow clumping in the tread beneath the arch, which was easy enough to remove with a soft kick but not a problem we encountered with other models.
The UGG Butte impressed our testers with its comfortable wool insulation that feels great against the feet. These boots don't feel as bulky and cumbersome as heavier Pac boots. The leather exterior looks great, and the cuff can be rolled down to show off the wool lining or kept up for an all-leather look. The lower section of the boot is completely waterproof, meaning you can stomp through puddles and shallow snowdrifts without getting wet. One of our testers said, “These shoes are stylish enough to wear around town and capable enough to shovel out the car beforehand.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
6.5"
Measured Weight
3.44 lbs (size 13)
Measured Shaft Height
11.5"
Lining/Insulation
UGGplush 60% upcycled wool, 40% TENCEL™ Lyocell
Appropriate Activity
Town, errands
The lightweight nature of the Butte means it isn't as warm as others, but it is still warm enough for winter days in most places. And although water begins to seep into the boot at a submersion depth of 6.5 inches, we rarely find puddles that deep in real life. Overall, these boots perform well and will be suitable for most users, and the style is some of the best on the market. Rivaling the Butte for style is the Blundstone Thermal. These fashion-forward boots are great for urban use, though for those with specific extreme cold needs, you might try the Baffin Impact. Or, for better water resistance, the Muck Boot Arctic Sport, which can keep your feet dry in puddles up to 13 inches deep.
The Ugg Butte gives you two ways to wear it: With the top folded down to show off the stylish fluffy insulation or with the top up for extra protection from deeper snow.
The Baffin Impact is a big, heavy boot with extreme warmth built for the harshest of conditions. “I could not imagine ever having cold feet in these boots,” our lead reviewer remarked. These boots combine a removable synthetic liner with a thin layer of fixed insulation inside the shell. The sole is rather thick, and the footbed features a honeycomb design to add height and trap warm air under the foot. Every aspect of this boot is made for warmth and proved to be one of the warmest models we have tested.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
3.25"
Measured Weight
6.19 lbs (size 11)
Measured Shaft Height
13.25"
Lining/Insulation
Removable Comfort-Fit liner; Thermaplush
Appropriate Activity
Chores
Many of the features that provide so much warmth also make the Impact unsuitable for anyone who doesn't spend much time standing around in below-zero temperatures. These boots are thick, bulky, and extremely heavy. Walking short distances or doing things around the yard was a chore for our testers, and forget about long hikes in deep snow. It has so much insulation that it made our feet float when walking through a creek to check for water resistance. In the same creek, we immediately noticed that the seams were not waterproof as the liquid poured inside where the upper and lower meet. These boots will keep your feet warm, but beyond that, they aren't super versatile. If you don't need quite so much warmth, check out the Bogs Bozeman Tall for a tall, durable weather-resistant boot.
The Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP are far and away the most supportive winter boots we tested. Not only do they have a footbed that's far more stable than many squishy winter boots, the uppers provide excellent ankle support. “These are my first choice boots for any winter terrain or situations where I want the best ankle support,” Chris said. “Not only are the uppers stiffer than in most winter boots, the lacing system makes it easy to snug it all up for a near perfect fit.” As for warmth, Aspen AeroGel Aerotherm insulation — which was developed for NASA spacesuits — kept our feet warm with ease. Salomon claims the boots can keep your feet warm in temperatures down to -40°F, but we (thankfully) haven't had the chance to test that claim. In our experience, these boots are warm at temperatures well below freezing, and they seem to be particularly good at keeping our feet warm while we're moving.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Puddle Depth
8.25"
Measured Weight
3.82 lbs (size 14)
Measured Shaft Height
10.5"
Lining/Insulation
Aerotherm™ Aerogel
Appropriate Activity
Hiking, chores
The biggest drawback to the Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP are a worrying number of customer reports claiming that seams near the forefoot eventually fail, leading to leaky boots. We have not experienced this after testing two pairs, but we remain somewhat wary of their long-term durability despite excellent overall build quality. At the same time, Salomon told us they are aware of the complaints. In our experience, Salomon is a very high-quality manufacturer, and the fact they are still selling the boot would indicate confidence in their product. The company has a two-year warranty and has reportedly been responsive to premature seam failures — so keep your receipt if you choose these boots. The closest boot that matches out-of-the-box performance is the The North Face Chilkat V 400, but they are less supportive in comparison. If longevity is your priority, check out the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip, but they're shorter. What we're left with here is this: If you can tolerate a bit of durability uncertainty with the hassle of a possible warranty claim, the initial warmth and support of the Toundra Pro is outstanding.
Out of the box, the Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP feel remarkably lightweight, warm, agile, and supportive.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
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Testing winter boots on a cold day in the mountains of Idaho.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
How We Tested
Over the years, we've tested over 100 winter boots for men and women. Our testing methodology puts each pair through multiple tests to rate warmth, weather protection, comfort, and more. For our analysis, we've logged hundreds of hours in the cold and snow in multiple states wearing these boots. The winter boots in this review were subjected to more than 14 individual tests to rate their winter performance. As you might have guessed, the most important tests revolve around warmth and weather protection. These tests included standing in cold creeks to test water resistance and measuring internal temperatures to check the insulation. You can rest assured that the information published in this review doesn't merely pay lip service to manufacturers' marketing jargon but is the product of hard-earned knowledge obtained through exhaustive use and testing.
The breakdown of our five rating metrics for men's winter boots is as follows:
Warmth (25% of overall score weighting)
Weather Protection (25% weighting)
Comfort and Fit (20% weighting)
Traction (15% weighting)
Quality of Construction (15% weighting)
We got our boots dirty during our testing to see which held up the best.
Credit: GearLab Team
Why Trust GearLab
GearLab testers Jeff Dobronyi, Chris Maxcer, Ian Cruess, and Travis Reddinger bring you this review. Jeff is an IFMGA-licensed Mountain Guide based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, one of the coldest winter climates in the lower 48. He regularly spends his day shoveling feet of snow out of the driveway, slipping on boots to drive to work as a backcountry ski guide, and then chopping wood as soon as he gets home, sometimes running errands on the way. He demands a lot from his winter footwear and knows which boots stand up to winter and which can't. Over the years, we've tested various kinds of footwear for every activity under the sun.
Chris has tested and reviewed hundreds of pairs of footwear over the years, ranging from water shoes for whitewater rafting to winter boots for backcountry exploring. He wears cold-weather boots while hunting in the wilds of Idaho, shoveling his driveway, winter hiking, snowshoeing, throwing snowballs, and navigating mountain towns in between.
Ian spent copious days wearing and comparing each boot amidst different conditions and a wide array of applications throughout the Sierra Nevada range and the surrounding mountains of McCall, Idaho. He tested each boot as if it were a “daily driver” from the snow-laden concrete and asphalt around town, at the job site, up and down the variable conditions of the trail, and through all the tasks a winter boot is needed.
Travis lives in Minnesota and spends plenty of time in freezing temperatures when hiking, hunting, running errands, or clearing the snow. He spent plenty of time wearing the boots out on the frozen trails and lakes or for daily use including commuting to work.
We wore each pair of boots in a variety of winter environments and performed side-by-side testing to find what each pair of boots does best.
Analysis and Test Results
Despite their seemingly simple design, winter boots come in many different styles and have many different purposes (we've tested winter boots for women, too!). Our selection runs the gamut of designs from large Pac boots with tons of insulation and weather resistance to small, stylish Chelsea boots. Our test details can help you find the right winter boots for your needs and budget.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Winter boots range from dirt cheap to crazy expensive. The good news is that the priciest boots aren't necessarily the best. We found many worthy boot models that are notably cheaper than less impressive but spendier options.
The best overall winter boot in our lineup, The North Face Chilkat V 400, is a great option for anyone looking for versatile winter boots. However, the Columbia Bugaboot III nearly matches the performance of the Chilkat while remaining very affordable. The Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid is a shorter, affordable boot that's great for winter hiking and running errands around town on cold, snowy, and slushy days.
The Bogs Bozeman Tall is a weather-protective and durable slip-on boot that performs well. Generally, the most stylish models are some of the most expensive, as is the warmest model in our test, the Baffin Impact. This boot will set you back big time, but it's worth the money if you need protection from frigid temperatures.
Shoveling the walkway in the affordable Columbia Bugaboot III.
Credit: Sam Willits
Warmth
Of course, we evaluate the warmth of these boots outside while wearing them, including wearing different boots on each foot at the same time. However, we also test them in the lab for more controlled head-to-head comparisons. For instance, to test warmth and insulation capabilities in a measurable way, we place boots in an ice bath and record how much heat they lose.
The warmest boot we tested is the Baffin Impact, which has tons of synthetic insulation in both the removable liner and the boot's shell. These boots kept our feet warm and even hot on the coldest days of testing. However, these boots are for arctic conditions and are overkill for temperate climates.
The Baffin Impact almost looks like a warm puffy jacket, showing off all of its insulation to keep your toes warm.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Unexpectedly, the reasonably priced Columbia Bugaboot III provided more warmth than almost every other model we tested. This boot packs lots of insulation into a comfy package. The highly-rated North Face Chilkat V 400 also delivers plenty of warmth for most days and scenarios. Both feature shafts that extend high enough up the leg to protect the feet on all but the most extreme days.
The North Face Chilkat V 400 is a protective boot that helps keep your feet warm.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The classic Sorel Caribou, typical for a Pac boot, also delivers as much warmth as most folks need, thanks to a 9mm felt inner liner and robust outer materials. The stylish UGG Butte provides good warmth with a thick wool lining that keeps the feet cozy while remaining light and comfortable to wear. We were also impressed by the Oboz Bridger 10" Insulated, which has plenty of warmth without being bulky.
The Caribou is a classic winter boot with a felt lining that hugs the foot more snugly while the burly exterior keeps snow and water out.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP surprised us with the warmth provided by its relatively thin NASA-developed Aerogel insulating materials. Last but surely not least, the most versatile boot, the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip, rivals the North Face Chilkat V 400 in heat retention with 200g of Primaloft.
The soft fleece interior on the Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP is a nice touch.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
On the other hand, the neoprene insulation found on the multiple slip-on models does not trap heat as effectively. The large, loose openings of these boots can also allow heat to escape, making them among the least warm boots in our review. Similarly, the Chelsea boots have leather uppers and thinly lined footbeds that aren't warm enough for temperatures below freezing. The Blundstone Thermal of the Chelsea boots is warmest, with a fuzzy wool sheepskin footbed and 200g Thinsulate insulation.
Most of the Blundstone Thermal's warmth comes from a sheepskin lining under the foot and thick leather uppers.
Credit: Sam Willits
We typically wear winter boots during the coldest season of the year, so we expect them to insulate our feet and keep them toasty and warm. Therefore, a boot's warmth is one of the most critical aspects of its overall performance. Each model in this review has insulation to keep the cold at bay, but the insulation varies tremendously.
By using a laser thermometer, we can objectively analyze how quickly cold can permeate a boot.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Weather Protection
When it comes to winter boots, keeping your feet warm and dry is absolutely essential. Wet feet are definitely not happy feet, especially if the water is barely above freezing temperatures. That's why it's crucial for winter boots to have good water resistance. Most winter boots feature some kind of waterproofing, such as a durable rubber outer, treated leather or Nubuck, or a waterproof/breathable membrane. But how effective are these features? To find out, we conducted a submersion test by walking into a very cold creek and standing there for longer than you'd typically want to. This assessment really put water resistance to the test and helped us identify any potential weaknesses.
The height of a boot is also significant for water resistance, as the easiest way for your foot to get wet is from snow pouring in over the top opening. Also important is where the low point of a tongue's gusset is, as this is the depth of water you can stand in without leaks pouring in.
Shaft Height vs Puddle Protection
Shaft Height
Maximum Puddle Depth
Baffin Impact
13.25"
3.25"
Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid
13"
13"
Bogs Bozeman Tall
13"
11.5"
Aleader Insulated
12"
3.75
UGG Butte
11.5"
6.5"
Salomon Toundra Pro CSWP
10.5"
8.25"
Oboz Bridger 10" Insulated
10"
8.5"
Kamik Nation Plus
10"
6.25"
Sorel Caribou
9"
9"
The North Face Chilkat V 400
8"
7.2"
Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip
8"
5.5"
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid 2
7.5"
5.25"
Columbia Bugaboot III
7"
7.2"
Merrell Nova 3 Thermo
7"
5"
Blundstone Thermal
6"
5.75"
Nortiv 8 Insulated
4.5"
5.5"
Keen Revel IV Polar
4.5"
5"
Boots like the Muck Arctic Sport Mid and Bogs Bozeman Tall have a high maximum puddle depth before allowing water inside. In contrast, a short boot like the Blundstone Thermal requires that you step carefully in snow or slush that's a few inches deep.
The Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid is an excellent choice for getting chores done in chilly weather.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Since many boots are completely waterproof up to a certain depth, the tie-breaker for scoring became how deep the water could be before leaking or over-topping. At 13 inches of waterproof height, the Arctic Sport Mid is the most waterproof boot in the lineup, followed very closely by the Bogs Bozeman Tall and the Sorel Caribou.
While you likely won't find yourself in a bucket of water, we conduct this test to determine flood height and waterproof ability. Here we are testing the Sorel Caribou.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Oboz Bridger 10" Insulated and Salomon Toundra Pro gave us over 8 inches of waterproofing, while the The North Face Chilkat V 400 and Columbia Bugaboot III were a bit less. All of these boots provided at least seven inches of shaft height before letting in powder snow, which is adequate for the vast majority of users. This was the lowest scoring category for the Danner Arctic 600, with a maximum puddle height of about five inches.
The Oboz Bridger 10" is fully waterproof up to a submersion depth of 8.5", and when tightly laced, splashes won't penetrate through the tongue of the 10" shaft.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
One boot that was waterproof as claimed, the UGG Butte, nonetheless has an upper design that made us feel like we had more protection than we really did. Because the tongue gussets have gaps at just 6.5 inches high but the boot is up to 11.5 inches tall, we sometimes accidentally saturated the insulation by thinking we could step through deeper puddles than the design actually supports.
If you choose the stylish UGG Butte, which seems quite tall, just remember that its waterproofing stops well short of the tops of the boots.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Some boots claim to be waterproof and might work very well to keep out quick splashes, but they let water in if submerged for an extended period. A good example is the 13-inch tall Baffin Impact, which began to leak at the three-inch mark during our submersion test. It lets water in through the seam where the upper and lower portions meet. The Chelsea boots let water in through the top of the elastic panel that allows this style of leather boot to be flexible.
Though warm, you wouldn't want to take these leaky boots through a river crossing.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Many boots passed our submersion test with flying colors, allowing no water to leak into the boot after being submerged five inches deep, even after 10 minutes. While it's unlikely that you'll just be standing in deep puddles for extended periods while wearing any of these boots, it's comforting to know they can handle it.
Comfort and Fit
According to our testers, one of the most comfortable models tested is the Blundstone Thermal, which has a perfectly tailored leather boot fit with a soft sheepskin footbed lining that feels heavenly when you slip it on. When it comes to winter boots, though, the fit can vary quite a bit depending on the thickness of the insulation and interior volume of the boot.
In general, our shorter, more hiking-focused boots offered the most comfortable fits. The Merrell Nova 3 Thermal leads the pack: With quilted rip-stop nylon, suede leather trim, and a Super Rebound Compound midsole, our testers found this beefy, cozy, high-top shoe is as light and comfy as a cloud. The sole is thick, cushiony, and flexible, while the upper is fluffed with 100g of Primaloft insulation. The Merrell Nova 3 combines the properties of a running shoe, winter hiking boot, and cozy slipper to create an incredibly comfortable piece of winter footwear we felt comfortable wearing for social functions, running errands, or hikes where snow depth wasn't more than 5".
We also appreciated the Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid, which felt like a slightly oversized lightweight hiking boot.
The Thermo Chill 2 Mid feels like a hiking boot with extra interior padding.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The soft insulation of the Bugaboot III is also supremely comfortable. The Chilkat V 400 has soft and compressible insulation, a fit that also feels perfectly tailored, and a lacing system that allows the boot to be cinched tighter than other Pac-style boots. The Ugg Butte is lined with thick wool insulation, creating a cozy nook for the feet, and as the leather breaks in over time, the boot gets progressively more comfortable.
The Ugg Butte was comfortable enough to wear around town.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Greater durability and weather protection can often tip the scale away from comfort, but not with the Danner Arctic 600. The sole is stiffer and denser than the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo but engineered with built-in flex points, rounded heel, and lifted sole beneath the forefoot, creating a smooth heel-to-toe transition. Coupled with 200g of Primaloft, ample ankle support, and a thick but unrestrictive leather upper, this boot is darn comfortable straight out of the box, even when worn for 10 hours per day on the job site or a 10-mile hike.
The Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip is a technical, durable, and supportive boot that remains comfortable while trekking in cold weather from trails to town and the job site.
Credit: Ian Cruess
Even the low-scoring boots in our review are still quite comfortable; they're just looser-fitting and somewhat clunky. The roomy fit of the Sorel Caribou is comfy and cozy but not well suited for activities like hiking where agility is required. These boots are best suited for winter chores and running errands anyway and not meant for long trails. In addition, the Caribou fits large. When our testers sized down one full size smaller than their usual, they tended to better appreciate these boots.
The thick synthetic felt liner in the Sorel Caribou made our feet feel like we were stepping into a warm fleece blanket.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Bogs Bozeman Tall and Muck Arctic Sport Mid are very comfortable compared to most rubber slip-on boots, but they feel large and loose compared to winter boots with laces. The beauty of these boots is in their simplicity and convenience — they are comfortable but lack the fit characteristics that would make them suitable for hiking long distances.
The Bogs Bozeman Tall (shown) has a wider and taller toe box than the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid, a close competitor.
Credit: Sam Willits
Getting the Right Fit
Comfort is important, especially when it comes to footwear. We recommend that you make comfort a primary consideration when selecting winter boots, and if something we've suggested doesn't feel perfect on your feet, toss out our advice and listen to your own body. For this reason, it's wise to make online boot purchases from a retailer that will take returns for items that don't fit right or aren't comfortable. On the other hand, we also recognize that comfort is a highly subjective assessment, and what we consider the most comfortable design may not feel good on your foot.
Traction
We trudged up steep, snowy, and often icy slopes at least a dozen times to test traction head-to-head. We also took our boots to old, firm snow patches high in the mountains and across icy walkways down in town. Dependable traction is essential. Whether going to the grocery store on a snowy day, walking through the woods to cut down a Christmas tree, or heading down a trail to gain some winter solitude, you need to be confident that your boot can handle whatever conditions you may encounter.
The The North Face Chilkat V 400 offers the best overall traction from our testing. It provided confident footing on steep, snowy slopes while also managing to provide reasonable traction over packed snow and ice.
Tread patterns from left to right; Merrell Nova 3 Thermo, Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip, North Face Chilkat 400 V.
Credit: Ian Cruess
The boot we found most comfortable this year, the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo, scored well in the traction department, both on the trail and across town. The versatile Danner Arctic 600 treads well through a myriad of conditions. This boot boasts a specially designed sole to perform well on wet ice with Vibram Arctic Grip lugs. The Arctic Grip soles performed better on wet ice when compared side-by-side to other models. Occasionally, when transitioning between warm-wet snow and cold-dry snow conditions, snow would accumulate and clump beneath the arch, similar to the effect of backcountry ski skins. Except for this very rare occurrence, these boots excelled across all the wintery mediums.
While the traction of the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip performed well in almost every medium, we experienced snow clumping to the outsole in a very particular instance while moving between warm-wet and dry-cold snow.
Credit: Ian Cruess
One option we tested — the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid — has mediocre traction by design. Instead of tall aggressive lugs, it favors wider, sloping lugs that are designed to self-clean as you step. If you're busy working in icy, muddy sludge, these softer lugs are win.
The beveled edges on many of the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid lugs reduces bite but also lets the traction clear itself of clingy mud and snow.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Quality of Construction
Winter boots are expensive, and we rely on them to keep our feet protected during the coldest and stormiest months of the year. They need to hold up to repeated use and abuse doing chores, winter hiking, and trudging around in wet conditions. If they fall apart, they expose our feet to the elements, which can be debilitating. And a boot that falls apart easily is a wasted investment. For the most part, all the winter boots in this review should last at least a couple of seasons for most people with moderate use.
Slip-on work boots are some of the most durable winter boots out there. Both the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid and the Bogs Bozeman Tall have lots of rubber around the boot's lining, no stitched seams exposed to the outside, and rubber that won't wear out quickly. These boots fend off sharp objects and don't have any moving parts like lace eyelets that can fall apart.
There are very few seams and joints that could fall apart on the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid.
Credit: Sam Willits
An honorable mention of construction quality for the Danner Arctic 600 is due. The uppers of these boots are constructed of thick suede leather with stout stitching and a leather-reinforced seam along the heel where many boots bust. We tested the suede model with great results, but Danner also offers a smooth, full-grain leather option for added durability. Coupled with a thick Vibram midsole and rugged outsole, these boots are robust.
The full-grain leather upper of the Danner Arctic 600 stands out for many reasons beyond appearance.
Credit: Ian Cruess
Besides the slip-ons, we like the construction quality of The North Face Chilkat V 400 and the Kamik Nation Plus. These options are built to last a long time, thanks to reinforcement patches in high-wear areas and tight stitching.
The North Face Chilkat V 400 has excellent build quality.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
One classic boot that had a stellar reputation decades ago, the Sorel Caribou, has faced persistent reports of cracked rubber over the forefoot more recently. In fact, while we were testing the Caribou, a ski resort employee, unsolicited, told us he usually gets only two years out of his Sorel boots before they crack, though he did say he wears them for several hours each day during the winter.
Though we have concerns about the longevity of the Caribou, they still make an enjoyable winter boot.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
How to Pick the Best Winter Boots For Men
Below are five key considerations for your feet, environment, and budget.
While most winter boots serve to keep your feet warm and protected from the elements, certain boot styles will offer better insulation than others. Looking at the recommended insulation rating is one way to gauge the ideal warmth range as well as the weight of the insulation. Additionally, analyzing the insulation material will help provide context on just how warm a boot might be. Synthetic insulation will offer high levels of warmth but also provide breathability. Wool is another great insulating material with durable properties but is usually bulkier than synthetic insulation. When looking for a pair of warm winter boots, comparing material, temperature rating, and the environments you live or work in are key considerations to help guide your decision.
Finding a boot that provides enough protection while still offering mobility is a common pain point regarding boot length. If you find yourself in large amounts of snow, a boot extending to the mid-calf will pay dividends when participating in activities such as snowshoeing or hiking. If you need a boot for more casual, everyday use, a shorter-length boot can still offer adequate traction but make daily tasks such as driving and errand shopping easier. Identifying your intended use for your next winter boot will help guide what length will suit you best.
A winter boot with waterproof features helps keep your feet dry and maintain warmth throughout your day. Identifying the type of waterproofing used, such as treated leather, synthetic membranes, and rubber outers, will give you an idea of the overall waterproof rating. Additionally, looking for sealed seams will offer more protection against water seeping through into the boot.
Winter boots that provide solid traction will help prevent slips and falls and improve performance during activities in the cold. Tread pattern and material selection are important considerations to assess how much traction a boot will have. For those in climates with lots of ice, additional traction devices or softer rubber may be needed, but for those in climates that don't typically deal with lots of slippery icy conditions, a boot with good tread should be sufficient
While extra weight may mean more warmth, it can also deter from performance and cause fatigue over extended periods of use. When deciding on a boot, consider its overall weight and the type of activities you will need your boot for.
Conclusion
Choosing the right winter boot is no easy task, especially with the wide range of choices and potential tradeoffs with different styles. Once you determine your boots intended use, you can begin to narrow down which features to prioritize to get the best comfort and performance for your needs. Deciding whether you need a hiking-oriented boot, a Pac boot, or a slip-on model will help rule out many options and point you in the right direction. We hope this review helps you make a great selection to prepare for warm and comfortable winter adventures.
If you need a bit of extra traction for your winter boots, we've tested and selected the top snow grips to attach to your winter footwear. Don't let the cold weather get you down — bundle up with the right gear so you can stay active all winter long, no matter what you like to do.
—Chris Maxcer, Jeff Dobronyi, Ian Cruess, Travis Reddinger
