The 12 Best Warm Winter Boots to Keep You Toasty in Extreme Cold, Vetted by Editors and Reviewers
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Winter footwear is definitely not as convenient as slipping on a pair of flip-flops to take the dog out. In order to avoid the cold and keep yourself nice and cozy (and dry), you need to invest in some of the best warm winter boots that will keep your feet toasty and protected.
Winter shoes should check a few boxes across the board: They should have good sole traction, feature waterproof or water-resistant materials and be insulated for warmth. It's also important that the winter clothing you choose aligns with your lifestyle. Stylist Ashlyn Greer says your situation and where you'll be wearing your boots will help you decide the best ones for you. "If you'll be trudging through snow for most of the winter months, a water-resistant boot is not going to hold up over time. Opt for a full waterproof option that's made to withstand almost any amount of rain, snow and slush," she says. However, if you just pop these on to take the dog into your backyard without doing much walking, water-resistant options will suffice. Whether you prefer pull-on Chelsea booties or lace up mid-calf boots, I’ve researched and tested some of the best warm winter boots (in the coldest and slushiest conditions) to consider this season.
The Best Warm Winter Boots at a Glance
Meet the Experts
How I Chose the Best Warm Winter Boots
From trekking through NYC in brutal winter weather to bearing to bearing the cold winds and blizzards in downtown Chicago, several of our editors have a few pairs of boots we stand by for staying warm in the winter. We tested for durability, moisture protection, style and comfort. Plus, I checked in with reviewers at some of our favorite brands to scope out which styles had the highest customer ratings. Here, the 12 best warm winter boots to keep your tootsies warm and dry throughout the season.
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1. Sorel Joan of Arctic Waterproof Boots
These are the best winter boots I've tested so far. I’ve lived in snowy Chicago and Colorado, so a quality winter boot has always been a priority for me. These are incredibly warm and comfortable when walking long distances. They’re made of leather and the soft felt inner liner is removable, so you can wash when needed. Also note that the high shaft is nice for deep snow, but can feel a little stiff due to the thick material.
2. Keen Terradora Explorer Mid Boots
When it comes to hiking, you want a durable pair of boots that can withstand harsh weather and tough terrains. Super thick hiking boots packed with insulation and layers will be less comfortable and safe, which is why you need a warm pair of merino wool socks to seal in the heat. These boots have speed hooks which make lacing them up a breeze. The contoured insole is made with ample arch support and the outsole has significant traction to really grip down in any muddy or icy areas.
3. Sorel Hi-Line Chelsea Boots
Lace-up, thick winter boots aren't super practical for those of us who aren't out in brisk weather that often. Opting for a pair of slip-on Chelsea boots that also offer warmth and waterproof leather is a quick and easy pick for on-the-go, whether you're taking the dog out or running out to the car to go to the store. The sole is made of a lightweight EVA compound so not only does it keep your feet comfortable and supported, they're not as heavy as other winter boot options. An added bonus? They're also extremely comfortable, according to one Amazon reviewer, who writes, "These boots are the most comfortable and required ZERO breaking in. I walk an average of 5-7 miles a day at work and these have saved my feet. I haven’t even had the need to wear my insoles with them like I do for the other boots I own."
4. L.L.Bean Bean Boots
L.L.Bean
The classic duck boot is an all-time winter favorite. This version has a zip closure instead of laces, and the rubber upper is waterproof, too. "The L.L.Bean duck boot has classic good looks that I appreciate and the molded vamp makes me feel supported, all without having to deal with laces thanks to this zippered version," says Senior Editor Dana Dickey. PureWow's SEO Editor, Marissa Wu, also mentions that they're great for wider calves. "[They're] quite roomy, so it's easy to wear wool socks or multiple layers without feeling like your circulation is going to be cut off, and the shaft of the boot, which comes to my lower mid-shin, is wide, so great if you have wide calves or want to tuck in pants/snow pants." These are fleece-lined and insulated with Prima Loft for optimal warmth no matter the temps.
5. The North Face Thermoball Boots
These cute puffer boots are completely waterproof, so that gross street slush won’t even come near your socks. They are super comfortable and warm, which is perfect for even the coldest NYC winters," says Beauty and Cultures Editor Chelsea Candelario. "They are also very cute! I was hesitant about getting an all-white pair, but they still look pretty new to me after two years—even [after] slugging through old NYC snow." The inside is The inside is insulated with the brand's Thermoball eco insulation, which is made to retain your body heat, even when wet. The ortholite footbed is very supportive and comfy for walking, too.
6. Ariat Harper Waterproof Boots
Pair these 100 percent leather, waterproof boots with a toasty pair of socks for ultimate warmth when you're outdoors this winter. I've walked along a ton of slushy sidewalks and snowy ground in these boots and not a drop of moisture seeps through to my feet. The leather is thick and durable so it also offers some heat retention for my feet. They're also built with 4LR technology to offer stability to your feet and ankles.
7. Columbia Ice Maiden Snow Boot
Not only is the footbed cushioned with the innovative techlite midsole, but the ankle is soft but structured to provide support and allow for flexibility when walking. "These boots are so warm and waterproof," raves one Columbia customer. "I have worn these all winter and they [still] look [brand] new. I highly recommend them." They're great for snow sports like skiing or snowmobiling because they're both flexible and durable while keeping your feet warm in down to -25-degree temperatures. Plus, the omni-grip sole will give you ultimate traction, too, so you can feel secure when walking on icy or wet surfaces.
8. Dream Pairs Winter Snow Boots
These mixed material boots have a classic-yet-trendy look to them. They’re wind-resistant and have a cushioned footbed for a comfortable fit. Better yet, the inside features 200 grams of thermolite insulation to keep feet toasty in as low as -24-degree temps. One reviewer mentions, "[I] purchased these winter boots [and] the fit and quality are great. [They] keep my feet warm while out shoveling snow in the cold NY winter." A few reviewers note that these boots aren't ideal for slushy streets or wet weather, as the outer material isn't totally waterproof so your feet will get wet.
9. ArcticShield Anna Winter Snow Boots
If you need a little extra coverage, you can unfold the top faux-fur collar to reach higher on your calves. The insole has a cushioned memory foam support to comfort your feet even with an extra layer or two of socks. These quilted boots have nearly 5,000 five-star ratings that make me confident they’ll keep my feet warm and dry. “These boots are very warm and flexible when walking,” one reviewer says. “I went snowmobiling and my [feet were] dry and toasty the entire time.”
10. Khombu Carly Winter Boots
No need to waste time lacing these boots up, because the double-side zippers make them incredibly easy to put on. They’re made to be breathable and waterproof, so your feet are protected but not overheated. One happy Amazon customer shares, "They are 100 percent waterproof. I walked through the snow everywhere, sometimes in snow up to the top of the boot, and my feet never got wet! Of course, I didn't try to step into deep water with them, but for snow & slush, they were perfect. When I need more boots, I will go directly to this brand again. Highly recommend them!"
11. Aleader Snow Boots
Aleader
Insulated with 200 grams of Thinsulate, these boots are sure to keep your feet nice and warm no matter the temperature. And don’t worry, even if the snow is shin-deep, these mid-calf boots will keep your legs protected. "As a home health nurse I needed something that would keep my feet warm from cold weather, which it does," reports one customer. "It is waterproof, my feet never got wet and I did not slide on any ice. Worth every penny."
12. Margaux The Edie Boot
If you're searching for a winter boot more on the casual side, look no further. Wu notes that these aren't great for hiking or super wet conditions, but they're still a great warm option for an everyday, elevated look. She says, "The suede is pretty insulating, and coupled with some medium-thick wool socks, keep my feet pretty warm. [The] 2-inch heel is very walkable and dresses everything up. [I'm] planning to wear mine for many years." Along with being available up to a size US 14, the boots also have a sleek almond-toe shape and fit comfortably around the knee.
What to Consider When Shopping for Warm Winter Boots
Keeping your feet warm and protected in winter climates isn't quite as simple as popping the cutest pair of boots into your cart—a little extra research is necessary to ensure you're getting the best boots for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind, according to the experts.
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Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.