Best Winter Boots for Men of 2026
Winter Boots for Warmth, Water Resistance, Fit, Comfort, And Ice Traction
October 8, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Footwear
Cold is no stranger to me. I grew up in Colorado and have spent winters in Alaska, Maine, and New Hampshire, where winter boots have had to handle everything from deep snow and icy streets to slush, outdoor work, and long days in the cold.
We’ve tested men’s winter boots from Alaska and Maine to Colorado, Iowa, Quebec, and the Yukon. I’ve also spent years working and recreating outside in winter, including guiding in Alaska and Colorado and responding to Search and Rescue, ambulance, and fire calls during some seriously cold conditions. That experience has given me a pretty good sense of what works and what doesn’t when your feet need to stay warm, dry, and comfortable for hours.
For this guide, we looked most closely at traction, waterproofness, fit, comfort, shaft height, and warmth. We also considered how each boot worked for its intended use, whether that meant walking around town, hiking, working outside, or dealing with extreme cold.
Top Pick: The SOREL Caribou is our favorite overall. My dad bought his pair in 1992, and I’ve watched him wear them through winters in New York, Colorado, and Maine. The newest model is the same, and the removable 9 mm liner, waterproof leather, roomy fit, and strong traction make them especially well suited to cold, snowy conditions. His pair lasted long enough to need a replacement liner only after about 20 years of use.
Looking for women's winter boots? See our Best Women's Winter Boots guide.
We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
Comparison table
| MEN'S WINTER BOOTS | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | INSULATION | SHAFT HEIGHT | TEMPERATURE RATING | CLOSURE | WATERPROOF? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOREL Caribou | Best overall and best for extreme cold Read why |
$250 | Removable 9 mm washable felt inner boot | 9.25" | -40°F | Lace | ✅ |
| Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots | Best for walking Read why |
$220 | None | 4.5" | None stated (insulated version also unrated) | Slip On, over-the-ankle | Water-resistant |
| L.L.Bean Flannel-Lined Insulated Bean Boots | Best casual winter boots Read why |
$200 | 200 g PrimaLoft | 8" | None stated | Lace | ✅ |
| The North Face VECTIV Fastpack Insulated | Best for hiking Read why |
$210 | 200 g Heatseeker Eco synthetic | Mid-ankle | None stated | Lace | ✅ |
| Muck Boot Arctic Sport Boots | Best winter work boots Read why |
$190 | 5 mm neoprene, fleece lined | 16" | -40°F | Pull on | ✅ |
| XTRATUF Legacy 15" | Best slip-on Read why |
$160 | None | 15" | None stated (insulated version -10°F) | Pull on | ✅ |
| KEEN Revel IV Polar Mid Boots | Best for wide feet Read why |
$200 | KEEN.WARM recycled PET insulation | 4.5" | -25°F | Lace | ✅ |
* Prices reflect MSRP and are subject to change. We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.
The winners
Best overall men’s winter boot and best winter boot for extreme cold: SOREL Caribou
Insulation: Removable 9 mm washable felt inner boot with snow cuff
Shaft Height: 9.25"
Temperature Rating: -40°F
Footwear Closure: Lace
Waterproof: Yes
What we liked: long-term durability, high-quality construction, insulation suited for extreme cold, grip, range of sizes available
What we didn’t like: weight, doesn’t feel as snug due to amount of insulation
The SOREL Caribou Boots have been winter champions since the 1960s, and after years of use, I can confidently say they live up to the hype. My dad bought his pair in 1992, and I’ve never seen him spend a winter without them—whether in New York, Colorado, or Maine.
The Caribous feature a 9 mm ThermoPlus™ liner with four-layer insulation, keeping my feet comfortable down to -20°F (and rated for -40°F). The felt cuff and mid-calf design make them great for deep snow, keeping slush and cold far from your feet.
While they’re not ideal for long winter hikes due to their weight, the Caribous excel at traction on snowy sidewalks and icy streets. I also appreciate the roomy fit—it’s easy to wear thick socks, though the looseness might feel odd if you prefer snug footwear. My dad’s boots finally needed a liner replacement after 20 years, but the Nubuck leather and sturdy soles are still going strong.
These boots are available in sizes up to 17, ensuring even those with bigger feet can enjoy warm, dry toes. For me, the Caribous aren't just practical—they’ve become a symbol of reliability through years of snowy adventures. If you need dependable boots for extreme cold, with a legacy to match, the SORELCaribou remains a top contender.
They’re so beloved that they are also the winner of our Women’s Winter Boot for Extreme Cold.
For even more details, you can read our in-depth review of the SOREL Caribou.
Compare prices of the SOREL Caribou
Best men's winter boots for walking: Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots
Insulation: None (insulated version available)
Shaft Height: 4.5”
Temperature Rating: None stated (insulated version also unrated)
Footwear Closure: Slip on, over the ankle
Waterproof: No, water-resistant
What we liked: Classic look, well-made, lasts many years and becomes more comfortable with more wear, water-resistant
What we didn’t like: Not suited for extreme cold or deep snow
If you’re looking for a winter boot that can go from the office to the barn and on to the bar, the Blundstones may very well be the best choice for you. With a few technological upgrades—like their cushioning Shock Protection System (SPS) midsole—they’ve kept the classic look while keeping the footwear relevant for a new era. SPS is designed to disperse shock when your foot strikes the ground, which reduces the amount of stress on your skeletal system. (Read: comfier, happier feet and joints!)
Blundstone leather boots also have removable, anatomically correct EVA footbeds for extra cushion and support. The soles hold a 4mm tread for good grip on ice, slush, mud, and pavement alike. The soles also hold a steel shank that runs down the middle, providing enough rigidity to support and stabilize these ankle boots.
The Blundstones are a breeze to slip on and off. While the majority of the boot is leather, the stretchy sides are made of elastic to aid with easy on-and-off. Front and back loops add to the ease.
Although an Australian-based company, Blundstone offers plenty of warm options. Love the Blundstone look but need more insulation? We also tested the Blundstone Thermal All-Terrain boot, a thermal waterproof boot with Thinsulate and shearling insulation.
You can read our in-depth review of those Blundstone Thermal boots for more information.
Compare prices of the Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots
Best men's casual winter boots: L.L.Bean Flannel-Lined Insulated Bean Boots
Insulation: 200 g PrimaLoft
Upper Lining: 100% cotton brushed chamois cloth; 7.5 oz per sq. yd.
Bottom Unit Lining: Cambrelle (synthetic knit)
Shaft Height: 8”
Temperature Rating: None stated
Footwear Closure: Lace-up, over the ankle
Waterproof: Yes
What we liked: Classic duck boot look, cozy flannel lining, tall enough to survive slush, laces up tight against snow, leather, handmade in Maine
What we didn’t like: Not suited for extreme cold or deep snow, runs large, flannel retains moisture, water can seep in through tongue gusset
Wicked winters call for a Nor’Eastern classic: the L.L.Bean Bean boot. But if your toes can’t handle what the Downeast brings, L.L.Bean upped the ante with one of their coziest options—a flannel-lined leather boot, perfect for winter walks to collect pine boughs in snow-covered woods or scooting around the corner to your favorite eatery.
We love these boots for their chic versatility. They’re functional and waterproof, yet stylish enough to wear around town, even in the foulest of weather. The tumbled leather feels soft and buttery without losing its waterproof qualities, while the chain-like tread offers excellent traction, even on ice.
As for durability, L.L.Bean has promised a sturdy boot for over 100 years, and they continue to deliver. Our Massachusetts-native tester has owned (and thrashed) his pair of flannel-lined Bean boots for 8 years and counting and still calls them “the waterproof-est and only boot I’ll wear in New England winter. But if you run warm, beware of a little boot sweat.” He suggests sizing down a half-size unless you plan to wear expedition-weight wool socks with them, as these boots do run large.
If you want even more information, see our in-depth review of the L.L.Bean Boots.
Compare prices of the L.L.Bean Flannel-Lined Insulated Bean Boots
Best men’s winter boots for hiking: The North Face VECTIV Fastpack Insulated
Insulation: 200 g
Shaft Height: Mid-ankle
Temperature Rating: None stated
Footwear Closure: Lace
Waterproof: Yes, Waterproof/breathable DryVent membrane
What we liked: Comfortable, lightweight, good groundfeel, thoughtful unique features
What we didn't like: When fully saturated, the midfoot and toe box protection was somewhat compromised
The North Face VECTIV Fastpack Insulated men’s winter boots won our award for Best Winter Boots for Hiking thanks to their snow-tire-like tread, their grippy rubber soles, and their comfortable feel that enhances propulsion and protects the foot.
While a lot of winter hiking boots feel like walking with bricks on your feet, these warm and comfortable boots make an excellent investment for anyone looking to take their hiking lifestyle into the winter season. These feel like modern lightweight hiking boots but with the warmth and traction of a traditional winter hiking boot.
The North Face VECTIV has excellent traction with 4 mm lugs and a Surface CTRL rubber that won’t freeze and grips onto slick surfaces well. The tread pattern is designed a lot like snow tires: it allows you to hold onto snow while maintaining enough contact points in critical areas of your feet to help keep you upright on icy spots.
The North Face VECTIV boots feature moisture-wicking material to help keep your feet dry and warm. Waterproof DryVent membranes over the tops of your toes and sealed seams effectively keep snow and slush from seeping in during hikes. 200 g of Heatseeker Eco synthetic insulation keeps your feet warm and dry and works just as well on warmer days as in situations where we really needed it, like the summit of Mt. Katahdin in Maine in January.
Unlike most winter hiking boots, these boots are fairly flexible and have some cushion for your feet. They fit wide-footed testers well. They worked well with snowshoes and have a D-ring to work with winter hiking gaiters, so they play well with other winter hiking gear.
For most hikers, we think the VECTIV Fastpack will be all you’ll need.
View The North Face VECTIV Fastpack Insulated
Best men's winter work boots: Muck Boot Arctic Sport Boots
Insulation: 5 mm neoprene, fleece lined
Shaft Height: 16”
Temperature Rating: -40°F
Footwear Closure: Pull-on
Waterproof: Yes
What we liked: Very convenient when working outside and coming inside throughout the day, waterproof, warm, easy slip-on/pull-off, arch support
What we didn’t like: Heel rubbing, tight on wider shins after prolonged use
If you don’t want to deal with lacing up your boots every time you go outside, the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Boots are for you. The Muck Boot Arctic Sports are warm, waterproof, durable, and exactly what you want on your feet in harsh conditions and extreme cold.
Called the workhorse of the men’s boot world for a reason, the Arctic Sports are way less of a fashion statement than our winner for walking, the Blundstones, or L.L.Bean Boots, but infinitely more functional.
While definitely on the heavier side for winter boots, the Arctic Sports are filled with 5 mm of neoprene insulation, lined with fleece, and have 2 mm of thermal foam under the footbed for supreme warmth. They also have a super-comfortable EVA midsole for arch support and aid with traction and grip. (The better connected your foot is to your boot, the easier it is to maintain traction on slippery ground!)
Why Muck over Bogs? The answer is, these Muck Boots are way warmer. The Arctic Sports’ rubber outsole is thicker, insulating you more effectively from cold ground. They have more insulation to boot.
The Arctic Sports are meant for real winter conditions. They’re great with windchill and deep snow and super comfortable when working outside all day in frigid weather.
Compare prices of the Muck Boot Arctic Sport Boots
Best men's slip-on winter boots: XTRATUF Legacy 15"
Insulation: None
Shaft Height: 15” (12" also available)
Temperature Rating: None stated
Footwear Closure: Pull on
Waterproof: Yes
What we liked: Waterproof, unbeatable traction, very comfortable, great arch support, versatility throughout cooler months
What we didn’t like: Not as warm as other boots
The XTRATUF Legacy is the Alaskan staple that’s leaked out from the Pacific Northwest to the rest of the world. Designed for fishermen on the brutally cold seas off of the Alaska coast, these boots are as waterproof as you’re going to find.
With insulated and non-insulated options, these are the ultimate winter boots for those who live with heavy, wet snow — especially along coastlines. The non-insulated options work well in shoulder seasons, warmer winters, or just plain wet snow.
While XTRATUF boots come in a range of heights, our favorite is the Legacy 15”. Fifteen inches is tall enough to keep out even deep puddles, but the waterproof triple-dipped neoprene rubber shafts allow you to roll them down for sweaty feet. At that height, the XTRATUF Legacies settle comfortably at the top of the calf in a snug but not restrictive manner.
For the best fit, XTRATUF recommends sizing up if you wear a half size. Try the boots with the socks you plan to wear.
Be warned: the non-insulated version is not a good option for those whose feet get cold easily! They’re great for those who run warm or for wet winter weather that’s above freezing. It’s just enough warmth but not too much.
These are my go-to winter and rain boots (I spend 200+ days a year in them).
Read my long-term, in-depth review of the XTRATUF Legacy boots for more details.
Compare prices of the XTRATUF Legacy 15"
Best men's winter boots for wide feet: KEEN Revel IV Polar Boots
Insulation: KEEN.WARM recycled PET insulation
Shaft Height: 4.5"
Temperature Rating: -25°F
Footwear Closure: Lace
Waterproof: Yes
What we liked: Very wide and works with thick socks, flexibility, ankle support, warmth
What we didn’t like: If you don’t have wide feet, fit can feel sloppy
The KEEN Revel IV Polar boots were made wide, which might not appeal to a broad audience, but to those who need the extra space, these boots are a godsend. They’re a winner for Best Winter Boot for Wide Feet for a reason—if you’ve tried other winter boots and didn’t find they worked for your feet or with your preferred comfy pair of thick socks, these are the boots for you!
Our wide-foot tester was thrilled at the comfort, warmth, and support that they found in these boots — and that’s why we had a clear winner for our Best Boots for Wide Feet category. The compression-molded EVA midsole provides shock absorption and cushioning, and the internal shank gives comfortable support for long days of walking around.
Besides their roomy interior, the KEEN Revel IV Polar boots stood the test of time for waterproofness, ankle support, and warmth. With waterproof leather exteriors that lend style and support and nylon panels to add flexibility, these boots are best known for their KEEN.DRY technology — brushed polyester linings wick sweat away and allow for breathability while still keeping water out.
For warmth, they sport 200 grams of KEEN.WARM recycled PET breathable polyester insulation that KEEN rates down to -25°F during active use. (The Eco Anti-Odor natural odor control in the toes doesn’t hurt, either.)
KEEN makes the Revel IV Polar boots in both a mid (over-the-ankle) and high version (mid calf).
Compare prices of the KEEN Revel IV Polar High Boots
Other winter boots we tested
Oboz Bridger 8" Insulated Waterproof Boots
Insulation: 200 g Freeze Guard
Shaft Height: Mid, high
Temperature Rating: None stated
Footwear Closure: Lace
Waterproof: Yes
The Oboz Bridger boots are our winner for best hiking boots for extreme cold. They are also great for wide feet. They are a former winner for best winter hiking boots and nearly won again, so there is a lot to love about these boots.
We've taken the Oboz Bridger insulated hiking boots in waist-deep snow in -20°F actual and -50°F windchill. The tread is excellent on ice, snow, and rock. The soles are fairly sticky and provide good traction. These boots are remarkably comfortable, especially for a high boot.
Ultimately, we think most people will not need this much of a winter hiking boot and will find The North Face VECTIV Fastpack more comfortable. But if you're hiking in extreme conditions, consider this boot.
View the Oboz Bridger
Category: Extreme Cold
Insulation: Yes, removable multi-layer liner
Waterproof: Yes (waterproof base)
What we liked: These are the ideal work boots for extremely low temperatures.
What we didn’t like: Hard to walk in and barely breathable.
The Baffin Impact Snow Boots are extremely warm boots to keep you toasty even in extreme cold.
These were the most expensive boots we tested for this guide. We found them hard to walk in and barely breathable.
However, if you find yourself needing extremely warm winter boots, it may be worth it.
Compare prices of the Baffin Impact Snow Boots
Insulation: Thinsulate lining and sheepswool-lined footbed
Shaft Height: Over the ankle
Temperature Rating: None stated
Footwear Closure: Slip On
Waterproof: Yes
The Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal is a more robust version of the Blundstone Classics that we recommend for best winter boots for the city. Unlike the water-resistant Blundstone Classics, they are waterproof, and they are great for walking. But there are a few key features that make them better for cities with extreme winter conditions, most notably, insulation.
However, they cost around $65 more than the Blundstone Classics. We think most people will be happy with the Blundstone Originals and find they offer all the waterproofing and warmth you need.
But if you like the Blundstone look and need more warmth, consider the All-Terrain Thermals.
You can learn more in our in-depth review of the Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal boots.
View the Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal
How should winter boots fit?
Finding the right fit can be tricky. Keep these tips in mind:
Test with different socks:
Try boots with thick socks (like wool) and thinner socks (like ski socks) to ensure flexibility in fit.
Allow some wiggle room:
Boots should not feel tight, but avoid too much room to prevent slipping. Walk around to check for rubbing heels, cramped toes, or inadequate ankle support.
Consider wide feet options:
Look for wide models if needed. Some brands, such as the SOREL boots, tend to run large, offering more room.
What to look for in winter boots
Warmth
Choose boots with insulation that matches your winter conditions. Look for materials like wool or Thinsulate for extreme cold, and lighter options if you're active in milder temperatures. Ensure your boots keep your feet warm without overheating.
Tread and traction
Opt for boots with deep treads if you expect icy or snowy terrain. Specialized winter boots offer better grip than hiking boots, which helps prevent slipping on wet or packed snow. For extra grip on ice, you can also add traction devices over your boots.
Waterproofing
Waterproof boots are essential for snow and slush. Look for sealed seams and waterproof membranes to keep moisture out. Consider boots with removable liners to manage sweat and prevent odor buildup over time.
Fit and comfort
Fit varies by brand, so test your boots with different sock thicknesses to find the right balance. If you have wide feet, seek models with wider options. Comfort matters—walk in the boots to ensure no rubbing or discomfort.
Height
Decide between ankle-height and mid-calf boots based on your needs. Higher boots offer better protection from snow, while shorter ones can feel lighter and more versatile for everyday wear.
Weight
Heavier boots provide more insulation and traction but can tire your feet faster. Consider your activity level and how much weight you’re comfortable carrying for extended periods.
Breathability
Breathability often competes with warmth and waterproofing. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, look for boots with moisture-wicking linings or materials that balance warmth and ventilation.
Insulation Types
Different insulation materials suit different climates. Thick wool or synthetic insulation works best for freezing temps, while lighter materials suffice for milder winters. Choose the right insulation based on your activities and weather conditions.
How to choose the right winter boots for your needs
Finding the perfect pair of winter boots starts with considering where you’ll wear them and what you’ll be doing. Whether you’re braving city slush or trekking through rural snowdrifts, here’s how to choose boots that meet your needs.
For urban winters
If you’re commuting, running errands, or navigating icy sidewalks, focus on:
Waterproofing: Keep your feet dry in rain, snow, or slush with waterproof materials and sealed seams.
Grip: Sidewalks and stairs can be slippery, so look for soles with excellent traction.
Style: Winter boots can still look great! Leather or faux-fur-trimmed designs balance fashion and functionality.
Light insulation: Opt for 200 g insulation to keep your feet warm without overheating during short outdoor stints.
For rural winters
Living in a snowy, rural area, working on a farm, and getting out into the woods often means dealing with deeper snow, muddier trails, and harsher conditions. Choose boots that prioritize:
Warmth: Go for thicker insulation (400–600g or more) for all-day warmth, especially if you’re spending extended time outside.
Tall shafts: Keep snow out with boots that rise higher on your calves.
Durability: Reinforced materials and rugged soles handle tougher terrain and frequent use.
Weatherproofing: Waterproof uppers and outsoles are non-negotiable for staying dry.
For hiking or snowshoeing
If you’re exploring trails or taking on snowshoe adventures:
Ankle support: A snug fit and sturdy build help stabilize your footing on uneven terrain.
Traction: Tread patterns designed for snow or compatibility with ice cleats are key for grip.
Waterproofing: Snow can creep in—pairing boots with gaiters is a smart move.
If you want to wear your boots with snowshoes, consider something with more support.
If you are mostly hiking, you may be able to get away with some hiking boots or even lightweight hiking boots depending on temperatures and conditions.
For more, see tips from our guide on what to wear winter hiking.
And learn basic snowshoeing skills before you head out.
For cold-weather travel
Heading out for a ski trip or visiting a colder climate?
Choose lightweight, packable boots that are easy to slip on and off.
Insulation and waterproofing are important, but you may not need heavy-duty options if your time outdoors is limited.
For outdoor work
Winter work boots should prioritize:
Ease of use: Slip-on options are convenient for quick tasks, while lace-ups provide extra support for long hours.
Durability: Reinforced toes and rugged soles stand up to wear and tear.
Warmth and waterproofing: Insulated, weatherproof designs are a must for staying comfortable.
Quick tips for common concerns:
Cold feet? Try boots with thicker insulation or a fleece lining for extra warmth.
Overheating? Opt for lightly insulated or non-insulated boots, especially for active use.
Deep snow? Look for taller shafts or add gaiters to your setup.
Wet conditions? Waterproof materials and sealed seams are your best defense.
Insulated vs non-insulated winter boots
It’s a much-asked question—do I need an insulated boot or will uninsulated waterproof boots work for me? Here are some pros and cons for each type of boot and our thoughts on the types of people and conditions where you may prefer one boot over the other.
Why choose insulated winter boots?
If your feet are always cold, we're here to help find a boot that can fix that with the right boot choices.
Insulation like Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, shearling, fleece, and neoprene can ensure your toes stay warm. Even if you don’t want to overheat your feet, your toes are one of the furthest extremities from your heart, and they need a little help to stay warmer in extreme temperatures.
In an insulated boot, look for thick soles that keep your feet away from the snow and ice, and ruffs around the top to trap snow before it falls down towards your feet.
Why choose non-insulated winter boots?
Having spent time in Alaska, I’ve known cold. And I’ve known rain. Sometimes those two things coincided, with 40°F deluges instead of nice fluffy snow at 30°F weather. Sometimes, all I need is a winter boot that will keep my toes moderately warm but will really keep the water, snow, and slush out. 99% of the time — including shoveling, skiing, hiking, snowmobiling, walking, and working — I wear uninsulated rubber boots throughout the winter.
If you’re like me, you might tend to run warm, and nothing’s worse for me than walking in from a 15°F day to an 80-degree waiting room. I appreciate winter for the cold, not for being hot. So on an average day, I can’t stand to wear insulated boots because I’ll simply be too hot running errands, going to work, or going out to eat. Even with uninsulated boots, I still have a degree of warmth and a healthy degree of waterproofness that won’t make my feet feel like they’re swimming in a sauna.
Living in Colorado’s Front Range, insulated boots are overkill for me for all but 3 days out of the year. Since the Front Range tends to run warm — a recent 45°F, sunny day had me in a tank top, after all — I tend to choose my footwear based on their effectiveness throughout the different seasons. I can wear an uninsulated pair of boots throughout the fall and spring, as well as in the dead of winter. How can I do this? It all comes down to the socks that I wear with them.
On days above freezing, I can wear thinner socks, while frigid days have me pulling out my thick wool socks. As long as you find a pair of uninsulated boots that can accommodate different thicknesses of socks, you’ll have a pair of boots that prove to be far more versatile across a range of temperatures and conditions.
What socks should I wear with my winter boots?
Warm ones! Seriously, though, there are so many sock options to choose from that we’ll stick to the basics — find warm socks that fit well (not too loose and not too tight) that will still fit into your boots. While I’m a big fan of ski socks for most of my winter activities, both hiking socks and ski socks have served me well in subzero temperatures when paired with a good winter boot.
Care and maintenance
Winter boots take a beating from snow, slush, mud, and road salt. How you care for them depends on what they’re made of, so check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing, treating, or waterproofing your boots. Leather, suede, rubber, wool, and waterproof membranes don’t all need the same treatment.
Cleaning and drying
Brush or wipe off dirt, mud, and salt after use rather than letting it build up. A damp cloth is enough for many boots, but use a cleaner made for the material if they need a deeper clean.
If your boots get wet, remove the insoles or removable liners and let everything air dry completely. Avoid putting boots in a dryer or directly against a radiator or other strong heat source unless the manufacturer specifically says it’s safe.
Maintaining waterproofing
If water stops beading on the surface or the outer material begins wetting through, it may be time to restore the boot’s water repellency. Use a treatment designed for that specific material and follow the product and boot manufacturer’s instructions.
That last part matters. A waterproofing treatment that works well on one pair of leather boots may be completely wrong for suede, fabric, rubber, or a membrane-lined boot.
Soles, insoles, and other wear
Check the soles periodically for worn tread, especially if you rely on the boots for traction on snow or ice. Some boots can be resoled, while others can’t, so check with the manufacturer or a cobbler before assuming a worn outsole means the whole boot is finished.
Insoles can also wear down before the rest of the boot. If they’ve lost their cushioning or support, replacing them may make an otherwise good pair more comfortable again.
Storage
When the snow melts and it’s time to start thinking about flip-flops, clean your boots and let them dry completely before putting them away. Storing damp boots is an easy way to end up with mildew, odor, or damaged materials by next winter.
Ideally, store them somewhere cool and dry where they won’t get crushed. If you’re like me and don’t exactly have your gear storage on lock, under the bed works too. The important part is making sure they’re clean and completely dry first.
FAQ
-
Sometimes. A waterproof hiking boot can work well in mild winter conditions, especially if you’re moving and don’t need much insulation. I’ve worn hiking boots in winter plenty of times when the temperatures and snow conditions made sense.
Where they start to fall short is deep snow, serious cold, or long periods standing around outside. Many hiking boots aren’t tall enough to keep snow out and don’t have the insulation of a true winter boot. If you mostly hike in warmer months and only occasionally get out in winter, though, you may not need a separate heavy winter hiking boot.
-
No. Some winter boots are fully waterproof, some are water-resistant, and others are mainly designed for warmth.
Think about the kind of winter you actually deal with. If your winters mean slush, wet snow, puddles, or rain, waterproofing matters a lot. If you live somewhere colder and drier, warmth and insulation may be the bigger priority.
-
Both can work well. Leather is durable, can mold nicely to your feet over time, and is common in boots that are meant to last for years. It may need more care, depending on the type of leather and how the boot is waterproofed.
Synthetic boots are often lighter and may require less maintenance. They’re also common in winter hiking boots where manufacturers are trying to balance warmth, waterproofing, and weight.
I wouldn’t choose a winter boot based on the upper material alone. Fit, insulation, waterproofing, traction, and what you plan to use the boot for matter more.
-
Some do, especially heavier leather boots. Others feel comfortable right away.
A little stiffness at first can be normal, but a winter boot shouldn’t feel painfully tight or create obvious pressure points when you try it on. Remember that you may also be wearing thicker socks in winter, so make sure there’s enough room for those without your foot sliding around.
-
The biggest thing is letting them dry completely between uses. Take out removable insoles or liners if they’re damp and let everything air out before wearing the boots again.
Moisture-wicking socks can also help. If odor becomes a recurring problem, check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before adding powders, sprays, or other treatments to the inside of the boot.
How we researched and tested
We’ve spent years testing men’s winter boots from Alaska to Maine and from Colorado to Iowa, including winter peaks in the Northeast and cold-weather trips in Quebec and the Yukon. That has given us the chance to use these boots in ice, snow, deep cold, and the kinds of wet winter conditions that can quickly show where a boot works and where it doesn’t.
For every boot, we looked at the same basic things: traction, waterproofness, fit, comfort, warmth, and shaft height. We wanted boots that could keep feet warm and dry without sacrificing the grip or comfort needed to actually spend time outside in winter.
From there, we looked more closely at what mattered for each award. A winter hiking boot needed traction and support for icy terrain and enough versatility for different conditions. A work boot needed to stay warm and comfortable through long stretches outside while still being easy to get on and off. Boots for city use had different priorities, including comfort, traction, and practicality for moving between indoor and outdoor environments.
We used those field observations alongside product specifications and research to decide which boots made the most sense for each use case.
- Snow and icy terrain
- Deep-cold winter conditions
- Wet snow and slush
- Winter hiking and outdoor work
- Long-term everyday winter use
- Traction on snow and ice
- Waterproofness
- Fit and comfort
- Warmth and insulation
- Shaft height and intended use
Author’s Expertise: Why you should trust us
Cold is no stranger to me. I grew up in Colorado with New York-expat parents and spent winters in Alaska, Maine, and New Hampshire. I’m no stranger to cold feet. I wouldn’t give up the cold for a sunny beach day, ever — but I do prefer to keep my toes warm. And having owned most of the chosen boots, I can safely say that I know what works — and what doesn’t.
I’ve skied for most of my life, from New England hills to hometown Colorado resorts, and backcountry adventures in Japan, Alaska, British Columbia, and the Yukon. Additionally, I’ve been a backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, and rafting guide in Alaska and Colorado; many of my “summer” seasons up north began when there was snow on the ground and ice blocking my boats from going downriver.
During three years on volunteer fire departments in Alaska and Maine, I responded to Search and Rescue calls on frigid winter nights, ambulance calls in 4’ snowdrifts, and fire calls where water would freeze as soon as it left the hose.
My gear expertise stems from 6 years of gear reviews for Backpacker Magazine, 6 years of guiding, 26 years of cold-weather adventures, and a plethora of gear-head friends. In addition, I’ve written outdoor lifestyle pieces for REI’s Uncommon Path Magazine and Powder 7 Ski Shop’s Lift Line Blog. (For additional publications and upcoming articles, check out my website.)
Let it be known: no one in my family (including myself) is sponsored, an ambassador, or an employee of any of the companies mentioned here. This is unbiased, and we do this to help you find the best product for the price. Treeline Review doesn’t accept sponsored content, native advertising, or paid reviews.
You can read all of my articles on my author page.
