The cold season is here, and finding the right boots can be a daunting task when you have a sea of shoes to choose from. On the other hand, having cold feet, whether at home or in the office, can be frustrating, and that is why you need the best cold-weather boot for both men and women.
Cold weather varies from one place to the other. Some areas are relatively cold, while others are icy and snowy. Whichever the weather condition, you need a reliable boot that will help you navigate through the cold weather. That is why we have spent hours of research combing the internet, reviewing, and testing the best boots that will keep your family and friends warm.
Table of Contents:
What To Look For In A Cold-Weather Boot?
When you are shopping for the best cold weather boots, you need to consider these essential features.
Insulation
Choose a pair with sufficient insulation because insulation determines how the boots will keep your feet warm. How does insulation work? Well, it works by trapping the warmth from your body in tiny air pockets within the fabric. They are insulated to keep you warm.
There are different types of insulation; however, most manufacturers use synthetic insulation such as 3M Thinsulate, PrimaLoft, or their proprietary material. These materials work better when wet rather than natural insulation, like wool. Therefore, a boot with 3M Thinsulate or PrimaLoft will protect you better against the cold. Synthetic insulation is measured in terms of grams in that; the higher the grams, the warmer the boots. However, the number of grams is mostly not indicated in the shoes.
Sole
Another vital factor to consider when buying a cold boot is the sole. The type of sole used can either make or break your shoe. The right boot should have a high-traction sole to help you navigate slippery conditions. Statistics show that every year, slipping contributes to a significant number of injuries and deaths. You don’t want to be part of such statistics.
Even though you don’t live in a place with snow or ice, having shoes with good soles is essential. Pay attention to the pattern on the thread of the sole as they determine the traction capability. You should go for one designed for snowy and icy conditions.
Warmth
The main aim of buying a boot is to keep you warm. Ensure to confirm that the boots you are buying will keep your feet warm.
Comfort
Comfort should be your number one priority. What good is a great warm shoe if you are uncomfortable in it? The golden rule when choosing any shoes is that functionality and practicality take precedence over fashion. You should consider a boot which you can wear for an extended period without hurting yourself. Avoid boots that cause physical and mental stress.
Boot height
The height of the boots determines the warmth of the shoe. If you tend to go outside in the snow, it’s advisable to go for tall boots. Such types offer more support and keep off snow and cold. When choosing the height of the shoes, pay attention to the ankle articulation because it helps keep the snow out, and affect your level of comfort.
Style
Who said boots couldn’t be stylish and good looking? While the practicality of the boots is crucial, you can look out for boots that give you confidence when you wear them.
Durability
The best boots are sturdy and durable. Good boots should last for a decent time before replacement. You don’t want a boot that cracks and leaks within a few months or after just one season. Also, you don’t want boots whose material degrades quickly or the sole cracks in a season.
Best Men’s Cold Weather Boots
Kamik Men’s Greenbay 4 Cold-Weather
Kamik Greenbay 4 lets you navigate through the cold weather with ease. This boot is lightweight, which means you don’t have to struggle moving to your workplace or go out for hiking. Even though it is lightweight, it is durable and of high quality.
This cold boot is rated to -40 degrees – meaning the shoes can keep your feet warm even at negative 40 degrees. Reviewers who have purchased this boot claim their feet remain warm even in areas between 15 and 40 degrees.
If you are looking for a shoe from a reputable company that has been manufacturing cold weather boots for a century, then this is the right choice for you. It comes with a waterproof upper featuring removable 8mm thermal-guard liner and a hook-and-loop strap for comfortable wearing and removal. Also, it has an easy-to-use drawstring at the top line to tighten up.
Kamik Green is true to size and fits well with regular socks. Unlike other boots which are size up or size down, this boot will fit your standard size. Most reviewers claim the boots are comfy and easy to drive the car with, unlike other models of cold weather boots.
The boot features a removable felt liner for easy cleaning. On the other hand, it comes with a lace-lock collar specifically made to preserve the warmth inside and keep the cold out. To ensure your safety, the boot is fitted with a thick-threaded rubber sole for firm traction to protect you from slipping on icy and slippery surfaces.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- They are warm
- Fits well – have a Velcro strap
- They come with easy to insert and remove liners.
Cons:
- Might be heavy to some
- Not waterproof – but can withstand snow
Northside Men’s Dawson Winter Shoe
Looking for cold weather boots that you can comfortably use to go out even on rainy and snowy days? Well, this boot can help you with that. The boot type is made with a waterproof upper shell that insulates you from water and cold. It has a rugged look; therefore, you know it is made to not only keep your feet warm, but to also withstand harsh conditions.
Northside Dawson boot comes with a rubber sole, therefore, you can be confident that it is durable and sturdy. In addition, the sole has excellent traction capabilities to protect you from slipping. If you live in a snowy place, these boots are enhanced to ensure exceptional traction and excellent abrasion resistance in snowy conditions. Further, they are shock absorbent.
To keep the feet warm, these boots have quality Thinsulate insulation, so your feet stay dry and warm even in extreme weather such as winter. If you love going for hiking and adventure in areas with below zero temperature, then this selection would make an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Stays fit without slipping
- Comfortable construction
- Come with a removable insole
- Slips easily therefore easy to wear
- Can handle extreme winter weather condition
Cons:
- Expensive
- Size can be confusing – you need to order one size larger than you usually wear
SOREL Men’s Caribou Winter Snow Boot
Sorel Caribou is a versatile, rugged boot made to keep your feet happy, dry, and warm. Whether you are looking for casual wear or extreme winter sport such as snowmobiling and sledding, then we recommend this category as a great option.
The boot is an all-weather type that protects your feet from shock and cold. The upper part is made of leather to give you maximum protection. Besides, it is fitted with a lace-up metal shaft that measure approximately 10.75” and a felt liner that ensures your feet are dry and warm.
Sorel Caribou is made of a rubber sole, which is essential in wicking away water and mud. In addition, the sole is solid to ensure that every step you take is firm and non-slippery. Also, it features a bonded felt frost midsole and has a seam-sealed waterproof construction. The heel size measure approximately 1.25”.
Pros:
- Toasty warm
- Has soft liner
- Well-insulated
- Lightweight and attractive
Cons:
- Warm but not waterproof
KEEN Men’s Brixen Low Waterproof Insulated Shoe
Keen Brixen can easily withstand any extreme cold weather conditions. Besides, it has a waterproof design, which makes it a darling for those living in cold and snowy places.
These boots are comfortable and easy to walk on. If you are looking for a pair that you can walk in at home, street or the hills, then you can’t go wrong with this. It comes with a patented toe protector that covers the outsole to keep your toes safe from rock objects or debris that can trip you.
Keen Brixen is a leader in innovative footwear technology. It also comes with a dual-climate outsole that hardens when temperature drops, to provide additional traction on snowy and slippery surfaces – and prevent you from slip and falls.
The shoe is made of 100% leather; therefore, you can be assured of its durability. Also, the leather upper helps keep the water away when it rains, consequently keeping your feet warm and dry. Leather is breathable and therefore protects you against moisture that can condense and make your feet cold. On the other hand, it comes with a rubber sole for traction even in slippery and icy grounds.
This shoe is easy to wear because of the slip-on style. To add to the comfort, it has a shellback heel support to cushion your heel against impact. Further, it is fitted with a wool-lining that keeps your feet warm and cozy. If you are looking for a cold-weather shoe with excellent insulation, then this is the boot for you. It has a 200-grams insulation made of bamboo charcoal to retain the heat and keep the cold away.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Moisture control
- Has a Waterproof upper
- Insulation and Thermal Heat Shield
- They’re durable, comfortable enough, waterproof and slip-resistant
Cons:
- They fit a bit loose
- They require a break-in period
Sorel Men’s Conquest Boot
This is a solid shoe with waterproof features that help you walk even in harsh cold conditions. It is made of waterproof leather with a seam sealing to keep your feet warm and dry. It has 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep the cold out and preserve the heat on the inside.
The shoes are rated at – 40 degrees Fahrenheit; therefore, you can confidently visit those places with sub-zero temperatures. If you want boots that can withstand snow, then this is a great choice. The boot is made with sturdy leather upper that is resistant to snow and water.
If you are looking for a rugged shoe that will withstand the harsh environment, then we recommend this. Reviewers who use this shoe claim that it keeps you warm even in deep snow. If you want a comfortable boot, then you should consider this. It is fitted with an Achilles adjustment strap which you can tighten to provide support to your ankle.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Have great insulation
- The sizes are accurate
- They are versatile
Cons:
- Liners are not removable
- Some clients complain of the sole breaking after some time
Kamik Men’s Canuck Cold Weather Boot
Look no further if you require a boot that does not use animal skin or fur. Kamik Canuck is ideal for you, especially if you love wearing shoes that are free from animal products. These boots are made from 100% fabric, and there is no animal skin or fur used in the making.
This classic boot features a waterproof nylon rubber shell to keep your feet warm and dry. It also has an adjustable bungee cord at the ankle for support and tight-closure. It features an adjustable snow collar with bungee lace lock to help keep out snow and moisture. This boot is waterproof and has a drawsting collar to help retain the warmth inside the shoe and keep the cold out.
The shoe is rated at -40 degrees Celsius. The sole is flexible for durability. Furthermore, it has well-defined tread to give you excellent top-notch traction and avoid slipping.
Pros:
- Have a removable liner
- Upper waterproof
- They are easy to get on and off
- No animal product – therefore ideal for those who don’t want to use animal skin shoes
Cons:
- Boot liner made of polyester instead of wool
Sorel Men’s Caribou Wool Boot
You can’t beat Sorel when it comes to cold weather boots for men. The Caribou wool boot is rated to -40 degrees, thus allowing you to maneuver through extreme conditions. It will keep your feet warm even in places where the temperature drops to negative 40 degrees.
This boot features a rubberized Wellington toe that keeps your foot safe from impact when walking. It is a versatile shoe that can be used for diverse outdoor activities.
It is fitted with a removable 9-millimeter ThermoPlus felt boot liner and Aerotrac non-loading outsole to keep your feet warm. The shaft measures approximately 10″ from arch. It is made of 100% leather so that you can be sure it won’t let you down in tough and cold terrain.
Pros:
- Fit well
- Leather upper
- Warm and toasty
- The toe box is spacious
Cons:
- They are huge
- Lack traction, and therefore not ideal for ice ground
Best Women’s Cold Weather Boots:
Sorel Women’s Snow Angel Lace Boot
Made with 100% leather, this boot will keep your feet warm during cold weather. The rubber sole not only gives long life to your boot, but also provides you with much-needed traction in slippery and snowy surfaces.
If you are looking for a rugged shoe that can keep your feet warm below 25-degree, then this is the right choice. These women boot features waterproof suede leather upper to prevent the water from penetrating your shoes during the winter.
Insulation is vital to cold weather boots. This boot has 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep away the cold and retain warmth. Additionally, it is lined with a fleece interior that makes the shoe look fashionable and warm.
It has a one-piece molded, non-marking thermal rubber shell and outsole for stability when walking in snowy terrains. If you are looking for a boot that you can use for winter sports such as snowmobiling or sledding; then this is an excellent choice. It has a high-traction lug outsole.
Pros:
- Stylish look
- Contain fur on the inside
- They are warm and toasty
- They run true to size
Cons:
- Expensive
- May not be appropriate for wide feet
Baffin Women’s Snogoose Winter Boot
Baffin snogoose winter boot is another win from Baffin. Since its inception 25 years ago, the company has secured its place in the manufacturing of insulated boots. These boots are made to keep you in a cold environment. They are waterproof and are capable of withstanding harsh winter conditions.
The high traction rubber sole prevents sipping and ensures that you are free from obstacles. Therefore, you can be confident the boot shoes will give you a solid grip in icy or snowy conditions.
Baffin is a fan favorite because it comes with a drawstring collar and a drawstring lacing system that keeps your feet warm due to insulation. The shaft of this boot measures 12.5” while the heel measures 1.25”.
It is worth noting that Baffin boots are different from most boots because the mid-sole are molded to the base in one continuous process. The sole is made up of several advanced thermo-set polymers, combined together to achieve the right balance of warmth, protection, low weight, and grip.
Pros:
- True to size
- Waterproof
- Warm and cozy
- They are lightweight
Cons:
- Can be tight before they break-in
UGG Women’s W Adirondack III Snow
This is a solid women boot that comes with an upgraded outsole. The boot is waterproof and has a weather rating of -32 degrees. The waterproof bootie construction is essential if you are looking for a boot to wear in snowy and rainy weather.
The thing we like about this boot is the removable and replaceable insole. This makes it easy for you to clean and, consequently, have clean and warm feet. The soles of these boots are molded spider rubber that guarantees you support and stability.
UGG Adirondack upper is made of leather for comfort and breath-ability. In addition, the leather has 17mm pure wool lining on the inside to keep your feet dry, toasty, and cozy. This has insulation of 20 grams, which is ideal if you are living in places where temperature drops below zero degrees.
Pros:
- Warm and cozy
- Has a pure wool lining
- Keep feet dry and warm
- Comfortable when driving
Cons:
- Some users say they run small – therefore you should order a slightly larger size than the usual.
Sorel Women’s Joan Of Arctic Boot
These boots are well designed to keep your feet warm in cold weather. Majority of the people complains of water and snow getting into their shoes. However, this boot is waterproof to protect you from that.
The upper of Sorel Joan of Arctic boot is made of 100% leather that is water-resistant to keep your feet dry and warm. If you are mindful of the looks and aesthetics, then this boot won’t disappoint because it is made of suede leather that gives it a rugged yet stylish look. If you love wearing your shoes with jeans, then this selection would complement that look.
It also features a soft faux fur around the cuff. This boot comes fitted with a removable 6mm inner sole for additional comfort in cold weather. The boot has a rating of -32 C. if you are looking for boots that will keep you warm when the temperature drops below negative 30 F, then this type is the right for you.
Pros:
- They are warm
- stylish and fashionable
- come in exact fit – true to size
- comfortable and gentle to ankle
- The shoes are warm and resistant to melted snow and salt on the roads
Cons:
- Some users find them a little too snug
FAQs:
How Much Should I Spend On A Cold Boot?
The amount you need to spend on a pair of boots will depend on your budget. Nevertheless, we would not advise you to go for the cheapest boot in the market because you might compromise on quality. At the end of the day, what you are looking for is quality boots that will keep you warm in cold weather. Therefore, pay more attention to the quality of the shoe more than the price.
What Are The Best Types Of Cold Weather Boots?
The best cold-weather boot is the one that keeps your feet warm and dry. The practicality and functionality of the shoe are more crucial than the brand. Therefore, look out for the boot that keeps you warm and one that gives you a firm grip when you are walking either on the streets or on snow.
Should I Put On Many Socks To Make My Boots Warmer?
Wearing many socks has the opposite effect on what you would expect. It constrains your circulation, and instead of feeling warmer, you end up feeling cold.
Furthermore, you should be mindful of the type of sock you wear because different materials are best suited for different weather. For instance, cotton socks are ideal for hot seasons but not ideal for cold seasons. The best materials for cold weather are wool, wicking polyester, or synthetic blend.
Final Thoughts
A good pair of cold weather boots can make your winter not only fun but memorable. On the other hand, having poor boots not designed for cold weather can cause you frustration and affect your health. Therefore, it is essential to buy a pair of boots that will keep your feet warm and healthy.
When selecting these cold weather boots, we analyzed vital features such as warmth, insulation, comfort, and durability. On the other hand, we evaluated and reviewed customers’ feedback to ensure you get the best cold-weather boot that will serve you well during winter.
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