5 Must-Have Features in a eva winter boots

EVA boots are the answer: warm, thanks to the material they're made from, they don't let moisture in. Initially designed for extreme weather conditions, EVA's other characteristics of lightness, buoyancy and cleanliness have made it a popular choice.

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It is used for many purposes, including snowboarding equipment, water sports and outdoor activities. A favorite of fishermen, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, they're perfect for many outdoor activities, whatever the season. Easy-care and durable, this ultra-lightweight material is resistant to frost and moisture. Demand for EVA boots is growing fast. Not only among ice-fishing enthusiasts, but also among city dwellers with active lifestyles.

What is EVA?

Ethylene vinyl acetate or EVA is a lightweight, flexible synthetic material made from a variety of polymers. It consists of low-molecular-weight expanded substances and organic gas. Comparable in composition to styrofoam, the air contained in the material gives it its high-quality insulating properties. Considered a thermoplastic (heat-molded by injecting material into molds), the interaction of its molecules increases at low temperatures, so the product does not lose its elasticity when cold. On the other hand, it can melt at high temperatures. Care must therefore be taken in contact with heat.

Another notable advantage is that EVA is well-suited to humid environments. Since it is non-porous, it cannot be contaminated. It is therefore totally anti-microbial and cleans easily with a wet cloth.

EVA is also very versatile, being used to make everything from toys and braces to yoga mats and cable sheaths, flip-flops and much more.

Distinctive properties of EVA footwear

Environmentally-friendly, EVA production uses no glue or artificial rubber, as with other types of boots. Nor does it use tannins, as with leather products. As a result, these boots are suitable for children and people with sensitive skin, since they don't cause allergies.

The comfort of this material is unrivalled; light, supple and shock-absorbing, it is ideal for a wide range of uses. What's more, its hygienic properties are incomparable. Since EVA does not absorb moisture, it dries quickly, is easy to clean, has no unpleasant odors and does not accumulate bacteria.

Since the boots have no seams (they are molded in one piece), they are resistant to extreme environmental conditions. Dense in composition, they form a weather barrier around your feet. So, you won't have to worry about water, snow, dirt or chemical fertilizers. For the same reason, they retain heat perfectly without letting in the cold. Indeed, the first generation of boots was much appreciated by ice fishermen. In fact,
the first models were produced with them in mind, to protect their feet from freezing and getting wet from prolonged exposure to icy water.

Advantages and disadvantages of EVA boots

The wonderful characteristics of the material inspired us to diversify our EVA-based products. Today, it's a material we use in many of our products. But this material has a number of special features that need to be explained.

Firstly, EVA is flexible and can be long-lasting. However, as it is a rather soft material, small cracks may appear at the points of curvature,
but the product will not lose its insulating properties due to the thickness of the walls and the profiled sole.

Secondly, EVA is ideal for use at low temperatures. Our boots can withstand temperatures of -70° C. A good way to keep your feet warm is
to choose the removable liner option. It's also practical for maintenance. After outdoor use, we recommend removing the liner so that it dries properly and doesn't accumulate perspiration, or wiping the inside of the boot with a cloth.

Extremely lightweight, EVA boots don't restrict the foot on long walks. And the boot's monocoque structure ensures even weight distribution. It also provides the cushioning your feet need when walking; important criteria when choosing footwear for children and the elderly.
Its flexible nature makes it extremely comfortable, but also less resistant to wear caused by friction with hard, rough surfaces such as asphalt, concrete and stones. So, EVA boots are not suitable for prolonged daily use (if you wear them every day, for hiking, they will last a good season but will have to be replaced for the following season).

Nor can EVA boots be stretched by stretch shoe lasts (as with leather shoes). So, it's vital to choose the right size. (This is important. The size
of the foot varies, during the day, by one cm and increases with physical activity. If you wear ill-fitting shoes all day long, your feet will be sore and irritated.)

As a general rule, manufacturers will help you choose the right size, according to their size chart. A pair of shoes or boots should be selected according to the size of your feet and the type of activity you'll be doing. Sometimes, you'll be offered a size larger than your shoe size, so that you can insert a liner and use your boot for the winter season. But beware, improper care can irreparably damage the product: EVA is sensitive to high temperatures. Consequently, near an open flame or a source of high heat, it can melt and/or warp. Boots can also lose their structure irreversibly under heavy external pressure. The material is sensitive to mechanical damage.

Insulation: 6 mm washable felt inner boot
Shaft height: 12”
Temperature rating: -25 F
Waterproof: Yes
Footwear closure: Lace
Best for: All around, around town, snowshoeing, hiking
What we liked: warm, waterproof, comfortable boots with traction and durability, more like a sturdy work boot than a fashion piece, stylish
What we didn't like: run a tad large, can be too warm, can be difficult to put on and take off

Trust me, we hesitated a minute when we considered “boots with the fur” for our overall pick. But after wearing these boots for Maine to Alaska for eight years and confirming our love of these boots with the HUNDREDS of effusive reviews for the Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots, we realized why we aren’t alone when we say these are the most popular winter boots for women.

The Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots are popular for good reason: they combine warmth, waterproofing, and durability with a classic winter style. After eight years of testing these boots in harsh winter conditions from Maine to Alaska, they’ve proven their worth repeatedly. Many reviewers agree, with almost perfect ratings across hundreds of reviews.

These boots aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re built to endure. The mid-calf 12” height, vulcanized rubber base, and waterproof suede upper keep snow and moisture out effectively. The boots also feature grippy treads for traction on icy surfaces and a gusseted tongue to seal out cold drafts. Inside, a 6mm recycled felt lining adds warmth, making these boots suitable for extended outdoor use.

One unique advantage of the Joan of Arctic Boots is their repairability. Instead of discarding worn boots, you can replace the liner, which the author did after eight years. Sizing tends to run slightly large, so it's best to stick with your true size, especially if planning to wear with regular or thinner socks. Overall, these boots offer a rare blend of style and rugged functionality—perfect for winter adventures or around-town use.

Sorel is a company synonymous with winter boots. Known for their high-quality products, waterproofness, durability, and warmth, nearly any snow boot you choose from them is going to keep you happy, dry, and warm throughout the winter. We go into the details in our in-depth review of the Sorel Joan of Arctic boots.

My father has owned his pair of Sorel Caribous since . I’ve never seen a winter without him wearing those boots—from New York to Colorado to Maine! In fact, many reviewers brought up family members having owned these boots for 15+ years, with the boots still going strong. 

The women’s version of the Caribou is just as warm and durable. These boots are rated by Sorel down to -40°F. The author can tell you they’re quite comfy down to at least -20°F. Three different Treeline Review testers can verify, having used the Sorel Caribou from Maine to Colorado to Washington.

The tread on the Caribous was one of the best grips on packed snow, while the felt cuff and mid-calf shaft kept the snow, slush, and puddles far away from reviewers’ feet. For these reasons, the Caribou boots won our award for best women’s winter boots for extreme cold. We go into the details in our in-depth review of the Sorel Caribou boots.

Insulation: 200 g Thinsulate
Shaft height: 9”
Temperature rating: Not stated
Waterproof: Yes
Footwear closure: Lace
Best for: Hiking, snowshoeing, working
What we liked: excellent traction on ice, excellent ankle support
What we didn’t like: can be hard to find this highly-demanded boot, sizing runs small, can feel too stiff for city use

If neither ice nor snow will keep you off the trails, these boots are for you. If ice just isn’t your thing walking into work, these are also your perfect boots. The Oboz Bridger 9” Insulated Winter Boots are undoubtedly a chilly winter hiker’s dream—and one we found useful for shoveling snow, walking the dog, and winter activities where good traction is essential.

Oboz is primarily a hiking boot and hiking shoe company, and you’ll see them in ourBest Hiking Boots andBest Hiking Shoes guide. To make their winter hiking boot, they took the design and technology and added extra height and insulation.

We chose the Oboz Bridger 9” as the best winter boots for hiking due to the excellent traction and grip that the Oboz Bridgers have on slippery, icy, and snowy surfaces. The Oboz Bridger is also our winner in our Best Winter Hiking Boots guide.

In testing, we found the Oboz Bridger is also incredibly warm — with 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation. With 3 mm thickness, that Thinsulate is more than enough insulation to keep even the coldest toes cozy. It’s also ringed by wool on the top. You may even find these boots too warm!

One potential ding against the Oboz Bridger is that it’s a stiffer boot than most hiking boots. (With the insulation, waterproof rubber, and waterproof nubuck leather, it’s not a crazy claim.) However, if ankle support is an important aspect of winter boots for you, the stiffness of the Oboz Bridger is actually a plus. They also provide great ankle support by lacing below and above the ankle — another perk of their height. 

Reviewers also warned that the Oboz Bridgers tend to run small, so sizing up a half size isn’t a bad idea. 

For more information, see our long-term review of the Oboz Bridger 9" Winter Boots.

Insulation: 200 g insulation, microfleece liner, faux fur collar
Shaft height: 10.2”
Temperature rating: -25F
Waterproof: No
Footwear closure: Lace
Best for: Around town, style
What we liked: style, price, enough warmth without being overkill
What we didn’t like: not the boots for the coldest climates, could have better traction

Want a warm winter boot that will keep out the snow without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Columbia Ice Maiden II. The Ice Maiden IIs can be found from $45 to 80, depending on which color you prefer. It’s one of the least expensive options anywhere—yet still managed to get good marks on all of our criteria for what to look for in a snow boot (see our standards below). There’s a reason why it’s a bestseller at Amazon for women’s mid-calf winter boots.

The price tag doesn’t compromise a lot. The Ice Maiden IIs have 200 grams of insulation, a microfleece liner, and a faux fur collar, as well as a waterproof suede and nylon upper. The sole is thick enough to keep out the cold without becoming overkill, too. While it’s not the warmest boot, nor the most rock-solid waterproof boot on the market, these are the boots to have on hand if you’re traveling to a ski resort for one a week each year or just want something simple and warm to keep you cozy while you’re running errands or walking the dog. 

The Ice Maiden IIs have been described as “true to size,” so unless you plan to wear oversized socks, stick to your street shoe size. There’s ample room to wiggle toes, which helps contribute to the warmth factor, too! There weren’t significant complaints about toe or heel rubbing.

The Ice Maiden II’s is a stiffer boot. It's not what we would take out for any major hikes but they are flexible and supportive enough for everyday outings. 

At 10” high, the Ice Maiden II’s are tall enough to keep out the majority of everyday snow piles and puddles. What moisture the height won’t catch, the faux fur ruff will. Without being too fluffy, the fur lining catches water and snow that might otherwise try to jump into your boot.

While the tread on the Ice Maiden IIs is up to the task of walking around town, these boots are not meant for extended forays in icy terrain.  Without deep tread, they’re not meant for big snowpacks and large swatches of ice. 

All in all, these boots can get the job done without going over budget. We think that’s a win-win. 

Insulation: 7 mm Neo-Tech
Shaft height: 13”
Temperature rating: -58F
Waterproof: Yes
Footwear closure: Pull-on
Best for: working, chores, running errands
What we liked: waterproof, mudproof, easy to put on and take off for working on a farm/in the yard/dog walks, arch support, and still warm in the negatives 
What we didn’t like: not a fashion statement, no handles to pull on

If you don’t want to deal with lacing up your boots every time you go outside in the dead of winter, these are your boots. The Bogs Classic Tall Work Boots are warm, waterproof, durable, and precisely what you want on your feet in harsh conditions. (Trust us—the author tested her pair on a night where the high reached -10℉ and the windchill felt like -30℉, standing by a fire truck in the dark. Her toes stayed warm.) 

Called the draft horse of the work boot and winter boot world for a reason, the Bogs Classic High Boots are far less of a fashion statement than the L.L.Bean Boots but infinitely more functional. (Think: functional enough for farmers in frigid Iowa to wear while doing chores to ensure they’re not going to get frostbitten. One tester does just that.)

Insulation: None (also available insulated)
Shaft height: 12” or 15”
Temperature rating: None stated
Waterproof: Yes
Footwear closure: Pull on
Best for: Working, chores, hiking, running errands
What we liked: waterproofness, durability, ease of walking, comfort, versatility, temperature and height adjustment with roll-top, arch support, excellent traction on slippery surfaces
What we didn’t like: not as warm as other boots (if your feet get cold, go for the insulated version)

The XTRATUF Legacies are the Alaskan staple that’s spread to the PNW to the rest of the world (I’ve seen them as far away as Japan).

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, steel toe, and non-insulated options available in a variety of patterns highlighting Alaskan women artists — these are the ultimate winter boots for those who live with heavy, wet, deep snow — especially along coastlines. That’s why it’s considered the unofficial footwear of Alaska.

The non-insulated options work well for those who run warm, for use in shoulder seasons, warmer winters, or for wet winter weather that’s above freezing. We wanted to find a good option for those who don’t want or need an insulated boot. And, we couldn’t leave out the author’s go-to winter and rain boot. (Seriously — I spend 200+ days a year in them.)

The author used to hike 4-8 miles every day in them, 5 days a week. If you plan to wear thicker socks with the Legacies, then stick with your true street size. For best fit, we recommend going down about a half size. (The author generally wears a 9-9.5, and wears a 9 in Xtra Tufs.) 

Another perk on the XTRATUF is that they are designed for use when walking on slippery decks. The slip resistant chevron rubber sole has unbelievable traction. We tested by soaping up a linoleum floor and were, well, floored by how well they kept us in place (don’t try this at home). 

The Legacies are also acid chemical resistant and Viral Penetration Resistant per ASTM F / FM - 13. That’s why these boots not only make a statement, but are a solid workboot, too.

The XTRATUF Legacy is the overall winner in our Best Women's Rain Boots guide and Best Men's Rain Boots guides. For more information, see our long-term review of the XTRATUF Legacy Boot.

Insulation: KEEN.WARM recycled PET insulation
Shaft height: Over the ankle, mid-calf
Temperature rating: -25F
Waterproof: Yes
Footwear closure: Lace
Best for: hiking, work
What we liked: works for wide feet but also can work for narrower feet without sizing up, ankle support, insulation, Leather Working Group certified, warmth
What we didn’t like: narrow-footed people may find the fit sloppy

The Keen Revel IV Polar boots were made with wide feet in mind, which, for those who need the extra space, these boots are a godsend. They’re our winner for Best Winter Boot for Wide Feet for a reason—if you’ve tried other winter boots and didn’t find they couldn’t accommodate your sturdy podiatry (or worked well with winter-appropriate thick socks), these are the boots for you!

Those of us with a wider footprint need effective, warm, and durable footwear, too. Wide-foot testers were 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 Keen Revel IV Polar boots stood the test of time for waterproofness, ankle support, and winter-worthy insulation (200 grams of it, to be exact). With waterproof leather exteriors that lend style and support and nylon panels to add flexibility, these boots are best known for their KeenDry technology — brushed polyester linings wick sweat away and allow for breathability while still keeping water out.

We love that Keen works with tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group, ensuring that their leather comes from tanners using a closed-loop system that reduces water use and energy use—completely eliminating wastewater pollution from an otherwise dirty tanning system. 

For warmth, they sport that oh-so-toasty 200 grams of KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable polyester insulation that Keen rates down to -25°F during active use, comfortably. This insulation is actually made from environmentally friendly charcoal and bamboo, too. The Eco Anti-Odor natural odor control in the toes doesn’t hurt, either.

The compression-molded EVA midsole provides shock absorption and cushioning and the internal shank gives comfortable support for long days walking around on the ice, snow, or slush.

Insulation: Uninsulated
Shaft height: 5.5"
Temperature rating: Not stated
Waterproof: Yes
Footwear closure: Slip-on
Best for: Around town, chores, commuting, work
What we liked: comfort, lightweight, 5,000 mile warranty, works well for people who use zero drop footwear
What we didn't like: sizing up necessary

Many runners and hikers that wear zero drop trail running shoes find traditional winter hiking boots to be uncomfortable.

At the request of readers, we searched for a zero drop winter boot that had style and found the Xero Shoes Ridgeway Chelsea. With a wide toe box and full-grain leather uppers that wear to the shape of your feet, zero drop testers consistently reach for these over other winter boots. The Ridgeway Chelsea is easy-to-slip on and comfortable for people with wide feet or who just want their toes to spread out. Plus, they're among the lightest boots we tested at 1 lb 6 oz per pair. 

Are you interested in learning more about eva winter boots? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Can I use my hiking boots in the winter?

While hiking boots can do in a pinch, most aren’t insulated like a winter boot. Hiking boots can have great tread and be waterproof, but are they what you want to wear when you have to shovel out the neighborhood after a blizzard? Probably not. For starters, they might not have the insulation that you want as protection against all of that snow you’re shoveling. Or the tread might be great for dirt and rock but not for ice. Above all, your hiking boots just might not be tall enough to keep the snow from falling into your socks, which nobody wants.

While hiking boots will do in a pinch (say, a snowstorm in South Florida?), anyone planning for multiple days of snow per season should also plan on owning a pair of winter boots.

In some parts of the world, you may only need waterproof protection or the lightest bit of insulation. Maybe you only need winter boots for 3 days every year. (Looking at you, Tennessee.) In other parts — like Japan, Vermont, Utah, or Austria — you might need winter boots with insulation (or height to clear those snowdrifts) for 6 months of the year. We have options for all of these scenarios! 

Are winter boots good for hiking?

Some winter boots can be! To work well as hiking boots, you want your winter boots to have great tread, ankle support, and flexibility. Check out our winners for Best Winter Boots for Traction, Best Pull-On Boots and Best Pull-On Uninsulated.

If you mostly hike in summer but may do a hike in winter, you may not want to dish out for a winter hiking boot. If that’s the case, choose a waterproof hiking boot from our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots or Best Hiking Boots guide. These won’t have the insulation but should be able to keep your feet dry.

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 the author is a big fan of ski socks for most of her winter activities (like the merino wool Icebreaker Ski+ socks), thick, cushioned socks like the REI Co-op Merino Wool Expedition Hiking Crew Socks have served me well in subzero temperatures when paired with a good winter boot. You can also pair your winter boots with a Ski Sock or Hiking Socks, but don’t expect either option to be quite as warm.

Proper care can extend the life of your winter boots and keep them performing through seasons of snow, slush, and salt. Here’s how to get the most out of your boots:

Clean regularly: After each use, especially in wet or muddy conditions, wipe off any dirt and salt with a damp cloth. For tougher stains or buildup, use a gentle brush and mild soap solution, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage materials.

Dry carefully: Avoid placing boots near direct heat sources like radiators or fireplaces, which can warp materials and weaken adhesives. Instead, let them air dry at room temperature, stuffing them with newspaper to absorb excess moisture.

Replace liners and insoles: If your boots come with removable liners or insoles, check them periodically for signs of wear. Replacing these parts when they lose their shape or insulation can breathe new life into your boots without needing a complete replacement.

Store properly: When the snows melt, and it’s time to start thinking about flip-flops, make sure that your boots are clean and completely dry. Putting your winter boots away wet enables mold and bacteria to grow during the warmer months. Ideally, wrapping them up and storing them in a clean, dry box for the summer is the best practice. 

If you’re like me and don’t have my storage on lock (aka under your bed is your only storage), wrapping them in a garbage bag also works well. Just be sure they have had a chance to completely dry beforehand. 

Store your boots in a cool, dry place during the off-season. Avoid tight spaces or piling heavy items on top, which can crush the shape.

A little maintenance goes a long way in preserving the warmth, waterproofing, and comfort of your winter boots, ensuring they’re ready to handle whatever winter throws your way.

Can you put winter boots in the washing machine and dryer?

Short answer? No. Winter boots are not meant to be tossed around or fully submerged in water, so putting them in the washing machine or dryer is a bad idea. 

For more suggestions, see our story on Cleaning, Care, and Maintenance for Outdoor Gear.

Like jackets, bibs, and gloves, your boots might eventually wear out their waterproofness. To keep the water-repellent properties of your boots strong, prep them with a waterproofing wax (we love Nikwax and Sno Seal!) before the first snow of the season. (Think of it like putting snow tires on your car before the roads get icy.)

Before applying any waterproofing substances, you should make sure that your boots are clean and dry.

Once your boots are clean, use a hairdryer (or set them near a wood stove, if you’re old-school!) to warm up everything above the sole. If you choose a Nikwax product, they advise that you do not warm your boots before or after applying the wax (room temperature is ideal).

If you’re applying Sno Seal, however, they recommend warming your boots up to 120 °F, maximum (or to your comfort level as you’re handling the boots). Note: DO NOT PUT YOUR BOOTS IN THE OVEN!

With a clean rag, coat and rub as much of the waterproofing wax into your boots as you can. Concentrate on seams and high-use areas (like under the laces or by the zipper, if your boots have those), as these are the most likely to lose their waterproofing. Wipe off excess wax with a clean rag and buff off any remaining wax. Let it sit overnight for best results, but if you’re in a hurry to head outside, you’ll still be covered! 

Buying advice

Warmth

Look for boots that match your climate needs. Insulated boots with materials like wool or Thinsulate are ideal for very cold areas, while non-insulated options work for milder winters. If unsure, check our "Should I Get Insulated or Non-Insulated Boots?" section to find the right fit.

As the biggest differentiation between hiking boots and winter boots, we looked at reviews for the best insulated and non-insulated boots to make sure that your toes would stay toasty in all sorts of winter weather. 

Tread

The best winter boots had good tread for ice, snow, slush, and a mixture in between. Good traction is vital for icy or snowy terrain. Winter boots with deep lugs and durable rubber soles offer grip on slippery surfaces. 

Waterproofing

To keep feet dry in snow or slush, prioritize boots with quality waterproofing materials like Gore-Tex or waterproof-treated leather. We dove into the waterproofness of each boot to make sure that, not only was the waterproofing system used effective, but that it lasted longer than the first snow day. Be aware that waterproofing wears down, so reapply waterproofing treatments seasonally. Check out our section on how to waterproof your boots, just in case you start to feel some snow leaking in.

Fit

Since every foot is unique, comfort is key. Choose boots with positive reviews for fit, and consider sock thickness. We looked for boots that were comfortable, didn’t produce blisters, weren’t too heavy or clunky, and worked well with different thicknesses of socks. Heavier boots can be uncomfortable, so ensure they're cushioned and fit well without causing blisters. For more help, refer to our How Should My Boots Fit? section.

Height 

While most people are looking for mid-calf or higher winter boots, some just want to make sure their ankles are covered. Decide on a boot height that suits your needs—higher boots offer more protection from snow but might be warmer and heavier. Low ankle boots work better for lighter snow and city use. Match boot height with your sock length for optimal comfort. The height of your boot should match the height of your socks, so consider that when purchasing the two together.

Breathability

Winter boots often sacrifice breathability for warmth. If you tend to overheat or wear them indoors, look for options with removable liners or breathable materials like wool, which regulates temperature while providing insulation. Some boots balance both; see our picks for breathable options.

From there, we took to our own testing—from Alaska to Colorado to New York to Maine.

We tested the best boots for icy conditions, wet conditions, snowy conditions, and extreme cold conditions that were comfortable, provided good arch support, and were waterproof. We also wanted to find high-quality, durable materials without breaking the bank. 

We narrowed our criteria to meet five main themes: warmth, tread, waterproofness, fit, and height.

Our winners met all of our basic criteria. Then, we judged each pair of boots relative to its own specific criteria. For example, for the Best Budget Boots, they needed to be warm, comfortable, over the ankle, and reasonably durable at an affordable price. Our Best Traction and Ankle Support Boots had to have great ankle and arch support, combined with a killer tread for icy conditions. We also wanted to provide options for the Best Pull-On Boots in both insulated and non-insulated options and present the pros and cons of both.

Do you want to wear your boots in snowshoes?

Boots with solid ankle support and a secure fit will work best with snowshoes. For hiking-only use, you might get away with lighter boots, but for snowshoeing, prioritize boots that won’t slide around or loosen under the straps. 

Look for boots stuffed with super warm insulation and are designed to keep you dry and warm. Know basic snowshoeing skills before you head out.

Do you live somewhere with extremely cold weather?  

There are good options for extremely cold weather, depending on what style you’re looking for, and what you want to do. If you’re worried about fashion choices, then check out our overall winner or our Best for Walking Around Town boot (an insulated pair of Bean Boots might just do the trick!). But if your feet get extremely cold, our Best for Extreme Cold boots would be a better option. 

Whatever you choose, opt for boots with substantial insulation, like thick fleece or synthetic fibers designed for sub-zero temperatures. Waterproofing is also key to keep feet dry in heavy snow and slush.

Do you walk through heavy or wet snow?

Choose boots with reliable waterproofing, such as sealed seams and water-resistant materials like rubber or treated leather. For very cold areas, insulated waterproof boots are ideal, while for milder wet conditions, non-insulated waterproof options can be effective.

Do you have a lot of snow in your area?

A taller boot shaft will help keep deep snow out. Look for boots that rise to at least mid-calf, with sealed seams and a snug top closure to prevent snow from entering.

Do your feet get cold easily?

Boots with thick insulation, like wool or synthetic fills, are your best bet if you tend to get cold. Choose a boot designed to retain heat in frigid conditions, and consider wearing thicker socks for extra warmth.

Do your feet overheat easily?

Non-insulated boots or those with minimal insulation will allow for better airflow. Breathable materials like felt or wool liners can help regulate temperature while still providing some warmth for moderate winter days.

Are you traveling somewhere cold for vacation?

A budget-friendly, lightweight boot that offers reliable warmth and waterproofing is ideal for short-term use. Prioritize a pair that won’t take up too much luggage space and provides enough insulation for a week or two of winter wear.

Do you need extra ankle or arch support?

Look for winter boots with reinforced ankle padding and a contoured insole. Boots designed for extended wear often have better arch support and more stability for uneven surfaces.

Do you want a more fashionable winter boot?

Stylish winter boots that combine functionality with design are perfect for around-town use. Look for options with faux-fur trim, streamlined silhouettes, and a comfortable fit that doesn’t sacrifice warmth.

Do you want a winter boot for outdoor work?

Durable, easy-to-pull-on boots with good insulation are great for outdoor work. Prioritize rugged materials like rubber and leather, as well as reinforced soles and waterproofing to handle long hours in snow and cold.

It’s an much asked question—do I need insulated winter boots or will uninsulated waterproof boots work for me? Here’s 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?

REI’s article, Best Winter Boots, linked out to a great article explaining why women tend to have colder feet than men. (We found another article that doesn’t make you pay to read it.) But it’s scientific; women’s body temperatures tend to run higher than men’s. While you’d think we’d feel warmer because of that, the opposite is true. When you’re used to being warm, your body feels temperature differences more acutely. 

Insulation like Thinsulate, 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. 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?

As an Alaska resident, I’ve known cold. And I’ve known rain. Sometimes those two things coincided, with 40-degree deluges instead of nice fluffy snow in 30-degree weather. Sometimes, all I need is a winter snow 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-degree 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 degree, 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. 

Muck Boots vs. Bogs

One of the biggest questions from reviewers was, “Why Mucks over Bogs?” 

Our research shows that Muck Boots have more reviews overall and more positive reviews for the Muck Boot Arctic Sport II’s when it comes to using in harsh winter conditions. Then Arctic Sport II’s rubber soles are thicker than Bogs, insulating you more effectively from the cold ground. However, Bogs Classics have more neoprene insulation (7mm of it, to be exact), which makes them thinner, lighter, and easier to maneuver in. That’s why in our latest round of testing, we opted for the Bogs over the Muck Boots.

Ultimately, it’s a personal preference and somewhat of a regional preference (some people are die-hard Bogs fans, some Muckboot fans). Our best advice is to choose the boots for your needs and that fit in with your locale.

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 4 of the 6 chosen boots, I can safely say that I know what works — and what doesn’t. 

You can read all stories by Josette at her author page.

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.

Spending 3 years in volunteer fire departments in Alaska and Maine have sent me out on 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.

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