The 6 Best Winter Snow Boots for Women and Men in 2024

We found the best snow boots, sure to keep you warm and comfortable in any winter weather.

Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.

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It’s that time of year again: Wet pavement, packed snow, slush. Wherever you are, you’re probably not exempt from winter weather, and the right cold-weather gear makes all the difference, whether you’re outside using snow removal tools and laying ice melt, running to the store or just trying to enjoy the crisp outdoors.

“Snow boots have some insulation and usually more coverage over the toe and top of the foot of impermeable material (often rubber) than a normal hiking or fashion boot,” says REI Product Information Specialist, Ingrid Johnson. That said, coverage isn’t the only thing to keep an eye out for.

“Please keep in mind that there is no industry standard for temperature ratings on footwear. Your circulation, sock choice, other layers, moisture and activity level all determine the comfort range in a boot,” she continues. “Remember to size up enough to fit warmer, bulkier socks. If you are crowded in a snow boot it can reduce circulation and make you colder.”

1 / 6

If you’re in a place with moderate to heavy snow, the Sorel Caribous are the best boots to stay warm in winter. The seriously warm style is made to endure wet, slushy messes. Plus, we love the way they look with a sherpa cuff, waterproof nubuck leather upper and lugged rubber sole. The boots even have removable insulation, so you can adjust them depending on the temperature.

Pros

  • Warm and waterproof
  • Stylish leather and sherpa detailing
  • Made to last

Cons

  • Some find the fit heavy

2 / 6

The Kamik Iceland boots are a more affordable, sportier alternative to the Sorel Caribous. They have all the features necessary to earn best boots-status: Insulation, waterproof exterior, rubber soles and even leather uppers as a stylish bonus. The Icelands are work boots designed for outdoor play and stay comfortable down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit—so you can wear them snowmobiling and ice fishing.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Sporty and stylish design
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • A bit bulky
  • Some reviewers report a tight fit at the top

3 / 6

Best Rubber Snow Boots

Muck Boot Arctic Ice 

Traverse slippery surfaces, wet ice and snow-covered walkways in the Muck Arctic Ice boots. The all-terrain grip provides advanced traction so you won’t worry about loosing your footing. The waterproof exterior has a thick rubber coating from top to toe to repel liquids (it also makes it easy to wipe them down).

A cozy fleece lining adds extra warmth for extreme conditions, and an anti-microbial footbed insert helps with odor control and moisture management. Add even more warmth to your ensemble with a self-heating jacket or heated vest.

Pros

  • 100 percent waterproof
  • Easy to clean
  • Advanced traction
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Pricey

4 / 6

Best Snow Boots for Hiking

Xpeti Thermator

The Xpeti Thermators sport a similar construction to regular hiking boots, but they’re designed specifically for winter trails. A comfortable padded insole offers shock-absorbing cushioning, while a waterproof mesh construction keeps feet dry and cool.

The rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs provides a higher traction grip to suit any outdoor terrain. With 200 grams of insulation, your feet stay warm in temperatures as low as -13 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros

  • Waterproof with an optimal grip for hiking trails
  • Durable
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not designed for deep snow
  • Reviewers suggest choosing a half-size up than your normal size

5 / 6

Best Tall Snow Boots

L.L.Bean Lacrosse Alphaburly Boots

This L.L.Bean pick combines the waterproof performance of a rubber boot with the agility of an athletic shoe. The active fit makes them easy to put on, and a kick-off heel plate allows for quick hands-free removal—important features for a tall boot. Plus, neoprene insulation provides warmth in the snow or rain, and a quick-drying moisture-wicking jersey knit liner keeps feet dry and comfortable.

Pros

  • Easy to pull-on and quick hands-free removal
  • Completely waterproof
  • Adjustable gusset at the top fits any size calf
  • Durable

Cons

  • Heavy

6 / 6

Best Snow Boots for Extreme Cold

Baffin Impact Winter Boots

Baffin Impacts are the best snow boots for extremely bitter conditions. Breathable open-cell foam provides warmth, while hollow fiber insulation traps air to maintain a constant temperature. The rugged nylon upper features dual buckle closures and a drawstring top for a snug fit that keeps the elements out.

A thermoplastic rubber outsole remains flexible even in frigid climates. With a -148 degrees Fahrenheit comfort rating, these kicks are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or construction pros.

Pros

  • Extremely warm
  • Supreme traction in slush and snow
  • Heat-reflective fabric
  • Drawstring top

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Bulky and heavy

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m an Associate Shopping Editor at Family Handyman with expertise in interior design, home decor, gardening and outdoor trends.

Emily Way is an Associate Shopping Editor for Family Handyman with experience researching products and recommending the best designs to consumers. She researched and updated this piece. Way consulted REI Product Information Specialist, Ingrid Johnson, for information on what makes a quality snow boot.

How We Chose the Best Snow Boots

At The Family Handyman, we’re not just accustomed to the snow—we thrive in it. We have years of experience climbing, trotting and hiking through snow, especially those of us in the bitter Midwest. That’s why we’re well acquainted with a number of the best snow boots already. We combed through the most popular styles, isolating those that we feel are truly the best of the best.

To ensure we’re on the right track, we enlisted the help of a bonafide boot expert. We learned exactly what makes a superior chilly weather boot, from materials to weight and durability.

FAQ

What material is best for snow boots?

According to Johnson, these are the most common snow boot materials and their benefits:

  • Leather uppers stitched to rubber soles tend to be more durable than synthetic uppers, especially when the material layers are only glued together. Leather can absorb water in heavy wet snow and be slower to dry. Depending on use and proper care, leather boots will last through many seasons.
  • Neoprene-lined muck boots are excellent for a combination of mud and wet snow, as they can easily be wiped down and they do not absorb water from the outside. They can get warm, so it is good to change socks throughout the day if you will be wearing them for long periods. They are great for daily use for tasks such as shoveling, splitting firewood and walking the dog. Depending on use and proper care, Neoprene will last through a few seasons.
  • Fabric uppers are lighter and breathe better than either leather or neoprene but can also absorb water and tend not to be as warm. Depending on use and proper care, boots with fabric uppers will last through many seasons.
  • Thicker insoles made of cork or felt help with poor circulation or during extreme cold. Insulation under the foot is as important as over the foot, as you lose a lot of heat to cold ground especially when standing still.

Are snow boots heavy?

There is a range of weight and warmth in snow boots, according to Johnson. What you choose will depend on the temperature range you are expecting and how aerobic your activity will be.

“You would choose a lighter boot for snowshoeing several miles as opposed to standing still birdwatching or watching sporting events at the same temperatures. You would choose heavier boots for temperatures in the single digits and teens than for temperatures in the 20s and 30s, even for the same activity,” she says.

Mary Henn
Mary Henn, MFA is an Associate Shopping Editor at Family Handyman. She’s also a national award-winning writer and journalist. Her expertise lies in interior design, home decor, gardening and outdoor trends. When she’s not working on the latest content at FHM, you can find her reading poetry or hiking with her dog, Henry.