20 Best Winter Boots for Women: Casual to Stylish Wear

Shopping ahead for Christmas? Why not check out this thoroughly selected list of the top 20 best winter and snow boots for women?

It’s winter and you’re looking for a new pair of boots. You want something that will keep your feet warm, but you also want to look cute.

Christmas is just around the corner, so what’s more fitting an addition to your closet than winter shoes. Not only can they protect your feet, but snow boots are also a fashion choice more well-rounded than any other piece of accessory or clothing.

You can wear them in any situation – whether strolling through snow-covered streets or chilling by a fireplace. Good winter boots should be both cute AND cozy, so the question of style or substance won’t bother you at all!

Women’s winter boots are most commonly categorized by the height of their shaft. There are ankle boots, mid-calf boots, knee-high boots, and over-the-knee boots. As for their protection level, every boot we cover today should offer you sufficient warmth and comfort in many situations.

So buckle up as we go through my personal favorite women’s winter boots of 2021!

What Are The Best Winter Boots for Women?

With the wide assortment of women’s snow boots on the market today, choosing something that’s the right personal fit might seem too overwhelming.

If Sorel is best known for its stylish but sturdy snow boots with extra protection, Columbia’s boots offer many unique designs with some of the comfiest material you can find.

To give you a quick rundown of the top 20 best winter boots for women in this article:

Best Overall: AU&MU AUN728107U4 Sheepskin Knee-High Winter Boots

“Highly fashionable, authentic shearling, breathable wool, close-fitting.”

Picked for Casual Wear: UGG 1016555 Women’s Classic Cardy

“Convenient wooden buttons, comfy knitted material, easy. to clean and store”

Good Tall Winter Boots: Sorel 1708791 Joan Of Arctic Boot

“Fully waterproof, fit wider calf sizes, replaceable fur lining”

Good for Plantar Fasciitis: Columbia 1554031 Minx Mid II Omni-Heat Boot

“Lightweight and flexible, slip-resistant bottom, removable arch support pieces.”

Good Premium Leather Winter Boots: Columbia 1554171 Ice Maiden II Boot

“Sealed membrane construction, good traction, a wide array of color combinations.”

Good for Narrow Feet: Koolaburra by UGG 1015874 Victoria Short Boot

“Dyed sheepskin, feminine style, spacious collar, budget-friendly.”

Good Extra Warm Winter boots: Columbia 1702881 Heavenly Omni-HEAT Snow Boots

“High-quality fabric, faux fur lining, lightweight and stylish, extra collar protection.”

Good Winter Boots Made In America: BearPaw Isabella Snow Boot

“Flexible laces, great ankle support, can accommodate orthotics”

Good for Extreme Weather: Sorel 1855081 Carnival Waterproof Boot

“Dry quickly, washable inner linings, fully adjustable laces, recycled insulation lining.”

Pick for Arch Support: Kamik NK2350 Momentum Snow Boot

“Warm and breathable, can be worn while driving, maximum slip prevention.”

Good Slip-on Winter Boots: Sperry STS91176 Women’s Saltwater Boots

“Flexible lacing scheme, micro-fleece interior, side zippers for convenient on/off.”

Best for Fashion: GlobalWin GW-W1910-1-SZ-5.5 Waterproof Winter Snow Boots

“High and flexible tongue, unique seasonal look, generous space in the front toe area.”

Good for Side Zippers: Polar Thermal Outdoor Mid-Calf Boot

“Comfy for long walks, quick to put on, compatible with waterproof sprays.”

Good for Wide Feet: Polar Nylon Tall Snow Boot

“Extremely waterproof, adjustable calf area, various material & color.”

Good Waterproof: Dream Pairs DD-1-B1-MONTE_01-BEIGE_WHITE-SZ-05 Mid-Calf Winter Boots

“Good in thick snow, extra wind-resistant, can be adjusted for a looser fit.”

Good Mid-Calf Winter Boots: The North Face NF0A3MKR Shellista II Tall

“Easy to lace and tighten, strong toe area, no need for extra waterproofing.”

Good for Walking: STQ Combat Lace-up Ankle Booties

“Suitable for all occasions, 100% vegan material, support orthotics.”

Good Short Winter Boots: DKSUKO Classic Waterproof Snow Boots

“Breathable interior, convenient slip-on design, easy to clean PVC material.”

Good for Wide Calf: Dream Pairs B00YJIODN4 Fur Lined Knee High Boots

“Runway inspired aesthetic, easily cleaned, can accommodate wide calf sizes.”

Best for Budget: Harence Anti-Slip Ankle Boots

“Lace-up design, simple but feminine, well-made sewn details, anti-slip flat sole.”

Best Winter Boots for Women – Comparison Chart

Before going into each product carefully, let’s go through some basic information that you can refer to when choosing your favorite winter boots for women from the list below:

Top 20 Best Winter Boots for Women Reviews 2021

Now that you’ve had a general idea of how the winter boots for women are different, let’s deep-dive into each of them’s detailed features. Take a look:

Best Overall: AU&MU Sheepskin Knee-High Winter Boots

Key features

• Authentic sheepskin and fur
• Hook-and-loop fasteners
• 0.67 inches of memory latex sole

Product specs

Dimensions	16.8 x 13.4 x 4.4 inches
Weight	3.28 lbs
Material	Shearling & Fur
Colors	6 options
Origin	Australia

With merino sheepskin lined in, these boots will keep you warm and toasty from heel to toe during winter walks around town. The fur can absorb up to 30% water so the boots are safely snow-proof.

Don’t worry about stuffiness either because the air-permeable material allows for constant ventilation.

They come in a multitude of colors and patterns, so feel free to choose a pair that best suits your fashion taste. If you’re a sucker for dainty accessories, the beaded pendants are a unique addition that you don’t want to skip out on.

Best for Casual Wear: UGG Women’s Classic Cardy

Key features

• Fully knitted wool upper
• Made from European sheep fur
• Wooden buttons for easy closure
• Foldable shaft for desirable style

Product specs

Dimensions	14 x 12 x 6 inches
Weight	3.28 lbs
Material	Textile/Sheep fur
Colors	3 options
Origin	USA/ UK/ Spain/ Ireland/ Australia

We certainly can’t make a list of winter boots for women without mentioning UGG’s Classic Cardy boots with an everyday classy appearance that is compatible with any casual clothes.

Produced with great care by skilled professionals, these boots are designed to last long while being completely flexible.

The new Treadlite lineup from UGG offers much better traction and all-around functionality. The innovative cushioning means the interior does not get flattened easily and will support your feet for a long time to come.

The wool material lets your feet breathe fine when you sit in the office or at home while bringing the utmost comfort.

Best Tall Winter Boots: SOREL Joan Of Arctic Boot

Key features

• Waterproof fur and leather
• Removable inner coating
• Handcrafted rubber outsole
• Shaft height approximately 13 inches

Product specs

Dimensions	16 x 14 x 6 inches
Weight	16 oz
Material	Synthetic fur/ Leather
Colors	8 options
Origin	Canada

To understand more about sorel brand, you can check this article about “Where are Sorel boots made?“

If you are looking for something that can keep you warm even when standing knee-deep in the snow, these tall Joan of Arctic boots are just what you need. The extremely well-insulated interior makes sure you stay cozy from heel to toe!

The materials are carefully selected to safely fend off the elements without being too heavy-duty. Although the firmness of the rubber material might feel a bit awkward on your feet at first, the arches are easily broken in and you’ll get used to them in no time.

What’s more, these boots are true to size but can also accommodate thick socks if you want that extra warmth and comfort, or simply afraid of getting blisters.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: COLUMBIA Minx Mid II Omni-Heat Boot

Key features

• Removable arch support pieces
• State-of-the-art fraction soles
• Thermal reflective insulation

Product specs

Dimensions	14 x 14 x 5 inches
Weight	13.2 oz
Material	Woven synthetic fabric/Fur insulation
Colors	2 options
Origin	Imported

If you have sensitive heels or if you are a victim of plantar fasciitis, check out this pair of supple, physically accommodating and well-rounded fabric boots. The bottom soles and inner linings are built to cushion your feet on any terrain.

Put together in a geo-quilted design, these boots will keep your feet warm without needing excessive layers. Plus, the material is so flexible and breathable that it will feel like wearing sneakers – water-proof sneakers, no less!

Furthermore, the ghillie lacing is easily adjusted so that you can tuck your pant legs inside at any time. These boots are a must-have if you enjoy strolling under the snow or a light rain shower.

Best Premium Leather Winter Boots: COLUMBIA Ice Maiden II Boot

Key features

• Sealed membrane construction
• Efficient heat retention
• Rubber sole built with Omni-Grip material

Product specs

Dimensions	14 x 11 x 5 inches
Weight	1.2 lbs
Material	Leather/ Textile/ Fur insulation
Colors	7 options
Origin	Imported

If you’re a fan of the premium leather aesthetic is fully functional accessories, pick up a pair of Ice Maiden mid-calf boots for yourself today!

With satisfyingly lined fur, the shaft will hug nicely around your calves without irritating the skin. And, like many of Columbia’s excellent products, they are crafted with advanced traction technology that allows you to tread through the stormiest of weather.

Even if you just happen to live at the foot of a snowy mountain, you can trust these Ice Maiden boots to help you get through your daily goings-on, and look absolutely charming while at it!

Best For Narrow Feet: KOOLABURRA by UGG Victoria Short Boot

Key features

• Dyed sheepskin
• Synthetic sole
• Molded EVA outsole

Product specs

Dimensions	14 x 11 x 5 inches
Weight	15.4 oz
Material	Leather
Colors	3 options
Origin	Australia

Probably among the most fashionable choices in today’s list, Koolaburra’s short boots stand out with sewn-on bows and adorned with fuzzy padding.

With soles built for both walking on snow, grass, and concrete, you can put on these adorable snow boots anywhere, anytime, with any choice of pants or dresses.

The fixed opening circumference actually measures up to 14 inches so your lower calves can slide in with ease. The toe area is soft and spacious to fit various shapes of feet.

What’s more, the authentic cow suede forms a simple yet tender silhouette, available in a palette of colors for you to choose. The best part is that the fur goes all the way to the tips of your toes so they’re as comfy as wearing indoor slippers!

Best Extra Warm Boots: COLUMBIA Heavenly Omni-HEAT Snow Boots

Key features

• High-quality fabric
• Removable inner lining
• Thermal reflective material
• Advanced traction technology

Product specs

Dimensions	14 x 14 x 5 inches
Weight	15 oz
Material	Synthetic fabric/ Fur insulation
Colors	2 options
Origin	China/ Vietnam

True to its name, the Heavenly Omni-Heat snow boot offers a blissful and toasty wearing experience. The advanced heat retention technology allows the sealed membrane to keep your feet extra warm, while the permeable fabric still wicks away moisture.

Additionally, the boots are built with high-quality craftsmanship that ensures they offer great protection while not being obtrusive to your daily activities. They will wrap gently around your calves and feel light as a feather.

Plus, the fur collar prevents snow from falling in even if you don’t tighten the laces. It’s like a sanctum around your calves and feet!

Best Winter Boots Made In America: BEARPAW Isabella Snow Boot

Key features

• Reinforced gusset
• Metallic lace holders
• Authentic wool lining

Product specs

Dimensions	9.5 x 4 x 6 inches
Weight	3.81 lbs
Material	Leather
Colors	4 options
Origin	USA

If you’re looking for an affordable and well-balanced option, these dapper contemporary boots might just be the thing. Bearpaw’s Isabella snow boots are manufactured in the US with all the high-quality components found in the land of freedom.

Featuring quilted textile lined in with mixed wool and sheepskin, the material is thick enough to keep you warm and thin enough to let your skin breathe without effort.

Further down the heel, the lightweight molded rubber sole offers satisfactory comfort while walking. The BearPaw brand also provides timely customer service, so pop in to have your rivets reinforced in no time!

Best for Extreme Weather: SOREL Carnival Waterproof Boot

Key features

• Lace-up shaft design
• Faux shearling snow cuff
• Insulation lining made from recycled material

Product specs

Package dimensions	12.9 x 12.2 x 6.35 inches
Weight	1.38 lbs
Material	Nylon
Colors	Various
Origin	USA or imported

Another excellent choice from Sorel’s collection, these nylon boots feature a thick and comfy midsole made of bonded felt.

Don’t underestimate the thin-layered upper – they are perfectly able to keep your feet from getting wet with seam-sealed construction. The herringbone outsole is handcrafted to prevent sliding on frosty surfaces.

The sewn-on lace holder pieces with metal rings give the boots a sporty touch while still looking sturdy and dependable.

Best for Arch Support: KAMIK Momentum Snow Boot

Key features

• Northern-inspired look
• Intricately embossed lace holders
• Temperature rating -25F

Product specs

Dimensions	15 x 14 x 6 inches
Weight	1.3 lbs
Material	Synthetic
Colors	Various
Origin	Imported

Built specifically for icy and snowy areas, Kamik’s Momentum Snow Boots provide reliable foot, ankle, and arch support. The grippy rubber treads are as strong as the hooves of mountain goats.

The manufacturer uses the very lightweight but effective Thinsulate brand insulation for this model to ensure comfort and warmth like no other. Faux fur collars are pretty much a standard feature in mid-calf snow boots, and these furs certainly do not let up.

Whether you like mild or vibrant colors, Kamik Momentum snow boots have got you covered. Even their soles come in various shades for you to pick!

Best Slip-on Winter Boots: Sperry Women’s Saltwater Boots

Key features

• Anti-rust metal eyelets
• Rawhide lacing
• Slightly elevated heel
• Circumference measures approximately 6.75”

Product specs

Dimensions	5 x 5 x 5 inches
Weight	1.19 lbs
Material	Fleece/ Leather
Colors	Various
Origin	China

With simple yet super effective weatherproof construction, these convenient slip-on Sperry Saltwater short boots can combat both your typical winter snow and excessive rain.

Sperry’s signature bottom sole with wave-like patterns gives the best grip on both wet and dry ground. The untanned skin lacing goes all the way above your ankle to protect against droplets – they will literally roll like water off a duck’s back!

In addition to the flexible lacing scheme, the side zipper gives more firmness to the whole upper so they would not come loose during your daily activities.

The whole upper of these boots is also waterproof, from the rubber toe guard to the leather front. Their interior is lined with micro-fleece and reinforced with extra cushioning at the sole area, all for you to enjoy a dry and cozy wearing experience.

Best for Fashion: GLOBALWIN Waterproof Winter Snow Boots

Key features

• PU and textile upper
• Thick knitted collar
• Fixed insulation layer
• Diverse plaid patterns

Product specs

Package dimensions	11.2 x 10.7 x 3.9 inches
Shipping weight	2.2 lbs
Material	Italian Faux Leather
Colors	Various
Origin	N/a

Cozy, chic, and lightweight, Globalwin’s Waterproof Boot is the very definition of girl’s fashion winter boots. The design is so slick that you can wear them with literally anything for a leisure stroll.

Featuring premium waterproof leather, they can keep the interior dry even after you jump around in puddles – if you want to do that for some reason. And the collar made from knitted wool is completely washable.

To top it off, these boots are extremely accommodating for all calf sizes thanks to the adjustable lacing scheme. With these stunning snow boots, you won’t need to think twice about outdoor elements when going out!

Best for Side Zippers: POLAR Thermal Outdoor Mid-Calf Boot

Key features

• Welted upper for extreme durability
• Fully covered insides
• Zippers bend and fit smoothly

Product specs

Dimensions	9 x 2 x 9 inches
Weight	2.4 lbs
Material	Synthetic/Rubber
Colors	18 options
Origin	N/a

Tired of tying and untying your boot laces every time you go out? Why not try these thermal boots with handy zippers? They are solidly sewn along the sides to help you secure the boots quickly without adjusting them to fit.

The fleece lining covers the entire inside of the boots to give the utmost comfort whether you’re snowboarding or just going out for groceries. The sturdily constructed bottom soles ensure effortless movements on both solid ground and squishy snow.

If you’re still not convinced, these Polar boots also offer a great variety of upper materials, from authentic hide to cardy to faux fur for all your tasteful choices!

Best for Wide Feet: POLAR Nylon Tall Snow Boot

Key features

• Interior fully covered
• Collar lined with soft fur
• Highlighted white outsole

Product specs

Dimensions	15.7 x 11.4 x 4 inches
Weight	2.2 lbs
Material	Synthetic
Colors	Various
Origin	N/a

Coming up next is another entry from POLAR’s store, the Nylon Tall Winter Boots for women that is all-accommodating for a variety of foot sizes.

The extremely versatile construct offers both a comfy fit around the ankles and enough room for your toes to wiggle. The shaft-to-arch measurement is about 12 inches so you can be sure that snow and drizzle cannot penetrate from above.

Finished with anti-skid rubber and deep tread at the bottom, the sole unit will help you walk around in winter without a care in the world!

Best Waterproof: DREAM PAIRS Mid-Calf Winter Boots

Key features

• Crocheted cuff collar
• Cushioned footbed
• Side zippers for easy on/off
• Heel height measures 1.5 inches

Product specs

Package dimensions	13.5 x 11.3 x 5.2 inches
Shipping weight	2.9 lbs
Material	Synthetic
Colors	Various
Origin	N/a

Another best-of-both-world women’s boots option, Dream Pairs Mid Calf Winter Snow Boots is made to be fully waterproof and firm while remaining stylish as ever!

The airtight but permeable upper material and gripping bottom soles are available in all the classic winter colors. With flexible front lacing, they allow for a wider collar opening that looks absolutely gorgeous with tucked in skinny jeans.

What’s more, the completely synthetic materials are 100% eco-friendly for any environment enthusiast out there. They are what make these boots durable, smooth, warm and easily washed!

Best Mid-calf Winter Boots: THE NORTH FACE Shellista II Tall

Key features

• Eco insulation material
• TPR shell is highly waterproof
• Recycled P.E.T. nylon

Product specs

Dimensions	14.5 x 14.25 x 5.5 inches
Weight	1 lb 6 oz
Material	Leather/ Wool insulation
Colors	Various
Origin	USA or imported

Among all women’s winter boots, mid-calf boots are the most versatile. And just by looking at these THE NORTH FACE Shellista II Tall boots, you’ll see how secure and dapper they are.

The look is inspired by Wellington boots featuring an athletic construct that is still lady-like. The upper is made with premium leather and lined with suede details for that extra winter flair.

Made with waterproof material, these babies will effectively keep you safe and dry from the snow – while you dash on it without falling thanks to the durable TNF Winter Grip!

Best for Walking: STQ Combat Lace-up Ankle Booties

Key features

• Waterproof material from top to toe
• Interior lining built for warmth and comfort
• Decorative zippers and buckles

Product specs

Package dimensions	11.6 x 9.7 x 4.2 inches
Shipping weight	2.35 lbs
Material	Vegan PU leather
Colors	3 options
Origin	USA

With a niche market that targets mainly walking shoes, these STQ Combat Ankle Booties offer you the highest comfort while strolling or participating in any sporting activity.

The lace design can go well with all types of legwear, from stocking to frilly dresses. The collar is reinforced with fur pads to protect your ankle and feet against wicked weather.

Not only are the rubber soles anti-slip, but they are also sturdy and will not wear away even when you walk on sharp pebbles.

The upper is made from totally water-resistant material and is shaped in a simple yet classy frame.

Best Short Winter Boots: DKSUKO Classic Waterproof Snow Boots

Key features

• Slip-on design
• Warm cashmere lining
• Anti-slip rubber sole

Product specs

Dimensions	9.98 x 3.29 x 6.18 inches
Weight	2.1 lbs
Material	Rubber/ Flannel
Colors	9 options
Origin	Korea

With suede upper and cashmere inner linings, these Classic short boots from DKSUKO are among the best candidates for the cute-and-comfy award.

The thick triple-layered insulation will keep your toes warm at sub-zero temperatures. The outer construction can stave off water and snow so your feet and socks can stay dry at all times.

They are very flexible and lightweight while offering a great fit, so hiking, snow shoveling, or even fishing in these bad boys is a total no-brainer!

Best for Wide Calf: DREAM PAIRS Fur Lined Knee High Boots

Key features

• Eco insulation material
• Recycled P.E.T. nylon
• Rubber TPR shell and outsole
• Decorated with side buckles

Product specs

Dimensions	11.18 x 9.69 x 4.69  inches
Weight	1 lb
Material	Synthetic
Colors	7 options
Origin	USA

With a flexible but also steadily built collar, the Dream Pairs Knee High Winter boot is the perfect option for your wide and delicate calves.

Highlighted by premium material, the round boot toe, flat heel, and long shaft encompass an elegant look that will definitely turn heads when you walk down the streets.

There are dozens of styles and colors to choose from, each with their own unique decorative buckle placement. It’s a win-win whether you make your choice based on color or ornament!

Best for Budget: HARENCE Anti-Slip Ankle Boots

Key features

• Lace-up design
• Suede fabric upper
• Soft fur lining

Product specs

Dimensions	8.4 x 7.8 x 3.5 inches
Weight	1.45 lbs
Material	Suede/ Rubber
Colors	5 options
Origin	China

If you’re looking for some casual outdoor boots that look great on any background, why not grab a pair of Harence outdoor ankle booties? With adjustable laces, a suede upper and dainty design, they offer all the standard winter boot functions at an affordable price.

The flat rubber sole lets you stroll around with ease without having your ankles feel tired from being elevated. The soles are also effectively anti-slip, so walking from an indoor party out to your car parked in the snow will be effortless.

Not just a gimmicky design choice, the fur lining and collar are practical and can keep your ankle warm and fuzzy. Best of all, the simple but feminine silhouette can be paired with a wide range of clothing styles.

Winter Boots Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Warm Shoes for Snow?

Now that we’ve covered all those details on each winter boot product, it is time to go over what you should look for when browsing for the most appropriate winter boots for yourself.

Warmth

The first factor to consider is obviously heat retention since we are dealing with winter footwear after all. Our body generates heat naturally while we walk around, and it is the boots’ job to keep that heat inside.

A lot of manufacturers pay great attention to the lining material, and you should too when making a purchase. The best insulation is usually found with authentic shearling, but man-made fur should also make a fine substitute. There are many types of modern insulation materials that serve the purpose while being generally more lightweight as well.

Fit and Comfort

Next, what you choose to wear should always conform to your body instead of the other way around. It’s best to pick a boot that snugs softly around all the arches of your leg. If you have weak leg power, go for something that can safely support your feet while walking.

Winter boots are decently cushioned to some degree, but you should still be wary of materials that flatten easily. While you’re at it, check to see if the material is breathable so that your boots wouldn’t get damp and stinky.

It also depends on your preference of wiggle room. You can always buy boots half a size or so larger than your feet size if you want to wear thick socks with them for extra comfort and protection.

Weatherproof

Although most winter boots are built to be waterproof, the feature might not be ideal in every one of them. Materials such as shearling, while fashionable and certainly not cheap, can get soggy and ruined if you overdo it on a rainy day.

If you’re not sure about how much moisture the boots can withstand, just use a waterproof spray on them, unless you are certain that they are made of a material that lets water run straight off.

Traction

A very unique factor that you must consider for winter wear is the ability to deal with ice and snow. For boots, it is the grip of their bottom. The best anti-slip material is rubber, so make sure that it’s the durable type.

The patterns of the sole play a big part in providing traction as well – the rougher the better. But be sure to think about what you want to wear the boots for. You wouldn’t want to trip all over yourself walking downtown for Christmas shopping due to the friction between your boots and the concrete road.

Types Of Women’s Winter Boots

As I mentioned at the beginning, we can categorize women’s boots by their shaft height.

Ankle boots usually provide the most stylistic options for women. They are cute and go well with almost all styles of clothing. However, they offer the least guard for your upper legs and should only be worn in shallow snow or mildly cold weather.

Mid-calf boots are probably the most common girl boots since they are easy on the eye and tall enough to accommodate good insulation. They also don’t scrape against the back of your knee joint which is always a plus.

Knee-high boots are mostly preferred by gals who want to go for that winter cowgirl look as they are good for tucking your pant legs inside. You also don’t have to worry about getting soaked after falling knee-deep into a mud pile with those boots.

Over-the-knee boots are what you often see in fashion magazines. They certainly look classy but I cannot imagine skiing in something that does not allow your knee to bend freely.

Winter Boots Vs. Snow Boots: What is the Difference Between the Two?

When the winter comes with breezing wind, one of the best ways to keep your feet warm is wearing boots. Depending on your working environment and where you reside, you can opt for one of two common types of seasonal boots, including snow boots and winter boots. 

At first sight, winter boots might look similar to snow boots. However, if you look closer, you can see some differences between these models. I will show you some of the most common similarities. Let’s figure it out.

Snow Boots

As its name suggests, snow boots are typically made to wear in high snow or wet weather. But we’re not just talking about walking to a car, plunging through a few puddles, or running to a bus stop near your house. Snow boots can benefit you more than that. 

And the first and most important thing is that they protect your feet from outside elements. They are especially good for sieving the heaviest white powders or sifting through sludge and dirty mud places. If one day you wake up and realize it is 3 feet of snow, then it would be great to wear your snow boots to your car park, which can prevent both freezing and falling over.

To keep you safe and warm during severe winter days, snow boots usually come in a robust rubber outsole with rigid traction. The upper can be made of either thick leather or a combination of heavy-duty human-made materials. 

Mostly, snowshoes will be several inches or more longer than the ankle. They will also contain integrated padding that fixes the tongue of your boots while keeping the snow and humidity outside and away from your feet.

Another critical difference between snow boots and winter boots is that the previous ones are always waterproof. That means you can wear them in snowy and wet conditions without worrying about falling. 

Snow boots are designed for people who spend most of their days outdoors during the chilly harsh winter months. Some people can find them useful for their jobs, such as construction workers, farmers, winter hikers, etc. 

The thing here is that snow boots tend to be bulkier and heavier than winter boots. This is because they come with thick and robust construction to protect you from harsh elements. Therefore, if you don’t wear proper socks, your feet can be wet and smelly because of the buildup of sweat. You can refer to some of the greatest snow boots brands, including Keen, Timberland, Sorel, Totes, Colombia, and Northside. 

Winter Boots

On the other hand, winter boots are a term of general boots used for cooler or milder weather conditions. They tend to be more about fashion than functional qualities. They can be lined to provide you with an extra layer of cushioning so that you might feel warmer. 

As for the upper, winter boots are only water-resistant, which is good enough for outdoor activities like walking, jogging, or shopping. Therefore, if you want to wear them in wet conditions, you might need to spray a waterproof coating to keep them from dampness. 

One of the most obvious differences between these two models is that winter boots usually come in a low-top design. This is because they are made for completely different purposes. Winter boots are not intended for preventing snow from packing into the front of the boots. So you will experience wet or cold feet while wearing winter boots in such snowy weather. 

More often than that, winter boots are just a daily boot that you might need for milder or cooler days. But don’t wear them if you have to work outside for hours and hours if you don’t want your feet to be damp. If you are just going to the shopping center, hanging out with your friends (but not doing challenging sports), then winter boots are an ideal option. 

As I said before, most winter boots are just water-resistant; some even don’t repel water at all. Therefore, you might want to pre-treat them before wearing them outside, which can keep your feet dry and also extend the boots’ longevity. I also recommend several good winter boot brands, such as Aquatalia, Uggs, Sperry, The North Face, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between winter boots and snow boots?

Snow boots can be used during winter days, while winter boots can’t be worn comfortably in high snow conditions. Besides, snow boots might come in a higher-ankle design to prevent snow from getting inside. Another key difference between these two is waterproofing. While snow boots are waterproof, winter boots can be water-resistant or even not water-repellent. 

Do I need boots with insulation?

This depends on some factors. The first one is the winter conditions where you live. Harsh winters require you to wear snow boots with insulation. However, if you usually stay indoors or your area has mild climates, it is not necessary to opt for an insulated model because it will make your feet more sweaty. In addition, if you love to wear thick socks together with milder weather, you might need less or even no insulated boots.

How should winter boots fit?

Winter boots should be snugly fit to make sure they provide you with warmth and prevent falling off your feet while you are walking. They are neither too tight nor too loose. Besides, you can go a size up or down, depending on your sock thickness. But remember to consider your feet’ size too. 

How to clean and store winter boots?

To make sure you clean your boots properly, it’s best to check out the manufacturer’s official website. For the uppers, you can use a wet cloth to remove grimes and dirt. You can also use a soft brush to rub the suede gently. For the outsole, I suggest putting the sole in a large bucket of 1-2 inches of water. Leave it for a few minutes, then dirt and other remains come off. Then let it dry naturally. 

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

I would say that you should not do that. Winter boots are not designed to be tossed around or completely submerged into water. In addition, a washing machine or dryer can make the outsole be damaged, and the lining might be peeled off. 

If the snow boots are thick, should I buy them larger than my feet size?

You shouldn’t buy boots that are too large for you unless you have wide feet or big calves. If you decide to do so, you should insert custom paddings to create more comfort.

How should I clean the fur fringe on my snow boots?

If it is faux fur, you should hand wash the fur-covered parts with cold water and don’t use strong detergent. You can blow-dry and comb the fur slightly to prevent it from getting tangled.

Which kind of winter boot is best for hiking?

I would suggest tall boots with a solid bottom and high traction. If you are an avid hiker, it’s best to forget about the fashion aspect and choose a boot that performs well in harsh weather and doesn’t cause discomfort.

Are Uggs the best type of winter boots?

Uggs are usually handcrafted with traditional materials such as fleece and sheepskin. They offer both style and function but authentic products can be pricey. It is better if you consider your intention while shopping for snow boots instead of looking at brandings.

Should I buy winter hunting boots for all-purpose use because they are durable?

Winter hunting boots are generally lightweight and have sufficient waterproofing, so they are perfectly fine for daily use. However, they still cannot compare to pac boots in terms of warmth and durability.

Should I always wear socks with winter boots?

Socks can provide an extra layer of comfort and warmth for you. Most winter boots have soft linings so your socks can fit in just fine. You should also consider wearing socks if you sweat a lot since not all winter boots have breathable features.

My Top Picks

So now that you know what to look for in a good pair of snow boots, you can go buy a pair that fits your style just right. Hell, why not TWO pairs while you’re at it?

My first top picks of snow boots for today are the AU&MU Sheepskin Knee-High Winter Boots. It is on the high-end of options but the premium material and charming design are worth it.

The second choice would be the COLUMBIA Ice Maiden II Boot for its durability, dapper style, and excellent all-round features.

Have you made up your mind? Comment below your favorite winter boots from this list!