Snow transforms the outdoors. It changes the landscape into a playground for all sorts of alpine fun while also introducing an icy element that your usual clothes and boots aren’t equipped for. It demands a special boot that can keep your feet warm and dry. Whether you’re skiing, sledding, hiking or need to be outside when the flakes are falling, it pays to invest in footwear designed for the coldest weather.
The best snow boots are more insulated than standard hiking boots and have waterproofing that keeps out melting ice. They need to be durable to cope with extreme conditions, comfortable for extended wear and have grips that will keep you upright even when it’s slippery underfoot. Here are the snow boots we’d recommend.
Columbia Men's Bugaboot Plus IV Omni-Heat Boot
Update of a classic boot
These boots are fully equipped for whatever the elements throw at you. They have Columbia’s patented thermal-reflective lining, deep insulation and waterproof construction. Made from PU coated leather and textile upper with an injection molded rubber shell and outsole, your feet will be dry, warm and comfortable even on the coldest trek.
Men's Avenue Duck Boot
Waterproof with lots of grip
With a leather upper and rubber foot, these Duck Boots combine cozy comfort with leak-proof water resistance. The thermal lining and cushioned footbed make them a pleasure to wear and the outsole’s razor-cut Wave-Siping will give you traction on wet and dry ground.
NORTIV 8 Men's Insulated Waterproof Winter Snow Boots
Warm with extra protection
The warming system in these boots uses 200g of Thinsulate insulation to keep your feet comfortable right down to -25°F. They will be dry too thanks to the waterproof construction and synthetic toe cap for extra protection. The outsole gives good grip whatever the terrain and these durable boots work well for outdoor sports like ice fishing, skiing and snowmobiling.
Sorel Men's Caribou Wool
Warm, dry and comfortable
When you need maximum protection from the cold and wet, these boots will deliver long-term warmth and dryness. They are made of waterproof suede with a textile upper plus an injection-molded thermal-rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for grip. Inside cushioning comes from a removable EVA footbed.
Bottom line
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Once you’ve tried them, you won’t want to venture out in anything other than snow boots when it’s freezing, wet or blowing a blizzard outside. You are likely to want to spend time outdoors when there’s snow on the ground (and if you don’t, your kids will want to) so it makes sense to have boots that can take the cold conditions. The best snow boot for most people is Columbia Men's Bugaboot Plus IV Omni-Heat Boot. They have become a classic for a reason being dependable, durable and very comfortable to wear. You know you’re not going to get that dreaded feeling when you can feel your feet getting wet and cold when wearing them.
For the ultimate in snow boots, the Sorel Men's Caribou Wool is hard to beat. The waterproof suede is stylish, your foot can relax on the comfy footbed and the outsole won’t let you down, whatever the conditions.
