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The best winter boots for women, tested over months of snowy hikes
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There's no way around it: winter is uncomfortable. But the right shoes can send you out into the cold feeling warmer, drier, and more confident on slippery surfaces. The best winter boots for women we found will offer toasty warmth, solid traction on icy driveways, and reliable waterproofing to keep your feet dry on slushy sidewalks.
After months of testing 25 pairs of winter boots (largely throughout a polar vortex) we can confirm: There's a big difference between great winter walking shoes for sightseeing around the city, and winter boots made for trudging through knee-deep snow in sub-zero temperatures. Whatever kind of boot you need, here are a dozen pairs worth your money.
The top 4 winter boots for women we tested:
The UGG Adirondack III Boots have great traction, a comfortable footbed, and proved to be extremely durable after four winters of wearing them.
Fully waterproof and packed with 200 grams of warm Primaloft insulation, these boots are comfortable on long walks, easy to put on and take off, and well priced at $150.
These muck boots are easy to slip on, fit super securely around the foot, and felt comfortably warm and dry (even while wading through calf-high snow in sub-zero temperatures).
These cozy boots earned us several compliments, but it's their 100 grams of insulation and plush midsoles that make them ideal for a winter night out.
Our top pick for the best, warmest, and most dependable winter boots are the UGG Adirondacks, which we've tested over the course of four winter seasons. The boots are extremely durable, comfortable enough to walk in all day, exceptionally warm, and have great traction. They're best for those with regular-width feet.
The Adirondack keeps your feet nice and toasty. The plush interior of the boot is super warm and well-insulated, with a semi-breathable insole that has just enough cushioning and arch support for all-day wear. The shaft of the boot is shearling-lined and cuffable, and the tongue of the boot is gusseted so it won't slide around and expose your legs to cold air. I tend to prefer wearing my boots uncuffed for extra warmth on my calves.
A rubber toe cap, thick sole, and waterproof membrane offer protection from slush and snow. Thick blankets of snow and slushy puddles are no match for these boots. I've worn these through four winters, living both in Brooklyn (known for disgusting brown slush) and the Hudson Valley suburbs (where snow stays more pristine but can build up for months at a time). I've even dunked them a few inches deep in a tub of water just to test their waterproofing, and have had zero issues with seepage.
The boot has excellent traction even in icy conditions. Textured treads on the sole of the boot prevent slipping and sliding on icy surfaces, and they also help with stability when you're wading through snow on uneven ground.
The fit is best for regular-width feet. UGG doesn't offer narrow or wide sizing, so these are best for people with regular-width feet. If you have wide feet, you may want to opt for our runner up (see the L.L.Bean Storm Chaser 6 below), which comes in wide sizing.
A winter version of L.L.Bean's iconic Duck Boot, the Storm Chaser 6 Lace-Up Boots were a close second in our final lineup.
They have both laces and a side zipper. Lace-up boots are ideal for a secure fit, but untying and re-tying laces gets annoying fast. They're also a no-go for anyone with arthritis or dexterity issues. Instead, the Storm Chaser 6 boots have side zippers in addition to their front laces for easier removal. Surprisingly, the zippers didn't compromise their ability to seal out cold or moisture.
They're fully waterproof. Made with a waterproof leather upper, a TEK2.5 waterproof membrane, and a rubberized toe, these boots kept my feet entirely dry as I tromped through snow banks and half-frozen slush puddles.
They're seriously warm. In fact, on a 40 degree day, my feet were sweating bullets (so they may be too warm, depending on where you live). These boots have 200 grams of PrimaLoft insulation and a cozy fleece lining around the ankle, which kept my feet warm down into the 20s.
They felt comfortable and secure on long walks. I wore these on a 4-mile walk, and they still felt comfortable thanks to the plush molded-EVA footbeds and soft midsoles. They also have great traction, with deep lugs on the outsole that prevented me from slipping on snow and ice.
They come in a wide option. While the UGG Adirondacks run slightly narrow, the Storm Chaser 6 boots were comfortable on my slightly wide feet.
The Sorel Tivoli V boots were the ones I kept reaching for when I wanted to look stylish but also protected from the elements.
They're completely weatherproof. These boots have a waterproof suede upper, a coated leather mudguard, and a molded rubber heel and outsole, all of which worked to keep moisture and snow out. The toe cap offers more durable protection, and the traction underfoot is secure on slippery snow. I also appreciated the shearling detail that kept snow from flicking inside the ankle cuffs.
They're really warm and cozy. With 200 grams of insulation and a microfleece liner, these boots kept me warm down to 15 degrees. They're likely too warm for mild winter climates.
They have a very supportive footbed. One thing that really sets these boots apart, aside from their aesthetic, is how comfortable the EVA footbed felt to walk in (even after over 3 hours of wear). In fact, this was true for every Sorel boot I tested.
They're easy to put on and take off. I appreciated that the laces are strung through D-rings instead of eyelets, so you only have to pull them tight to get a secure fit. Even though they lack a side zipper, the laces loosen enough that you can slide your foot right out.
They're super stylish. It's really hard to find effective winter boots that are also cute, but for me, the Sorel Tivoli V boots hit the mark. The rubber platform and heel add a touch of style to the otherwise technical design, and make them look slightly more feminine. These boots look great styled with pretty much everything. You can find them in five colorways, as well as a tall version.
If there's any brand that'll keep you dry, warm, and comfortable outside for hours and hours, it's one that makes hunting gear. The LaCrosse Alpha Agility rubber boots were the pair I kept reaching for when the temperature hit below zero and the conditions were wet and mucky.
They're rated to keep you warm down to -60 degrees. The entire Alpha Agility line is made with premium natural rubber and over 5mm of insulating neoprene, which on its own will keep you warm to well below freezing. This particular model has 1200 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation for even more protection against the cold, without adding a ton of extra weight.
They're completely waterproof with good traction. Made with 5 millimeters of neoprene, these seam-sealed boots proved to be 100% waterproof when I ran them under a faucet. The top-of-the-calf height gives you a lot of coverage if you find yourself post-holing through a snow bank. As for their tread, the Agility rubber outsole is super grippy on slick snow and as solid as one can expect on ice.
Their fit feels snug and secure. The Alpha Agility boots are closely molded throughout the forefoot and heel, which kept my feet anchored in place without feeling constricted. This really helped with comfort and mobility on long walks. Also, unlike most of the muck boots and Wellies I've tested, these have a cinch on the back. This allows for a more custom calf fit, plus more leeway for wide calves.
They're bulky, but not clunky. With its serious outsole and platform lift, these boots are definitely bulky — which is the main complaint among the online reviews. However, I didn't find the bulk too cumbersome, largely because they fit so securely. They weigh 4 pounds thanks to the insulation, neoprene, and outsole, but that's actually lighter than many alternatives with a similar amount of technicality. That said, I still wish the tops were able to fold down, as they don't fit underneath jeans that well (unless you're wearing extra wide-leg jeans).
They do have a few drawbacks. While the midsole and footbed kept me pretty comfortable for long walks, my feet did start to hurt after standing in them for 6 hours straight (though with my high arches, this is pretty typical without insoles). Other reviewers found that they're not very breathable, but I didn't have this issue. Lastly, you'll definitely want to size up and, unfortunately, they don't come in half sizes.
Honorable Mention: Bogs Whiteout Boots are my go-to cold-weather river rafting boots. I've worn them to stand ankle-deep in a moving river many times, so I can confirm they're 100% waterproof. They also have 7 millimeters of waterproof insulation and a fleece lining, but despite being rated for below-freezing conditions, they're not as reliable as the Alpha Agility boots when it's less than 28 degrees out. My feet also slip around in them more, making it harder to hike on uneven terrain. However, the Bogs Whiteout Boots are slightly cheaper, and their tops fold down so they fit under jeans more comfortably.
These North Face hiking boots beat out the competition because they hit the sweet spot of quality performance on trails, with a gorpcore aesthetic that's suitable for city streets, too. Notably, I had to size up a half size in these.
They'll protect you against the elements. I wore the Fastpacks as I hiked through snowy trails in 15 degree weather. My feet stayed dry and warm the whole time, thanks to the 200 grams of synthetic insulation inside waterproof leather. On the outside are reinforced toe caps to protect against rocks and snow, plus a mudguard around the out- and midsole. I didn't overheat when I wore them in 30 degree weather, so they also have a great warmth-to-breathability ratio.
They have very solid traction. Traction is important on any winter boot, but especially with hiking boots. These have 4 millimeter toothy lugs on the outsole and a 3D TPU plate under the forefoot that allowed for multidirectional stability on snow and ice. Still, I recommend keeping microspikes like YakTrax in your backpack for super icy terrain.
They're compatible with winter accessories. The high ankle on these boots will keep everyday snow out, but for deep snow, you can easily attach gaiters to the built-in D ring on the back of these boots. There's even a snowshoe knob on the heel to better support snowshoe straps.
They're comfortable on long walks. I wore these for over 3 hours straight and found the footbed and arch support to be very comfortable. They're crafted with a midsole rocker geometry (similar to what Hoka is famous for) that's intended to help propel your foot forward and save you energy on long hikes.
Honorable Mentions: Another cute pair of hiking boots are the Teva Auroris, which kept my feet warm down to 32 degrees and have great traction on ice. You'll just need to wear thick wool socks with them in sub-zero temperatures.
For a more serious winter hiking boot, the LaCrosse Ridgeback kept my feet perfectly dry and warm on snowy hikes in the Rocky Mountains, where the temperature was in the low 20s. They have a footbed that's comfortable to walk in for miles, a high cut that offers great ankle support, and were easy to break in.
Winter boots need to be waterproof, warm, and have reliable traction — which is really hard to manufacture on a budget. The Columbia Minx Shorty IV Boots fit all our criteria and still cost less than $100.
They are solidly waterproof, warm, and secure underfoot. I wore these boots while walking on icy dog park trails and slushy winter streets. Columbia's Omni-Heat lining reflects body heat, which when combined with 200 grams of insulation, worked to protect my feet from getting cold. They're finished with an Omni-Tech material that effectively sealed out water and didn't trap too much heat. Lastly, the hike-specific tread pattern on this boot did a surprisingly good job at preventing any slippage on slick snow or dusted ice.
They're comfortable for many foot shapes and sizes. These boots come in a standard or wide fit. As someone with a normal-to-wide toe box, I found that the standard was roomy enough. I also have high arches, and the footbed felt supportive on long walks. The midsole wasn't very squishy so they weren't especially supportive, but I had no foot pain after walking in these boots for over 3 miles.
They're very lightweight. At just 2 pounds, these boots felt very light compared to boots with similar warmth ratings. This is likely thanks to the extra-light responsive foam in the midsole.
The pros outweigh the cons. You do have to fully lace and unlace these boots to get them on and off, which can be annoying for your everyday boot. Also, the midsole isn't overly cushioned, so if you need a lot of support, this may not be the boot for you. But these are small and situational issues — for most people, these are a great winter boot you can find for under $100.
If you're looking for a walking shoe to keep you warm in a wintry mix, I recommend the Sorel Kinetic Impact Caribou Plus Waterproof Boots. They look and fit like a supportive sneaker, but offer the protection and warmth of a winter boot.
They're waterproof and insulated. I walked in snow piles that covered the top forefoot of the shoe, and was surprised to find that absolutely no water seeped inside. They remained dry on the walk afterward, too (although, obviously, with an ankle cut, you can't go too deep in the snow). They're also surprisingly warm — the 100 grams of insulation is the perfect amount to keep your feet warm while walking (even in the below-freezing temps I experienced). Still, they're not overly warm, so they won't overheat when you go inside.
They're comfortable and supportive for all-day wear. I wore these on long and short winter walks, as well as two full days of airport travel. My feet never grew tired or achy throughout the hours of wear and movement, thanks to the lightweight, molded Livelyfoam midsole and supportive molded EVA footbed. The laces work well to ensure a snug fit that locks your foot in place for long walks, and the microfleece lining makes for a cozy wear without any moisture build up. Also, they're pretty lightweight for a winter boot at just 15.5 ounces, which helps minimize exhaustion.
They're stylish and durable. These are good-looking compared to the generally lackluster styles of winter boots. I appreciate the sleek, down-to-earth aesthetic that can match a variety of travel dress codes. These walking boots feel built to last, and I also appreciated how easy the waterproof suede is to spot clean.
These boots feel as cozy as they look. I got so many compliments every time I wore them, and it was just the icing on the cake to share how comfortable they are.
They're ridiculously comfortable and warm. These boots make you feel like you're sat by the fireplace in a cozy winter cabin, even when you're outside. The 100 grams of insulation kept my feet warm walking around town in below-freezing temperatures, and the fleece lining inside made them very, very cozy to wear. Paired with Sorel's EVA footbed and molded rubber midsole, these will keep your feet supported and comfortable on long walks.
They're protective against the elements. I wore these to walk through snow-filled grass and didn't feel any moisture get inside. The faux shearling along the tongue helps to keep water out, too. On the outsole is Sorel's Evertread, a molded rubber with very solid traction on slippery, snowy streets (although they won't prevent slipping on ice).
They're peak winter style. These cozy booties are the perfect après-ski accessory. And while I'm normally not a fan of sparkle, the tinsel in the laces adds a nice touch to the croc-embossed leather (just be sure to double-knot the laces — they loosen easily). Sorel makes the same boot in a non-lux version with more material options and colorways. Note, we do recommend sizing up a half-size.
If you want a waterproof boot that'll work with most outfits, then Chelsea boots are the way to go. The laceless design makes them easy to put on and take off.
They're warm and waterproof. These weatherproof boots are constructed with premium hydrophobic leather, waterproof elastic and latex seams, and are lined with Thinsulate for lightweight warmth. "They have a shearling insole that keeps my feet warm and toasty, and a waterproof construction that makes it safe for me to step in puddles or snowy slush," writes Insider Reviews' executive editor Sally Kaplan, who has worn her Thermal Chelsea Boots for over two seasons.
They're built to last for years. Blundstone is known for making incredibly high-quality boots that stand the test of time. "I've stood in icy puddles, walked through muddy parks, and worn them on snowy walks without ever staining the leather or breaching the leak-proof seal," says Sally.
They're highly versatile. The brand's rugged sole has excellent traction that makes them reliable on slick city streets and hiking trails alike. Their style is versatile and rugged chic, making them ideal for the office or when you're traveling to cold climates.
Read more in our full Blundstone boots review.
These platform Chelsea boots are the perfect mix of feminine and utilitarian, and add a stylish spin on any winter outfit. You can find them in three colorways. We recommend sizing up a half-size for the perfect fit.
They're surprisingly warm and waterproof. The nubuck leather upper is waterproof, and while the side elastic isn't, the 1.75-inch rubber platform raises you away from mud and slush puddles. I was originally skeptical that these boots wouldn't be warm enough, but the 7 millimeters of upcycled wool and Lyocell insoles worked really well when I went to meet the girls for a drink on a cold night.
They're comfortable for long walks. I found these boots easy to break in with regular socks. They have a supportive EVA footbed and an "UGGplush" insole that feels like the brand's signature shearling lining. The rubber outsoles are made from a lightweight material and are filled with EVA, which shaves off weight and prevents them from being clunkers.
They're easy to put on and take off. Like most Chelsea boots, the Brisbanes have stretchy elastic sides so your foot can get in and out without a zipper. I also love the durably-sewn pull tabs on the front and back.
They're great for walking in deep snow. I wore these when I went to cut down a Christmas tree in calf-deep snow, and my feet stayed warm and completely dry. They're made with oiled leather around the foot and a water-resistant nylon from the ankle up, alongside seam-sealed, waterproof construction. The rubber outsoles and traction worked well on snow-packed ice, but not as much on sheer ice.
They're super versatile. I loved that I could wear these boots with leggings to show off the shearling upper, but they fit easily underneath jeans, too. And while the 200 grams of Primaloft insulation kept me warm in 16 degrees, they were still comfortable in up to 40 degree weather.
The shaft width is customizable. These boots are entirely lace-up, so it takes a minute to sit down and put them on. But this also allows you to adjust them to your comfort level, whether your calves are extra wide or narrow.
There is something seriously cozy about slipping your feet into a pair of puffy ankle boots and heading out into the elements, especially if you're coming off a winter activity like skiing or snowshoeing. I've tried a lot of down booties over the years, but the TNF ThermoBall Lace Ups are by far the most technical and versatile.
They feel like a breathable sleeping bag for your feet. Packed with a high-loft Thermoball Eco 100% recycled polyester insulation, these boots are warm down into the single digits. Wearing them feels like your feet are wrapped in a warm down slipper, complete with a fleece collar lining at the ankle. And yet, I really appreciate how breathable these boots are. My feet stayed toasty but not sweaty, which is a hard balance to strike for insulated boots.
They're reliable against the elements. These waterproof boots have a ripstop nylon upper that's been treated with a non-PFC DWR finish. They also have a synthetic mudguard between the outsole and the upper. Then, there's an adjustable bungee at the ankle to keep snow from coming in over the sides. That said, their traction wasn't ideal.
They're incredibly lightweight. At just 12.7 ounces, these are easy to step lightly in. This is really nice for long walks or when you need something packable to put in your carry-on.
The fit is adjustable. The TNF ThermoBalls are designed with laces across the front, which you only need to tighten once to secure them to your foot. Then you can just slip them on and off.
They wear like a sneaker. Because these boots have a flatter midsole, a supportive footbed, and are so lightweight, they felt like a down-padded sneaker. It made me want to wear them as everyday winter shoes, rather than just as cozy booties.
Hoka Kaha 2 Frost Moc GTX: These down shoes are super warm with 300g insulation and very comfortable to walk for miles in thanks to Hoka's dual-density midsole and Vibram Megagrip outsole — as long as you have thicker socks on. They gave me blisters on a long walk when I wore thin socks, and, although that was fixed when I wore thicker socks, they're still a bit hard to slip on. If you're looking for a fun shoe to après in, these are a worthy investment, but the Sorel Kinetic Impact Caribou Plus were the more versatile winter walking shoe.
Columbia Snowtrot Mid Boot: Although these boots are very warm with 200 grams of insulation, they were too warm at times and lacked breathablilty. The fit was also off, running very narrow but also not keeping our foot secure while walking around, and the side zipper kept getting caught. Columbia's Minx IV Shorty Boots are a much better pick for the price.
Danner Cloud Cap: We love the look of these boots and the concept of a rugged lower and down upper (400 grams of insulation!). However, I found them really hard to get in and out of, and the overall design made them pretty uncomfortable to walk in.
Hoka Kaha 2 Frost GTX: These winter hiking boots are fully waterproof, rated to keep your feet warm down to -25 degrees, and are incredibly comfortable and secure for long, snowy hikes. There are other hiking boots we liked just as much at a lower price point, but if you're a Hoka stan and a serious hiker, the performance here is worth the money.
LL Bean Rugged Winter Wellie Boots: These slip-on, shearling-lined boots are a great height for walking in snow, fully waterproof, and have comfortable insoles for long walks.
Merrell Marquette Thermo Low: These are short winter boots with a great tomboy style to them, packed with 100 grams of insulation for the perfect amount of warmth walking around. We did wish the traction was a little better, but we'd still recommend these boots if the aesthetic of the boot is grabbing you.
Sorel Caribou Waterproof Boots: These Sorel boots are everything a winter boot should be — incredibly warm, fully waterproof, and boasting great traction. They aren't our top pick because the 3.75-pound weight of this boot is too heavy, but they're a decent choice for staying warm on short walks.
The North Face Shellista V Mid Waterproof Boots: These tall winter boots were waterproof and a great height for trudging in deep snow, but the toe box wasn't insulated enough for below-freezing temperatures and the traction missed on slippery packed snow.
UGG Classic Ultra Mini Platform: Ubiquitous for a reason, these classic UGG boots are very cozy with the full shearling lining and hold up surprisingly well against water and snow. I've worn these over the last two winters and although I sometimes turn my ankles due to the platform, I still really like them.
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