How To Shop For Warm, Waterproof Winter Boots?

Many people probably don’t think much about their winter boots—until suddenly, they’re stuck trudging through a snowstorm, their socks soggy and toes frozen.

Don’t let that be you.

We can help. For starters, the picks in our guide to the best winter boots will keep you warm, dry, and on your feet as you brave slick sidewalks and ankle-deep snowdrifts. What else should you keep in mind while snow boot shopping? Here’s some advice.

 

A waterproof sole can be pivotal to keeping your feet dry, but the height of your winter boots is just as important. Boots with tall shafts, keep snow from falling in.  Also make sure that your tall boots fit snugly, or snow still might find its way down to your feet.

Look for a winter boot with reflective layers.

Designed to increase warmth without adding bulk, reflective layers send body heat back to the wearer. You can find that tech in boots such as the Fayybek’s Unisex Snow Thermal Boots have these layers in their winter boot design.

Avoid boots with smooth or wavy treads.

Instead, check the bottom of the boot for nubby, widely spaced lugs—these little rubber teeth help the boots grip onto uneven ice, providing the traction you need to stay upright in treacherous weather. as on our top pick, the XTRAWARM WOMEN SNOW BOOTS slide quite well, whereas smooth and wavy treads can be very slippery.

For optimal stability, make sure your boots really, truly fit well.

Find a boot that fits snugly around your ankle and keeps your foot in place, which is better for walking on slick ice—note, too, that lace-up boots are superior to slip-ons in this regard. A boot with a wide surface area on the bottom can also provide extra stability.