Ah, winter. The fluffy white snow. The family sledding adventures. The absolutely freezing feet which might be grounds for divorce if pressed against your partner when you climb into bed. If you live in a place where this sounds familiar, you also know the importance of a quality pair of winter boots.
Cold feet are a total nuisance and slipping on ice and snow is even worse. Whether your time outside is limited to the distance between your car and house or you’re spending hours in the elements shoveling and building snow forts, warm, insulated boots with good traction are essential.
I live in Vermont and I hate being cold. (What can I say? I contain multitudes.) I’ve spent the last twenty years trying to keep my feet warm from October to May, and purchased an embarrassing amount of boots of all walks (see what I did there?) to do so. (Toddler boots included.) But I also know that sometimes you want to be warm and look cool.
With this particular expertise in mind, I’ve rounded up some of my personal favorite women’s winter boots along with some other tried-and-true styles that come highly recommended. From rugged but stylish snow boots, winter boots with secret fold-out ice grips, to shearling lined clog boots that you’ll wear for years, these selections will keep your feet warm and keep the winter wardrobe doldrums at bay.
The best women's winter boots for all your chilly activities
Timberland
• $170
From their snowy white hue which is a welcome change from a sea of blacks and browns, to the cozy faux fur lining, I love this take on the iconic Timberland style. Like its traditional counterparts, it’s warm and waterproof but can be worn with the shaft up or folded down–a feature that my short legs appreciate.
Kamik
• $119.99
Rugged but still stylish, hiking boots are a great style to invest in. This hardworking pair from Kamik will keep feet warm and dry all the way down into the negative temps thanks to HEAT-MX insulation and seam-sealed waterproof construction. My kids and I have worn a range of their styles and every single one is a winner. From the construction to the performance you really can’t go wrong.
Sorel
• $210
If I had a dollar for every time I’ve spotted these boots in the wilds of the tundra I call home, I’d have been able to purchase like six pairs by now. The ever-popular style is the perfect intersection of winter function and fashion and able to roll from the sledding hill to bonfire hot toddies without missing a beat. The 12″ shaft makes these the tallest on our list–but if getting snow in your boots makes you turn into a 30-something-year-old-toddler, it’s a style you’ll appreciate. (And right now, they’re on sale for 50% off!)
Bogs
• $165
Of all the brands of boots I’ve bought for myself and my children over the years, Bogs are a total standout. The quality of construction is unparalleled and they seemingly could last through the apocalypse. Of course, the classic pull on style is a worthy workhorse, but for something a little more fashion-forward, check out the Arcata Cozy Chevron. It’s made from the same 100% waterproof rubber, with a super rugged GlacialGrip outsole to keep you from slipping, and their signature keyhole cut out to make sliding them on easy-peasy.
All in Motion
• $49.99
If you’re not looking to spend a fortune, the budget-friendly All in Motion Women’s Cara Winter Boots from Target get rave reviews for their quality and performance. They’re not too chunky, water-repellant and easy to slip on as you dash out the door. And you can’t beat that price!
Ugg
• $170
If your winter weather is less snow, more rain this style from Ugg will come in handy all season long. The chunky soles provide plenty of traction and the waterproof upper makes sure feet stay dry in the slushy mess.
Native Shoes
• $100
If you’ve got a toddler or older kid, you’ve likely bought a pair of Native Shoe’s super popular Jefferson style at least once. (And you’ve 100% seen them on the feet of at least six kids at pick up.) The reason they’re so ubiquitous? Well, because they’re perfect. So good we’ve also fallen in love with the adult styles as well–particularly the Fitzsimmons Citylite Bloom. The hiking style boot checks all the boxes and then some. It’s rugged and water-resistant, extra grippy for less than stellar elements, and lined with mircofleece to keep toes toasty. They also feature a clever neoprene opening which is not only super comfy, but also does a brilliant job keeping snow out. But my favorite part? That awesome pop of color against the super grey days.
Sorel
• $165
When big ol’ snow boots are overkill but regular sneaks won’t cut it, I love this sporty hybrid from Sorel. The upper is completely waterproof proving function and fashion can always intersect and the microfleece insulation means you’ll stay comfy and cozy warm as you go about your day. (Not to mention they look super cute with jeans and leggings.)
Pajar
• $320
Leave it to Canadians to introduce the most brilliant winter boot innovation ever. Yes, these incredibly high quality boots are made with Hydro-Repellent Everest leather and wool-blend comfort molded insoles to keep feet warm to -22ºF. And yes, they’re smartly designed with a side zipper to make getting them on super easy. But those aren’t even the best parts. No, the brilliance is in the signature Pajar ICE GRIPPER thermal rubber traction lug sole which features two fold-out cleats that will keep you upright even when the ground is covered in ice. Mamas with no time for a broken wrist or bruised tailbone, where you at??
Dr. Martens
• $180
I love the look of classic Dr. Martens, but let’s be honest–they’re like refrigerators on your feet. The cold seems to get trapped inside making toes turn to ice cubes pretty quickly–but that is not the case with this cozy style! The faux shearling lining is warm and comfy and they’re so easy to just slide on and off. What’s more, the hallmark lugged sole provides great grip and height as you slosh your way through the streets. When they get mucky, a simple wipe has them looking good as new.
The North Face
• $135
Like a puffy coat for your feet, these sledding-friendly kicks feature a waterproof upper and plenty of insulation for those snowy days. We love the look, but best of all they’ve got a drawstring that can tighten to keep the white fluffy stuff out.
Sperry
• $64.10
If you’re not trekking through knee deep snow, you don’t necessarily want a pair of boots that climb halfway up your leg. This lightweight style from Sperry is perfect for warmer climates or lighter snow days, providing plenty of protection from the elements without being too bulky. Even as a Vermonter with tons of snow and soul-sucking temps, mine are in constant rotation from October to April because they’re the easiest style for walking the dog.
