The two most beloved words to young kids: snow day. While that usually means no school, hours of snowball fights, snowman building and fort constructing, it can also lead to cold, damp feet—especially if they’re not wearing the right boots. We’ve all seen our fair share of meltdowns, and since wetter-than-average conditions are anticipated this winter, some trustworthy footwear is a necessity. This year, we asked our mom circles for the absolute best kids’ snow boots (that actually get onto feet and out the door). Here are the eight most recommended pairs.
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8 Pairs of Kids’ Snow Boots That They Won’t Hate Wearing
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1. Bogs Baby Bogs Waterproof Insulated Boots
Best Machine-Washable
These soft boots may not look like they could hold up in a snowball fight, but they’re actually made with clever insulation technology that will keep feet warm and comfy in frigid temperatures all the way down to 14°F. “Bogs are hands down my (and my kids’) favorite,” mom-of-two Catesby tells us. “They’re super lightweight and flexible, so they’re easy to run, jump and move in. Plus, they come in so many fun colors and patterns for the kids to pick from.” And with no finicky laces or buckles (they come with a hook/loop strap and handles), even tiny hands can get these boots on and off. But the best part? They’re machine-washable, a must-have perk for anyone living in the city (gray snow + salted roads = yuck).
(Ages 0 to 4)
2. Sorel Snow Commander Snow Boots
Best Traction
Running around in the snow is all fun and games until someone slips and gets a mouth full of ice. Enter these sturdy boots that come with enhanced traction to minimize skidding.They also feature a Velcro buckle that makes it easy to tuck snow pants into them and get out the door in no time. Mom-of-two Jillian agrees: “Sorel snow boots are really hearty and easy for kids to put on and take off themselves,” she explains. “I also love that this pair has a big Velcro closure, which makes it so much easier for my daughter to deal with (sans meltdown).” Available in multiple colors.
(Toddler)
3. Kamik Kids’ Snowbug3 Snow Boot
Easiest to Put On
“I’ve bought these every year for both kids until they outgrew them,” says Jaime Lynn. “They’re durable and warm, and they have great tread for walking (or, let’s be serious, running) in snow, slush and ice. Most important, my kid with very poor fine-motor skills and zero attention span has been able to put them on and take them off himself since he was a toddler.” Other parents agree that the traction is particularly good on these boots, without sacrificing on flexibility (because how else is your kid going to sled down that hill?).
(Ages 1 to 4)
4. Tundra Teddy 4 Boot
Most Color Options
Another kid-friendly winter boot with a handy hook-and-loop closure, this pick is warm, durable and features a rubber toe shell that’s easy to wipe clean. “I love that these boots are light and warm,” says mom Dabee. “My daughter isn’t clomping around because her boots are too heavy, and the soles aren’t slippery when they’re wet like some other boots we’ve tried.” And with 13 different color and pattern options to choose from (including snowflakes and diggers), your kid is bound to find a design he likes.
(Ages 1 to 8)
5. Stonz Scout Toddler Snow Boots
Best Lightweight
Made for “harsh Canadian winters,” parents love that these skid-resistant and non-slip shoes will keep little toes toasty even when it’s as cold as -22ºF. But just because these boots mean business doesn’t mean they’ll weigh your kid down (or slow her down in a snowball fight)—these hefty boots actually weigh less than a smartphone. One PureWow mom vouches for this, telling us that “these boots are so easy to put on and take off, plus they’re super light.”
(Ages 2 to 5)
6. Keen Kids Lumi Waterproof Boot
Best for Frigid Temperatures
These winter boots may be priciest option on our list but if you’re expecting arctic temperatures this winter, these guys are well worth the investment—they boast insulation rated to -40°F. They are also lightweight and non-slip, with added “anti-odor” to keep that sweaty feet smell away. “They’re super sturdy and totally waterproof, and the liner is removable, so they are easier to clean and dry out,” says Katharine.
(Toddler/Little Kid)
7. The North Face Toddler Alpenglow Ii Insulated Snow Boot
Best Ankle Winter Boot
Whether your tot has a high arch or just is too squirmy to get their foot into a taller boot, this shorter pair that goes up just a couple of inches past the ankle offers a nice alternative. “We love these boots for our 1-year-old,” raves mom Anna. “My son has a high instep and wide feet (he got that from me!), so sliding his foot into shoes can be tricky, but these are super easy to put on. They’re comfy, warm and great for toddling around in the snow.” This one also scores bonus points for using recycled materials.
(Toddler)
8. Cat & Jack Toddler Dane Winter Boots
Most Affordable
Warm, comfy and budget-friendly to boot, these winter foot warmers are a big hit with kids and parents alike. “These boots are cheap enough that it’s not too much of a hit to the wallet when kids grow out of them quickly, and they’re comfy enough that my daughter tries to wear them year-round,” mom Candace reveals. (Psst: These babies come in a variety of colors but we’re fans of the matching mint green jacket to really complete the snow bunny look.)
(Ages 1 to 7)
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PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.