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The 26 Best Winter Boots for Women Who Are Tired of Having Cold Toes

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Shoveling the driveway, trudging through slushy parking lots, clambering over snowdrifts on the sidewalk. None of these are what we’d consider to be fun winter activities, but they’re an unavoidable reality from November to March (give or take a few months, depending on where you live). Since we’ve learned that it’s best to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw our way, we went ahead and found the best winter boots for women. Some are made for moderate climates, while others were built for trekking around the arctic, but all 26 pairs include three important design details: waterproofing, good traction and at an insulated lining to keep your feet warm and dry. Read on for the best of the best winter boots and prepare for your coziest winter yet.

The 14 Best Faux Leather Leggings to Buy Before Cold Weather Arrives


sorel boots
Zappos

1. Sorel Joan Of The Artic Faux-fur Waterproof Snow Boots

Best Overall

These fur-lined knee-highs are one of the highest-reviewed styles on this list—not to mention, they’re tough enough to handle temps as low as -25° F. The faux-fur collar helps prevent rain or snow from slipping in the top, while the laces allow you to adjust both sizing and support from the ankle up. Here’s what one reviewer had to say about these trusted Sorels: “I wouldn't have survived this year’s Michigan winter without these. Pros: They’re extremely warm, have good traction and are absolutely cold- and waterproof. Cons: They’re heavy and can be a bit uncomfortable while driving, but well worth it, IMO.”

columbia snow boots
Columbia

2. Columbia Heavenly Omni-heat

Best Lace-Up Style

These lace-ups from Columbia have all of the features of a heavy-duty winter boot—adjustable support, high shaft, good traction—and are made from flexible materials, making them easier to walk and drive in. That said, a significant number of reviews mentioned suffering from cold toes after a few hours spent outdoors. Technically, these are also rated to stay warm down to -25° F, so it may just be a matter of sock choices and other bundling skills. One more thing to note: Most reviewers suggest going a half or whole size bigger for the best fit.

best winter boots for women 2022 muck boot
Amazon

3. Muck Boot Women's Chore Mid Snow Boot

Best Pull-On Style

Pull-on boots don’t have the same customizable fit as lace-up styles, but for those who prioritize ease of use, they’re often much easier to slip into and out of. This particular Amazon find gets major props for its impressive traction on snow. The sole is made from rubber, which remains flexible even in freezing temperatures, giving your feet more stability on even the slipperiest surfaces. In place of shearling, faux-fur or another more typical winter lining, Muck Boots have neoprene (the same stuff scuba diving suits are made from) inside a hard rubber outer shell to keep your feet warm. Because of this, we suggest going up a half size to make room for the addition of thick socks that can provide extra warmth.

hunter boots
Nordstrom

4. Hunter Original Insulated Slipper Boots

Best Fold-Over Style

These Hunter boots are more likely to keep your feet warm without the addition of heavy socks, thanks to a high-pile-fleece lining and a thermal insolated sole that can handle just below freezing temperatures. Many reviews note the flexible shaft can be rolled down for a cute fluff-trimmed look and that the boots come with a fabric loop just inside the top to assist in pulling them on. Per one shopper, “I bought these a few weeks ago and am so glad that I did! New England winters are cold, rainy and icy, but my boots have been amazing. The lining has kept my feet warm, and the sole has kept out the slush. I like that the shaft is flexible, it makes walking comfortable, and it makes it easy to fold them into my work bag. Highly recommend!”

best winter boots for women 2022 cougar boot
Amazon

5. Cougar Canucks Snow Boots

Best Knee-High Style

For the folks who live in places where snow can accumulate fast, a knee-high style is often a smarter choice than any mid-calf option. This pull-on style (with adjustable laces to improve fit and ankle support) is similar to hyper-warm mukluks, the soft-sided boots originally worn by aboriginal tribes in the Arctic. But the shaft of these Cougar boots is made from a waterproof, flexible synthetic upper, which makes them surprisingly lightweight. They’ve also been designed with a reinforced toe for extra warmth at the front of your foot, even if you’re kicking away at snow and slush.

jcrew boot
J.Crew

6. J.crew Gwen Lug-sole Front-zip Boots

Best Zip-Up Style

Don't let a sudden snow flurry force you to rethink your entire outfit choice...this zip-up pair is as stylish as they are sturdy. The faux-shearling cuff and lining keep your feet cushioned while also guaranteeing that they stay nice and warm. And since they are made with a super durable crepe lug sole that grips the ground—snow, ice and water included—your feet will stay rooted in place after every step you take.

best winter boots for women 2022 ugg yose
Amaozn

7. Ugg Women's Yose Snow Boot

Best White Winter Boot

A little birdy told us that white boots are the new must-have item, and it's just your luck that we found a pair that's not only great for unpredictable winter temperatures but also super stylish. The Yose Ugg Snow Boots have become our new go-to for running errands, grabbing a quick lunch with friends and taking our dogs for walks. They're waterproof and weather-rated for -32˚C, so you don't have to worry about your toes giving out on you when your pup is having the time of his life in the snownal.

sorel fur boot
Amazon

8. Sorel Women's Explorer Joan Boot

Most Versatile Style

With over 5,000 reviews, 80 percent of which are five stars, these booties are a favorite of those that brave frigid temperatures each winter. The waterproof, seam-seeled leather and suede, padded sole bed, micro-polar lining and EVA-grade outsole result in a winter boot that withstands rain and snow alike while still being super easy to walk in. Plus, reviewers praise their versatility, saying these can be worn to run errands, the office, shuffling through the snow and everything else in between. As one five-star reviewer states, "I wear these to walk the dog, when running errands or short casual outings and to commute to work—I even wore them all Christmas day."

ugg adirondak iii waterproof boots best winter boots for women
Nordstrom

9. Ugg Adirondak Iii Waterproof Boots

Coziest Winter Boot

We hate to break it to you, but the classic UGG style (you know the one) does not qualify as winter boots. They don’t have the traction necessary to really grip an icy sidewalk, nor does the suede upper protect against moisture of any kind. However, if you really can’t get enough of the brand’s signature cozy lining, the Adirondak model is a much better pick as they're rated to -32° F and come treated with a DryTech waterproof finish. They even held up during the polar vortex in 2019, according to one buyer. “I wore them in Chicago during the Polar Vortex, -20 below temps, -35 with wind chill, two feet of snow, my feet were NEVER cold or wet. Incredible boots, worth the money. They look good with skinny pants, easy to get on and off—I love them!”

storm chaser boots
L.L. Bean

10. L.l. Bean Storm Chaser Boots

Best Insulated Boot

Crafted with a TEK 2.5 membrane, the exclusive technology on these bad boys optimizes durability and weatherproofing—and will keep your feet toasty warm in temperatures down to -10 degrees. The multilugged sole offers excellent grip on slippery surfaces and the EVA midsole provides ample cushion for your feet. And thanks to the 200-gram PrimaLoft polyester mixed with the innersole that's covered in NXT, these boots offer fantastic insulation and odor management, so it won't feel like your feet are suffocating each time you wear them.

totes knee high boots
Amazon

11. Totes Esther Waterproof Snow Boots

Best for Wide Feet

Some winter boots styles run a little big to accommodate thicker socks, but that doesn’t mean all are suitable for those with wider feet. Luckily, these fleece-lined boots come in wide widths. We also love that they look more like a regular boot than a true winter workhorse, outside of the trim and lug sole. That said, almost every review on Amazon heaps praises on the cozy warmth provided by the fleece lining. “They seem a bit small when first worn because of the fluffy lining, but it conforms to your foot and calf after you wear them for a few weeks,” says one Amazon reviewer. “I wore them every day from November to February. They kept my feet warm while digging through six-foot snowdrifts in a blizzard. They are completely waterproof as long as you don't get the fur at the top wet.”

best winter boots for women 2022 blondo
Nordstrom

12. Blondo Shaker Waterproof Winter Boot

Best Cushioned Footbed

If you're in search of a winter boot that won't leave your soles sore and aching, these are your best bet. Equipped with a removable, cushioned insole that molds to your foot, every step you take in these guys will feel just as cozy as the last. The leather padded collar provides additional ankle support, and the soles offer an aggressive tread, so you can forget about falling on your bum when you step on the inevitable, sneaky patch of ice on your morning commute. Not to mention they're as lightweight as they are cozy. "These booties are so unbelievably comfortable," says one reviewer. "It's like my feet are enveloped in a cloud."

riding winter boots
Nordstrom

13. Bos. & Co. Hudson Waterproof Boot

Best Riding Boot

Besides being a podiatrist-approved style, this riding boot gets our stamp of approval for being capable of getting your feet through the coldest of temps unscathed. It is fully lined with merino wool, this knee-high pair from Bos. & Co. comes equipped with the brand's Aquastop exterior that keeps rain and slush out while locking warmth in. The lugged platform sole provides insulation, as well as excellent traction to help you avoid slipping and sliding around the sidewalk. Not to mention how soft and comfortable the memory foam insert is in addition to giving your feet solid arch support.

best winter boots for women 2022 timberland
Zappos

14. Timberland Malynn Ek+ Waterproof Mid Lace Boot

Best Combat Boot

While not an actual snow boot, these Timberland boots are made from waterproof leather with seam-sealed construction to help keep your feet warm and dry all winter long. Many reviewers on Zappos note mentioned how comfortable they are and how cool they look with jeans. They also come in black, if that’s more your style. A few reviews suggest ordering half a size up to ensure your toes won’t get squished with thicker socks, but if you live in a temperate area you should be fine going with your regular size.

best winter boots for women 2022 blundstone
Amazon

15. Blundstone Thermal Boots

Best Chelsea Boot

Suppose you’re looking for a pair of unassuming, goes-with-everything black boots that will also help prevent frostbite and keep your feet happy from October until the temps warm up again. In that case, Blundstone’s thermal Chelsea boots are a fantastic option. They may look simple, but the leather and elastic upper are entirely waterproof and lined with Thinsulate for extra warmth. There’s also a removable fleece footbed that’s incredibly cozy, and the sole has improved traction over the brand’s other models. Like many other winter boots, if you plan to wear thick socks with these cuties (which we recommend for truly cold climates), consider going a half size up.

duck boot
L.L.Bean

16. L.l.bean 10-inch Shearling-lined Boots

Best Duck Boot

The upper of these cult-favorite L.L.Bean boots is made from waterproof leather and is triple stitched to prevent water from getting in. The sole is also lined with 200-gram Thinsulate insulation to prevent cold from seeping in through the bottom. As for sizing, the brand highly recommends checking the chart on its website to determine your best fit (FYI, there are only whole sizes, and they seem to run big). As a bonus, they also come in both narrow and wide widths.

best winter boots for women 2022 dr martens
Zappos

17. Dr. Martens 1460 Serena Faux-fur Lined Lace-up Boots

Best City Boot

Winters in the city (specifically walking cities like NYC and Boston) require a boot that can stand up to frequent walks along salted sidewalks, ages spent waiting on frigid subway platforms and look good enough to spend the day in (since we’re not about to pack a second pair of boots to change into at work). These trendy Dr. Martens check all our boxes. They’re super easy to wipe clean after wearing, and they’re also weather-resistant and the cozy faux-fur lining is sure to keep your toes nice and warm, even when the G train is majorly delayed.

best winter boots for women 2022 danner
Backcountry

18. Danner Weatherized Mountain 600 Hiking Boots

Best Winter Backpacking Boots

Neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor threat of ice will keep you from getting in that weekend campout, and with these boots, neither will fear of frigid toes. REI suggests these for winter backpacking treks, though they’ll work just as well on a cold two-mile loop around the neighborhood. The leather upper is fully waterproof, as is the 200-gram Primaloft insulation, meaning unless you step in a snowbank taller than the boot shaft, your feet should stay toasty and dry all day long. And thanks to an OrthoLite footbed and innovative nylon shanks in the sole, your feet will feel supported too. The last important thing to note is the impressive lug sole, which gives you stability on even the iciest rocks or slippery slush, so you don’t have to spend all your energy focused entirely on where to place your foot next.

merell boot
Merrell

19. Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Boot

Best Winter Hiking Boots

Another REI recommendation, these Merrell boots are less pricey than the Danners with many of the same wonderful features. However, even with 200 grams of insulation, they won’t keep your feet as warm in below-freezing temperatures, which is why we suggest them for single-day excursions over multi-day adventures. The big thing most reviewers rave about is the instant comfort and the fact that these boots require barely any break-in time. Per one Minnesota native, “Great boots for an affordable price. I wore them hiking through a section of the Superior Hiking Trail, through six inches of fresh snow, and my feet stayed warm the entire nine miles.”

best winter boots for women 2022 sperry
Nordstrom

20. Sperry Saltwater Quilted Waterproof Rain Boot

Best Rain Boot

If you're heading out to run an errand and have to trek through blustery weather to get there, these have you—and your feet—covered. Thanks to the brand's trademark Wave-Slipping soles that offer stellar wet traction, you're guaranteed to stay on your feet no matter how much slippery slush you step in. Reviewers praise these for their extra cozy lining, as well as the boot's waterproof features, from the quilted shaft down to the rust-proof lace eyelets. One note: These run true to size, so if you plan on wearing thick socks with these babies, you should size up.

la canadienne boots
Nordstrom

21. La Canadienne Connor Waterproof Boot

Splurge-Worthy

La Canadienne has long been our go-to for fashionable, weather-resistant boots that hide their functionality very well. The brand offers a ton of chic leather and suede styles that can withstand rain, snow and strolls along salted sidewalks without damaging the material or turning your toes into icicles. And while there are certainly some sleeker designs, the lug sole on this lace-up ankle boot will fare much better over ice or snow than the others. If you plan to wear thick socks, consider going half a size up; otherwise, they run true to size (though some reviews found them to be narrow).

dream pairs best winter boots for women
Amazon

22. Dream Pairs Mid-calf Winter Snow Boots

Best Under $60

These boots are mighty impressive given their affordable price. A quick glance through the roughly 1,700 five-star reviews proves just how warm, sturdy and trustworthy these little boots really are. On the practical side, they’re built with 200-gram Thermolite insulation, are entirely waterproof and are rated to -25° F. Per one Michigan buyer, “We’ve had single-digit temps and loads of snow dump on us here in Michigan. These boots are warm and keep the moisture out. They’re cute, too! For the price, I am highly satisfied. I haven't felt my feet slip on the ice wearing these.” On the style side, one shopper found them so cute she wore them for her engagement photoshoot. “These boots were perfect! They were so comfortable, and even in the cold, they kept my feet warm and dry. They looked good with both outfits I went with.” Awww.

best winter boots for women 2022 update columbia
Amazon

23. Columbia Ice Maiden Ii Boots

Highest Rated at Amazon

A lot of winter boots on Amazon have maybe 300 to 400 reviews. Some have 600 to 800. But these boots have more than 11,500. Per one happy shopper, “These boots were excellent and completely worth the money. I waited to write a review until they had some actual wear and tear, but they still keep my feet warm in arctic weather (I live in northern Alaska), and the laces are very high quality as well (I've done a lot of yanking and pulling on them). They fit a little big, but that's actually a plus since when it drops below zero I have to get out the thick wool socks.” Quite a few reviews also mention how well these fit for wide feet and calves, though they certainly work for narrower feet as well.

best winter boots for women 2022 sorel
Zappos

24. Sorel Caribou Boots

Best for Wet, Slushy Conditions

These durable lace-up boots can handle tromping through puddles of slippery slush without letting in any water. A particularly thick rubber sole provides ample distance between the snow and your feet which, in addition to a synthetic liner rated to -40°F, will keep your toes nice and toasty. And while there are laces to provide additional ankle support, the tongue of these boots is actually sewn all the way up to the top to eliminate the possibility of any water seeping in the seams. (Don’t worry, the material is still flexible enough to make pulling them on and off easy enough.)

best winter boots for women 2022 north face
The North Face

25. The North Face Thermoball Lace-up Boot

Best Athleisure Style

We know that the words "athleisure" and "winter boots" don't typically go hand-in-hand, but this pair from The North Face really makes it work. Think of these as a boot, sneaker hybrid that combines the durability needed for winter weather with the comfortability of the latter. The protective, synthetic mudguard and water-resistant ripstop upper combo on these puppies offer both coverage and comfort. And since they're designed with the surface control lugs, these are optimized for any and all weather conditions. What you get is a fully waterproof and insulated boot that will keep you warm and dry all season long.

baffin impact best winter boots for women
Zappos

26. Baffin Impact Boots

Best for Sub-Zero Temperature

Full disclosure, these boots were designed for multi-day treks across glaciers and trips to the arctic, so they may seem extreme for most U.S. winters (save for folks up in Alaska, perhaps). But for those who do live in areas with particularly harsh weather or who are constantly complaining about frigid toes, you really can’t do better than Baffin. The company has a number of styles rated to -40°F (we’re fans of the Chloe), but these puppies are rated to -148°F—we repeat, negative one hundred and forty eight degrees! Take it from one woman who’s lived her whole life in Minnesota and Wisconsin, “These are the best boots I've owned, hands down! They’re warm, lightweight, keep your feet dry and are tough. Many of my family members own Baffins and will replace the liners every five years or so, but several have pairs of boots that are 10+ years old. This is a quality product that I highly recommend.”



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Editor

Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on...

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Commerce Editor

Anna Smutny covered a range of beats, from fashion and beauty verticals to home decor (and everything else in between) for PureWow from 2021-2022. With a background in wedding and...