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10 Best Winter Hiking Boots (2023 Review & Buying Guide)

One of the best things about a hike is that it’s an activity you can do all year long. However, when getting outdoors in the winter, you need to make a few adjustments to your gear to ensure that you protect yourself from the elements and stay warm. 

Early on, I made the mistake of using my regular hiking boots for a snowy trek through the mountains, and I quickly learned that they did not provide the level of insulation to keep my feet protected from the elements. 

I quickly invested in some good winter hiking boots that helped keep my feet warm and gave me the right amount of traction to feel safe during my next winter adventures.

Here are our recommendations for the ten best winter hiking boots of 2023.    

EDITOR’S CHOICE

KEEN Revel 4

KEEN Men's Revel 4 Mid Height Snow Boot

  • Rubber sole
  • Multi-directional lugs
  • Nylon Shank Stability 

#2ND BEST CHOICE

Oboz Bridger

Oboz Bridger

  • Single-density EVA
  • Nubuck full leather
  • B-DRY waterproofing

#3RD BEST CHOICE

Salomon Toundra Pro 

Salomon Toundra Pro 

  • Aerogels technology
  • Superior traction on ice
  •  2-year limited warranty

Our Top Recommended Winter Hiking Boots 

1) KEEN Revel 4 Mid-Height Snow Boot

200g of insulation inside protects from the weather up to -25 (32°C). The best thing about the insulation is that it’s made of bamboo, so it’s very lightweight and doesn’t add extra bulk. 

  • Recycled pet insulation
  • Thermal heat shield
  • High-traction grip
KEEN Men's Revel 4 Mid Height Snow Boot

KEEN makes some of the best winter hiking boots and outdoor footwear, and their KEEN Revel IV winter boots are no exception.

They offer all the essentials to ensure your feet stay warm and dry when embarking on winter hikes, and they’re designed to work seamlessly with most hiking microspikes.

I find that KEEN shoes often have a wider toe box than some of the brands, which I appreciate in the winter because it allows ample room for thick socks without them bunching up or rubbing around your toes. 

PROS

  • The KEENDRY waterproof lining prevents water from getting in
  • Comes in wide sizes and a women’s version 
  • Hold up well in very technical or challenging terrain 
  • The design of the traction on the outsole provides a better grip on heavy snow and ice 
  • You can fit traction crampons and microspikes over them easily 

CONS

  • More expensive than other boots

2) Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot 

Their 200g of Thinsulate insulation keeps your feet feeling great in harsh temperatures, and they’re fully waterproof. 

  • Molded rubber toe cap
  • B-DRY, waterproofing system
  • TPU Chassis Stability
Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry

The Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot is very durable and has an outsole that provides excellent traction on cold surfaces. These PAC boots also have great arch support, which prevents pain and injury. 

I find that this brand tends to run a bit on the smaller side, so I went with a half a size bigger than normal, and they worked out well, even when paired with thick wool socks. I recommend reading the reviews on sizing before making the purchase. 

PROS

  • Very well-constructed and hold up great on rough terrain and icy surfaces
  • One of the best boot options for arch support
  • Don’t require a long break-in period to feel comfortable 
  • Great at keeping water out, even in deep snow 

CONS

  • A bit heavier than some other winter boots 

3) Salomon Toundra Pro Climasalomon 

In addition to having waterproof protection, the inside of the PU-leather boot has Aerogel insulation, which will keep your feet toasty up to -40°F, making them some of the best winter shoes you can find.

  • Aerogel
    Insulation
  • Outstanding traction 
  • 100% Synthetic
Salomon Men's Toundra Pro Climasalomon Waterproof Winter Boots Snow

This Salomon winter hiking boot is one of the best snow hiking boots for women and men. Not only does it give you the protection that you need, but it also has a very stylish look to it.

They also absorb shock really well and feel very lightweight. 

I wish they had a few more color options to choose from, as black isn’t my favorite color for hiking boots. However, I was willing to overlook that because they are so great.

PROS

  • The faux fur lining protects your feet even in extremely cold temperatures 
  • Great for trekking, using snowshoes, and mountaineering  
  • Generous toe box provides extra comfort 
  • Help your feet stay very dry, even in wet snow 

CONS

  • It could have a little bit better arch support 

4) Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Snow Boot

In addition to waterproofing, they also have antimicrobial properties that prevent bad odors and a very cushioned midsole for extra comfort. 

  • Seals out water
  • Lets moisture escape
  • Keeps debris out 
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Wp Snow Boots.jpg

Merrell Thermo snow boots come at a more affordable price than many competitors, which makes them the most affordable boots for hiking in the winter. They have 200g of insulation, which will help your feet stay cozy in most winter climates. 

I noticed that the shaft is a bit lower than some of the other brands, which isn’t necessarily a problem, but I did use the boots in deeper snow conditions, and a bit of wetness seeped in through the top.

I would say they probably aren’t the best for extreme snow or wading through icy streams.  

PROS

  • Affordable price point compared to many boots
  • Extremely comfortable even right out of the box 
  • Great traction on icy surfaces 
  • Good support for the ankle without being too high 

CONS

  • Sizing tends to run a bit small 
  • Water or snow can get in through the top of the PAC boot and give you wet feet 

5) Salomon Outblast Thinsulate Climasalomon Winter Boots 

They have 200g of Thinsulate insulation, which means they can handle even the most extreme conditions as winter rolls in.

  • Thinsulate insulation 
  • Aggressive traction 
  • Durable protection 
Salomon Outblast Thinsulate Climasalomon Waterproof Winter Boots Snow.jpg

This is another pair from Salomon that will keep your feet dry and protected while out on the hiking trails. The modern-looking style resembles a sneaker but will keep your toes feeling very warm.

I have narrow feet and found that these boots fit better than others. However, that could be an issue if you have wider feet, so I recommend trying them on in person if possible since they don’t offer wide sizes. 

PROS

  • No break-in period needed—comfortable right out of the box 
  • Made of lightweight materials 
  • Provides all weather protection, even in freezing snow and rainy areas
  • Comes in both women’s and men’s styles 

CONS

  • Soles are a bit stiff
  • Some users say that the toe area and seams are not as durable as expected 

6) Merrell Thermo Kiruna Mid Shell WP Boots

These popular winter hiking boots have both 200g of insulation and a fleece lining to help keep your feet extra warm.

  • Moisture escape 
  • Seals out water
  • 100% Leather 
Merrell Thermo Kiruna Mid Shell Wp Snow Boot

They also have a heat-reflecting insole that helps bring your body heat back toward the foot. 

The lacing system on these has metal hooks that make it secure and customizable, so you get the perfect fit. They come in both a men’s and women’s version, with several stylish colors available. 

I wore them for a full-day hike in fresh snow, and they felt comfortable and kept my feet warm and dry the entire time. 

PROS

  • Very warm boots that are ideal for people who always have cold feet
  • Advanced traction on ice and soft snow 
  • Provides good ankle support when walking on uneven surfaces 

CONS

  • Runs a bit large 
  • Not as much durability as some of the other brands 

7) Lowa Renegade GTX Mid-Hiking Boot 

Not only will they protect you in cold weather and slippery surfaces, but the leather uppers have a Gore-Tex membrane that makes them some of the best winter hiking boots in terms of waterproofing. 

  • Grommets Lacing System
  • Stabilizing shank
  • Breathable Gore-Tex membrane
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot

Lowa Renegade Gtx Mid is a bit of an investment for your winter kit but is worth it for its protection and performance. If you’re looking for a mountaineering boot, you should consider these.

I like Lowa’s selection of colors for these boots, as they have many options that aren’t plain black or brown. They’re lightweight because of the Monowrap midsoles that help reduce the overall weight of the boots. 

Our findings show these waterproof boots also have exceptional arch support and give great stability. I recommended them to a friend who was suffering from plantar fasciitis, and he said they helped him tremendously. 

PROS

  • Great for backpacking or mountaineering because they can support packs of up to 25 lbs 
  • Good balance of ruggedness and lightness 
  • Good comfort without needing to break them in 

CONS

  • These Lowa boots are more expensive than many other brands 
  • Not as warm as some of the other boots 

8) Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

They’re made in the USA of premium full-grain leather that’s also waterproof, with a TimberDry membrane that makes them breathable. 

  • Superior traction
  • Waterproof Gore-Tex Lining
  • Full Leather
Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Chocorua Trail winter hiking boots have the popular Timberland brand name and classic style for which the company is well-known.

Although not the warmest boot option out there, these boots are versatile and look good both on and off the rocky trails. They have Thinsulate inside to help you stay warm but do not make your feet sweaty or feel overly hot. 

After trying these winter boots, I think they’re better for colder conditions but not extremely freezing temperatures. They work well on packed snow, but you’d probably want more of a snow boot for deep snow conditions.

The waterproofing does hold up well, though, and kept me dry during my hiking through muddy terrain. 

PROS

  • Versatile
  • Full grain leather upper makes them hold up well and won’t easily rip or tear 
  • Provides an exceptional level of ankle and arch support 

CONS

  • Tend to run a bit narrow 
  • Not the warmest winter boot that you can find

9) Columbia Bugaboot III Snow Boot 

Among the best women’s and men’s winter hiking boots on the market, the Bugaboot III have a modern look that’s very sleek and looks great on winter trails.

  • Techlite Outsole
  • Advanced Traction
  • Leather & Synthetic
Columbia Bugaboot III Snow Boot.jpg

Columbia is known for its cold weather gear; these insulated winter hiking boots with a waterproof breathable membrane are no exception. With an insulation weight of 200g, these have enough insulation to provide incredible warmth than many other winter hikers. 

I liked the deep lugs and lug pattern on the Omni-Grip outsole and found that it provided some of the best traction on ice. My feet were happy, and I felt safe walking effortlessly across the winter terrain. 

The mid-calf height also works well in snowy conditions, whether in the mountains or off-trail.

PROS

  • Excellent waterproofing does not allow any water in the boots 
  • Because they are high above the ankle, snow does not get into the boot 
  • Very lightweight, which prevents foot fatigue when hiking for extended periods 

CONS

  • Some customers say the fit is a bit inconsistent 
  • Boots can feel stiff and require a breaking-in period 

10) Manfen Thermator Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boots

These pretty standard hiking boots have good traction, cushioned ankle support, and a rubber outsole that holds up against rough terrain and sharp rocks.

  • TPU ankle support
  • 200 Grams Thinsulate
  • Lightweight design 
Manfen Thermator Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boots Trekking Outdoor Boots.jpg

The great price of these winter boots makes them hard to pass up if you’re looking for something to wear when hiking in cold conditions. 

The toe bumper and heel guard also help to provide additional protection against sharp obstacles on the trail. 

I found this pair to be a good waterproof option that kept melted snow and mud away from my thicker socks. However, for the price, I’m not sure how well they’ll hold up in the long term. 

PROS

  • Great for backpacking or mountaineering because they can support packs of up to 25 lbs 
  • Good balance of ruggedness and lightness 
  • Good comfort without needing to break them in 

CONS

  • Some hikers say they don’t hold up for a long time, and the heels wear out quickly 
  • Stiff boot without a lot of flexibility  

Winter Hiking Boots Buyer’s Guide 

wearing hiking boots on a snowy trail

When we considered the boots to place on our list of best winter hiking boots, we focused on several different features contributing to how successful a boot will be for winter hikes and colder temperatures. 

Temperature Rating 

You want to choose boots that will keep you from getting cold toes even on the coldest days. Most winter hiking boots will have the right amount of insulation in them to prevent you from feeling the cold, even at sub-zero temperatures.

Always check the temperature rating from the manufacturer to ensure they meet your specific needs. 

Insulation Weight 

The higher the weight of the insulation, the warmer the boots will be in frigid temperatures. All of the winter boot options on our list have at least 200-gram insulation inside of them. Always look at the insulation weight of the boots you purchase to ensure you keep your toes warm. 

Traction 

Hiking in the winter means snow and ice. Ensure that your winter hiking boots provide good traction on rocks, dirt, and slippery surfaces. The last thing that you want to do while hiking is injure yourself by slipping on ice. 

Waterproofing 

Waterproof insulated hiking boots are especially important in the winter months, especially for those living or hiking in extremely cold temperatures. Ice and snow will be on the ground, along with melted snow.

If your feet get both cold and wet, it could lead to frostbite or other dangerous issues. Ensure the winter boots you buy have a waterproof membrane and keep water out. 

You can also buy a spray and waterproof your hiking boots every time it is necessary.

Cuff 

Look for boots with a soft cuff that adequately closes the gap between your ankle or calf and the boot. This feature will prevent snow, rain, and other water from getting into the boots, helping to keep your feet drier and warmer. 

Gusseted Tongue 

This type of tongue looks like a regular boot tongue, but the sides of it are sewn into the side of the boots. Like the cuff, it will prevent water from getting into your boots and help you to stay dry and protected. 

Lugs 

When buying winter hiking boots, look for aggressive lugs as they also help in winter conditions, offering a better grip (often multidirectional) and providing traction on snow or ice to keep you safer during your winter hikes. 

Outsole 

As with the lugs, the outsole on your winter hiking boots must also help provide excellent traction on ice, snow, and other frozen terrain. A Vibram sole is usually on the best winter boots because it grips very well cold surfaces. 

Comparison Table

BOOTPRICEInsulation
KEEN Revel 4$190 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
KEEN.WARM insulation, -25°F
Oboz Bridger Mid BDry$140 REI»
$200 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
No
Salomon Toundra Pro Climasalomon$200 REI»
$200 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
Aerotherm, -40°F
Merrell Thermo Chill$130 REI»
Check on Amazon»
Yes, 200g Thinsulate
Salomon Outblast Thinsulate Climasalomon$150 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
Yes, 200g Thinsulate
Merrell Thermo Kiruna Mid ShellCheck on Amazon» Yes, 200g Thinsulate
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid$255 REI»
$255 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
Yes, GORE-TEX Panda fleece insulation
Timberland Chocorua$150 REI»
Check on Amazon»
Yes, Primaloft 200g
Columbia Bugaboot III Snow Boot $130 REI»
Check on Amazon»
Yes, 200 g Aconic AC-Q200
Manfen ThermatorCheck on Amazon» Yes, 200g Thinsulate

Do You Need Insulated Boots for Winter Hiking?

Anytime you hike in winter conditions, you need insulated boots, especially in the toe area, to prevent your toes from turning to ice while you hike. A designated winter boot will provide you with enough insulation.

For snowy conditions, you will want to look specifically for snow boots. 

What Else Did We Consider When Choosing the Best Hiking Boots for Snow?

As we settled on the boots for our list, we also considered additional information not related to the construction or winter performance of the boots.

The following factors also helped us make our final decision. 

Feedback

We looked specifically at the feedback of others who wore the boots in winter and how they held up under extreme conditions.

We considered what they had to say about comfort, waterproof capabilities, and the boot’s warmth and only chose ones that received positive feedback in these areas. 

Shipping 

If buying winter boots online, it’s important that they ship quickly, have a reasonable shipping price, and offer easy return shipping. All of the best winter hiking boot options on our list met these criteria. 

Warranty 

We ensured the boots on our list had good quality construction and that the brands were reputable and stood behind their product. Boots that included a manufacturer warranty took preference over ones that did not. 

Our Number #1 Pick

When considering all of the best winter hiking boots, the pair we liked the most was the KEEN Revel 4 Mid-Height Snow Boot. KEEN always puts out good quality boots and stands behind their product.

I’m also a big fan of the wide-toe box, which accommodated my mid-weight wool socks well. The waterproof breathable membrane was a bonus, and my feet didn’t feel sweaty at all when wearing them.  

KEEN Revel 4 Mid-Height Snow Boot

The lightweight bamboo insulation is innovative; these boots really held up and performed well over all types of frozen terrain.

KEEN Revel 4 Mid Height Snow Boot

FAQs 

Can I Wear Winter Hiking Boots in Summer?

Wearing winter hiking boots in the summer is not a good idea. The synthetic insulation in the boots will cause your foot to sweat and make for an uncomfortable hike. Even ones with a waterproof breathable membrane will likely not provide a good experience for a summer hike. 

Are Gore-Tex Shoes Good for Winter?

A gore-text membrane helps to keep water out of your boots by providing waterproofing, which is important for a winter hiker. However, your winter boots should also be fully insulated in addition to Gore-Tex, or your feet will not stay warm. 

What Boots Are Good for Winter Hiking?

The best winter hiking boot will provide traction, help your foot stay warm, keep you dry, and not grow uncomfortable during your winter-walking adventures. Both treated leather boots and boots made of synthetic materials are excellent for winter hiking. 

Catalin Geangos

Catalin Geangos

Catalin is a writer and outdoor specialist who has been traveling in over 35 countries so far. He loves spending time in nature, enjoying mountains and nature adventures, and ultimately inspiring people to travel more. In his time off, he is testing, analyzes, and reviews hiking and other outdoor gear and accessories.

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