Looking for the Best Winter Walking Shoes. Find Out in This Guide

Looking for the Best Winter Walking Shoes. Find Out in This Guide

Introduction to walking in snow

For many of us, walking through snow is simply a fact of life during the winter months. Though beautiful, trudging through inches of heavy, wet snow can be quite challenging without the right footwear. The wrong shoes can leave your feet cold, wet, and prone to slipping and falling. So how do you find the perfect snow walking shoes to keep you steady, warm, and dry all winter long?

When the sidewalks and trails start to disappear under layers of winter’s white stuff, the most important factor for snow boots is traction. Deep snow has a soft and shifting quality that can cause you to slip and slide with regular shoes. Look for boots with rugged, grippy tread on the sole to dig into the snow. Lug soles, similar to those on hiking boots, provide excellent traction for snowy hikes.

Waterproofing is also key for keeping your feet dry. Snow can quickly seep into seams and soak through fabric. Look for boots marked as waterproof or water-resistant, ideally with sealed seams. If your boots have laces, treating them with a waterproofing spray can help prevent snow from sneaking in. Insulation like fleece lining adds warmth, but make sure to get breathable boots so your feet don’t overheat and sweat.

While you want your footwear to be warm and waterproof, it should also still be lightweight and comfortable enough to walk in for extended periods. Heavier boots can cause fatigue as you tromp through the snow. Seek out boots made with lightweight materials like nylon and EVA foam midsoles for all-day comfort.

Since walking in snow often involves uneven, slick terrain, having boots with ankle support can help avoid injury. Look for snow boots that rise above the ankle or feature wraps and loops that hug your ankle snugly. But make sure any high-top boot still has enough flexibility to allow natural ankle movement as you walk.

For especially deep snow, snow gaiters can be a useful accessory that attaches to your boots. Gaiters cover the top of your boots and lower legs to keep snow from getting inside. They also add an extra layer of waterproofing and warmth for seriously cold conditions.

Though called “snow” boots, winter hiking boots can also make excellent footwear for walking through the white stuff. Designed for traction, support, and warmth on cold-weather trails, hiking boots tick all the boxes for keeping you steady on snowy sidewalks. Plus, their athletic style looks right at home in urban settings.

Be sure to try snow boots on and walk around the store to check the fit. Boots that are too loose can lead to slipping and sliding inside the boot. But boots that are too tight will quickly become uncomfortable on long winter walks. Look for boots that grip your heel securely while still having enough room to wiggle your toes.

Prices for snow boots can range from budget-friendly to ultra-premium. Consider how often you’ll really need to tread through deep snow when deciding how much to spend. For most casual wear, affordable options from brands like Sorel can work perfectly fine. Higher-end brands like Baffin and Kamik offer top-notch cold weather performance for regular snowshoeing or mountaineering.

Don’t just order the first snow boots you see online. Dive into customer reviews to find real-world feedback on how boots perform in wintry conditions. Trusted brands like Columbia, Sorel, and Merrell are known for making high-quality snow boots, but lesser-known brands can offer great options too.

Many snow boots incorporate handy features that customize the fit and support for your feet. Look for boots with quick-pull lacing systems that let you easily tighten or loosen with a simple tug. Others have more robust hardware like hook & loop straps and adjustable bungee systems across the top of the foot and ankles.

Treating your new snow boots with a waterproofing spray can give added insurance against wetness for especially heavy snow. Sprays contain hydrophobic compounds that repel water, snow, and salt stains. Re-apply as needed throughout the winter to maintain waterproofing as the boots get worn in.

While tromping through fresh snow is part of their job description, be sure to properly clean and care for your boots after each use. Knock off excess snow, wipe away salt stains, and allow boots to fully dry out before storing away. Periodically check for cracks or damage to the outsoles as well.

When old man winter starts dumping mounds of powdery flakes, your regular shoes just won’t cut it anymore. Heading out into the snow calls for specialized footwear built for traction, warmth, and weatherproofness. With the tips above for choosing the ideal snow boots, you’ll be ready to comfortably walk through whatever wintry mix comes your way.

Consider waterproof snow boots

When you’re out walking through heavy snowfall, keeping your feet warm and dry should be a top priority. Ordinary shoes and boots quickly soak through when exposed to snow on the ground and falling from the sky. Before you know it, you have wet socks and chilled toes – not a fun situation when you’re out on a wintry walk.

That’s why it’s so important to seek out waterproof snow boots to protect your feet. Waterproofing features like sealed seams, weatherproof construction, and water-repellent treatments prevent snow and moisture from seeping in. That way, your feet stay cozy and dry even when you’re tromping through piles of the white stuff.

There are a few different technologies that help make snow boots waterproof. One involves sealing the seams where upper and lower parts of the boot come together. Waterproof tapes and membranes cover the seams so no moisture gets through. Some boots also have waterproof linings built right into the interior fabric of the shoe.

The outer material of the boot plays a role too. Water-resistant leathers and ballistic nylon fabrics help block snow and moisture before it even gets to the inside. A durable water repellent (DWR) treatment applied to the exterior adds another barrier against wetness absorbing into the boots.

No matter the construction, be sure to read reviews and product details to confirm how waterproof a boot actually is. Many are described as “water-resistant” which typically means they can handle light snow and slush but may eventually let water leak in. True waterproof snow boots will keep your feet bone dry even in heavy wet snow or puddles.

Consider treating your boots periodically with a waterproofing spray to maintain their snow-shedding abilities. These sprays contain hydrophobic compounds that cause water to bead up and roll off the surface of the boots rather than soak in. Reapply as needed throughout the winter season.

While essential, waterproofing is just one feature to look for in your snow boots. Traction, insulation, support, and comfort all play a role too. The right combination ensures your boots keep you warm, steady, and dry as you trek through Old Man Winter’s gifts.

When shopping for snow boots, zero in on ones specifically described as waterproof. Read reviews and details carefully to find boots that completely block moisture. Don’t just rely on “water resistance” if you’ll be out in heavy snow. With the protection of true waterproof boots, you can walk confidently through the snow knowing your feet will arrive home nice and dry.

Choose boots with good traction

When walking on snow and ice, steady footing is everything. It’s all too easy for shoes to slip and slide across slick frozen surfaces, which can lead to falls and injuries. That’s why choosing snow boots with excellent traction should be a top priority.

Traction refers to how well a shoe’s outsole grips the ground. For snow boots, lug soles with deep, rugged tread patterns provide the best traction. The lugs are those blocky protrusions that dig into the snow and ice underfoot. More and larger lugs generally means better traction.

Rubber compounds like Vibram or ArcticGrip are ideal for lug soles. They remain flexible in cold temperatures yet still grip tenaciously to snow and ice. Some boots have lugs specifically designed to channel snow and water out, further enhancing traction.

Another traction-enhancing feature is the presence of heel cleats. These are clusters of small studs on the heel that provide extra grip and stability. They help anchor your heel when walking on hilly or uneven snowy terrain.

Crampons are another handy accessory when traction just isn’t enough. These mini spike sets strap onto your boots for traction on sheer ice. The metal spikes bite securely into slippery surfaces.

When shopping for snow boots, flip them over and inspect the soles closely. Look for deep lugs that span the width and length of the sole. The more “teeth” they have, the better the traction. Heel cleats and lug shapes optimized for snow are ideal as well.

Read reviews to find firsthand testimonials on how well certain boots perform traction-wise. Words like “grippy,” “stable,” and “steady” are good signs. It’s smart to try boots on in the store and take a few laps down the aisle to test traction before purchasing.

Sure footing is crucial for walking safely across wintry terrain. Choose snow boots decked out with rugged deep-lugged soles, heel cleats, andsnow-shedding tread patterns. With excellent traction, you can walk with confidence no matter the weather outside.

Get insulated boots for warmth

When you’re out walking in freezing temperatures and deep snow, keeping your feet warm should be a top concern. Regular shoes simply don’t cut it when Old Man Winter comes calling. That’s why wearing well-insulated boots is so important for comfort and safety.

Insulation in snow boots traps heat from your feet and reflects it back inward, preventing precious warmth from escaping. Many boots feature removable liners made from wool, fleece, or synthetic insulation like 3M’s Thinsulate. These materials provide excellent warmth without overheating.

Other boots have the insulation built right into the interior lining and insoles. Down feathers or synthetic down create thick, heat-trapping cushions around your feet. Some linings incorporate moisture-wicking properties to keep sweat at bay while retaining warmth.

When evaluating warmth, the height of the boot matters too. Mid-calf or knee-high snow boots cover more surface area and seal in more body heat. Slip-on styles with elastic uppers or detachable gaiters help prevent snow from sneaking in at the cuffs.

However, make sure any insulated snow boot still allows airflow so your feet don’t get sweaty. Excess moisture inside can lead to cold feet too. Look for boots promoted as “breathable” along with warm.

Take a close look at product details to compare the insulation types and ratings of different snow boots. Higher fill power down or grams of PrimaLoft/Thinsulate means more insulation. But you need the right amount for your climate and cold tolerance, not necessarily the maximum.

Cozy insulation paired with waterproofing makes for the ultimate winter walking boot. Your feet will stay nice and toasty even when surrounded by freezing temperatures and snow. Just be sure to give those boots time to properly dry out after each use.

Don’t risk cold feet and potential frostbite this winter. Slip on a pair of well-insulated snow boots boasting wool, fleece, down, or synthetic fill. They’ll provide the warmth you need to comfortably enjoy the wonders of the season.

Look for lightweight snow boots

When searching for the perfect snow boots, it’s important to consider their weight along with warmth and traction. While heavyweight boots can provide ample insulation for the coldest conditions, lighter options ensure energy efficiency and comfort on long winter walks.

Heavy boots force you to expend more energy lifting your feet through deep snow with each step. Over time, fatigue sets in from all that extra weight. Lighter boots make it easier to stride freely and travel farther without tiring.

New material technologies allow for well-insulated snow boots that are still featherlight. Synthetic insulations like Thinsulate and PrimaLoft provide warmth comparable to heavy down, but with a fraction of the weight.

Lightweight yet durable exterior materials help too. Boots made with nylon, synthetic leather, or other high-tech fabrics shed snow and moisture without adding bulk. EVA foam midsoles offer cushioning that’s lighter than rubber.

When trying on boots, test their weight by walking around the store. Give a few short hops to feel the weight difference between feet. Read reviews mentioning “lightweight” to find positively rated options.

Also consider removable liners for customizable insulation. Wearing the liners on frigid days provides warmth, but you can shed them on milder outings to save weight.

While essential for traction and durability, lug soles do add weight. Boots with shallow lugs or grooved soles are lighter than deep lug boots. Find the ideal balance of traction and weight.

Don’t sacrifice warmth or dryness by going too light. But a few ounces here and there makes a noticeable difference over the course of a lengthy winter walk.

Seek out snow boots utilizing modern lightweight materials and technologies. Your feet will thank you after a long day of playing and exploring out in the drifting snow.

Find boots with ankle support

Walking on uneven, slippery snowy ground makes it all too easy to take a wrong step and turn your ankle. Having supportive snow boots that grip and stabilize your ankles is key to avoiding injury when out on winter walks.

Many of the top snow boots rise up to mid-calf or higher, providing built-in ankle support by covering more surface area. High-top styles help keep your ankles stable laterally while also sealing in warmth.

Some boots incorporate wraparound ankle cuffs with extra padding or molded supports at the collar. These hug your ankle to prevent rolling while still allowing a natural stride. Quick-cinch lacing systems let you snug up for extra stability too.

A solid heel counter is another support feature to look for. This firm cup at the rear grips your heel to prevent it from sliding around inside the boot. You want a locked-in heel for confident steps across uneven snowy terrain.

Traction aids support as well. Deep lug soles and heel cleats dig into the snow rather than slipping atop it. Crampons can add spikes for grasp on sheer ice.

When trying on boots, simulate lateral movements and twists to test ankle support. The boot should stop your ankle from buckling inward or outward while allowing forward flex.

Read reviews referencing “ankle support” or “stability” as proof the boots excel in this area. Proper support means a day of snowshoeing or winter hiking without tweak or strain.

Slick snowy landscapes can wreak havoc on ankles without the proper footwear. Seek out snow boots with snug collars, wraparound cuffs, and stabilized heels to keep your ankles supported through every step.

Consider getting snow gaiters

When you’ll be trekking through deep snowdrifts, snow gaiters can be a useful accessory to pair with your new boots. These covers provide extra protection from the elements for your feet and legs.

Gaiters attach around the top of your boot and extend up your calf. They create a waterproof seal to prevent snow from sneaking into your boots or soaking through pants. Gaiters keep you drier while also sealing in body heat.

Made from rugged materials like nylon or Gore-Tex, gaiters withstand brushing through thick snow and ice without tearing. Some feature reinforced insteps for extra abrasion resistance when hiking over sharp crusts.

Gaiters attach via straps and buckles, while elastic or Velcro cinches ensure a snug fit around your calf. This prevents gaps where snow could enter. High-end gaiters have ankle zippers for easily slipping over boots.

For deep expeditions, choose tall gaiters that extend near the knee. Shorter versions work for light snow and offer more breathability. Make sure to get gaiters sized appropriately for your calf circumference.

Snow gaiters help prevent uncomfortable situations like snow and moisture dripping down into your boots and bindings caking with ice. They provide added insurance when you’ll be facing the harshest elements.

If regularly trudging through deep snowdrifts, get snow gaiters to pair with your new boots. They’ll provide extra protection and warmth for your feet and legs over the course of a long winter walk.

Try out winter hiking boots

When seeking snow boots tough enough for winter walks, don’t overlook winter hiking boots. With their athletic DNA, hiking boots are ready to traverse snowy urban streets as easily as wooded trails.

Designed for traction and stability over rough terrain, hiking boots grip snowy ground securely. Their stiff midsoles prevent feet from twisting on uneven surfaces, while deep treaded lugs provide traction.

Built to insulate against cold winds, winter hiking boots have warm linings, weatherproof shells, and cozy cuffs to seal out snow. Lightweight yet supportive, they handle miles of walking without tiring your feet.

Brands like Merrell, Oboz, and Keen make winter hiking boots stylish enough for around town yet technical enough for the trail. Their casual styling translates seamlessly from countryside to cityscape.

Try out boots at the store to experience their flexibility, traction, and overall fit and feel. Research winter hiking models offering the best reviews for warmth, waterproofness, and comfort.

For especially icy conditions, add affordable snap-on crampons to hiking boots when headed out. They’ll bite securely into hard ice to prevent slips.

With their athletic DNA and weatherproof build, winter hiking boots have what it takes for snowy city strolls. Their technical edge combined with urban looks makes them an ideal choice for when old man winter comes to town.

Check the fit of snow walking boots

Finding snow boots with the perfect fit for your feet is just as important as features like insulation and traction. Boots that are poorly sized can lead to slipping, discomfort, and cold feet when out walking in winter conditions.

Try boots on in the store and walk around to truly test fit and feel. There should be enough room to wiggle toes, but heels shouldn’t be loose and lifting out. Snug but not pinching across the instep and ball of foot.

Consider trying boots on later in the day when feet are most swollen. Bring along the socks you’ll be wearing for a true read on fit. Your toes should have some room at the front when standing up straight.

Proper lacing and strapping allows customizing the snugness over your foot and ankle. Quick-pull lacing systems make it easy to cinch boots for a secure fit. Boots with excessive heel lift even when cinched may be too roomy.

Breaking in new snow boots before lengthy use can maximize comfort. Lightly wear them around the house to mold to your feet. For any tight spots, try boot stretchers.

For the right fit, match boot height to calf circumference so shafts aren’t pinching. Measure bare calves to compare to boot shaft dimensions.

Read reviews referencing great fit to identify brands and models known for their true-to-size accuracy. A perfect fit means happiness over the miles.

Don’t just order snow boots sight unseen online. Check fit in person for the exemplary mix of comfort, support and space your feet require before taking those first steps into winter.

Compare prices on snow boots

When seeking out the perfect snow boots, price is an important factor to weigh along with fit, features and performance. snow boots span a wide range of budgets, so compare options to find the best value for your needs.

Entry-level snow boots from brands like Totes and Kamik offer weather protection and traction at wallet-friendly prices under $50. These are great occasional-use options.

Mid-range boots from Columbia, Sorel, and The North Face range from $75-$150. You’ll get better insulation, weatherproofing and style with these everyday snow boots built to last.

Premium winter boots from Vasque, Baffin and others climb over $200. Top-shelf materials and tech features make them ideal for frequent snowy hikes and outdoor work.

Consider how often and where you’ll use snow boots. Urban commuters can find excellent values with budget-to-midrange boots. Deep wilderness trekkers may want premium boots to handle tougher conditions.

Also factor in cost per wear over the life of snow boots. More expensive boots worn often may balance out over time compared to replacing cheaper boots annually.

Don’t neglect fit and performance for price alone. But no need to overspend if casual snow boots suit your lifestyle. Check all the specs and reviews when comparing price options to get the best boot for your budget.

Check reviews of top snow walking shoes

Rather than buying the first snow boots you see, it pays to dig into reviews written by fellow winter adventurers. Customer reviews reveal the real-world performance and quirks of top snow walking shoes to inform your buying decision.

Pay special attention to reviews that describe using the boots in conditions similar to your planned usage. Urban commuter reviews hold more relevance than extreme mountaineering perspectives if sidewalks are your main concern.

Look for common refrains around warmth, waterproofness, traction, comfort and fit. These aspects make or break a good snow boot. Many reviews focus on how boots perform specifically in these key areas.

Give more weight to any durability feedback based on long-term testing over multiple seasons. Problems like seams splitting or soles delaminating typically arise after significant wear.

Consider the distribution of ratings on a boot. A trend toward 4 or 5 stars indicates reviewers generally agree on the quality, whereas polarized ratings suggest inconsistent experiences.

Video reviews on YouTube allow seeing how boots move and fit on actual feet. This can reveal fit quirks not apparent through written reviews alone.

Review roundups from trusted sources like OutdoorGearLab also provide excellent comparative insights across top competing models.

Before hitting “Buy,” get the real scoop from people who have walked miles through winter’s worst in those very boots. Their experiences will prove invaluable for choosing your perfect snow walking footwear.

Consider boots with good lacing systems

Having a secure yet customizable lacing system is an important feature when selecting snow boots. The right laces allow you to fine-tune the fit for optimal comfort and support on winter walks.

Look for boots with laces that extend a good length up the ankle or shaft. This allows really cinching in the boot around your foot and ankle for a locked-in feel.

Quick-pull lacing systems with toggles or dials make it easy to tighten or loosen laces with a quick tug. This enables adjusting the snugness quickly for uphills versus downhills.

Some boots incorporate bungee laces that stretch when you slip your foot in then rebound to hug your foot snugly. These “set and forget” systems maintain constant tension.

For tying boots, seek laces with tips made to lock together securely. This prevents laces from coming loose, which could lead to slipping.

In stores, practice tightening and loosening test boots’ laces to evaluate ease of use. Walk and move around to judge if the snugness feels adjustable to your liking.

Proper lacing makes the difference between loose boots that leak and slip versus boots that contour to your feet while blocking out snow. Take time to find snow boots with quick-cinch laces to customize your fit.

Try waterproof sprays for boots

To boost their snow-shedding abilities, consider treating your boots with a waterproofing spray. These sprays add a protective barrier to repel moisture from the outside.

Waterproofing sprays contain hydrophobic compounds like silicone or wax that cause water to bead up and roll off the surface of boots rather than soak in. They renew the DWR (durable water repellent) finish.

Typically applied as a mist coating, waterproof sprays bond to the exterior fabric of boots. Follow directions for proper coverage and drying time before wearing boots.

Reapplication throughout the winter will maintain maximum effectiveness as boots get worn. Use sprays to refresh water resistance after a few months of heavy use.

Before spraying, clean boots fully so the spray adheres well. Avoid over-saturation that could dampen boot liners. Test sprays on small hidden areas first to check for any color change.

Silicone sprays offer excellent water beading properties and frequently reapply easily. Wax-based sprays provide longer protection but can impact breathability if overapplied.

Even quality waterproof boots benefit from occasional re-treatment throughout their lifespan. Sprays help your boots continue shedding snow and moisture all winter long.

Give your new snow boots an added layer of protection from the elements by misting on a waterproofing spray. The hydrophobic barrier will keep feet drier as you trek through rain, sleet or snow.

Clean snow boots properly after use

To maintain the lifespan of your snow boots, be sure to properly clean and care for them after winter walks. Removing stains, dirt, and moisture will keep them looking and performing their best.

Start by knocking off any dried mud or caked-on snow from the outsoles and shaking out debris around the liners. Use a soft brush to clean the soles if needed.

Wipe away salt stains with a damp cloth. Salt can damage leather and materials over time. Freshen up suede or nubuck with a brush.

If boots are wet inside, stuff them with newspaper to absorb excess moisture. Never put them near direct heat, which can crack materials.

When fully dry, apply a leather conditioner or waterproofer if needed. This nourishes leather and replenishes water repellency.

Check soles for wear and re-adhere any sections lifting away. Catching damage early increases the life of your boots.

Store snow boots with cedar shoetrees inside to wick away any leftover moisture and maintain shape. Keep them somewhere with good ventilation.

A quick cleaning after winter walks removes stains, salt, and mud that could degrade your boots over time. Show your snow boots some TLC so they’re ready to tackle next season in style.

Conclusion – how to pick the best snow walking shoes

When old man winter arrives, having the proper footwear makes all the difference for safe, warm and dry winter walks. By considering aspects like insulation, traction, and waterproofness, you can find snow boots to fit your needs.

Think about the conditions you’ll use them in most when deciding which features matter most. Urban commuters may prioritize style and weight, while deep wilderness trekkers need ultra-warm and grippy boots.

Try boots on in person to judge fit and comfort. Shop later in the day when feet are swollen. Have a sense of sizing for popular brands to judge if they run small, true, or large.

Take time to walk around the store in boots fully laced up. The perfect snow boot flexes naturally while supporting your ankles and arches.

Do your research by reading reviews of top-rated snow boots. Video reviews also help visualize how boots look and function beyond just written descriptions.

Consider weatherproofing sprays to treat your boots for extra water resistance. Maintain their performance by cleaning gently after each use.

Finding your dream snow boots takes some effort – but the rewards are warm, dry feet and sure footing all winter long. Before purchasing, be clear on your needs so you pick the perfect pair for the months ahead.