The best snow boots for women, according to an Alaskan
Our writer spends half the year in powder. Her top picks include tried-and-true favorites and a few more that caught her eye.
Alaska is renowned for its dark, cold, and stormy winters. I know because I’ve lived here for over 10 years and spend more than half the year outside shoveling snow off my truck and airplane, walking my dog, or snowmobiling to get around. For me, snow boots aren’t just a winter staple, they’re practically a way of life.
I’ve worn my fair share of snow boots. Besides being able to stand up to icy conditions, the best snow boots should be comfortable and sturdy, whether it’s brisk and clear outside or snowing.
After researching tons of shoe brands and styles, I’ve determined that the Sorel Caribou Waterproof Boot is the best snow boots for women overall. They strike a good balance between sufficient protection from the elements and comfort for everyday wear. I found several more that are equally up to the task, whatever your winter adventures may be. Here are all my favorites.
Our picks for the best snow boots for women
• Best insulated snow boots for women: Baffin Icefield Boots
• Best waterproof snow boots for women: Bogs Whiteout Women’s Winter Boots
• Best slip-resistant snow boots for women: Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall Boot and Vibram Arctic Grip A.T.
• Best short snow boots for women: L.L. Bean Bean Boots
• Best tall snow boots for women: Sorel Joan of Arctic Women’s Waterproof Boot
• Most stylish snow boots for women: Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boots
• Best lightweight snow boots for women: The North Face ThermoBall Lace Up Waterproof Boots
• Most versatile women’s snow boots: UGG Adirondack III
The best women’s snow boots
Besides being comfortable, snow boots should be waterproof, have the right shaft height (higher for deep snow), and grippy traction for navigating icy or wet surfaces. For this guide, I considered those basic requirements, plus my own snow boot collection and experience, as well as online reviews to find the best snow boots for a variety of needs. Read on for my analysis on each pair.
Best snow boots for women overall: Sorel Caribou Waterproof Boot
Why we like it: This boot has been a classic since it was released in 1962. It’s warm, waterproof, and has a high shaft for keeping out snow, plus a removable liner for faster drying. These snow boots are a great option for everyday winter activities or general travel.
Keep in mind: The Sorel Caribou is a hefty boot. It may be too much for milder winter days.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 9 in. | Insulation: 9mm synthetic
Best insulated snow boots for women: Baffin Icefield Boots
Why we like it: The Baffin Icefield Boots are one of the warmest snow boots—they’ve even been tested in the North and South Poles, according to the company. They’re made with a nylon upper and snow collar that help keep wind and snow out.
The breathable, insulated liners are removeable (you can also buy replacements) and the insoles are made with aluminum designed to return heat and reflect cold.
We also like the slip-on design and drawstring/toggle fastening system that makes quick work of putting these on and taking them off.
Keep in mind: These boots are designed for extreme temperatures, so they’re an investment. At over five pounds, they’re some of the heaviest boots on the market.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 11 in. | Insulation: Multilayer inner boot system with foam and wool insulation | Sizes: 6-11
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Best waterproof snow boots for women: Bogs Whiteout Winter Boots
Why we like it: I wear Bogs boots for the muddiest, wettest winter work—from mucking out horse stalls to wading through swamps. These calf-high boots have just seven millimeters of “Neo-Tech” waterproof insulation, creating a lightweight boot that also keeps your feet warm and dry. The best part of Bogs Boots is the aggressive traction. Deep lugs made from “GlacialGrip” rubber stay soft and grippy in cold conditions.
A bonus: These boots are made with the environment in mind. The footbed is constructed with an algae-based ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), whose production contributes to cleaning up polluted water habitats, according to the company.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say the tread wears out faster than on other boots. This could be because the GlacialGrip rubber sole is softer than other types of rubber—great on snow and ice, but less so on hard surfaces like pavement.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 14 in. | Insulation: 7mm “Neo-Tech” waterproof insulation | Sizes: 6-12
Best slip-resistant snow boots for women: Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall Boot and Vibram Arctic Grip A.T.
Why we like it: Muck Boots have long been one of my favorite snow boots for winter chores. The Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall Boot and Vibram Arctic Grip A.T. are on another level. The “Vibram XS Trek Evo” compound provides incredible traction on everything from ice to mud. Additionally, these boots are nearly 17 inches tall, providing maximum coverage in the deepest snow. Even on the coldest days, your feet will stay warm with the neoprene and fleece lining.
Keep in mind: Because these boots are slip-on, they have a loose fit that isn’t ideal for hiking or activities requiring precise footwork.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 16.9 in. | Insulation: 8mm neoprene and fleece lining | Sizes: 5-11
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Best short snow boots for women: L.L. Bean Bean Boots
Why we like it: Bean Boots have been a staple in my life since I was in high school. Comfortable, waterproof, and surprisingly warm, they’re great go-tos for dog walks and errands.
Released in 1911, Bean Boots are still handmade by craftspeople in Maine. The quality shows; I know many people who still get around in their decades-old pairs.
Keep in mind: While these boots are waterproof, they aren’t insulated. Thick socks will help keep your feet warm on extra cold days. There are insulated options, but some reviewers say the stitches on the lining can come apart.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 6 in. | Insulation: No | Sizes: 5-11 (including half sizes)
Best tall snow boots for women: Sorel Joan of Arctic Women’s Waterproof Boot
Why we like it: There’s no need to worry about stepping into deep puddles or snowbanks in these boots. They’re over 13 inches tall and made with a faux-fur cuff to help block snow and water. They also feature impressive insulation, with a six-millimeter recycled felt inner boot that’s removable, plus a thick sole. They’re a great option for doing chores after big storms or for standing outside for extended periods.
Keep in mind: The height and extensive lacing system make these boots a bit of a chore to put on in a rush. With a heavy, loose fit, they’re our least favorite for mild winter days and long walks.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 13.5 in. | Insulation: 6mm felt inner boot | Sizes: 5-12
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Most stylish snow boots for women: Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boots
Why we like it: With their good looks, it’s hard to believe these Blundstone Chelseas are hardy snow boots. But they’ve been helping people navigate cold weather since the first pair rolled out in 1870 in Australia. At seven inches tall, the Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boots are a great option for travelers looking for something with more protection than a regular winter shoe and a calf-high workhorse. They’re also some of the most comfortable winter boots, with an easy slip-on fit and a thick, shearling wool insole.
Keep in mind: At over $200, the Blundstone Chelsea Thermal Boots are one of the most expensive boots in this guide with the least amount of protection during rough winter weather. However, they may be worth it for general travelers planning activities like sightseeing tours or museum visits.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 7 in. | Insulation: Sheepskin footbed and “Thinsulate” insulation | Sizes: 6-11 (including half sizes)
Best lightweight snow boots for women: The North Face ThermoBall Lace Up Waterproof Boots
Why we like it: These boots may look like futuristic high-top sneakers, but they’re surprisingly sturdy snow boots that weigh under two pounds. They’re coated in a non-PFC durable water repellent (DWR) finish to help repel water. Inside, a layer of recycled synthetic insulation keeps your feet warm, even if some snow gets in. These snow boots are easy to pull on, with a simple lace system and collar bungees for extra protection.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say these snow boots run small, so you may want to size up.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 7 in. | Insulation: Recycled polyester insulation | Sizes: 5-11
Most versatile women’s snow boots: UGG Adirondack III
Why we like it: The Ugg Adirondack III nearly made the cut for the top snow boots overall, but their style and functionality make them the most versatile snow boot. My favorite feature is that you can adjust the shaft height for more or less snow protection.
Unlike some of the heftier boots in this list, the UGG Adirondack III fits like a glove and the supple waterproof leather provides great range of motion, making them ideal for heavy snow days and light hikes.
Keep in mind: The UGG Adirondack III snow boots are one of the most expensive in this list. However, their versatility may be worth the price.
Product details: Waterproofing: Yes | Height: 7 in. rolled down; 10 in. rolled up | Insulation: Poly-knit fabric, upcycled wool, and Tencel Lyocell lining | Sizes: 5-12 (including half sizes)
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How we chose the best snow boots for women
To find the best snow boots for women, I considered several factors including my personal experience. These are the qualities I looked for:
• Third-party reviews: I combed through customer reviews from sources other than company websites for unbiased opinions.
• Insulation: I chose boots with different types of insulation, from synthetic to wool, as well as boots that can handle a range of temperatures.
• Waterproofing: Because snow boots need to protect your feet from wet conditions, I prioritized boots with durable waterproofing and taped seams.
• Durability: The best snow boots should last more than one season, so I looked for pairs that could handle some wear and tear.
Tips for buying winter boots
Weather protection
The best snow boots protect you from wet and cold conditions. Most weather and waterproof boots are made from rubber, neoprene, and leather. Look for snow boots that have taped, double-stitching to help keep water out along seams and joints.
Warmth
Snow boots should keep your feet warm, whether you’re admiring a view or shoveling snow. The warmest boots, like the Baffin Icefield Boots, will have thick outsoles, high-quality insulation (synthetic or natural, like wool), and a tall shaft. Boots should also be breathable; sweaty feet can quickly become cold feet, especially with insufficient insulation.
Traction
Winter boots are designed to help you stay stable on icy surfaces, but some are better than others. Most snow boots have rubber compounds that don’t harden at lower temperatures. But for the best traction, look for boots with soles that have deep lug patterns resembling knobs or waves. The Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall Boot and Vibram Arctic Grip A.T. both have deep lugs made from various rubber compounds. They’re better at gripping wet and dry surfaces.
Boot shaft height
Snow boots are typically at least ankle-high. Boots with higher shafts are better at blocking snow and water coming in at the top. They’re also warmer. Lower-cut boots are ideal for hiking because they can be more flexible and have a wider range of motion than tall boots. Boots that are at least eight inches tall are ideal as work boots or wearing in extreme weather.
Comfort and fit
Like any footwear, women’s snow boots should be comfortable enough to wear all day. However, they can be more difficult to size compared to other footwear. You’ll likely be wearing snow boots with thick socks, so make sure you have plenty of room to wiggle your toes. Boots that are too tight can reduce your circulation and lead to cold feet. When possible, try them on in person, or size up if you’re purchasing online.
Frequently asked questions
Are winter boots the same as snow boots?
While often used interchangeably, winter boots and snow boots are not the same. Winter boots are designed to keep feet warm in cold, dry weather, while snow boots are meant to keep your feet warm in wet, snowy conditions.
What boots should you wear in the snow?
For snow boots, look for a pair that is waterproof, insulated, and taller than six inches. You may also want boots with extra traction, like a Vibram sole.
How do I choose snow boots?
When buying a new pair of snow boots, the most important consideration is whether they fit comfortably and have enough wiggle room in the toe box. Look for snow boots that have insulation, are waterproof, and are high enough for your destination and weather conditions. If you’re traveling to a particularly snowy destination, the Baffin Icefield Boots may work best. If you’re planning to tour a city, something classic and functional like the Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boots may be better.
