30 Best Snow Boots for Women to Keep Feet Warm and Dry All Winter Long
Updated: Sep. 08, 2023Step right this way for the best waterproof, slip-proof, and fashion-friendly snow boots around!
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Your new favorite winter footwear
Even if you don’t love the winter, you have to admit that there’s something fun about the change of seasons. After all, when the thermostat drops, it’s time to get cozy with warm winter coats, sweaters, socks, slippers, and, of course, winter boots. That said, if you see flurries in the forecast and you’re wondering whether your boots will actually stand up to everything from slushy weather to the next snowpocalypse, it’s probably time to go shopping. But what really qualifies as the best snow boots for women, and how do you know that the ones you like are as good as they claim to be? We’re about to make things a lot simpler for you.
How to shop for snow boots
According to Jennie Flaming, chief adventure officer at the travel website Ordinary Adventures and a former Alaska and Washington State tour guide, the most important thing to consider when shopping for winter boots is whether you’ll wear them in predominantly wet or dry snow. (Refresher: Wet snow occurs when the temperature goes just above freezing, and dry snow occurs when the temperature drops below freezing.) In wet snow, you’ll want to prioritize a boot’s waterproofing, and in dry snow, you’ll want to prioritize its warmth.
Of course, when you’re dealing with snow, you always want something that’s waterproof, at least at the bottom of the boot. That’s true even in dry and cold climates, says Flaming. She also notes that boots should come at least to the mid-calf to prevent snow from spilling inside and should have a sole with tread to resist slipping.
The last thing to remember is socks. “Socks are just as important as boots to stay warm and dry,” says Flaming. She recommends wool socks from Smartwool and Darn Tough.
How we chose the best snow boots
In addition to getting recommendations from Flaming, we scoured thousands of online reviews to find the best women’s snow boots—whether you need them for trekking in deep snow or simply getting from the car to your front door safely. Each of the options on this list has an average rating of four stars or higher on Amazon, as well as a minimum of 500 reviews. Non-Amazon boots, including our favorite winter boots from Zappos, come highly recommended from a range of sources or are routinely considered best in class. One final note: Don’t delay! With supply chain issues and increased demand for everything these days, the best boots will likely sell out a lot sooner this year.
The best snow boots for women
OK, now let’s get shopping! Here are 2022’s best snow boots that will keep your toes toasty, no matter how awful the weather is. Know a guy in need of proper footwear, too? Check out these top-rated winter boots for men.
Highest-rated snow boots on Amazon
Sorel Glacy Explorer Shortie Snow Boots
With an average of 4.8 stars from more than 1,000 reviewers on Amazon, these waterproof boots caught our eye. They feature a medium-high shaft for mobility, a fleece lining for warmth, and a cushiony removable insole with heel and arch support, making them feel more like your favorite walking shoes. “I got these boots because I knew I was going to be doing a lot of walking in the snow,” writes verified Amazon reviewer Krystal Walker. “My feet were toasty all day long, and my legs never got tired from hauling them up and down hills. Additionally, the traction on the soles is good enough that I never worried about falling.”
Highlights:
- Fully waterproof
- Arch support
- Lightweight and breathable
Best fan-favorite snow boots
Columbia Ice Maiden II Snow Boots
When it comes to finding the best snow boots for women, even the experts recommend checking out the reviews. That’s why we couldn’t ignore these Columbia kicks with an average of 4.7 stars on Amazon from more than 25,000 reviewers. The cult-favorite shoe is rendered from waterproof leather and has 200 grams of insulation.
Reviewers rave about the warmth, slip resistance, waterproofing, and durability of these Amazon best sellers. “As someone who lives in a cold/snowy climate and participates in a lot of outdoor winter activities, I did a lot of research before buying a pair of snow boots,” writes reviewer Kate Mahoney, who gave them five stars. “These boots are worth every penny. They keep your feet warm and keep moisture out. You could trudge in sleet, snow, puddles, and mud for hours and stay toasty and dry.”
Highlights:
- Waterproof
- 200 grams of insulation
- High-traction outsole
Best snow boots for dry snow
Sorel Winter Carnival Boots
Flaming opts for these Sorel snow boots when she visits cold destinations that are dry, such as Fairbanks, Alaska, Bozeman, Montana, and Yellowstone. “They have a waterproof base, and they are super warm,” she says. “With wool socks, I’m comfortable in them down to about -20 Fahrenheit.” The shoes have a sherpa cuff, mid-calf shaft, and lace-up design for a tight fit that keeps the elements out. Plus, the classic silhouette and design will make them your newest everyday boots for errands, schleps to the office, hanging out at a ski resort, and more.
Highlights:
- Available in sizes 5 to 12
- Waterproof base
- Microfleece lining
Best snow boots for wet snow
XtraTuf 15-Inch Insulated Legacy Boots
If you’re visiting a place with wet snow, Flaming recommends a waterproof rubber boot—and XtraTuf is one of her favorite brands. “I can wear them with wool socks and be comfortable down to at least 20 degrees Fahrenheit and often colder,” she says. “This ensures you are dry and warm.” XtraTuf’s snow boots for women are breathable, flexible, and feature a slip-resistant outsole. Bonus: Because they’re so lightweight, you can wear them year-round in snow and rain. Here are some boot and shoe storage ideas to maximize your space and make sure you can find the right footwear when you need it.
Highlights:
- Waterproof
- Can be worn in snow or rain
- Built-in cushion insoles
Best snow boots for slushy snow
Hunter Original Insulated Slipper Boots
Hunter is another one of Flaming’s favorite boot brands for snow that veers on the wetter side. This minimalist pair can be worn two ways: with the cuff straight up or folded over to reveal a fleece lining. The certified-vegan boots have a waterproof lower, platformed outsole for grip in slippery conditions, and they’ll also add a polished touch to any cold-weather outfit.
Highlights:
- Waterproof lower
- Roll-top upper
- Pull-on style
Best snow boots for short distances
UGG Classic Mini II Winter Boots
Sometimes you simply need a snow boot that will get you from the doorway to the car in comfort and style—and that’s where UGGs come in. The Classic Mini silhouette has taken over our social media feeds this year, and we’ve spotted them on “it” girls from Emily Ratajkowski to Gigi Hadid. The boots are made with a wool interior and sheepskin upper, and you can apply a water-repellency treatment to help them stand up to the elements. Wear the shoes with leggings, trousers, or lounge pants to snag major style points. Our UGG boot review will make you want to snag a pair sooner rather than later.
Highlights:
- Wool interior
- Sheepskin exterior
- Rubber sole
Best tall snow boots
Muck Arctic Adventure Tall Rubber Winter Boots
High-shaft women’s snow boots mean business. This Muck Arctic Adventure pair earned an average of 4.7 stars on Amazon from more than 3,000 reviewers. The waterproof shoes are made of rubber and feature neoprene panels for flexibility and heat retention. Additionally, there’s a fleece lining and lightweight outsole, and the high shaft makes them particularly well suited for wet conditions. “I was hopping into calf-deep water, trudging through knee-deep snow, and sometimes slogging through sucking mud, and my feet never got wet or cold,” writes one happy customer. For a little fun, find out what your go-to boots and shoes reveal about your personality.
Highlights:
- Pull tab for easy on and off
- Fully waterproof
- Fleece lining
Best short snow boots
Columbia Ice Maiden Shorty Snow Boots
A short snow boot is great for days you want a lightweight option that still packs a punch. This pair from the winter experts at Columbia features the brand’s signature Omni-GRIP outsole for traction, a waterproof bottom and upper, and 200 grams of insulation. Plus, these boots are super comfortable. They come with a cushioned midsole that provides all-day support. “I walk my dog two to four miles a day, and winter in Wisconsin makes that difficult sometimes,” writes one reviewer. “These are so warm even with super-thin socks. I trudged through knee-high snow and they stayed dry the whole time. I haven’t slipped at all even on sheets of ice.” Pair them with your favorite jeans and they’ll look great, too.
Highlights:
- Slip-resistant outsole
- 200 grams of insulation
- Lightweight
Best insulated snow boots
Sorel Caribou Waterproof Winter Boots
If you live in a place that’s extremely cold, or you are simply visiting, you’ll need a boot that’s built to fight the elements. Fortunately, Sorel’s Caribou fits the bill. The shoe is made with a nine-millimeter felt liner, which will keep feet snug and warm even in below-zero temperatures (the brand rates them to -40 degrees Fahrenheit). They have a waterproof rubber lower and leather upper and a 9.5-inch mid-shaft height to keep snow from slipping in. “They will outlast the cheap imitations,” writes one thankful reviewer. “Today it is -10 with a -17 degree wind chill. Thank goodness for Sorels.”
Highlights:
- Rated to -40 degrees
- Waterproof
- Durable
Best snow boots for hiking
Merrell Moab 2 Mid GORE-TEX
When shopping for a hiking boot, you’ll want to find something waterproof, lightweight, grippy, and comfortable. Merrell’s boot delivers on all four. The waterproof shoe comes in a sneaker-inspired silhouette that makes mobility a breeze. A contoured footbed and air-cushion heel provides flexible support and allows you to feel connected to every step you take on your favorite hiking trails—no matter how treacherous. Plus, the brand’s trademark Vibram outsole offers reliable slip resistance.
Highlights:
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant
Best value-priced snow boots
Lands’ End All Weather Insulated Winter Snow Boots
Finding a quality snow boot under $100 is difficult but not impossible. This reliable pair from Lands’ End includes 200 grams of Thermolite insulation, a fleece lining, and a waterproof rubber outsole. From a style perspective, a suede upper and subtle floral pattern add cozy flair. They’re the perfect everyday winter boots for moderate climates, and a zipper closure makes them ideal for slipping on as you head out the door so you don’t have to fuss with laces.
Highlights:
- Accessible price point
- 200 grams of insulation
- Fleece lining
Best snow boots under $50
ArcticShield Anna Snow Boots
With an average of 4.6 stars on Amazon from nearly 5,000 reviewers, these budget-friendly snow boots prove that you don’t have to spend a bundle on your winter gear. The waterproof, lace-up pair is insulated with ArcticShield Retain Technology that captures and retains your body’s warmth, and its lightweight outsole boasts slip-resistant patches for traction in inclement conditions. Plus, memory-foam insoles provide serious comfort. Reviewers note the boots feel more expensive than they are: “They look nice, not cheap, and make me look well-dressed with black slim-fit pants,” writes one fan. “They feel luxurious inside, very comfy and warm.” They make an affordable gift for the right woman in your life—and one that she’ll use all the time.
Highlights:
- Under-$50 price point
- Memory-foam insole
- Waterproof
Best lightweight snow boots
BomKinta Women’s Snow Boots
A short, lightweight snow boot makes for easier mobility. This pair, which has more than 5,700 five-star reviews on Amazon, features an anti-slip sole, a waterproof and snow-resistant upper, and faux-fur lining. “These boots can’t be beaten for the price. They are cute, waterproof, warm, lightweight, and comfortable,” writes verified Amazon reviewer Leslie Klenk. “I wore them camping and walked through puddles and on wooded trails with no troubles.” Another fan raves: “I love these boots! They keep my feet soooo warm, and they are so fluffy and comfortable. With the temps warming up lately, I’ve been wearing them for walks through slushy snow and my feet stay dry.”
Highlights:
- Lightweight
- Under $50
- Waterproof
Best fashion-friendly snow boots
Franco Sarto Galaxy Cold Weather Boots
Yes, the best snow boots for women can be fashionable. Franco Sarto’s option features a futuristic silhouette that’s still easy to pair with any winter outfit, especially since it comes in four colors: black, silver metallic, white, and purple. It has a front and back zip closure, leather construction, and fabric lining, and the 1.75-inch, on-trend lug sole will keep your feet a comfortable distance away from snow and grime. Plus, it offers excellent traction.
Highlights:
- On-trend lug sole
- Leather construction
- Fabric lining
Best wool-lined snow boots
UGG Women’s Adirondack Boot III
Few things feel more luxurious than a wool lining. Add a rubber sole, waterproof leather and suede upper, and 200 grams of insulation, and you have a fabulous pair of snow boots that are ideal for people who love the finer (and warmer) things in life. “My UGGs arrived today, just in time to walk my dog in 12-degree weather with 40 mph winds! Brutal day, but my feet were warm the entire time,” writes one reviewer. That customer and other commenters note that the boots feel snug at first due to their woolly interior, but they’ll be perfect after a few wears: “It takes a small amount of time for the wool to mat down inside. It molds to the shape of your foot.”
Highlights:
- 200 grams of insulation
- Wool/shearling lining
- Waterproof
Best preppy snow boots
Kamik Mid-Calf Snow Boots
Show off your preppy style with these plaid snow boots. Not only are Kamik’s boots fashionable, but they’re also functional. They’re made of 100 percent leather and feature a waterproof rubber bottom, and the moisture-wicking fleece lining makes them great for chilly and mid-temperature days. “I am quite honestly in love with these boots. For one, they’re gorgeous, stylish, waterproof, warm, etc.,” writes verified Amazon reviewer Sarah. “The fit is amazing, and I feel like I have a bit of a spring in my step now, rather than clunking around in my duck boots.”
Highlights:
- Fashion-friendly
- Lightweight
- Fleece-lined
Best zippered snow boots
Cior Winter II Women’s Snow Boots
Available in a whopping 25 colors, patterns, and styles, these toasty boots are just what your winter wardrobe is missing. They feature a waterproof upper and are lined with faux fur from top to toe, and an anti-skid sole will keep you safe, even on the slipperiest days. Reviewers love the affordable price point and the comfy, secure fit. Our favorite part? The zipper closure and either a “magic button” or drawstring design, depending on the ones you choose, keep the snow out and the heat in.
Highlights:
- Faux-fur lining
- Adjustable
- Affordable
Best handmade snow boots
L.L.Bean Women’s Signature Wicked Good Bean Boots
L.L.Bean’s Bean Boot has been a classic for decades. This style—a more plush version of the original—is lined with shearling and has a suede-like sheepskin exterior. Each day, you’ll have the option to fold over the top to show the liner or lace them up for extra warmth. Plus, each boot is handmade in Maine by skilled artisans, so you’ll be getting a truly high-quality product. “I wear them without socks and they feel so cozy since the fur goes all the way to the toe,” writes one reviewer. “They are comfortable and good for rainy and snowy days. I recommend these boots to anyone who lives in a cold climate.”
Highlights:
- Shearling lining
- Lace-up or fold-over option
- Made in the USA
Best sneaker-style snow boots
Sorel Out ‘N About Plus Conquest Suede Boots
Sorel’s sneaker boot gives you the lightweight mobility you crave combined with the functionality of a high-tech snow boot. The waterproof shoe features 100 grams of insulation and is lined with microfleece, making them extra cozy, and they have a lace-up design and cushiony footbed for all your walks around town. “These are so cute and practical for being out and about running errands in the winter,” writes one reviewer. We agree: The practicality of these boots is unmatched.
Highlights:
- 100 grams of insulation
- Removable EVA footbed
- Handcrafted vulcanized herringbone outsole
Best slip-on snow boots
Skechers Performance On the Go 400 Cozies
If there’s one thing we’ve learned in the past few years, it’s that comfort is essential. These slip-on Skechers with a six-inch shaft put that concept front and center with their faux-fur lining and trim. Inside, you’ll find a cushioned midsole that makes them great for everyday wear. “These boots are very comfortable and warm,” writes verified Amazon reviewer Kimberly Rad. “I put them on and couldn’t take them off because they made my feet happy.” Other customers agree they’re great—the boots have an average of 4.7 stars on Amazon from more than 1,600 reviewers.
Highlights:
- Faux-fur lining
- Cushioned midsole
- Lightweight
Best everyday snow boots
Sperry Maritime Repel Snow Boots
Sperry is another cult-favorite brand that’s known for its weather-resistant shoes. These minimalist snow boots can take you anywhere—from dog walks and errand runs to the office and everywhere in between. They have an ankle-high silhouette and come with a rubber sole and 200 grams of insulation, so they’ll keep you warm. An interior zipper makes for easy on and off, while the lace-up design allows you to achieve a snug fit. Plus, the shoes have an average of 4.6 stars from more than 1,000 reviewers on Amazon. “The leather top portion is so attractive, and so far they have gone well with every outfit I’ve paired them with,” writes one happy customer. “Beautiful, comfortable, practical boots.”
Highlights:
- Lightweight
- 200 grams of insulation
- Side zip
Best snow boots with a heel
White Mountain Dorian Lace-up Boots
Heeled boots may not be the smartest option for long walks in the snow, but they’re perfect for those house-to-car days when you want to wear something special. These ankle booties with a chunky 2.5-inch heel feature an inside zip closure and lace-up front to keep them tight and secure on your feet. There’s also a treaded outsole so you stay safe, no matter how slippery it gets. “They look great with work pants, jeans, and leggings,” writes one reviewer. “Highly recommend if you are a gal who likes to style boots in many different ways and are looking for a comfortable, sturdy shoe.”
Highlights:
- Zip closure
- Lace-up
- Fashion-friendly
Best après-ski snow boots
Merrell Juno Pull Ons
Just look at this slipper-like shoe and tell us it’s not exactly what you want to wear after a long day on the slopes. Merrell’s Juno Pull Ons feature a wool upper and 70 percent recycled fleece lining. The inside has a 100 percent recycled EVA insole for cushiony comfort with every step, and a 15 percent recycled outsole will keep you steady as you shuttle from the mountain to the chalet. The best part? All those aforementioned recycled materials make these a seriously sustainable winter snow boot option. If you love this idea, you’ll also want to check out these other sustainable clothing brands.
Highlights:
- Sustainable
- Wool upper
- Fleece lining
Best edgy snow boots
Dr. Martens 2976 Faux Fur Lined Chelsea Boots
Dr. Martens knows a thing or two about both cold-weather shoes and Chelsea boots. This silhouette offers a winterized take on the brand’s iconic shoes and features a faux-fur lining and pull tab at the heel. Like all Docs, they have visible yellow stitching and a comfortable air-cushioned sole, and you can pair them with pretty much every cold-weather outfit, from jeans and leggings to flowy dresses that need some edgy flair. In short, they’re a key wardrobe piece that can help you look instantly put together. “These are the perfect winter boot,” writes one reviewer. “Warm, practical for walking around all day, and super cute.”
Highlights:
- Fashion-friendly
- Air-cushioned sole
- Faux-fur lining
Best sporty snow boots
Merrell Snowcreek Sport Mid Zip Polar Waterproof Boots
This sporty shoe reminds us of the retro winter snow boots from our childhood—only with a serious upgrade that includes lightweight insulation and recycled materials. These Merrell snow boots for women are fully waterproof and feature a mountain-grade rubber outsole for traction, and the zip back makes them easy to pull on and off. We’d couple them with fleece-lined leggings and snow pants for snowball fights, sledding, and other winter activities.
Highlights:
- Sporty design
- Zip back
- Recycled elements
Best basic black snow boots
Totes Women’s Cold Weather Boots
Sometimes, all you need is a basic black snow boot to round out your winter footwear collection. This pair has dual side zippers for easy on and off, a faux-fur lining for coziness, and a waterproof exterior. It’s rated for -20 degrees, making it a real do-anything boot, and the shoe has a no-slip grip you can rely on. “I bought these for my 83-year-old mom, who is blind and is always cold,” writes one five-star reviewer. “She says these are warm, fit well, and she feels secure with the traction they provide.”
Highlights:
- Wide sizing available
- Waterproof
- Dual side zippers
Best brown snow boots
GlobalWin Waterproof Winter Snow Boots
A brown boot is another wardrobe essential. This well-rated option from GlobalWin, which has more than 4,800 five-star reviews, has a classic, preppy design with a faux-fur interior and quilted exterior. Waterproof, slip-resistant, and rated to -15 degrees, they can be worn with jeans and a sweater or with leggings and a tunic for a fashion-forward look. “I wore them for three days straight and my feet never hurt,” writes verified Amazon reviewer Elizabeth R. “They didn’t rub weird in places, and my feet were warm and DRY! I even went hiking and they were great.”
Highlights:
- Available in 21 colors
- Rated to -15 degrees
- Non-slip outsole
Best snow boots for walking
Harence Women’s Winter Snow Boots
This waterproof Harence walking boot will hug your feet all day. It boasts a plush interior, non-slip outsole, and slip-on silhouette, and with more than 9,400 five-star reviews and an under-$40 price point, you really can’t go wrong if you’re looking for a casual boot when the snow isn’t too high. “Nice looking and super comfortable shoes—the support is great,” says one Amazon shopper. “I walked miles in -5 degrees in Woodstock, Vermont. I wore two pairs of wool socks, walked under light rain…and my feet didn’t get wet.” They’re perfect for early-morning dog walks and treks to the grocery store. To protect your pup’s paws from ice, chemicals, and cold weather, you’ll also want to pick up a pair of the best winter boots for dogs.
Highlights:
- Faux fur
- Slip-on style
- Breathable
Best combat-style snow boots
Circus by Sam Edelman Indy Lace-Up Ankle Boots
A combat boot is a quintessential winter shoe, ideal for pairing with trousers, leggings, and even dresses. This under-$100 pair from Circus by Sam Edelman features a waterproof vegan leather upper and a 1.75-inch heeled platform. It’s available in four colors, so the outfit opportunities are endless. Match them with a pair of cozy wool socks and you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws at you.
Highlights:
- Waterproof
- Four colorways
- Lace-up design
Best sustainable snow boots
Ganni Recycled Rubber Country Boots
Want to find amazing snow boots for women that are also kind to the planet? We’ve got your back—and the perfect thing for your feet. Ganni’s recycled rubber boots are made using 50 percent recycled rubber scraps and cutoffs. The knee-high boots from the fashionista-approved brand have a waterproof exterior and a one-inch lug-sole platform to keep you lifted from slush and puddles. Plus, an easygoing, pull-on silhouette will make them one of your most-reached-for boots.
Highlights:
- Pull-on style
- On-trend lug sole
- Sustainable
How should you clean suede boots?
Different materials require different care, but perhaps none is as tricky as suede. The finicky material can become stiff and brittle when it dries after becoming wet, which is why you might not want to wear suede boots in deep snow. Full suede boots are better for short distances in light snow, or you can opt for snow boots with suede accents. If they do get drenched, it’s possible to restore your beloved boots to their former glory. George P. H., founder of Shoethority, recommends a five-step process…once your boots are dry. “Always wait for [suede] to dry first,” he says.
Once it is, follow these steps:
- Use a suede brush to remove debris and dirt.
- Apply suede cleaner or saddle soap to a microfiber cloth or shoe brush.
- Work the cleaner into the suede using circular motions until clean.
- Rinse with a clean towel or microfiber cloth.
- Let dry fully.
He also recommends preempting damage by applying a suede protector or all-purpose leather protector that is safe for suede.
How should you clean UGG boots?
Because the exterior is made of sheepskin suede, the Classic UGG boot—in all of its shapes and silhouettes—is notorious for getting dirty quickly. However, it’s one of our favorite snow boots for short distances, which is why we’re glad this can be prevented. “I strongly suggest applying suede protector or a good waterproofing spray before wearing UGGs out,” says P. H. “They’re very delicate. They can start shriveling up and losing their shape if exposed to the elements.”
If your suede UGGs are exposed, you can clean them using the same process that you would for any other suede boots, though P. H. does prefer a particular cleaner for them. “With UGGs, I specifically recommend suede cleaner, not saddle soap,” he says. “It does a better job.”
The good news: UGGs’ more technical styles—like the Adirondack III Hiker and the Classic Clear Mini—hold up to the elements well. You should be able to spot-clean them with a damp cloth to remove snow and salt stains.
How should you clean leather boots?
The best way to keep leather boots clean is to protect them from the start. “Use a tried-and-tested protectant spray formulated without silicones on new, clean shoes to help repel minor stains, spills, and splashes,” says Tamar Miller, founder of Bells & Becks, an online provider of Italian-made shoes. “Make sure you use a spray that is recommended for fine leathers in particular and follow the instructions carefully.”
If your boots get a few dirt or salt marks, you can wipe them down easily. To do so, dip a cloth into warm water and dish soap. Then, gently wipe the stain. “If a deeper clean is required or if you’re dealing with wet stains,” says Miller, “I’d recommend considering a professional for high-end suede and leather shoes.”
Next, check out the best rain boots for women that fit every budget and style.
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Sources:
- Jennie Flaming, chief adventure officer of Ordinary Adventures and a former Alaska and Washington State tour guide
- George P. H., founder of Shoethority
- Tamar Miller, founder of Bells & Becks
