The Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2024-2025

We tested the best winter hiking boots available to keep you comfortable and crushing it all season long. The GearJunkie squad has collectively tested thousands of boots on their various forays into the chilly wild.

To ensure we covered all variables, we tested these boots in the snowy Colorado mountains, the dry Arizona desert, the perpetually wet Pacific Northwest, and the snow and granite-streaked Sierra Nevada.

Pooling our team’s overall knowledge and drawing from extensive personal experience in the frozen backcountry, staff authors Peter Reese and Mallory Paige clocked endless miles in just as many winter boots to whittle the selection down to the eleven deserving models you see today.

For winter 2024/25, we brought in contributing writer Andrew Potter, who put updated models through the day-to-day paces around the east side of the Sierra and Yosemite’s high country. In addition, we took the finalists to a post-blizzard Mammoth Lakes, Calif., to compare specs and performance in head-to-head stress testing, determining which boots earned the crown and which left us with frozen toes.

Read on for the full list, and if you need more help choosing, check out our handy comparison chart and buyer’s guide at the bottom of this article.

Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on October 11, 2024, by adding three new products, including our best overall pick, the Keen Revel IV Mid Polar, our best budget pick, the KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof Mid, and our favorite choice for light and fast missions, The North Face VECTIV Fastpack.

The Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2024-2025

Best Overall Winter Hiking Boots: KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar
Best Budget Winter Hiking Boots: KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof Mid
Best Women’s Winter Hiking Boots: Oboz Bridger 7” Insulated
Best Minimalist Winter Hiking Boots: Xero Alpine Boot
Best Winter Hiking Boots for Traction: Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid GORE-TEX
Best Winter Hiking Boots for Fast & Light Missions: The North Face VECTIV Fastpack
Most Versatile Winter Hiking Boots: Lowa Renegade Evo GTX

Specs

Best for: Long cold hikes, winter peak bagging, snowshoeing
Weight: 24.27 oz.
Waterproofing: Keen.Dry breathable waterproof membrane
Upper: Leather and Mesh

Pros

Extreme warmth
Safety toe
Roomy yet technically sound fit

Cons

A bit heavy/not ideal for travel

Rated to -25 F, the KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar Boots ($180) are built to withstand extremes. The proprietary KEEN.Polar traction rubber excels on ice and snow, and a safety toe provides added security for situations where loose rock and ice might endanger your toes.

The upper is designed with a combination of leather and mesh, which provides the ultimate waterproofing while allowing for breathability. Our feet stayed warm and dry crossing frigid creeks and rivers, and (somewhat remarkably) didn’t overheat on a long hike meandering between domes in Tuolumne Meadows.

In our first foray testing the KEEN.Polar traction rubber, we were surprised by how well the rigid soles gripped the rock. The rounded edges weren’t ideal for plugging our feet into notches in the granite, but they are meant for hiking, not technical rock ascents, anyway.

Over granite slabs, ledges, and rock hopping through boulder mazes, however, they certainly outperformed our expectations. And, when paired with snowshoes or winter traction devices, they crushed it up on snowy and icy hikes and peak ascents.

With such a low temperature rating and supreme waterproofness, we’d recommend these boots for anyone who recreates in the cold. We also think they’re ideal for long-distance hikers who prefer rigid soles and optimal foot protection. For instance, if you plan on tackling the PCT from North to South, the Revel IV is the late winter boot for you. Or, if, like us, you love topping out on Colorado 14ers during winter, the Revel IV boots are perfect.

We can’t imagine better boots for ascending and descending snowy passes while also holding their own on forest trails. And there’s more: they also come in a higher version that reaches to your mid-calf; the Revel IV High Polar Boots (men’s/women’s) are ideal if you want the same boots with even better protection for deeper snow.

Specs

Best for: All-around winter wear, extending before and after hiking
Weight: 2 lbs. 8.6 oz. | 2 lb. 2.6 oz.
Waterproofing: KEEN.Dry waterproof breathable membrane
Upper: Nubuck leather

Pros

Adaptable
Durable
Comfortable out of the box
Great support

Cons

Waterproofing is not as stout as some others
Could be warmer

The mountains of North Carolina possess varied and dramatic weather. Even in early-season testing, a 50-degree range from 20 to 70 degrees took our tester from down jacket to t-shirt, with the affordable but durable KEEN Targhee IV ($170) keeping pace all the way.

While KEEN is often seen as significantly wider than others, the fit was true, with enough room for midweight wool socks. Comfort came with first wearing, as secure lacing teamed up with waterproofing to splash confidently through icy Appalachian creeks.

Style points brought Targhee from path to café even as the boot’s structure and materials won on the trail. Based on the rigidity of its 6-inch upper, this boot is more for day hiking than backcountry overnights or extended trail campaigns with heavier payloads. Warmth is average for a non-insulated boot that offers fall and spring hiking competency at a reasonable price.

This boot’s bailiwick is support, comfort, and solid foot protection from weather and gritty trail conditions. KEEN’s easy-striding design makes walking less tiring, particularly while coaxing two children to continue exploring the peaks and valleys of California.

The agility of the Targhee IV Boots allowed more starting, stopping, and directional changes without worry about wet, cold, or blisters. And its sole construction smoothed out the bumps along the way. As affordable, dependable companions on cold, gnarly trails — we think these are the best bang for your buck.

Read Review: KEEN Targhee IV Test: PFC-Free, Comfortable, Durability Guaranteed

Specs

Best for: Sketchy or variable trail conditions from fall to spring
Weight: 2 lb. 9 oz.
Waterproofing: B-DRY waterproof/breathable membrane
Upper: Waterproof nubuck leather

Pros

Traction
Warmth

Cons

Upper height

Finding a boot that spans the spectrum of winter weather is a challenge, one that Oboz took on with vigor. With this Bridger model ($210), a well-managed cloak of 200g insulation handles moderate to fairly deep cold. That’s true even during brief periods of stop-and-stare appreciation of the winter landscape.

Wool-topped insoles fight conductive heat loss through the boot’s outsole. The addition of waterproof leather adds years of durability, even on rocky trails or through sharp-crusted snow.

Oboz has never been shy about grabbing for traction with its hiking boots. Here, directional lugs and specialized, silica-infused winter soles add meaningful grip on icy surfaces. Testers took on extremely slick road surfaces along with frosty trails with no notable slippage.

While boot heights for winter hiking boots vary dramatically, this Bridger’s 7-inch upper strikes an efficient balance between weather protection, ankle support, and agility across mixed terrain.

Hikers with Oboz brand experience will instantly recognize the reliable lacing system, protective toe, and wrapped outsole in the Bridger, Sawtooth, and Arete lines. Styling is consistent as well, offering a distinctive profile that’s not shy about staking a claim to adventure.

Newcomers who make Bridger their winter pick will find a consistent fit across multiple products. This allows easy migration to a non-insulated model when the snowpack yields to spring wildflowers.

Specs

Best for: Stretching budgets where ice, slop, and mud are part of winter
Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz. | 1 lb. 7 oz.
Waterproofing: Fully seam-sealed inner bootie and a water-resistant membrane
Upper: 100% vegan-friendly rubber

Pros

Warmth
Comfort

Cons

Support

The Xero Alpine Boot ($160) will satisfy anyone looking for a more minimalist winter hiking boot. With 200g insulation across a zero heel-drop platform, this one merited our attention for its expansive hiking-plus functionality.

The removable, heat-reflective insole adds warmth to a boot that weighs less than 12 ounces per foot (in a women’s 7). The Iowa testing team pushed this completely vegan-friendly boot across forest and field, even jumping low-lying branches and disused farm machinery in the process.

Beyond snow, tar-like mud crisscrossed the trail. No slipping here, with efficient energy transfer from foot to tread. In and through it all, stability bordered on shocking (in a positive way) given the boot’s nontraditional appearance.

Attentive lacing is needed to capture Alpine’s performance. Our female tester noted the stay-connected heel cup that improved the boot’s structure, allowing toes to spread for wider feet. Greater warmth accrued, keeping biomechanical efficiency with the medium lug outsole. Easy to walk past in evaluating hiking options, this eye-catcher from Xero deserves a second look.

Specs

Best for: Making miles with or without a pack
Weight: 1 lb. 13.2 oz. | 1 lb. 9.4 oz.
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane
Upper: Synthetic textile

Pros

Traction
Durability

Cons

Temperature range

When we pulled on these boots, we felt they were more like “running shoes than hiking boots” with a true-to-size instant fit and immediate comfort. The higher, padded cuff made her first steps easy and sure, all underpinned by a Contagrip outsole with multidirectional lugs.

Determined to overcome wet or wild, the Cross Hike ($190) prevails across conditions common to the Pacific Northwest. The integrated lacing system and closed-gusset tongue keep the Gore-Tex membrane’s performance intact.

Uphill and downhill, the Cross Hike couldn’t be prodded into slipping. As the boots aren’t insulated, there’s room for a reasonable sock.

We wore them without gaiters and were impressed to find the uppers dry after a wet, muddy, and snowy hike. Breathability was superior, with little water pushing past the cuff after post-holing through deep snow.

Salomon is known for winter performance from ski slopes to cross-country trails to the mountaintops. The Cross Hike delivers with extras, including a hidden tongue pocket for the lacing toggle.

While its heel drop is only 10 mm, the Cross Hike portrays an elegant heel height that echos fashionable footwear. With adequate room for feet nudging wider, this boot is an athletic option.

Specs

Best for: Fastpacking in cold and wet weather
Weight: 2 lbs. 1.9 oz.
Waterproofing: Yes
Upper: Leather with reinforced mudguard

Pros

Exceptionally light
Feature rich
VECTIV technology prioritizes momentum
Packable

Cons

Not ideal for those with wide feet
Extreme toe spring can cramp the toes

The North Face has made a foray back into footwear in recent years, and the VECTIV Fastpack ($185) represents a perfect integration of the brand aesthetic and footwear. With technical capabilities close to that of an approach shoe, the Vective Fastpack is ideal for shoulder season peak baggers who want to cut seconds from car to car.

These winter boots are packed with features. The leather upper has reinforced mudguards for added protection. A waterproof DryVent membrane optimizes breathability when highly active. The 200g Heatseeker Eco insulation lines the insole for supreme warmth retention. Surface CTRL lugs excel on slick terrain. And the list goes on.

We hadn’t experimented with VECTIV technology, but it didn’t take long for us to realize that these boots were meant for speed. The forward-leaning design felt similar to HOKA models we’ve tested in the past, but these are far less bulky.

With wider-than-average feet, however, the Vectiv Fastpack was a bit too narrow for sustained comfort. That said, they excelled when we picked up speed on descents and performed as expected when submerged in icy creek water, keeping our feet dry and providing a confidence-inspiring grip on slick rock.

Crampon and gaiter compatible, we’d recommend these boots for narrow-footed high alpine athletes. Although they do look pretty slick as a wintertime mountain-town daily driver. While they won’t check all the boxes for those with wider feet, The North Face VECTIVE Fastpack boots are a feature-packed ensemble of winter functionality.

If you’re heading into the mountains for a big mission where weight counts or if you need a boot that you can easily throw in your pack (think a spring peak ascent where you’re hiking a trail until you reach snow and switch to your ski boots), these are the best option.

Specs

Best for: Treks from day strolls to extended hikes in moderate winter conditions
Weight: 2 lbs. 9.6 oz. | 2 lbs. 0.8 oz.
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane
Upper: Nubuck leather

Pros

Efficiency
Agility

Cons

Temperature range

Lowa remains one of the world’s preeminent mountain brands, and the design, construction, and on-trail performance of the Renegade ($265) does not disappoint.

Our tester — new to Lowa but a savvy denizen of the Appalachians — added another perspective to winter boots: a national champion and a professional athlete from the world of road cycling.

Now coaching, mountain biking, and hiking in North Carolina and beyond, he admired it from top to bottom, from its sturdy upper to its durable Vibram outsole. While the footbed needed an upgrade, the boot was true to size.

Lacing and adjustment took some level of concentration, but the tongue’s comfort was superior to other boots he’s evaluated. Out on the trail, energy transfer was positive and consistent across varied terrain and weather conditions.

With the sole’s debris-shedding lug pattern, progress was steady as the GORE-TEX lining performed under the durable Nubuck leather shell. As with many Lowa boots, the MONOWRAP frame construction meant the boot tracked forward with reduced foot fatigue.

An uninsulated model, Renegade needs proper socking to reach freezing temps. An offsetting factor is enough flex to move freely and quickly and maintain blood circulation in this confidence-inspiring winter option.

Specs

Best for: Hiking in tough conditions or carrying loads
Weight: 2 lbs.14 oz.,| 2 lbs. 6oz.
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Upper: Full-Grain Leather and Nubuck Leather

Pros

Comparatively lightweight for its burly construction
Out-of-the-box comfort, little to no break-in time
Extremely waterproof
Good breathability

Cons

Tight lacing system
Leather scruffs and wears easily

For 2024, Vasque updated its St. Elias GTX boot ($230) with modern specs and tech, taking a retro-leaning style and injecting it with modern performance. Sometimes, this kind of play doesn’t work, but Vasque gets the balance just right here.

The midsole is built with a partially bio-based EVA, alleviating the clunky weight normally associated with full leather hiking boots. Further supplemented by an energy return tech that’s en vogue in running shoes, we found there’s way more performance under the hood than the throwback silhouette suggests.

The GORE-TEX waterproofing proved effective and efficient for our tester while he was breaking trail into a record-level Eastern Sierra snowpack and during his sleet and puddle-filled hikes through the woods of Michigan.

It’s worth noting that these are leather, so they require some maintenance. Cleaning off mud and drying before storing is crucial. Our tester noted easy scuffing and an occasional hotspot caused by tight lacing.

Ultimately, these were small issues in the scope of the Vasque St. Elias’ rugged performance. If you’re looking for a winter hiking boot that looks sweet and performs well, the Vasque St. Elias GTX is for you.

Specs

Best for: Going big even in colder temperatures
Weight: 2 lbs. 5.7 oz.
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Upper: Stretch ripstop upper with seamless overlays

Pros

Protection
Convenience
Grippy outsole

Cons

Pricing

Many models in this guide make the step, leap, or jump into fall and spring use. Not the Terrex Free Hiker 2 ($260) — it’s a pure winter hiking boot champion. This insulated model integrates a proprietary COLD.RDY insulation technology and uses an elastic liner and exterior side zipper to harness the foot.

While startling to lace-and-eyelet traditionalists, this fitting and closure method is common in expedition-capable boots. That’s because gloved hands can operate the mechanism to change socks or switch to down booties in an alpine context.

Employing the BOOST technology in the midsole improves the energy return (according to documented lab testing), making difficult miles less strenuous. Additionally, PrimaLoft insulation keeps your feet at a nice, warm homeostasis on bitter-cold jaunts.

GORE-TEX is employed for waterproofness, with a stretch ripstop upper that delivers what Adidas calls a “sock-like fit.” While others at the trailhead might mistake it for a recreational pac boot (because of the zippered upper), they’ll be left standing in a cloud of snow.

Specs

Best for: All-around winter wear including backcountry day hikes
Weight: 2 lb. 13 oz.
Waterproofing: Danner Dry barrier
Upper: Suede and synthetic

Pros

Comfort
Versatility

Cons

Low upper height

PrimaLoft Gold steps into the mix with the Danner Inquire ($180), which is as nimble as any tested for this Guide. Its trail capability competes with everyday utility for outstanding value across wide-ranging conditions.

The design captures the benefit of advanced, lightweight materials without sacrificing structure to turn an OrthoLite footbed and TPU shank into hiking efficiency. These proven components serve Danner well across their line, including the Men’s Mountain 600 Insulated footbed (a boot also test-hiked with positive results).

Inquire sports a proprietary moisture barrier and midsole in a 5-inch-high boot. A leg gaiter is warranted for moderate to deep snow, as the easy-walking upper isn’t self-sufficient through deeps and drifts.

Our female tester, with flatter feet, wanted more arch support. Most hikers are advised to use an aftermarket footbed or insert. Danner offers a range of worthwhile options starting at $14. Importantly, MegaGrip material forms a high-traction outsole to make the entire package durable, with enough warmth to carry the day for winters to come.

Specs

Best for: Wide-footed hikers keen to trek without cold feet
Weight: 2 lbs. 1 oz. | 1 lb. 6 oz.
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX SURROUND waterproof breathable membrane
Upper: Nubuck leather

Pros

Comfort
Durability

Cons

Temperature range

This selection is back to the future, with big news attached to a perennial hiking favorite — wide is now available in the Nucleo High II GTX ($239). For several years, this trail-and-mountain workhorse has taken hikers and their stuff up, down, around, and across challenging terrain.

While structured for moderate loads, the package of features assembled here deserves to be revisited. Blood circulation is critical to winter hiking success, and too-narrow boots are a common risk factor to comfort and safety.

GORE-TEX Surround Technology is central to the boot. Breathability in all directions doesn’t sacrifice waterproof protection. Instead, it aids in creating and maintaining a 60% humidity environment.

Durable Nubuck uppers protect this function, and their warrior-like appearance will beguile any Mad Max fan. The upper’s superior ankle stability and protection drew kudos from the hulking tester, a former football and rugby standout.

The outsole construction and lug design comprise this boot’s Impact Brake System. This system allows superior control without blister-inducing movement inside the boots or nasty spills while barging through snow, ice, mud, and sleet.

As a European brand, the traditional shapes, or lasts, can challenge some American feet. With wide now available, there’s good reason to take La Sportiva’s legacy of mountain adventure to winter trails this season.

Winter Hiking Boots Comparison Chart

Winter Hiking Boots	Price	Weight (per pair)	Waterproofing	Upper
KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar	$180	24.27 oz.	Keen.Dry breathable waterproof membrane	Leather and Mesh
KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof Mid	$170	2 lbs. 8.6 oz. \| 2 lb. 2.6 oz.	KEEN.Dry waterproof breathable membrane	Nubuck leather
Oboz Bridger 7” Insulated	$210	2 lb. 9 oz.	B-DRY waterproof/ breathable membrane	Waterproof nubuck leather
Xero Alpine Boot	$160	1 lb. 14 oz. \| 1 lb. 7 oz.	Fully seam-sealed inner bootie and a water-resistant membrane	100% vegan-friendly rubber
Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid GORE-TEX	$190	1 lb. 13.2 oz. \| 1 lb. 9.4 oz.	GORE-TEX waterproof/ breathable membrane	Synthetic textile
The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Insulated WP Boots	$185	2 lbs. 1.9 oz.	Yes	Leather with reinforced mudguard
Lowa Renegade Evo GTX	$265	2 lbs. 9.6 oz. \| 2 lbs. 0.8 oz.	GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane	Nubuck leather
Vasque St. Elias GTX	$230	2 lbs.14 oz\| 2 lbs. 6oz	GORE-TEX	Full-grain and Nubuck leather
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 C.RDY	$260	2 lbs. 5.7 oz.	GORE-TEX	Stretch ripstop
Women’s Danner Inquire Mid Insulated	$200	2 lb. 13 oz.	Danner Dry barrier	Suede and synthetic
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX	$239	2 lbs. 1 oz. \| 1 lb. 6 oz.	GORE-TEX SURROUND waterproof breathable membrane	Nubuck leather

How We Tested the Best Winter Hiking Boots

Our Expert Testers

Slogging up slushy alpine slopes, trekking over muddy, root-strewn trails, or simply trotting around town — the GearJunkie team doesn’t mess around when testing hiking boots. We rifled through our closets, talked with veteran backpackers, and scoped the retail shelves to lace up with the best winter hiking boots around. You can rest assured that each boot on this list has been rigorously tested on real-world treks in the backcountry.

Staff authors Peter Reese and Mallory Paige — both seasoned outdoor enthusiasts — curated our initial roundup of 12 boots in February of 2021, and we have been putting new models and brands to the test ever since to bring you the streamlined selection you see today.

Over the last couple of years, Andrew Potter and Matthew Medendorp joined the testing team to help put new models through their paces. The boots on this list have been vetted by these stone-cold pros and put through the wringer in demanding winter environments — all proving to be worthy.

Our Testing Grounds & Process

In addition to daily wear and tear hikes and general usage, in 2024, we sent gear tester Andrew Potter to the winter playground of Mammoth Lakes, Calif., and the Yosemite high country, where he put our new candidates to the test. He toted crash pads for miles on an alpine bouldering trip and tested the lighter, faster options on long-distance alpine objectives. For additional field testing, he stood in freezing water with each pair to ensure the waterproofness held up to our standards of submersion.

Our previous contributor, Matt Medendorp, tested the boots in deep snow alpine conditions, groomed trails, and the windy high deserts of Bishop, sometimes packing several boots on one hike and changing footwear mid-trail to better get a feel for each boot’s strengths and weaknesses.
And because every foot is different and every hiker has a different goal, we solicited feedback from our wide range of contributors, editors, and friends of the publication to make sure we had something for everyone. But as much as we love our friends and family, we didn’t just trust their word: we tested these boots with a mind for comfort, weather protection, and durability.

Full disclosure — he was never in danger of perishing, but there was still a lot of snow. Matt tested the boots in deep snow alpine conditions, groomed trails, and the windy high deserts of Bishop, sometimes packing several boots on one hike and changing footwear mid-trail to better get a feel for each boot’s strengths and weaknesses.

We tested these boots with a mind for comfort, weather protection, and durability. We also wanted to make sure to include a wide variety of shoes for the different adventures we find ourselves on, so there’s something for everyone.

Finally, this is an organic, constantly evolving guide that we strive to update regularly with the top models on the market so it stays fresh and relevant. If you’re looking for all-season hiking boots, check out our guides to the best hiking boots for women and for men.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Winter Hiking Boot

Men's Winter Boot Height — Good-fitting, warm hiking boots are key for all-day comfort in winter conditions; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Where Are You Hiking?

Winter means wildly different things depending on your location. So, before seeking out the perfect boot, take a moment to think about your location. Is it wet, snowy, or mostly dry?

Do you regularly see temps in the single digits? Or do you enjoy a milder winter average? Answering these questions will help you weigh the importance of waterproofing and insulation.

Warmth

The importance of warm feet can’t be argued. This goes beyond avoiding frostbite or cold damage to your feet and toes. Improperly insulated feet can both ruin a winter hiking experience and change a life, dramatics aside.

Targeting the right level of insulation and weather protection for each hiker — given their location and types of trips — is part of picking the right boots. For some, an insulated boot is the antidote to cold weather. Others thrive with Merino wool socks inside their synthetic or leather boots.

Winter boots don’t have to include insulation to be considered for winter travel. Many people like the freedom of being able to keep their feet warm with thick socks in waterproof boots, and put thinner socks on when the temps increase and they want more breathability. For those, our unsolicited but still waterproof picks, like the Salomon Cross Hike GTX, make a good pick.

Others prefer thick, cozy insulation at all times when trudging around in frigid conditions — and may gravitate to models like the Oboz Bridger 7” Insulated. If your feet run cold or you hike long distances at high altitudes, the KEEN Revel IV is an awesome option that’s rated to -25 degrees F.

It’s important to consider the type of adventure you’ll be going on before picking out your winter hiking boots, like this packed snow on a trail in Mammoth Lakes; (photo/Matthew Medendorp)

Waterproof Boots

Waterproofing fights back against the incursion of water, being impervious to incoming moisture at any temperature. These models are particularly attuned to deep snow and temporary immersion in shallow standing or running water.

This puts water protection inside a more durable exterior layer of leather or fabric. As with resisting or repelling water, the boot’s tongue and lacing system are potential weak points in achieving a tight seal.

Caution is needed here, as allowing the foot to maintain a 60% humidity level in the middle of exertion is a balancing factor. Those who get hot, sweaty feet while walking benefit from the ability to release excess perspiration even during colder months, and even when there’s wet outside the boot itself.

Many, if not most, winter hiking boots identified as waterproof now have “breathable” as a critical caveat to accomplish this feat, incorporating GORE-TEX or GORE-TEX-esque tech to prevent water from entering the boot but allowing vapor to escape.

Insulation

Most winter hiking boots have some level of insulation. It’s measured in grams and generally ranges from 100 g up to 600 g. Most of the boots included here are in the 100-200g range. We find that offers the best warmth, without overheating during active hiking. On the extreme end of that spectrum, yet remarkably breathable, The North Face Fastpack Vectiv sports 200g Heatseeker Eco insulation.

Bridger 7 Insulated Waterproof 2 — A well-insulated hiking boot makes snowy slogs much more manageable; (photo/Oboz)

Comfort

Comfort, for the purposes of this guide, is defined as “supporting good blood circulation, moving easily across variable terrain, and allowing minor fit adjustment for sock and weather conditions.”

Being easy to put on and take off is also a plus. As with traction, the thickness and composition of the sole system have an effect on comfort. A thick and robust sole prevents sharp underfoot rocks from poking into the ever-sensitive bottom of the foot.

From initial fit to general comfort at rest and in motion, a smart boot pick comes with box-to-backcountry confidence every time the trail calls and laces get tied. Sore feet are a bummer, but fortunately, they’re completely avoidable. If you have wide feet, trending minimalist isn’t a bad idea. The Xero Alpine Boots offer wide toe boxes and flat soles for a more natural feel.

Traction

Winter boots have a lug pattern designed for snow and ice. In addition, the rubber compounds used are made to stay soft and grippy in frigid conditions. This is adequate for most casual winter outings. However, in extreme ice, we still reach for a traction device like those featured in our Best Winter Traction Devices guide.

Durability

Winter boots are susceptible to wear-induced failure in at least three ways. First is in the closure or lacing system, where pulling to tighten the boot stresses the seams, including the tongue’s attachment.

Second is the cuff around the ankle, where simple wear can break down the collar or padding at the top of the upper. Third, the material on the toe; coarse snow can act like sandpaper to abrade the leading section of the boot. Often, as on a work boot, this toebox area is reinforced against scraping from the outside as well as repeated toe impact on the inside.

Keep in mind that the materials affect the durability. The leather of a boot like Vasque’s St. Elias GTX may require more care upfront, but ultimately, it will last longer than the synthetic and textile options. But if you don’t take care of it, it may deteriorate sooner.

Durability can often come down to regular maintenance, and, above all, always drying your gear before storing. Especially important with snow and mud that are winter hiking mainstays.

Keep your feet warm and dry with a quality pair of winter boots; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Winter Hiking Gear

Along with a good winter boot, these pieces of gear will make cold, snowy outings that much more enjoyable.

Socks

Good winter hiking socks regulate temperature and humidity inside the boot, add comfort by cushioning the foot, and can improve the boot’s fit to some degree. Most winter hiking simply requires a single, midweight sock.

Insoles

Insoles (often called footbeds) have loomed larger in the last 5 years, as some manufacturers put thin factory inserts into boots as placeholders. In the case of winter hiking, season-specific insoles add a modicum of insulation. Others also improve the mechanical support for the foot inside the boot. The cost of a merino or hybrid foam product ranges from $25 to $60 and lasts up to 3 years.

A full winter kit of clothes and footwear makes chilly adventures much more pleasant; (photo/JR Berry)

Traction Devices

These turn many boots into multitools that can competently move across slippery surfaces, crusted snow, and glare ice. There are many options, and those with miniature cleats or crampons allow safer travel. Check out our guide to the best winter traction devices for a full discussion and list of our favorites.

These devices are convenient to carry, use, and then repack. Plan to spend between $40 and $120. Strong choices include the Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System and the Korkers Ice Walker, both at about $70.

Gaiters

They are seen most often in mountaineering photos or those of old-time backcountry skiing. While the low versions are most helpful for keeping debris out of hiking and trail running shoes, the taller models help prevent deeper snow and harsh rains from working their way into the boot’s cuff.

With gaiters, only a few worthwhile, waterproof-breathable options exist, most in the $100-120 range. Classic and hard to beat are Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters that add only a few ounces, defy abrasion, and come in all sizes.

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles come with or without ski baskets that allow their use in snow accumulations over 5 inches. Most are collapsible to attach to a daypack and earn their keep on steeper slopes on slipperier surfaces, as well as when carrying a heavier payload.

Snowshoes

Like many of the other system components, snowshoes deserve serious consideration if deeper snow conditions are common or anticipated. Boots with stiffer soles are great candidates for use with binding-equipment snowshoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

While a winter hiking boot will work for all general winter activities, a general winter boot may not work for hiking. What’s best for running to the bus stop or shoveling snow may not hold up to extended miles on the trail or time in the backcountry. We tested these boots specifically for hiking applications, so you know you can trust them to perform when it counts.

Over 90% of the time, the answer is “no” as the manufacturers have accommodated a midweight hiking sock into their sizing calculations. When possible, we recommend heading to your local gear shop for a fitting. Bring along the socks you plan to use and any aftermarket insoles to find the most accurate fit.

The big concerns with winter boots are warmth, traction, and keeping snow out. And while all of the boots listed here can hold their own in these categories, there are a few standouts if your winter hikes are particularly snow- and ice-laden.

This really depends on the terrain, weather, and personal preference. Boots offer better ankle support and come in more insulated options. Hiking shoes are preferred by many for their light weight and improved maneuverability.

If your winter hiking entails lots of powder, it’s worth investing in a boot. If you live in a milder climate, a shoe can easily transition from winter to summer with the addition of wool socks and traction devices.

Hiking

The Best Hiking Boots of 2024

If you’re looking for the best hiking boots, look no further. We’ve tested dozens of hiking boots over hundreds of miles to help you stay happy and comfortable on the trail.