Lauren Tappan
Even if you love winter weather, there's no denying how difficult it can be to find cute snow boots that keep your feet dry and warm amidst treacherous conditions. Many designs prioritize function while neglecting style, making it quite a challenge to track down snow boots that are actually fashionable. Not to mention, unlike other types of boots, snow boots tend to come with complex-sounding technology that can be hard to parse. (What is "Gore-Tex" or "Thermoball insulation," anyway?)
With all of this in mind, Marie Claire editors are sharing their winter boot recommendations to ease your shopping experience. Although the season is winding down, we're not quite in the clear from slushy sidewalks and low temperatures yet. Whether you need a pair of cute ankle boots that can work for your icy morning commute into the office, or you're in the market for a high-performance pair of snow boots that will keep your toes warm when temperatures dip into the negatives, the following list tackles every winter weather need.
What to Look For in Snow Boots
This might sound basic, but the best snow boots are entirely waterproof and should keep your feet protected against rain or snow. Look for snow boots that are designed with an impermeable outer layer made of materials like nylon or leather. You should also consider a pair of boots that are equipped with proper insulation (boots lined with sherpa or faux fur offer extra warmth).
Ahead, you'll find a variety of specs including materials as well as a pros and cons list, so you can compare all of your cute snow boot options at a glance.
The Best Snow Boots
- Best All-Around Snow Boots: Sorel Caribou Waterproof Boot for Winter
- Best Affordable Snow Boots: DREAM PAIRS Women's Mid-Calf Waterproof Winter Snow Boots
- Most Comfortable Snow Boots: UGG Women's Adirondack Boot Iii
- Best Knee-High Snow Boots: Hunter Intrepid Knee High Snow Boot
- Best Designer Snow Boots: Canada Goose Women's Journey Boot
While these winter boots from Sorel are by no means knee-high boots, they measure nine inches long from the arch of the sole. Thanks to their lengthy construction, you're easily protected from unpleasant weather conditions (like rain and snow). Better yet, these shoes are 100 percent waterproof and have a rubber sole for added grip, so you won't have to worry about slipping and sliding on icy sidewalks. Note the shearling lining: They're also as cozy as a pair of slippers.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Tan, black
Material: Rubber, faux shearling
Pros: Comes in several colors; Offered in half-sizes; Top-rated on Amazon.
Cons: Hits mid-calf.
It’s not often that you find a pair of snow boots that retails for under $100, but DREAM PAIRS' has that rare find. Not only are they affordable, but they also come in a range of shades and are crafted with a secure, lace-up design. Your leggings or jeans will never get damp when they're tucked into this faux fur-lined pair.
To note, these boots are available in women’s shoe sizes 6 through 12—with no half-sizes—so you’ll have to size up if you're looking for a looser fit (especially if you're planning to wear thick socks).
Colors: Brown/gray, gray, beige/white, black, khaki/tan, Black/brown
Material: Polyurethane, faux fur
Pros: Comes in several colors; Top-rated on Amazon
Cons: Doesn’t come in half-sizes: Some reviewers say that they don’t stay up on the ankle.
Customer Review: "Wore these in the snow for hours and my feet stayed warm! 10/10 recommend." — Amazon
"I’ve lived on the East Coast for the majority of my life but I’ve only gotten serious about snow boots recently. I used to wear thick socks with rain boots and hope for the best," Marie Claire art director Brittany Holloway says. When it came time to find a pair of true snow boots, Holloway went for Uggs—but not the mini pairs that celebrities can't stop wearing lately. She wanted something with a bit more structure and function, and found it in the Adirondack Boot II. "These boots keep my toes insulated while trekking through storms, slush, and murky puddles that gather on street corners," she explains. "They’re completely waterproof and are super stylish. I’ve had them for three New York winters, and I can’t wait to break them out this year."
Colors: Black, brown, cream, dark brown, gray, dark gray
Material: Leather, suede
Pros: Comfortable for all-day wear; Comes in half-sizes
Cons: Some reviewers say they run small
Customer Review: "Amazing boot. It's extremely durable and my feet are never cold" — Amazon
While some boots on this list sit comfortably at the middle of your calf, this pair from Hunter goes all the way up to the knee. The shaft measures just over 16" and it has a 1 1/2" rubber platform to keep you lifted up and out of the snow without slipping on the ice. They're weatherproofed down to negative 5 degrees Fahrenheit, too, so you can tackle whatever wet, cold, day is thrown at you. Reviewers note that they're great if you have larger calves because of the adjustable design feature and they run true-to-size.
Colors: White, black
Material: Recycled nylon, rubber
Pros: Fully waterproof; Good for freezing temperatures; Runs true-to-size; Adjustable at the calf
Cons: Not offered in half-sizes
Customer Review: “I love these boots! I live in Alaska and they are very warm and stylish. Very comfortable and true to size. I highly recommend these boots worth every penny!” — Free People
These boots have been weather-tested in some of the coldest places on the planet, and are designed with functionality in mind, right down to the smallest details. For instance, they have light-reflective laces for low-visibility wear. “This boot is extremely comfortable and stylish,” wrote one reviewer. Many reviewers note that they run true-to-size and work on those who have larger feet. However, some reviewers note that they’re on the heavier side, though the extra weight doesn’t make them harder to wear all day.
Colors: Black, brown, red/brown
Material: Rubber, fabric
Pros: Comes in several colors; Lightweight design; Waterproof design; Comes in half-sizes
Cons: Some reviewers claim they are heavier
Customer Review: "I jumped on these boots when they were launched, they are incredible! Quality, fit, warmth, comfort amazing!! I bought them in black as that color matches with everything. I will have these for years to come, highly recommended!!" — Canada Goose
Also Recommended
If you’re constantly on the go (and you need a pair of snow boots that will keep your feet warm and dry all day), look no further than this cute pair from Hunter. After all, Hunter's rain boots are the best of the best. The elastic toggle at the top of the boot guarantees errant water won't trickle in as you move, while the waterproofed exterior will keep your feet warm all day (even in freezing temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit).
Sizes: 5-11
Color: Black
Material: Nylon, fleece, rubber
Pros: Comes in several colors; Temperature-proof down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons: Hits at the ankle; Runs small; No half-sizes
Customer Review: "These boots are everything! They're super comfortable and warm with great grip as you walk." — Hunter Boots
If you’ve ever worn a pair of Hunter rain boots, you know how great they are—and how they are very much worth the hype. This sherpa-lined pair from the brand takes them from just being great waterproof boots to shockingly warm snow boots. Don't worry about changing out of this pair once you get to the office, at least not immediately: They're understated enough to work with a full skirt or a black trouser.
Sizes: 5-11
Color: Black
Material: Rubber, sherpa
Pros: Fits true to sizes; Sherpa-lined for warmth
Cons: No half-sizes
Customer Review: "Definitely warm with the lining on the inside. I can still wear thick socks for added heat." — Amazon
These ankle boots from The North Face are here to keep snow out from every angle. They're outfitted with a bungee cord around the top to prevent moisture from getting in, and they're lined with a fluffy sherpa material for extra warmth. North Face's ThermoBall Eco insulation technology is designed to keep heat trapped inside even if the exterior of the boot gets wet. Reviewers also love them because they feel lightweight (so, they'll remain comfortable for hours on end).
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black, deep taupe, white, purple, gray, dark gray, blue, tan
Material: Recycled polyethylene terephthalate, rubber
Pros: Comes in several colors; Lightweight; Waterproof; Adjustable top cord to keep snow out; Has a fleece lining
Cons: Runs small
Customer Review: "The boots are fabulous. So warm and comfortable. Just note that they run small. I wear a 9.5 and I bought a 10. My toes are right at the top, but not uncomfortable. " — Amazon
When Emma Childs, Fashion Features Editor, went on her first trip to Aspen and got caught in a no-holds-barred snowstorm, Hunter's Explorer Boots were a lifesaver. "They kept my feet dry, and the leather textile and shearling touches added the perfect amount of fashion-y flair," she says. "Plus, the grippy rubber dole ensured I stayed upright when strolling around downtown, which I greatly appreciated."
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Black, red
Material: Leather, rubber
Pros: Editor-approved; Fashionable and practical
Cons: No half-sizes
Customer Review: "Great fit, true to size, lightweight and extremely comfy when walking." — Amazon
"I really hate the idea of wearing boots that are obviously snow boots. You know the ones with fur up to your knees and an extra-thick rubber sole? Those are not particularly my style," says Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor. Instead, she turns to these Dr. Martens. They still have that fur lining to keep your toes warm and a sturdy lug sole for stomping through the snow, yet they look like your average Chelsea boot. "These go with nearly everything in my closet and I get all of the benefits of snow boots. It's a win-win," she reports.
Color: Black
Material: Leather, faux fur, rubber
Pros: Editor-approved; faux-fur-lined; Lug-soled; Sleek profile; Top-rated; Runs true-to-size
Cons: Not great for deep snow; No half-sizes
Customer Review: "These are my new favorite boots. Perfect for the rainy cold weather we’ve been having. Very comfortable and cute." — Dr. Martens
"Trying to find a functional, yet trendy pair of snow boots was no easy task for me—I find most iterations to be bulky and incredibly hard to style," Knappenberger says. "After months of searching, I finally came across this pair, and now I'm anxiously awaiting snow for the first time in my life to break these out of their box." They look just like a sleek pair of Chelsea boots, but they have special winterized enhancements. The comfy-cozy details include polar plush lining (that can withstand temps as low as -11°F), complete waterproofing, and thick, sturdy outsoles. Knappenberger can confirm it: "Snow and slush are no match for these boots."
Colors: Cream, olive, almond, black
Material: Rubber
Pros: Editor-approved; Comes in several colors; Plush lining
Cons: No half-sizes
Customer Review: "This boot fits the bill on every level! It looks great, feels comfortable, and is super warm! Ordered black and have received many compliments. Maybe another pair in olive might be in order." — Cougar Shoes
Sam Edelman's under-$200 snow boots are designed with a chunky platform lug sole and trendy faux-shearling along the front. They're perfect if you want a pair of snow boots that are both stylish (note the contrasting suede and faux shearling) and practical (those lug-soles definitely won't slip). The brand notes that they run true-to-size, too, for easy shopping.
Colors: Washed taupe, warm mocha, golden caramel
Material: Leather, plush fabric
Pros: Fully waterproof; Good for freezing temperatures; Runs true-to-size; Adjustable at the calf
Cons: Not great for deep snow
Customer Review: "Super happy with the Kyler Lace Up Combat Boot. It's very comfortable to walk in and keeps my feet warm in the snow, slush and rain." — Sam Edelman
These ankle-length boots from Columbia are fully insulated, featuring a thermal lining that reflects your body’s natural heat for a boost of warmth. These boots also have a rubber sole for added traction and grip for when the street gets icy. Don't look past the touch of faux fur at the lining: The olive green shade is particularly flattering, but you can also opt for ten other colors. Needless to say, you've got options.
Colors: Black, cream, blue, beige, olive green, gray, burnt red, red, blue/gray, fuchsia, black/gray
Material: Ruber, fabric
Pros: Comes in several colors; Comes in half-sizes; Has rubber grips on the soles
Cons: Ankle boot design; Runs small
Customer Review: "Light as a feather but super warm. I have trouble with cold feet but most warm boots are so heavy. Not these. Highly recommend. Best to order one size larger for best fit." — Amazon
These heavy-duty snow boots from The North Face are anything but heavy. The upper is a combination of full-grain leather, while the midsole is designed from a single-density EVA material that keeps the boot feeling light. Insulation and warmth are the standout features of this pair—they’re outfitted with faux fur on the lining and on the tongue, plus additional insulation made from 85 percent post-consumer materials.
Colors: Grey/white, black
Material: Leather, faux fur
Pros: Lightweight; Comes in several colors; Comes in half-sizes
Cons: Only comes up the mid-calf
Customer Review: "I did a lot of searching for warm/ water-proof boots. These boots are perfect!" — Zappos
If you're looking for a snow boot that works for all terrain types, consider this option from KEEN. Available in three colors, they're insulated for temperatures down to -25° Fahrenheit. And because you're bound to spend hours on your feet outside during the winter, they're outfitted with an EVA insole that guarantees all-day comfort and they're made to be lightweight as you wear them.
Colors: Orange/brown, black, gray/blue
Material: Recycled P.E.T
Pros: Comes in several colors; Lightweight on the foot; Insulated for cold temperatures
Cons: Some reviewers said they run small
Customer Review: "Purchased these before a week-long October trip to Iceland and they could not have been more perfect. We did everything from glacier hiking, ice cave adventures, and hikes to see massive waterfalls. My feet were warm and dry, no matter what the day held, with plenty of room for warm padded wool socks. Highly recommend!" —KEEN Footwear
If you want to keep your feet warm, but don’t want to buckle and lace up into bulky boots each time you step out into the cold, try out these easy booties by Birdies. The female-led footwear venture is comfort-oriented, with fun and whimsical flats as well as cozy slippers. These water-resistant boots are smooth slip-ons, which can be bought with or without faux fur lining. But it’s all about the interior, with a hidden mini wedge and Birdie’s signature seven-layer sole used in its sneakers and flats.
Colors: Oat, black, cafe
Material: Rubber, suede
Pros: Comes in several colors; Comes in half-sizes; Lightweight
Cons: Runs small
Customer Review: "They are THE most comfortable bootie/sneaker hybrid! Perfect for transitioning into spring with the gorgeous color!" — Birdies
"New York does not generally get a ton of snow and when it does snow here, the "snow" in question turns to black ice overnight. With this in mind, I love my UGG Shearling Boots," Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor, says. She's had five pairs over the last 15-odd years and keeps coming back to them because they're the optimal choice for early morning coffee runs or weekend errands. "The suede material is not the best if you're in tundra-like climates, but they're perfect for light flurries or melting snow that's on its way out," she elaborates. "And in case you're wondering, the waterproofing spray really does work. I don't know where me (or my feet) would be if not for these cushy wonders."
Colors: Chestnut, gray, black, burnt cedar, eve (dark blue)
Pros: Editor-approved; Top-rated; Runs true-to-size; Comes up high on the leg
Cons: Not great for deep snow; No half-sizes
Customer Review: "I have been wearing Ugg boots for years. They are comfortable and warm in the coldest weather. They are well made and last forever. These boots have all of the great qualities I found in my first pair of Uggs that I bought 15 years ago. Beautiful colors too." — Bloomingdale's
These SOREL boots look shockingly like a standard pair of combat boots, with an all-black outer and a slight heel that measures around 3/4 of an inch. At the same time, they're one of the hardest-working boots on this list: The waterproof design covers 6 inches above the ankle for more protection, so you'll stay nice and dry. Last but not least, these boots are tight around the ankle to keep winter slush far away from your socks.
Colors: Black, black/ pink, tan/ yellow, tan/ orange
Material: Rubber, leather
Pros: Come in half-sizes; Come in multiple colors; Waterproof
Cons: Some reviewers say they run a half-size big
Customer Review: "These boots are AMAZING! I did size up 1/2 a size from my normal size but they are SO comfy! They keep your feet happy throughout the day. I got the beige/orange colorway and they are the most perfect boots I own. I got compliments galore on them. 12/10 recommend!" — Nordstrom
