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Updated August 14: This best winter boots for women guide was updated with new in-stock product for the winter 2024 season, hands-on product examination and testing notes, along with additional expert insights for how to style and care for your winter boots over time.
Nothing gets us excited about cozy season quite like a new pair of women’s winter boots. Puffer coats, oversized scarves, and cashmere sweaters are great to add to your cold-weather wardrobe, but the best winter boots for women are must-have for the season’s unpredictable weather.
While boots come in all shapes and styles, they all have key factors in common that are essential for the colder months: durable silhouettes, reliable traction, and heat insulation. Winter boots can rest above the ankle, mid-calf, or even span over-the-knee, and feature fur-lining, fuzzy trims, and uppers made of suede, wool, or leather. Some styles are specially-made for trudging through icy slush, while others will ensure warmth and functional style. There are plenty of different winter boots to fit every wardrobe and personal style expression, but it’s most important to find the right style to fit your foot shape and cold-weather activities.
Lucky for you, we’ve spent hours studying new winter boots releases and testing dozens of styles to bring you the best boots for women to wear this winter. To help guide you to find your ideal snow boots, we tapped winter gear experts, celebrity fashion stylists, and podiatrists for comfortable winter boot recommendations so you can avoid injury, feel supported, and look stylish while trekking in extreme cold weather. Keep scrolling to check out our top picks, along with helpful shopping tips from experts.
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Colorways: Black, Quarry
Materials: Faux fur, rubber
Shaft height: 10 1/2 inches
Special features: 100 grams of cold-busting insulation
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
What reviewers say: “I’ve had these boots for a few weeks now. I decided that after the blizzard we got yesterday I’d finally make a review on them. We had so much snow it was nearly up to my knees and these were the only snow boots I had on hand. Even though the snow came up past the height of the boots after tying them nice and tight, no snow seeping into the boots. I was outside for hours, and mind you the boots were fully submerged in snow, and my feet stayed dry and warm. For once I didn’t have frozen toes by the time I came back inside. I was concerned that my new boots would be ruined with watermarks, but I was so happy the following day to see that they still looked like new. Love!”
Price at time of publish: $165
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Black, Chestnut, Burnt Cedar
Materials: Faux fur, UGGpure wool textile, leather
Shaft height: 7 inches
Special features: Temperature rated to -32°F
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
What reviewers say: “This is my first season with these, the best snow boots ever! I wore them in Chicago during the Polar Vortex, -20 below temps, -35 with wind chill, 2 feet of snow, my feet were NEVER cold or wet. Incredible boots, worth the $, they look good with skinny pants, easy to get on and off, love them!”
Price at time of publish: $250
Courtesy of Hoka One One
Colorways: Black, Duffel Bag
Materials: Leather, recycled-textile upper
Special features: PFC-free water-repellent finish
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
As for winter, they feature a mega grip for versatile traction and Gore-Tex to keep your foot dry, but we recommend a hefty wool sock for added warmth. The streamlined boot is equipped with a dual-density CMEVA midsole, Hoka Hubble heel, and SwallowTail technology for supported and responsive strides. The MetaRocker outsole also features stabilizing flex grooves and Vibram Megagrip lug rubber traction.
What reviewers say: “I wore these straight out of the box and guided a 3 day trip in Yosemite. Having not previously broken them in, I was worried about blisters. These boots were so comfortable and supportive. I didn’t have any foot issues and even my foot fatigue was less than it usually would be.”
Price at time of publish: $240
Courtesy of Retailer
Colorways: Black, Elk, Light Clay
Materials: Faux fur, rubber
Special features: 200g insulation
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
What reviewers say: “I love this boot! It’s lightweight, not too bulky, warm, stylish, and, most of all, it has memory foam! My feet feel really good in them, apart from the memory foam it seems it have a slight lift in the boot so the support for my feet feels really nice. After a couple of breaking them in, they fit great with thick socks.”
Price at time of publish: $130
Related:
Best Men’s Hiking Boots
Courtesy of Retailer
Colorways: Black, Blue, Grey, Khaki, Orange, Purple, Rose Red, White, Yellow, Red
Materials: Faux fur, rubber
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
What reviewers say: “Super comfy and warm. I love the easy velcro, and it makes it easy to wear thick socks if I choose. True to size. I recommend one size up like I’ve done for extra room for socks or foot warmers. Highly recommend for quick trips or casual wear.”
Price at time of publish: $46
Colorways: Tan Farrier
Materials: Faux fur, rubber, leather
Dr. Martens Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6
What reviewers say: “The footbeds of all Dr. Marten’s are awesome and are so comfortable right out of the box! I thought they would be a bit tight with the faux fur but they are not — I got my normal size in Dr. Martens. Not bulky at all. They keep my feet super warm and look really cute!”
Price at time of publish: $180
Related: Dr Martens Jadon Boot History
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Black, Magnet, Rhubarb
Shaft height: 7 inches
Materials: Faux fur, rubber, leather
Special features: 200G of insulation rated to -25°F/-32°C.
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
These winter boots for women are extremely durable and get more comfortable as you break them in. We’re not here to tell you they can’t be worn off the trail, but they’re specifically made to keep your feet dry, warm and supported while you trek the backcountry. Both testers and reviewers mention they’re plenty roomy, making them appropriate for wide feet and able to accommodate thick hiking socks, too.
What reviewers say: “These boots are exactly what I needed for hiking and outdoor chores in the winter. They grip surprisingly well on packed snow and ice, work well with snowshoes, and are very conformable and supportive, so much so that I haven’t even had to put performance insoles in them like I usually do for hiking boots. Great purchase!”
Price at time of publish: $170
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Black, Army, London
Shaft height: 5 inches
Materials: Rubber, leather
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
These winter boots are made with waterproof leather and suede, making them a super stylish option for commuting, going out on the town or posting up in the backcountry. The style features a memory foam footbed and the brand’s notable Peak to Pavement outsole, which brings a stable grip from the street to the trail. Plus, the slip-on style makes getting ready a breeze so you can get out the door faster on a busy schedule.
What reviewers say: “They can make your feet kind of hot but other than that perfect. Exactly what I was looking for.”
Price at time of publish: $67
Courtesy of Retailer
Colorways: Black, Fawn, Sandalwood
Materials: LWG Bronze-certified Italian leather
Special features: Waxed cotton laces
What reviewers say: “Well made, handsome boots. Surprisingly light in weight, so it’s not tiresome to wear them all day. I’m a true 6.5, and although the 7.0 feels a little large in the toebox, a 6 would’ve definitely been too small. Follow the suggestion and size up if you’re normally a half-size.”
Price at time of publish: $296
Colorways: Black, White
Materials: Leather
Shaft height: 6 1/2 inches
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
What reviewers say: “I absolutely adore my new booties. I have been wanting a pair of black booties for a while, and these sock booties from SW are perfect! They are very comfortable, I can walk around with them for hours. The quality of the leather is very nice and easy to clean. I also love how it hugs at the ankle to give that “sock” look. Love ’em!”
Price at time of publish: $595
Related: Best Ankle Boots
Colorways: Black
Materials: Grain leather, rubber
Shaft height: 5 3⁄4 inches
Special features: Waterproof seam-sealed construction
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
Price at time of publish: $125
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Black, Mere, Arctic Moss, Green Jasper
Materials: Fleece, Technical weave/molded TPU, rubber
Shaft height: 7 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
What reviewers say: “I always have a spare pair in the closet. I’ve bought 4 pairs of these boots for my wife now. She’s a figure skating coach and loves them (she spends a lot of hours at the ice rink). When a pair starts wearing a bit I donate them and swap them out.” Another customer wrote, “I love these boots. They’re the best winter boots I’ve owned in a long time. Very happy with them — They are warm as toast!”
Price at time of publish: $185
Colorways: Cognac, Olive, Dark Coffee, Black
Materials: Leather, wool, plush
Shaft height: 13.5 inches
Overland Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9
What reviewers say: “Comfortable, warm, and stylish – these boots excel at all three! These boots have high quality workmanship and are truly cozy with a good fit. I have tested them in New York upstate rain and they repel the rain quite well. I will be buying more Overland boots!”
Price at time of publish: $328
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Grey/Green, Black, Maroon
Materials: Rubber, foam
Special features: Multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern for grippy traction
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
This particular style is durable with a grippy rubber outsole for exceptional traction and canted lugs to keep you from slipping. These active winter boots are as sturdy as they look, making them a great pair of footwear for winter trail running, hiking, and month-long excursions.
What reviewers say: “I did the Tour du Mont Blanc in these in July/August. These were brand new. I always trust Altra shoes even if they’re brand new. 105 miles with 34680 elevation gain and loss in 9 days. I had no blisters or any discomfort. Highly recommend these shoes for hiking!”
Price at time of publish: $90
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Available in 11 different hues
Materials: Suede, rubber
Special features: Recycled felt inner boot insulation
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
What reviewers say: “Great boot for fishing and hunting. I can walk through streams all day water proof if synched tightly. One of the greatest boots out there. It’s worth every penny. The boot is true to size and good for wide feet.”
Price at time of publish: $139
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Available in 15 different hues
Materials: Leather, rubber
Special features: Rated -25°F/-32°C for cold, heavy snow days.
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
Columbia Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7 stars
What reviewers say: “I was worried because it seems no one caters properly to wide feet and the size is spot on! Love these boots, my feet run a 9.5-10 and I got the 9.5 WIDE and good fit. And I was so happy when the I felt the bottom and they are actually rubber so no slipping. Would recommend!”
Price at time of publish: $110
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Sand, Grey, Blush
Materials: Leather, rubber, fleece
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
What reviewers say: “I loved how cute the boots are while being a good warm boot at the same time. I’m outside a lot in the winter so I definitely need a true warm boot and it was so nice to find a pair that looked cute also. I bought them in white which I love, if I scuffed them it wipes right off with a wet washcloth. The boots are very comfortable also.”
Price at time of publish: $53
Colorways: Black
Materials: Leather, rubber
What reviewers say: “These boots are so comfortable, warm and cozy. I wear mine with no socks and I live in Northern Ontario Canada. I also love the easy on, easy off, without struggling with zippers and laces. I bought the black color in my usual size 7 and they fit great. I get ‘love your boots’ compliments alot.”
Price at time of publish: $250
Colorways: Porcelain Green Mountain Camo Print, Black, White, Gardenia White, Lavender Fog Terrazzo Print, Mr. Pink Pink Expedition Print
Materials: Nylon, rubber, foam
Special features: 100% recycled P.E.T. ripstop upper, up to 20% recycled rubber outsole for supreme traction
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8 stars
The North Face Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4 stars
What reviewers say: “All I have to say about these is that they are my new winter’s best friend. I lived in these last winter and plan on doing it again this winter. So comfortable and warm to wear out in the snow. They also have great traction.”
Price at time of publish: $69
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Colorways: Cream
Materials: Sheep shearling, sheepskin
Special features: Arctic rated down to -35°C
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5 stars
Price at time of publish: $177
Colorways: Black, White
Materials: Nylon, polyester, rubber
Shaft height: 5.5 inches
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4 stars
What reviewers say: “Got these Moon Boots for my daughter to wear up at the mountain. She went with the classic low so she can wear with ski pants and not have to worry about bunching up of pant legs. She LOVES them! They are super cute on, and she says they’re really comfortable and lightweight. These are a very fun boot and will be a pleasure to put on after skiing! As far as sizing on this boot, she wears a size 6, which fit her just right. The boot fits a range of sizes (in this case, 4.5 to 7) but runs a little short. Me being a size 7, I would order the next size up.”
Price at time of publish: $175
The Different Types of Women’s Winter Boots
Before you shop for a pair of the most comfortable winter boots for women, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. Are you looking for a pair of hiking boots with extra insulation and heavy-duty tread to conquer a tough trail? Do you need a more stylish and less technical pair for business meetings on snow days? Or do you need a reliably strong pair of snow boots that can handle running errands on the snow-swept sidewalk? Below, we outline the types of boots to choose from.
- Women’s snow boots: This boot style keeps you warm with proper insulation and provides support and traction in icy and snowy conditions. Some key performance features to keep in mind include waterproof and windproof constructions, temperature-rated insulation, and durable, lugged rubber outsoles. Additionally, models with adjustable straps and bungee-lace systems help deliver a more secure fit and keep snow out.
- Winter hiking boots for women: Hiking happens all year round, just ask any true outdoors expert. Winter hikes, however, call for different footwear. They are heavier-duty and can handle snow and slush. If you’re planning to scramble up a mountain or explore a canyon, consider the traction of your winter hiking boot. If you’re hiking on a terrain that’s not a simple dirt trail, look for soles with grippy material like Vibram and moderate lugs to provide adequate traction.
- Lug-sole boots: A lug sole is typically made of rubber with deep grooves that provide added traction. Combat boots with a lug sole also happen to be a major fall shoe trend right now. We can’t promise they’re the option that will keep your feet the warmest, but they have become as ubiquitous as a clean white sneaker and an essential, stylish piece for any wardrobe.
- Women’s snow slippers: Snow slippers are probably the easiest to wear on this winter boot guide. They’re similar to your typical fuzzy, slip-on option but with enough support for you to run errands around town when the flurries settle. Yes, we’re talking about your classic Ugg boots here.
- Extreme cold weather boots: For those that live in extreme arctic conditions, your average pair of snow boots aren’t going to cut it. This is where we get super technical with extreme insulation and waterproofing technology.
- Fashion boots: Fashion boots might prioritize style over function, but the good ones don’t erase the latter completely. Under this category, you’ll find tall boots, Chelsea boots, ankle boots, and booties, to name a few. They look less technical and more stylish while keeping you comfortable and warm.
What to Look for in the Best Winter Boots for Women
- Materials: Whichever style of boot you’re interested in, make sure the boots you choose are warm and at least water-resistant, if not waterproof. New York-based board-certified podiatrist Dr. William Spielfogel explains that “there are different liners in boots to suit different activities, but you should always ensure the boot is breathable [from the inside out]. If you sweat and the boot isn’t breathable, you’ll have a cold foot from the trapped moisture.” To avoid this, look for women’s winter boots made with performance fabrics, like waterproof leather or nylon, especially at the seams to prevent leakage.
- Traction: The best winter boots for women also offer solid traction in snow or ice. Good tread on the outsole of a boot should remain rigid with a rubber-like grip, whether you’re hiking the backcountry, walking around your city or shoveling your driveway.
- Versatility: Celebrity fashion stylist Andrew Gelwicks adds, “If you buy the right boot, you should not be sacrificing fashion for function or vice versa. A good winter boot should be fashionable while also comfortable, durable, and supportive. Pay close attention to the material of the boot and think about whether the material can be consistently exposed to water and ice and keep you warm.” Stuart Weitzman is a go-to brand for him when he’s sourcing for his clients. “Not only do they keep them warm, but they also look chic and come in a variety of styles,” he says.
- Shaft height: Before deciding which winter boot is best for you, it’s important to consider the shaft height. For extremely cold weather days, opt for a boot with a higher shaft measurement so that your feet and calves can stay warm and protected. However, if you are planning on doing a lot of walking or are looking for a snow boot with mobility, then a boot with a lower shaft size is best.
Winter Boot Trends for 2024
Winter boots are naturally functional, so they’re a classic boot that are always on trend. But, year after year, designers and footwear brands introduce exciting new iterations of shearling or waterproof winter boots that innovate a little more than the previous winter, whether in style, utility, or both. Take these runways trends as inspiration before you hop on a shopping spree to spruce up your boot collection this winter.
- Sock boots: Super sleek sock boots are trending for 2024, as seen on the fall runways of Jil Sander and Bottega Veneta. They fit snug up the ankle, which allows smooth leather or thick knit to trap heat and keep your entire foot nice and warm. A sock boot’s functionality in snow will depend on the heel type, which may appear as platforms, stilettos, block heels, or flats. This style looks especially sophisticated with a pair of cropped jeans or a cozy sweater dress.
- Lace-Up Combat Boots: Combat boots are another evergreen boot silhouette and designers like Fendi, Akris, Coach, Ludovic de Saint Sernin, and Jil Sander are all loving them for the chilly months of 2024. Many of the combat boots stomping the runways feature glossy leather, wide lacing, and chunky hardware like zippers and buckles. The natural utilitarian style is emphasized with edgy adornments, while being elevated with polished, luxurious touches.
- Modern rain boots: Rain boots are taking a contemporary twist for fall and winter trends in 2024. Issey Miyake’s iteration of the functional footwear appeared on the runway in slouchy leather silhouettes, square toes, cinched ankle bands, and fold over styles. JW Anderson presented rain boots as ankle booties and stylish clogs, while Valentino models strutted in patent leather ankle boots.
- Slouchy boots: Tall boots are relaxing this winter in slouchy silhouettes that seemingly succumb to gravity and drape low toward the ankle. From Isabel Marant’s furrowed knee-high boots to Dion Lee’s puckered suede, it appears that stiff waders are out and lumpy leather is in, and made to create a variety of modern shapes. In Loewe’s case, malleable boot collars extend far to the side, handing outwards in a wide span that creates a gap spotlight for socks or tights to shine.
How Should Women’s Winter Boots Fit?
“While some foot types (including those with high arches) will do better in a boot with a heel as opposed to a flat style, boots are not as specifically made for different foot types as sneakers are,” says Dr. Spielfogel. “Not having the right support can often lead to common foot ailments like plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia. A good solution is to add in a pair of fitted arch supports in your boots.” While this all sounds very technical, a great pair of boots insoles is key to all-day comfort.
Boots shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. “If the fit is too loose, your heel may slip and irritate the Achilles tendon or cause heel pain,” says Dr. Spielfogel. He suggests that the most comfortable winter boots will only live up to their potential if the fit is right. He also mentions a good pair of winter boots should accommodate a thick sock. “Wool is breathable and wicks away moisture,” he says.
Heavy-duty wool or merino wool are great options for socks because they will help the feet feel warm and dry in a pair of insulated boots. Plus, Gelwicks explains that socks can elevate your winter boots style. “Make a fashion statement in your winter boots with your sock choice, as well as also how you cuff your trousers.”
From customer- to expert-approved picks, read on to find the best winter boot for women in just about every category this cold-weather season. Plus, they’re a great gift for women that will make the cold months of winter far more tolerable and stylish.
How to Care for Your Winter Boots
It’s also important to take proper care of your hard-earned footwear investment, especially when it’s difficult to avoid salt, snow, and slush that takes a toll on your winter boots. You can erase scuffs with baking soda and banish odor with essential oils.
Salt stains however, can be especially tricky. You can check out our full guide on how to remove salt stains in winter boots, but know that leather stains come out best with white vinegar and water, while suede boots require a brush. And to protect winter boots from future stains, go ahead and use a repellant that prevents water and dirt from penetrating your shoes.
How We Selected the Best Winter Boots for Women
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
We curated this shopping guide for the best winter boots for women by paying special attention to boot key elements such as warmth, fit, and style. We made sure to select winter boots that featured impressive technology like insulation, waterproof materials, and sustainable construction, as well as boots with supremely durable and reliable slip-free traction. We conducted wide research across the footwear market and analyzed hundreds of customer reviews to determine the most loved women’s winter boots that stand the test of harsh weather and support foot health over a wide range of terrain. We also considered the best retailers to shop when selecting women’s winter boots, relying on customer reviews and cross-checking with Google’s new top-quality store badge (a rating that indicates retailers with quick shipping, clear return policies, and positive shopper reviews). Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Andrew Gelwicks is a celebrity fashion stylist, writer, and speaker. He worked at GQ and Teen Vogue before beginning his own venture as a celebrity fashion stylist. Andrew’s portfolio includes rising and seasoned stars including Catherine O’Hara, Susan Sarandon, Uzo Aduba, Dixie D’Amelio, Michael Douglas, Luna Blaise, Hilarie Burton Morgan, and the Queer Eye cast, among many others.
Dr. William Spielfogel is an established board-certified podiatrist, published author, lecturer, and educator. Dr. Spielfogel cares for patients at Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates’ offices in Upper East Side Manhattan and Bay Ridge of Brooklyn, New York. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Spielfogel serves as the chief of podiatry in the department of orthopedic surgery, as well as the director of the podiatric medicine and surgery residency program, at Northwell Health Lenox Hill Hospital in New York. He is even the vice president of The Foundation for Podiatric Medicine, an educational, scientific, and research branch of the New York State Podiatric Medical Association.
Meet the Author
Vanessa Powell is an established editor, journalist, and stylist with over a decade of experience covering fashion, lifestyle, and consumer culture. She has contributed to national publications such as People Magazine, Health Magazine, Men’s Health, and more. Powell is at the forefront of all consumer trends with a keen eye for the latest, greatest, and classics of what people wear, buy and love. Whether walking the New York City streets or hiking the LA mountains in the winter, Powell is a bicoastal avid walker, always searching for the best new winter boots for women. Powell wrote the original version of this best winter boots for women story.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits shopping stories on celebrity style, the latest fashion trends, and new shoe releases. Before joining Footwear News, Chwatt wrote for publications, including Editorialist. In her spare time, she enjoys scrolling through her favorite retailers and social platforms to stay up to date on the latest, greatest, and classics of what people wear, buy and love. As a New York City native, Chwatt is always searching for the best designer sneakers to get around comfortably. As a result, she has an overstuffed shoe closet that needs to be cleaned out. the Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News, writing and editing footwear trend stories for all seasons. Chwatt contributed to the January 2023 update of this winter boots for women guide.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. Cigliano updated this winter boots for women shopping guide in August with fresh trends and brand new retailer releases.
