When it comes to snow boots for walking long distances, you’ll need a pair that provides warmth, comfort, traction, and durability. Here are some of the best options for walking long distances in snowy conditions:
- Best Brands for Snow Boots: Sorel, The North Face, Columbia, Keen, Bogs, and Merrell are excellent choices for snow boots.
- What Are Snow Boots Called?: They can be referred to as winter boots, snow boots, insulated boots, cold-weather boots, or winter hiking boot.
- Are Snow Boots Good on Ice?: Snow boots can work on ice, but for maximum safety, look for boots with specialized traction or use ice cleats.
- Do Snowshoes Work?: Yes, snowshoes are effective for walking on deep snow, offering better traction and reducing effort. They’re ideal for hiking or trekking in snowy conditions.
1. Sorel Caribou Boots
- Features: These are classic, insulated snow boots that are designed to withstand harsh winter conditions. They feature a removable felt liner for warmth, a waterproof rubber shell, and a sturdy, high-traction sole.
- Why it’s great for long walks: The boot offer excellent comfort and warmth, and the robust sole provides good grip, which is important for walking on slippery snow and ice.
- Best for: Cold temperatures and wet conditions.
- Made of 100% waterproof synthetic leather and nylon fabric....
- 800g synthetic rabbit fur lining keeps your feet warm and...
- The snow boots for men upper adopts seam sealing structure...
- Anti-collision toe cap protects the toes from injury. The...
- Flexible EVA midsole bring superior cushioning and high...
- SNOWTREAD outsole with deep, self-cleaning treads for...
- Leather is from a tannery rated gold for its water, energy,...
- Removable HEAT-MX 145 sustainable thermal insulation liner....
- Waterproof and flexible synthetic rubber shell. Waterproof...
- Platform measures approximately 0.75 inches. Shaft measures...
- Waterproof material: Men's snow boots feature waterproof...
- 200g high-quality insulation materiel: Keeps your feet warm...
- Removable Insole: The insole can be removed and washed to...
- Isulated: An insulated warm comfy lining provides better...
- Durable & Slip Resistant: The rubber outsole is stable, slip...
- Warm lining: With high-quality faux fur lining, this pair of...
- Waterproof vamp: Designed with waterproof fabric upper,...
- Slip-resistant sole: These women's anti-skid snow boots with...
- Adjustable features: Adjustable drawstring provides a secure...
- Useage: Featured by lightweight fabric and soles, these...
- STYLISH & COZY DESIGN: Elevate your winter style with...
- WATERPROOF UPPER: Made with waterproof microfiber and...
- EASY TO WEAR: Putting on and removing these boots is a...
- GRIPPY OUTSOLE: Stay safe on slippery surfaces with the...
- CUSHIONED INSOLE: The insole is designed with faux Sherpa...
2. Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV Omni-Heat
- Features: This boot is equipped with Columbia’s Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining for added warmth, as well as a waterproof leather and textile upper. The Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber sole ensures solid footing.
- Why it’s great for long walks: Lightweight, comfortable, and supportive with extra insulation to keep feet warm during extended walks. The boots also have a higher level of flexibility for walking long distances.
- Best for: Hikers and those walking in colder conditions but needing flexibility and warmth.
3. Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Boots
- Features: Known for their comfort and versatility, these boots come with a waterproof membrane, insulated lining, and M Select Grip rubber outsoles for excellent traction. The mid-cut design provides more ankle support for long-distance walks.
- Why it’s great for long walks: The boots are relatively light, offer great support, and are breathable, which is great for long-distance walks on snowy or icy trails. Their waterproof and insulated nature ensures feet stay dry and warm.
- Best for: Mild to cold weather with the need for long-distance comfort and durability.
4. The North Face Chilkat 400 Boots
- Features: These boots feature 400 grams of insulation, a waterproof leather upper, and a heat-retaining fleece lining. The rugged outsole is designed for high traction on snow and ice.
- Why it’s great for long walks: Insulated and built for extreme cold, these boots are warm and comfortable, with a durable construction that can handle long walks in snowy, icy conditions.
- Best for: Extremely cold environments and long walks where warmth is crucial.
5. Keen Revel IV High Polar Boots
- Features: These boots are waterproof, have KEEN.FREEZE waterproof insulation, and are designed to provide superior comfort on icy surfaces. The Keen-all-terrain rubber outsole gives excellent traction, while the Eco Anti-Odor technology keeps your feet fresh.
- Why it’s great for long walks: The boots are lightweight, provide ample insulation, and have excellent arch support. The high cut offers better ankle protection, and the traction is solid, making it suitable for longer walks.
- Best for: Cold, snowy conditions and long-distance walks requiring durability and comfort.
6. Timberland PRO Women’s & Men’s Waterproof Insulated Boots
- Features: These boots are made with premium waterproof leather, and they offer Thinsulate insulation for warmth. The boots also have an anti-fatigue footbed that provides cushioning for long-term comfort on extended walks.
- Why it’s great for long walks: With a durable construction, warm insulation, and comfortable fit, these boots are designed for long walks on snowy or icy terrain, offering excellent support and comfort.
- Best for: Long hikes or walks in snowy or wet conditions.
7. L.L. Bean Storm Chaser Boots
- Features: These boots feature a warm fleece lining, waterproof rubber shell, and insulated upper. The anti-slip outsole offers great traction for long walks in the snow.
- Why it’s great for long walks: Designed for durability, warmth, and comfort, these boot have an excellent fit and are flexible enough for extended use in deep snow or wet conditions.
- Best for: Snowy, wet conditions where warmth, traction, and comfort are essential.
8. Bogs Classic High Insulated Waterproof Boots
- Features: Bogs boots offer 7mm Neo-Tech insulation and a thermal lining, making them perfect for keeping your feet warm in freezing temperatures. The boots are fully waterproof and come with non-slip soles for added traction.
- Why it’s great for long walks: With comfort features like a cushioned footbed and great warmth retention, Bogs boots are ideal for extended periods in the snow, especially if you need both durability and comfort.
- Best for: Extremely cold and wet conditions with long-distance walking.
Key Features to Look for in Snow Boots for Walking Long Distances:
- Insulation: Make sure the boots are well-insulated (look for 200-400 grams or more) to keep your feet warm in cold temperatures.
- Waterproofing: The boots should be fully waterproof to prevent snowmelt or wet conditions from soaking your feet.
- Traction: A good snow boot should have a high-traction sole to avoid slipping on ice or snow.
- Comfort & Cushioning: Look for boots with padded insoles or arch support to ensure comfort during long walks.
- Durability: Quality materials like leather or rubber ensure the boots last through many walks in harsh conditions.
- Height: A taller boot (mid-calf or higher) offers better protection from snow and helps keep feet dry.
Conclusion
The best snow boots for walking long distances should be insulated, waterproof, comfortable, and offer excellent traction. Brands like Sorel, Columbia, Merrell, Keen, and The North Face offer top-rated options that are perfect for long walks in snowy conditions. Choose based on your specific needs, such as temperature, snow conditions, and the amount of walking you’ll do.
1. Price: How Much Do Good Snow Boots Cost?
The price of good snow boot can vary depending on the brand, materials, and features. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
- Budget Snow Boots: $50 – $100
These typically provide basic insulation, waterproofing, and are suited for moderate snow conditions. You can expect boots from brands like Columbia, Kamik, and Skechers in this range. - Mid-Range Snow Boots: $100 – $200
These boot offer better insulation, advanced waterproofing, and additional features like better traction or more premium materials. Brands like Sorel, Timberland, and Merrell often fall into this category. - High-End Snow Boot: $200 – $400+
High-end snow boots are designed for extreme cold and harsh conditions. They are typically made from premium materials, with excellent insulation and superior durability. Examples of brands in this range include The North Face, Bogs, and Keen.
2. Material: What Is the Best Material for a Snow Boot?
The best materials for snow boots are those that provide insulation, waterproofing, and durability. Here are some common materials used in snow boots:
- Waterproof Leather: Leather is durable, supportive, and resistant to snow and water when treated with a waterproof coating. It’s often used for the upper portion of the boot.
- GORE-TEX: GORE-TEX is a waterproof and breathable membrane used in many high-quality snow boots. It allows moisture to escape from the inside while keeping water out, making it ideal for long walks or hiking in snow.
- Rubber: Rubber is commonly used for the sole and lower part of snow boots because of its waterproof qualities. It’s great for preventing moisture from getting in and is durable in snow.
- Thinsulate: Thinsulate is a lightweight and effective insulation material used to keep feet warm without adding bulk. Many snow boots use Thinsulate for warmth.
- Faux Fur & Fleece: Lining materials like faux fur or fleece provide additional warmth and comfort. These are often found inside snow boots to trap body heat and keep your feet cozy.
- EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): Some snow boots have soles made from EVA, which is a lightweight, flexible material known for shock absorption and comfort.
3. Type: What Is Considered a Snow Boot?
A snow boot is a type of footwear designed specifically to provide warmth, comfort, and protection in cold, snowy, and icy conditions. Here are some key features that define a snow boot:
- Waterproofing: Snow boots are made from materials that keep feet dry, such as waterproof leather, rubber, or GORE-TEX lining.
- Insulation: They have thick insulation (like Thinsulate or down) to retain body heat and keep feet warm in freezing temperatures.
- Traction: Snow boots come with rugged soles designed for excellent grip on slippery, snowy, and icy surfaces.
- Height: Snow boot are often taller (mid-calf or higher) to prevent snow from entering the boot and to provide extra warmth and protection for the lower legs.
- Sealed Seams: Many snow boots have sealed or waterproof seams to prevent water from seeping in.
Types of snow boots include:
- Winter hiking boots: Designed for both warmth and performance on trails.
- Classic snow boot: Often shorter and more fashion-forward, ideal for urban settings and moderate snow.
- Insulated snow boot: Boots made for extreme cold, offering heavy-duty insulation.
4. Size: What Size Snow Boots Do I Need?
When choosing snow boots, it’s important to pick the right size to ensure comfort and proper insulation. Here’s what to consider:
- General Sizing: Snow boots are usually true to size or slightly bigger to allow for thicker socks and better insulation. If you’re between sizes, it’s often recommended to go up a size.
- Thick Socks: Consider wearing the type of socks you plan to wear with your snow boots when trying them on. If you plan on wearing thicker winter socks, opt for a half size or full size up to accommodate the extra bulk.
- Boot Liners: Some snow boots come with removable liners that affect the fit. Be sure to check if the boot’s liner is removable or adjustable for additional warmth or foot room.
- Toe Room: Ensure there’s enough room in the toe box for circulation to prevent cold feet, but not so much that your foot slides around inside the boot, which can cause discomfort and blisters.
- Width: If you have wide feet, look for snow boots that offer wide or extra-wide sizing, as boots that are too tight can be uncomfortable over long periods.
Conclusion
- Price: Good snow boots typically cost anywhere from $50 to $400 depending on the brand and features.
- Best Material: Look for waterproof leather or rubber, insulated linings like Thinsulate, and breathable membranes like GORE-TEX for optimal performance.
- Type: Snow boots are designed for cold, wet conditions with features like insulation, waterproofing, and traction. Consider winter hiking or classic snow boots based on your needs.
- Size: Choose your regular size or slightly larger to accommodate thick socks and liners. Be sure to check for toe room and ensure the boot fits comfortably with the right socks.
1. What Brand of Boots Is Best for Snow?
Several brands are renowned for producing high-quality snow boots, each offering a range of features like insulation, waterproofing, and traction. Some of the best brands for snow boots include:
- Sorel: Known for their durable, insulated, and stylish boots, Sorel offers excellent protection against snow and cold temperatures. Their Caribou and Joan of Arctic models are particularly popular for snow.
- The North Face: Offers boots that are designed for extreme cold and wet conditions, featuring excellent insulation and traction. Their Chilkat and Shellista models are great options for snow.
- Columbia: Known for making versatile and affordable snow boots with insulation technology like Omni-Heat and Omni-Grip for comfort and traction. Their Bugaboot line is a standout for snow.
- Keen: Offers snow boot that combine waterproofing, insulation, and comfort. The Revel and Targhee series are well-regarded for snow and cold weather.
- Bogs: Known for their waterproof, insulated boot, Bogs are ideal for extreme cold and wet snow conditions. They are comfortable for long durations in the snow.
- Merrell: Offers lightweight and insulated snow boots that are great for walking long distances in snow. Their Thermo Chill and Karakoram boots are popular options.
2. What Are Snow Boot Called?
Snow boots are often referred to by specific types depending on their use. They might be called:
- Winter Boots: A broad term for boots designed to provide warmth, waterproofing, and traction in snowy and cold conditions.
- Snow Boots: Typically designed for extreme snow and cold weather, offering heavy insulation and waterproofing.
- Insulated Boots: Boots that feature special insulation to keep your feet warm in freezing temperatures.
- Cold Weather Boots: Boots made for protecting your feet in cold and snowy conditions, with features like waterproofing and insulation.
- Winter Hiking Boots: Snow boot designed for hiking in snowy conditions, combining warmth and performance on trails.
3. Are Snow Boots Good on Ice?
Yes, snow boot are generally good for icy conditions, but their effectiveness depends on the traction of the soles and the insulation of the boot. Many snow boot have soles designed to provide grip on icy surfaces. For example:
- Rubber Soles: Many snow boots feature rubber outsoles with aggressive treads that help provide traction on ice.
- Vibram or Multi-Directional Lugs: Some boots, like those from brands like Merrell and Columbia, feature Vibram soles or other specialized outsoles that improve traction on slippery surfaces.
However, it’s important to note that not all snow boots are equally effective on ice. Ice cleats or spikes can be added to boots for additional grip if needed.
4. Do Snow Shoes Work?
Yes, snowshoes are designed to help you walk on deep snow by distributing your weight over a larger area, preventing you from sinking into the snow. They are particularly useful for walking in areas with deep, soft snow where regular snow boot may cause you to get stuck or exert more energy.
Benefits of Snowshoes:
- Improved Traction: Snowshoes provide better traction on soft snow, helping to prevent you from slipping or sinking.
- Easier Mobility: They reduce the effort needed to walk on deep snow, making it easier to cover longer distances.
- Better for Hiking: If you’re hiking in deep snow, snowshoes are often more efficient than snow boots alone, as they allow for smoother, more efficient walking.
Best Snow Boots For Walking Long Distances