The Snow Boots for Braving Winter’s Worst Elements in Style

Winter fashion is all fun and games when you’re pulling out plush cashmere sweaters, sleek wool coats and elegant Chelsea boots, but perusing for the more practical cold-weather items can be a bit of a slog—especially when it comes to finding gear for less temperate and snowy conditions. Because as much as everyone looks forward to that first snowfall, actually navigating the slushy streets can be less magical. Whether you’re expecting snow at home or you’re planning a trip to the slopes, a great pair of snow boots is a must for a solid winter wardrobe.

The best snow boots keep you warm, dry and comfortable even during a blizzard, all while providing adequate grip and traction so you don’t slip on an icy sidewalk. Utility is paramount, but don’t be deterred by visions of clunky snow boots of years past, because today’s silhouettes prove that you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function. There are the classic, hardworking shoes from Columbia, Sorel and Timberland, but with modern updates like shearling lining, lug soles and faux fur details, along with a slew of unapologetically over-the-top, splurge-worthy designs from the likes of Prada, which brings its signature nylon aesthetic to the snow boot, and Hogan, with sumptuous suede and shearling details.

Don’t forget about the array of snow-ready footwear from winter gear heavyweights, including Bogner and Moncler, which bring their skiwear expertise to the shoe game with versatile options that are just as suitable for stomping along New York City streets as for heading to a Swiss chalet for that après-ski life, with a hot toddy and some fondue.

Don’t fret about searching for a chic pair of winter boots to protect yourself from the elements, because we’ve done the hard work for you and found the best snow boots that you’ll actually want to wear this year.

Inuikii Teddy High Suede Snow Boots


Channel your inner ski bunny when you put on these fluffy suede snow boots, complete with adjustable lace-up closures. Warm, cozy and simply begging to be brought on your next trip to the slopes.


$360, shop now

Inuikii.
Inuikii

Moon Boot Moon Boot Icon Faux-Fur Boots


Moon Boots are back (did they ever really leave?), and while you can always go for the classic, unembellished silhouettes, perhaps this is the year you make a statement with the next pair of boots you purchase. These winter white boots are made of faux fur and faux leather, with insulating fleece and wraparound laces. And, of course, the signature bouncy rubber soles.


$345, shop now

Moon Boot.
Net-a-Porter

L.L.Bean Snow Boots in Suede


Sometimes, it’s best to go back to basics. L.L.Bean’s black suede and sherpa snow boots ensure you’re prepared for the coldest of winter weather. A suede upper and removable felt, faux-fleece lining are stylish and cozy, with a waterproof shell and seam-sealed construction to keep your feet nice and dry.


$170, shop now

L.L. Bean.
L.L. Bean

Canada Goose Women’s Journey Boot Lite


Canada Goose’s chunky black lace-up ankle boots are 100 percent waterproof, feature a durable outsole, and include OrthoLite insoles for ultimate comfort. A breathable microfiber lining aids in temperature regulation to keep your feet dry and warm, no matter the frigid winter conditions, and extra ankle support is an added measure against slippage.


$750, shop now

Canada Goose.
Canada Goose

Timberland Women’s Stone Street Mid Warm Lined Waterproof Boot


Timberland’s waterproof winter boots got a modern-day makeover, complete with a chunky rubber lug sole and faux fur lining. The comfort foam footbeds are supportive and flexible, while the seam-sealed uppers ensure water can’t break the barrier.


$170, shop now

Timberland.
Timberland

Prada Black Re-Nylon Gabardine Après-Ski Boots


Inspired by classic après-ski style, Prada’s nylon gabardine boots are sporty and undeniably chic. The chunky rubber lug sole increases traction, while the upper drawstring lets you adjust to your preferences, which is ideal whether you’re wearing snow pants or just a pair of leggings. The Italian designer’s signature triangle logo adorns the outer side.


$1,450, shop now

Prada.
Prada

Merrell Women’s Marquette Thermo Lace Waterproof Boots


Not only will this stylish pair of women’s winter boots keep your feet dry and toasty on the most blustery of days, but they’re also made with special insulation to ensure you stay warm even when temperatures seriously start to drop. The soft fleece lining is a dream, while the waterproof membrane ensures no damp feet in sight.


$160, shop now

Merrell.
Merrell

Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Boot


It’s no surprise that these waterproof boots are always a best-seller within Columbia’s women’s shoes selection; they’ll protect your feet from the elements while also providing support as you navigate through all that snowy slush. If you need them ASAP and can’t go in-store, they’re also available on Amazon.


$100, shop now


Columbia

Bogner Alta Badia Shearling and Suede Snow Boots


You can’t go wrong with Bogner; the designer has long been the go-to for the most fashionable jet-setters for all their ski (and après-ski, of course) needs. These luxe shearling and suede cream-colored snow boots are as functional as they are elegant, and have an extra-gripping sole to make sure you don’t end up falling into the snow. The tall boots are giving serious ski bunny vibes, so you’ll always feel like you’re sipping a cozy cocktail after a long day on the slopes.


$710, shop now

Bogner.
Bogner

Penelope Chilvers Cosmos Suede Boot


English shoe brand Penelope Chilvers, which counts Kate Middleton as a longtime fan, is known for fashionable yet functional footwear. These luxe snow boots feature a suede body and 100 percent shearling wool lining to keep your toes as warm as possible. A rubber sole ensures you keep your balance.


$440, shop now

Penelope Chilvers.
Penelope Chilvers

Ugg Adirondack Boot XXV


Ugg’s latest iteration of its iconic, fully waterproof Adirondack boot might just be the best yet. These shoes keep your feet as warm as possible, even when the weather conditions drop to -32 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Crafted from waterproof leather and suede, the higher tongue height ensures extra protection. They also feature a leather upper and a special Vibram rubber outsole that stays flexible even in frigid weather, along with extra insulation and cushioning.


$250, shop now

Ugg.
Ugg

Hogan Suede and Shearling Lace-Up Boots


Crafted in Italy, Hogan’s suede and shearling lace-ups prove that the brand can do far more than the elevated sneakers for which they’re perhaps best known. Chunky rubber soles are the surprisingly practical counterpoint to the unapologetically plush suede upper, along with a rounded toe and adjustable laces.


$925, shop now

Hogan.
Hogan

Moncler Altive Mid Snow Boots


Moncler’s expertise in cold-weather outdoor gear extends far beyond its signature puffer jacket. These ankle boots feature a boudin-quilted upper, Vibram Megagrip compound tread on the sole for superior grip and traction, as well as an EVA midsole for ultimate flexibility.


$800, shop now

Moncler.
Moncler

Sorel Caribou Women’s Waterproof Boot


A seam-sealed waterproof construction ensures no cold or damp reaches your feet, even in the most dismal of climates. The synthetic insulation is warm and functional; you can actually remove the washable felt inner boot with the sherpa pile snow cuff, which is a major bonus considering how unpleasantly odorous winter boots can become at the end of the season. A waterproof vulcanized rubber shell outsole and suede and nylon upper complete the practical look.


$225, Shop Now

Sorel.
Sorel

Emu Australia Blurred Boots


Emu Australia’s hiking-inspired winter boots are composed of water-resistant sheepskin for the utmost warmth and overall coziness, and they also happen to be naturally moisture-wicking. The practical waterproof rubber trim and hiking-style laces are functional features; the rubber serrated teeth on the outsole provide extra grip and traction.


$169.95, shop now


Emu

Goldbergh Leonora Snow Boots


Even if you skip out on a ski run that day, you’ll still look the part for the après-ski in these whimsical faux-fur women’s boots. Knee-high, with a waterproof inner construction, chunky outsole and unapologetically over-the-top feel, you’ll be the star of Cloud 9.


$720, shop now

Goldbergh.
Goldbergh

Hunter Women’s Thunor Indoor/Outdoor Insulated Roll Top Waterproof Snow Boots


If you’re a fan of Hunter’s classic rain boots, then you’re sure to love the brand’s insulated waterproof snow boots. They’re a very similar—if not identical—design to the rain shoes, but with an insulated, shearling-like roll top for extra protection and warmth. These are 100 percent waterproof, so no damp toes over here.


$198, shop now

Hunter.
Hunter

The North Face Women’s Sierra Mid Lace Waterproof Boots


Winter white, but make it functional. The North Face’s Sierra boots hit at the mid-calf, giving more protection and warmth than a bootie, but not so full-coverage as a knee-high option. Made from waterproof full-grain leather, nylon and padded ripstop, these shoes also feature an internal waterproof membrane for extra protection against the elements.


$149, shop now

The North Face.
The North Face

​Observer

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