If you’re about to depart for a winter wonderland trip where it’s likely to snow, right about now you’re probably wondering what are the best snow boots for women? A great pair of snow boots are essential if it’s likely to snow or has been snowing at your travel destination – believe me having cold and wet feet will quickly bring your day of sightseeing to an end while you seek out somewhere to warm up.
The best snow boots women love, are not only comfortable and keep your feet warm, but you want them to look good too, right? But how to decipher between fashionable snow boots for women, that are practical also?
In this best snow boot for women guide, I’ve taken all the guesswork out of which women’s winter snow boots you should consider buying. I’ve already done all the research for you and narrowed down some of the best winter snow boots for women. In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect pair of warm snow boots, as well as look at some of the most fashionable snow boots for women currently on the market.
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Table of Contents
Why do you Need Warm Snow Boots?
I know you are probably thinking – snow boots are just not going to go with your winter wardrobe – but let me assure you that what you are wearing is not going to matter when you have freezing cold and wet feet. Besides, you can get some pretty cute women’s snow boots that are super practical and are fashionable too.
Unlike everyday shoes or boots – snow boots are primarily a winter sport and leisure footwear, designed to keep your feet warm, dry and protected from the harsh conditions of snow and ice, as well as winter rain and sleet. The best snow boots (women’s) also provide ankle support and superior grip that will save you from an embarrassing fall on the ice.
Don’t get them confused with just standard winter boots. Winter boots are more lightweight and versatile than snow boots and do not provide the protection you need for snow.
If you already own a good pair of waterproof hiking boots, then these will probably do the trick. However, read on – this article is going to help you find a great pair of boots for your upcoming trip.
My Pick for the Best Snow Boots for Women: Columbia Ice Maiden II
Don’t have time to read the complete guide on women’s waterproof snow boots? Well, my pick for the best winter snow boots women will love are the Columbia Ice Maiden II. For such an inexpensive boot, its performance is amazing. I love the cozy liner which provides ample warmth all day and the boots are completely waterproof. The best thing, they are super cute!
Women’s Waterproof Snow Boots 2019 Comparison Chart
The table below provides an excellent overview of the various options for ladies’ waterproof snow boots reviewed in this guide. In the table below, you can easily compare the various boots features’, side by side to help decide which are the best boots for you.
Keep reading below for the full reviews on these warmest snow boots for women.
IMAGE | PRODUCT | SHAFT HEIGHT | TEMP RATING | OUR RATING | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Columbia Minx | 10” | -25°F | 4.5 | Check Price | |
2. Columbia Ice Maiden II | 9” | -25°F | 4.7 | Check Price | |
3. Columbia Bugaboot Plus III XTM OH | 8” | -65°F | 4.2 | Check Price | |
4. UGG Adirondack III | 7” | -32°F | 4.6 | Check Price | |
5. Kamik Momentum | 10” | -25°F | 4.3 | Check Price | |
6. Sorel Caribou | 9.5” | Heavy snow | 4.2 | Check Price | |
7. Sorel Joan of Arctic Boot | 11.5” | -25°F | 4.2 | Check Price | |
8. Sorel Conquest Carly II | 13” | NA | 4 | Check Price | |
9. KEEN Durand Polar | 7.5” | NA | 4.1 | Check Price | |
10. Northside Kathmandu | 10” | -25°F | 4.3 | Check Price |
Things to Consider when Purchasing the Best Women’s Winter Snow Boots
A good quality pair of winter snow boots can set you back a few dollars, and you won’t want to buy a new pair each time winter comes around, so you want to do your research correctly the first time.
Before purchasing your snow boots, consider the following factors:
1. Boot Type
Before purchasing a pair of boots, consider what activities you will be doing in them. Are you just planning on walking around the city sightseeing or will you be doing day hikes through snowy trails? The activities you are likely to do while wearing your boots will determine the best type of boots for you.
Casual Boots
Casual everyday boots are a versatile boot that’s perfect for most winter activities. With a good pair of casual snow boots, you can comfortably do a day of sightseeing or even participate in a range of snow sports such as skiing.
Casual boots tend to be constructed with leather and suede, rather than rubber and also feature a moderate level of insulation.
Hiking Boots
If you like to go on day hikes in the snow, then you will need to invest in a pair of snow hiking boots. Snow hiking boots are designed to perform well on rigid, snowy terrain. Generally hiking boots for snowy conditions will have a lower ankle height with a more flexible design to allow hikers to cover the snowy ground easily. Snow hiking boots also feature less insulation, superior breathability, so your feet stay dry even if they sweat and excellent tread and grip to keep you upright on icy surfaces.
Extreme Winter Boots
Extreme cold winter snow boots are designed to keep your feet warm in the coldest of climates. These types of boots are usually super bulky, constructed with rubber and thick leather.
2. Boot Height
Winter boots come in a range of heights including from ankle height to knee height. As to what is the best boot height for you, comes down to both personal preference and the activities you will do while wearing your boots. Ankle height snow boots are best for hiking, while higher boots are best for a day of city sightseeing.
3. Warmth and Temperature Ratings
Some ranges of brands of women’s snow boots will include a warmth or temperature rating. However, if you are one to suffer and feel the cold (and you know who you are), you are going to want to invest in a snow boot that includes a higher temperature rating. However, these ranges are not guaranteed because every foot is different. And if you’re standing still, you’re going to have cold feet! So, use these ratings as a guide only.
In general, the ratings will help you determine how well the boots will perform at temperatures around -10°C (14°F), -20°C (-4°F), -30°C (-22°F) and so forth. These numbers refer to the lowest temperature your feet can handle while maintaining reasonable warmth and comfort inside the boot.
4. Insulation Types
Insulation for snow boots is more often than not made from synthetic or natural fibres such as sheepskin.
Primaloft and Thinsulate are popular synthetic insulators which aren’t bulky and lightweight and continue to insulate even when wet. If you are after light to mid-weight boots, look for 200 to 400 grams on these insulators. For a more robust level of warmth, look for significantly more.
Felt and sheepskin insulation tend to be much bulkier but are super cosy for your feet. They have the bonus that if they do accidentally get wet many of these linings are removable and you can leave them by the fire at night and so will be dry in the morning. However, even if they do get wet, they will continue to insulate.
5. Waterproof
For your snow boots to be waterproof, they will either need a waterproof inner membrane or have an added chemical waterproof treatment to the shoe. Gore-Tex (often abbreviated to GTX in shoes) is a popular waterproof material used in some of the best snow boots.
Also, consider using a pair of waterproof gaiters. Gaiters are worn over your boots and the lower part of your trousers to prevent snow or ice seeping into your boots.
6. Boot Outsoles and Grip
A superior grip and outsole (also called the sole) are essential for snow boots. Consider the following when looking for great quality snow boots:
- Look for outsoles made from hard rubber for waterproof, stability and durability;
- Lug Pattern: Lugs are the traction bumps on the bottom of the outsole. Look for lug patterns which are deep, thick and widely spread apart for the best traction; and
- Look for boots with a heel brake (built in the heel area of the outsole which is distinct from the rest of the outsole) for improved traction and to avoid slipping.
7. Weight
The higher the boot height, the heavier the boot becomes! The heaviest designs are for the worst conditions as weight goes up as insulation level increases. So, if you’re not going to be using your boots in extreme conditions, steer clear from the heavier weighted boots as they will be more expensive in the long run.
8. The Fit
Above all else, the best boots for snow (woman designed) should fit perfectly. To ensure you don’t suffer from blisters, sore toes and sore feet, consider the following points to ensure a great fitting hiking boots:
- Length: Ensure your toes wiggle around easily;
- Width: Make sure there is not too much room either side of the boot nor should your foot be squeezed against the side; and
- Try your boots on with the socks you are most likely to wear when you go hiking, as the thickness of the socks may change how the boots fit.
Most importantly be sure to wear your boots in before you take them out on a day of city sightseeing.
The Best Winter Snow Boots for Women 2019 Reviews
1. Columbia Women’s Minx Mid II Omni-Heat Winter Boot
For a super stylish yet comfortable pair of women’s snow boots, you can’t go past the Columbia Minx Mid II Omni Heat winter boots. Coming in a range of great colours, these boots will look great with your winter travel wardrobe while keeping your feet cosy and warm.
Made with a 100% waterproof woven synthetic and a rubber sole these boots will keep your feet dry. The boots also feature a reinforced bootie overlay, removable contoured PU foot bed, superior traction as well as 200g of insulation to keep your feet warm.
The Columbia winter boots feature thermal reflective Omni heat technology so they will keep your feet dry as well as warm. The thermal reflective Omni heat technology reflects body heat, and so reduces the need for bulky layers, which enables these boots to remain reasonably lightweight.
These 10-inch quilted winter boots with ghillie lacing and faux fur collar are great fashionable snow boots women will love and come in colours such grey, black and tan, so there is the perfect colour to match your winter wardrobe.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
2. Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Insulated Snow Boots
Similar to the Columbia Minx Mid above, the Columbia Ice Maiden II is a stylish, feminine and fashionable snow boot perfect for your winter wonderland adventures.
The Ice Maiden snow boots are made with waterproof leather and textile upper as well as featuring 200g of insulation to ensure your feet remain warm on cold travel days. They also feature a rubber sole with excellent traction to ensure you remain upright on icy terrains. Unlike the Columbia Minx Mid, these boots don’t feature thermal reflective Omni heat technology, which may explain the slightly heavier weight.
These 9-inch snow boots have a lace up closure which provides an adjustable and secure fit ensuring snow stays out of your boot. They also come in a range of great colours, including black, tan and red.
At a slightly lower price than the Minx Mid’s above, the Ice Maiden boots are another great stylish, lightweight option from Columbia.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
3. Columbia Women’s Bugaboot Plus III XTM OH Snow Boot
If you’re going to a destination with crazy super cold temperatures and need the ultimate in warm snow boots – then definitely consider the Columbia Bugaboot II snow boots. These boots claim to keep your feet warm in temperatures up to -65!!!
Featuring a whopping 600g of insulation, it’s no wonder these snow boots are designed for constant below freezing temperatures. They are constructed with a durable waterproof leather/rip stop nylon upper, a lightweight cushioned midsole and a non-marking rubber sole.
Like the Minx Mid’s above, the Bugaboot Plus feature thermal reflective Omni heat technology which aids in keeping your feet extra warm as well as ensuring the boots are as lightweight as possible.
While less stylish then the other Columbia snow boots featured in these reviews, these 8-inch snow boots will definitely do the job of keeping your feet warm and dry when traveling to some of the world’s coldest destinations.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
4. UGG Women’s W Adirondack III Snow
If you are looking for a trusted brand of great quality boots that are fashionable and look great, then check out the UGG Women’s W Adirondack III Snow boots.
These boots are made with a dry tech waterproof bootie construction that will keep your feet warm and dry in temperatures of up to -32 degrees. They have 200g of wool insulation so you can be sure your feet will be as warm and comfortable as possible.
The insoles are made from 17mm ugg pure sheep wool and if they become damp or smelly, you can remove them from the boot. In fact, you can replace the whole thing if it becomes worn out and you think you are better off just getting a new one. The outsole is made with moulded spider rubber to ensure ultimate support and stability and for even more added comfort the midsole is made from dual-density eva.
These boots have a great look, with uppers made from premium leather. You also have the option to cuff the shaft or you can lace it all the way up, whatever is more comfortable for you or look you prefer.
Available in 3 different colour choices including black, tan and cream, you can pick the perfect colour for your style while being sure to have comfortable and warm feet throughout the cold weather seasons.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
5. Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot
Coming with 200g of Thinsulate insulation, these 100% synthetic Kamik women’s Momentum snow boots have a temperature rating of up to -25°F so are certain to keep your feet warm during your extreme cold weather travels.
The footbed is removable so it can be taken out to be cleaned or dried when necessary and it has been treated with an anti-odour treatment to help prevent it from becoming smelly over time. The moisture-wicking lining also helps to move sweat away from the feet too.
Other great features of these seam-sealed snow boots are the plush faux-fur collar, grippy PEAK snow and ice traction sole, quick bungee lacing and waterproof Gusseted tongue that will help to prevent any snow from getting inside your boots.
The Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot is a super affordable and stylish option when looking for snow boots and they come in a stack of different colour choices too.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
6. Sorel Women’s Caribou Boot
These Sorel Women’s Caribou Boots are a timeless option for people who spend a lot of time in cold and snowy weather. Designed to keep your feet warm in subzero weather conditions, these boots are lightweight with a flexible shell and seam-sealed waterproof protection, designed to keep your feet away from the damp, snowy weather.
The Sorel Caribou Boot is 100% waterproof with a rubber sole, a boot opening of approximately 12 inches in circumference with a comfortably soft, fuzzy felt cuff. Equipped with nubuck leather upper and a removable liner, the Sorel Women’s Caribou Boot offers 100% weather protection.
The Caribou Boot features a unique outsole not seen in many other boot models. The boot grabs at most surfaces extremely well including snow and ice, which makes it the perfect women’s winter snow boots for those heavy outside winter chores like shovelling the driveway or walking around town and active winter sports like sledging or snowmobiling.
Coming in three colour options – black, tan and grey you’re sure to find the perfect coloured boot for your winter travels.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
7. Sorel Women’s Joan of Arctic Boot
If you’re in need of a high winter boot for your next winter trip, definitely take a look at these super cute Sore Joan of Arctic winter boots. These boots will protect you from the harsh elements during your winter wonderland adventures.
The extra tall shaft (11.5 inches from arch) of these boots locks in heat while the faux fur cuff creates a cosy seal around the mid-calf. These boots feature 200-grams of Thinsulate insulation that breathes well and keeps feet super toasty and warm. This classic winter boot features a beautiful, waterproof, full-grain leather and suede upper, super-soft faux fur around the cuff, a removable inner sole and a rubber sole.
One of the best things about these boots is the choice of colours!!! These boots come in so many different colours you could easily get a different colour for every day of the week.
The Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots are suitable for people with wide calves and their burly construction make them an essential addition to your wardrobe for those chilly, snowy, wet winter travel days.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
8. Sorel Women’s Conquest Carly II Snow Boot
The Sorel Women’s Conquest Carly II Snow Boot is a very snazzy looking boot and so be prepared for compliments a plenty when wearing them.
With the tall shaft (13 inches – the tallest boot in our reviews), stylish heel (1.47 inches) and 100% waterproof full-grain leather with detailing, it looks like a cross between a riding boot and a military-style boot. The boot does not have the faux fur cuff that most women’s winter snow boots seem to have, but not everyone likes that!
The boot features 100grams of comfort jersey lining, a moulded footbed with arch support and seam-sealed waterproof construction. The calf circumference states 15 inches however it could comfortably increase to 16 inches for those of us with larger more muscly calves.
The Sorel Women’s Conquest Carly II Snow Boot is the perfect boot for those of us who like to keep some element of fashion when dressing and come in a range of great colour options, These boots are perfect for a day of sightseeing or nights out at the bar and is also a great transition boot from fall/autumn to winter.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
9. KEEN Women’s Durand Polar Winter Boot
The KEEN Women’s Durand Polar Winter Bootis a high-performing, women’s winter boot appropriate for hiking and outdoor activities during your winter travels.
The 400 grams of insulation keeps your feet toasty and warm well into the double negative digits (-40F). The leather-synthetic outer is completely waterproof and breathable and the faux-fur collar in addition to the fleece-lined interior makes it a cosy and comfortable women’s boot for winter sightseeing.
The boot performs well on snowy surfaces and its traction is superb. It features good arch support and stability but order a half-size up (which seems to be the case for all women’s boots) to ensure you have enough room for your toes to wiggle.
If you’re the sort of traveller that does loads of hiking on your trips, these are definitely worth considering. The KEEN Women’s Durand Polar Winter Boot rates best for its performance in the sloppy, wet snow and coldest of temperatures. Its breathability is great providing great ventilation throughout the day, without causing much moisture. It’s wonderful traction and stability will have you hiking all winter.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
10. Northside Women’s Kathmandu Waterproof Snow Boot
You will fall in love with the Northside Women’s Kathmandu Waterproof Snow Boot for its trendy design and brilliant level of comfort and coziness. It is a great casual winter boot to wear for city sightseeing days when the conditions are chilly.
The Northside boot is stacked with 200 grams of Thermolite insulation and a faux-fur cuff designed to keep warmth in. In addition, the boot features a plush inner fur liner that feels good to wear, even without socks.
Your toes will be protected and kept dry all day and the removable berber lined insole provides additional comfort and warmth. The durable and lightweight outer sole ensures traction/shock absorption is resistant in snowy and icy conditions.
The Northside Kathmandu boots are a competitively priced boot and include a bit of style coming in a range of great colour choices. If you are after a boot that is waterproof and warm for winter, these boots will fit the bill.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
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