Light winter shoes are padded ankle boots, while heavier ones are sturdy Canada Boots or felt-lined rubber boots. Winter boots suitable for extreme cold have removable felt liners, which are good to take out to dry after a long day.
When deciding whether to buy light or heavy winter boots, one key factor is the intended use. If you’re planning to walk a fair amount, a lighter and more snug-fitting model is better. However, if your activity involves a lot of standing still, you’ll need looser-fitting, heavily insulated winter boots. This category includes felt-lined rubber boots and the heavier models from Sorel and Kamik.
Some of our most popular winter footwear brands are Sorel, Icebug, Pomar, and Kamik. A recent addition is the French brand Palladium, whose military-style boots have become very popular.
Studded shoes have evolved significantly—Icebug leads the market, with Salomon as a strong second. Studded shoes provide the best grip on ice and significantly reduce slipping.
Grip-sole shoes use new material blends to improve traction. They are a stud-free option for those seeking better grip—just remember to always take slippery conditions seriously!