On a cold day, there’s nothing quite like slipping your foot into the warm, comfy interior of a good winter boot and knowing that your feet will be protected no matter what the weather tries to throw at you.
But it can be hard to find good boots that also fit your personality. Or that you can wear to work without having to change once you arrive.
Luckily, with one of these top 10 best women’s winter boots, you’ll never have to sacrifice style for warmth again!
Read on for descriptions of what makes each product shine and a buyer’s guide to give you all the information you need to pick the right one for you!
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Sorel Explorer II Joan Felt Waterproof Boots
Budget Option
Bogs Amanda Plus II Chelsea Boots
Most Stylish
North Face Sierra Mid Lace WP Boots
Best Overall
Sorel Explorer II Joan Felt Waterproof Boots
When it comes to the best women’s winter boots, there’s nothing quite like a Sorel. And the Explorer II Joan Felt line is no exception.
These waterproof booties reach about mid-calf height, making them perfect for walks through deep snow. Especially with the lace-up fastenings to keep the microfleece insulation nice and snug against your skin.
The athletic, running shoe-style sole also pairs perfectly with the EVA cushioning throughout every part of the boot’s interior to provide an extremely comfortable fit. And all that is wrapped in a stylish, suede exterior!
As with any tall boot, it can be hard to find the perfect size. Keep in mind that the toe of this boot is a bit narrow when purchasing.
Pros
- Stylish
- Waterproof
- Microfleece insulation
- Comfortable
Cons
- Hard to fit
Best Budget
Bogs Amanda Plush II Chelsea Boots
If you’re looking for waterproofing above all, Bogs will always be the best choice for women’s winter boots. And with their new Amanda Plus II Chelsea Boots, Bogs can now give you warmth and style in equal measure!
The classic Chelsea bootcut has been popular for years. But these shoes go above and beyond with the addition of amazing features like a natural biotech material in the soles that fights odors.
When the sidewalks get slick, this boot’s slip-resistant rubber outsoles have your back. Not to mention the steel shanks that run through the middle of the sole to provide that extra bit of stability and support.
The slip-on design is great when you’re in a rush, but it also makes it easier for snow and rain to get in the top. So these aren’t the best women’s winter boots for extreme weather conditions.
Pros
- Odor fighting technology
- Waterproof
- Supportive
Cons
- Not good for extreme weather
Most Stylish
North Face Sierra Mid Lace WP Boots
One look at North Face’s Sierra Mid Lace WP Boots, and it’s easy to see how they earned the title of Most Stylish on this list of the best women’s winter boots.
The sleek, hightop design of these shoes blends perfectly with any casual outfit. And the faux-fur lining paired with the waterproof, full-grain leather keeps you nice and protected from the slushy winter sidewalks.
Also, rust-proof metal hardware for the laces ensures you’ll never have to worry about these shoes wearing over time. With a half-size larger than you might usually get, these boots can quickly become your go-to choice for city days.
Pros
- Waterproof full-grain leather
- Stylish
- Faux-fur lining
- Rust-proof metal hardware
Cons
- Fits small
Danner Arctic 600 Side Zip 7” Boots
Danner is one of the first companies to successfully turn a hiking boot into a fully workable winter boot. All while still managing to keep the amazing features that hiking boots provide.
This makes the Arctic 600 Side Zip Boots the best women’s winter boots for support, stability, and comfort. Nylon shanks, TPU heel frames, Ortholite footbeds, and cushy midsoles have all been packed into this waterproof suede frame to give your feet everything they need for a long day outside.
There’s no question that laces allow for a better fit, especially with a wider shoe like this. But they can also be a pain when you need to get them off quickly. Luckily, these boots also have a side zipper for easy slip-off!
Pros
- Breathable and waterproof laminate
- Very supportive
- Lace and zip-up
Cons
- Runs wide
Bogs Amanda Plush II Lace Boots
If the other Bog boots were the right style but a little too short for your liking, the Amanda Plush II Lace Boots are exactly what you need!
The mid-calf height of these boots offers that extra bit of protection that you want in the winter. And to help get them on, Bogs has even designed handles into the sides for extra leverage.
The added height might make it a bit harder to find the right size, but these cozy, plush-lined boots are definitely some of the best women’s winter boots on the market!
Pros
- Waterproof
- Tall
- Handles for easy slip-on
- Sweat-wicking
Cons
- Hard to size
Bogs Arcata Urban Leather Tall Boots
Made from 100% waterproof leather, Bogs Arcata Urban Leather Tall Boots are a great blend of rustic material and modern design. Both in terms of its style and the technology that’s gone into the interior of the boot.
DuraFresh biotechnology and Bogs Max-Wick sweat-wicking liner are top-of-the-line for keeping your feet feeling fresh throughout the day. Plus, the slip-resistant tread ensures snow-slicked paths are always manageable.
The innovation put into this product might make it a bit pricier than others on this list, but it’s definitely worth it when you’re getting one of the best women’s winter boots out there!
Pros
- Waterproof leather
- Sweat-wicking
- Slip-resistant soles
Cons
- Pricey
The North Face Expedition System Bootie 700
The new-age design of The North Face Expedition System Bootie makes an impressive statement for the adventurers of the world.
With its puffy, water-resistant nylon exterior filled with real goose down, these boots give your calves and feet the warmth they need to survive any storm. Toggle closures at the tops work to keep out even the deepest snow.
The puffy exterior does lack a little bit of support, so these aren’t the best women’s winter boots for long treks. But their height and lightweight materials make them the perfect comfort shoe for after a long day of snowsports.
Pros
- Modern style
- Water repellant
- Toggle closure
Cons
- Not very supportive
Kamik Simona Mid Winter Boots
Heat-MX thermal fibers and molded EVA footbeds make the Kamik Simona Mid Winter Boots one of the best women’s winter boots for warmth and comfort.
With its sweat-wicking properties, the Heat-MX also keeps the inside of your boots from staying damp and deteriorating over time.
Lastly, soles made from a waterproof and flexible rubber add durability and traction to every step. The sizes might run a bit small, but you won’t be disappointed with this boot once you find the right fit.
Pros
- Waterproof leather and suede
- Slip-resistant soles
- Comfortable
Cons
- Hard to size
Keens Betty Short Boots
Keens Betty Short Boots are made from premium leather that will keep your feet looking stylish and feeling cozy.
Plus, replaceable soles provide the most arch-support for your feet out of all these picks on our list.
Whether you’re looking to try out some snow sports or just need a boot for your casual city walks, the steel shanks and multidirectional lugs built into the out treads of this shoe ensure your feet will be ready.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Supportive
- Versatile
Cons
- Heavy
Kamik Snowgem Winter Boots
Removable comfort footbeds, fleece liners, and a waterproof leather and nylon exterior are just the start of what makes the Kamik Snowgems one of the best women’s winter boots out there.
Treated with an odor-controlling agent, the insides of these boots quickly wick moisture to help your feet stay dry both inside and out. Making it a great choice for both casual and adventurous outings.
Depending on how the boot fits, the seam along the back has been reported to dig into your heel. So be aware of that as you consider these boots.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Versatile
- Fleece lining
- odor-eliminating footbeds
Cons
- Can dig into your heel
Women’s Winter Boots Buyer’s Guide
Materials
All the best women’s winter boots will have an exterior made out of waterproofed leather, suede, rubber, or nylon.
Leather tends to be favored for its breathability, durability, and insulation, but suede and nylon are not far behind it. Nylon also tends to be a lot stretchier, which is good for people who live a more active lifestyle. Rubber is the most waterproof material on the list.
In terms of the soles, TPU is considered the all-around best option. Made from an advanced form of polyurethane, it’s much more resistant to extreme temperatures than other materials. But rubber is also more lightweight and affordable than most shoes that use TPU.
For liners, sheepskin will ensure you have the best women’s winter boots for extreme cold while also wicking moisture, but fleece is more lightweight. Then there are synthetic rubber-like materials made from neoprene or EVA that offer more support and flexibility.
Insulation Level
Insulation levels are usually broken into weight classes. The lowest class of boots have 200g of insulation and are good for cooler conditions or for if you’re doing something active.
The best women’s winter boots will usually fall between 400g and 600g weight classes since they can withstand very cold temperatures with lower amounts of activity.
Anything else is more than you need for a day-to-day shoe. Unless you’re planning a trip somewhere with extreme winter conditions, the mid-tier insulation levels will keep your boot relatively lightweight and offer more than enough warmth.
Boot Cuts
Depending on how you plan to use your new shoes, the cut of the boot can be very important.
The best women’s winter boots for snow sports and other more adventurous winter activities will reach higher up your leg. That way, any walks through deep snow will have you as protected as possible from the elements.
If you’re just planning on using them in the city, low-cut boots might be a better choice. Their lower profile makes them blend better with more outfits, and you’ll rarely be trekking through deep slush.
Mid-length products are definitely the best women’s winter boots for versatility.
Boot Fasteners
If you want more support and stability, lace-ups are the best women’s winter boots for you. The adjustability of their fit allows them to brace your ankle joint, which is perfect for people who have problems with their feet.
On the other hand, slip-ons are much more breathable. The ease of pulling them on and off also has them rated higher for comfort, but that is not guaranteed without the right soles.
Lastly, zip-ups are almost a combination of the two. The cut and fit tend to be a little more breathable than the average lace-up, while the added support of the zipper provides your foot with a bit more stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I size up my winter boots?
When finding the right size for winter boots, always try them on with thick winter socks. The best women’s winter boots should easily accommodate your socks without pinching, so they might need to be a half-size larger than you would usually buy.
What’s the difference between winter and snow boots?
To be classified in the category of snow boots, the product has to be completely waterproof and insulated. Whereas winter boots only need to be insulated. The classification technically ends there, but true snow boots should also have a higher cut. That way, they are actually usable in intense snow storms.
The Best Women’s Winter Boots for Warmth and Style Summed Up
No matter what your style or plans, this list of the best women’s winter boots has the perfect pair for you! And with the buyer’s guide to help make your choice, you’ll be off on a snowy adventure in no time.
For more information on how to brave the cold, check out our Winter in Minnesota Archives!