Now we’re in the depths of winter and the sun’s only making a surprise appearance every so often, it’s time to reacquaint yourself with your hardcore winter footwear.
Shelve your canvas trainers which don’t stay dry in a downpour or anything leather soled which is guaranteed to slip on icy pavement. Instead, it’s time for practical shoes. We’re talking waterproof uppers. We’re talking chunky rubber treads. And we’re talking snow boots, of course.
The most winter-ready of all boot silhouettes (Chelseas, chukkas, balmorals and hiking included), these are reserved for the worst of the weather. Whether you’re heading to Verbier for a ski sojourn or you’re simply getting ready for icy morning dog walks, with these on your shoe rack, you’ll be ready for whatever the cold months have in store.
They’re usually waterproof (look out for GORE-TEX treatment and welded seams), feature a cosy Sherpa or faux fur lining and have a deep lug tread which won’t slide even in the snow – for the latter, Vibram soles tend to be the best. Some look like ankle hiking boots while others are more Wellington boot-coded – just note that the higher the boot, the more protection you’ll get from wind and cold.
Our top tip? It’s usually best to go up half a size to make sure you have enough space for thick ski socks – especially if you’re going for a rubber style where you can’t loosen the laces. If you’re unsure, though, perhaps order two sizes and return the one that doesn’t work.
To give you a helping hand on your search, we’ve rounded up our favourites below.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Columbia Men’s Bugaboot III Boot
When it comes to technical innovation, Columbia is one of the best in the business. These boots are engineered with the brand’s patented omni-tech, techlite and omni-grip technology, so they’re lightweight, waterproof, warm, and have great traction.
Buy now £125.00, Columbia
Adidas Terrex Snowpitch Cold.Rdy Hiking Shoes
Adidas’ Terrex collection is the sportswear label’s range of shoes and apparel that’s designed for outdoor exploring, whether it’s hiking, trail running or Alpine adventures. These are best for the latter, since they’re designed to seal out the cold and wet and keep you stable when it’s icy.
Buy now £120.00, Adidas
Salomon Crosstrak Power Waterproof
If you’re a regular in the mountains, Salomon is a brand you need to know. Its range of skiwear includes everything from jackets to thermals and, of course, footwear. These have lugs that cover the bottom and sides of the midsole, so you can grip the snow even when it’s compacted down. The high-performance insulation and waterproof membrane will keep you warm and dry.
Buy now £200.00, Salomon
Sorel Men's 1964 PAC NYLON Waterproof Snow Boots
Sorel’s boots have all the makings of the perfect snow boot; seam-sealed, waterproof, felt-lined and with a rubber outsole. And we love the brown and black colourway.
Buy now £130.00, Cotswold Outdoor
Hunter Intrepid Insulated Short Snow Boots
Though you may know Hunter from its famous Glastonbury-ready wellies, it’s got a strong selection of snow-appropriate boots too. These are insulated, waterproof, have a fleece lining and a drawstring top too, so they’re ready for extreme cold weather up to -20°C.
Buy now £160.00, Hunter
Helly Hansen Men's Varanger Primaloft Insulated Winter Boots
Helly Hansen’s range of outdoorsy gear is top-tier – as proven by these boots. Powered by the brand’s HH FreezeBlock aluminium shield technology, these will keep you completely dry even in the snow. Better yet, they feature a warm insulated sock with a faux-shearling trim as well as upgraded traction to stop you slipping – and they’ll keep you warm even in -40°C.
Buy now £135.00, Helly Hansen
The North Face Men's Vectiv Fastpack Insulated Hiking Boots
The North Face is your best bet for warm-weather outerwear. Whether you’re after puffer jackets or ski jackets, none of the brand’s coats will let you down – and neither will its footwear. These are waterproof. windproof, grippy and breathable so you won’t even get too hot if the winter sun decides to make an appearance. A win-win.
Buy now £160.00, The North Face
Cat Footwear Intruder Galosh 2.0 Black MID WP P111559 Boot
If you’re after footwear with a chunky tread, Cat Footwear has you covered. These are a waterproof take with a monochrome mudguard which delivers a stylish finish.
Buy now £150.00, Cat Footwear
