With six weeks left of winter, there is still ample time for another snowstorm to derail our weekend brunch plans or outdoor running routine. Unless you have the right footwear.
A good pair of boots lets you venture out while the rest of your neighbors are hibernating indoors, rewatching Friends for the hundredth time. And the best pairs make stomping through slush and snow look stylish.
Below are 11 winter boots for men recommended by cold-weather adventurers and chic city dwellers alike, including an Antarctic construction manager, a senior meteorologist, a dog musher, and style experts from New York to Nashville.
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A slipper-like pair with grip: North Face Thermoball Traction Booties
I suggested these to a sibling as a Christmas gift for my husband. Thankfully we are the same size, because I have slipped these on if I’m quickly running out of the house. Think of them like warm slippers that can grip on ice and snow. After seeing them in action, my mom got some for when she goes to play pickleball in the mornings. If a retiree can appreciate the ease, comfort and traction, I think anyone will. Matthew Cappucci, senior meteorologist at MyRadar
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A lightweight, stylish pair: Blundstone Thermal Boots
I swear by the Blundstone Thermal series. They’re waterproof, insulated and have solid traction for icy sidewalks, but still feel lightweight and comfortable enough to wear all day. I appreciate that they’re easy to slip on and off, and versatile enough to move between work and everyday life – something that’s hard to find in traditional winter boots. Winston Sih, broadcast journalist formerly stationed in Canada
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An elevated, eye-catching pair: Meermin Polo Oiled Crossboard Boots
My main winter boots are these from Meermin. The lug sole is very helpful with snow and ice, and I find the upper leather beautiful – it’s a “crossboard” texture from UK-based company CF Stead. Dan Hakimi, men’s style writer and attorney based in New York City
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A warm, waterproof pair:Baffin Titan Boots
In the dead cold, if I had to pick a one-and-done solution, it would be the Baffin Titan. They’re big, warm and have all the safety features – a safety toe and EH (electrical hazard) rating. I’ll use mine when it’s the coldest of cold days. They’re so big that they’re hard to drive your car with! Carl Murawski, licensed electrician and workwear reviewer
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A unique and stylish pair: Fracap M120 Ripple Sole Scarponcino Boots
I love the jagged sole on my Fracap Leather Trail Boots. While other brands make a similar style, the Fracap seems to be the lesser worn in England, which I like. I would love them in a half-size bigger, so it’s probably testament to the boots that when winter rears its head, I still reach for them. Jordan Bunker, photographer and menswear content creator based in Manchester
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A versatile, everyday pair:Sorel Caribou Waterproof Insulated Boots
My everyday footwear is the tried, tested and ever-reliable Sorel Caribou. They’re trusted by National Antarctic Programs, and I’ve found them to be perfect down to about -4F. They’re versatile for polar expeditions and are lightweight enough for everyday use. They are also small enough to pair with slip-on microspikes for those slippery, icy days. Matty Jordan, former project manager for Antarctica New Zealand’s Scott Base redevelopment project
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A boot that doesn’t look like a boot: Nike Manoa Leather Boots
These boots get me through every winter – that includes the ones with 90in of snow in a season – and the long stretches of frigid days. The stability and grip never let me down when I’m shoveling or taking our husky on a walk. They are waterproof, allowing them to survive wet, slushy snow and handle the melting season. I wear these with almost any outfit, including for work, without sounding like I’m clomping around in boots. Matthew Cappucci, senior meteorologist at MyRadar
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A sophisticated, hiking-inspired pair: Paraboot Avoriaz Lisse Ecorce Boots
I don’t think there’s a better boot out there than the Paraboot Avoriaz. In my opinion, they’re the most handsome hiking boots ever made. They’re very comfortable, and they’re built like a tank. I’ve owned mine for years. I wear them a lot every winter, then have the leather conditioned and shined at the end of every season so they look brand new today. Daniel Baraka, Nashville-based stylist
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A long-lasting, US-made pair: Danner Explorer Gore-Tex Boot
Filter US editor Nick Mokey praised his Danner Explorer Boots in our cold weather apparel guide: “The lugged Vibram sole laughs at snow and ice, and the full-grain leather upper is borderline indestructible,” he wrote. “While they’re pricey, after 16 years and counting, I’d say they’ve earned their keep.”
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A pair for the extreme cold: Neos Navigator 5 Overboots
When it was -22F, and I needed to stand on the sled for hours on dog sledding trips, I used Neo overboots. Inside, you can fit a felt boot and two to three pairs of wool socks. While a bit bulky for hiking, this combo is how many dog mushers keep their feet warm in frigid temperatures. Maiu Lünekund, sled dog musher and artist
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A leather pair worn in Antarctica: Danner Fort Lewis Boots
My husband, Jeff Capps, who worked in McMurdo Station, Antarctica, wore these insulated boots from Danner. They’re great for both indoors and outdoors, and he wore the same pair for four years. Michelle Endo, former support staff worker stationed in Antarctica
$449.95 at Scheels $460 at Danner
