Best For Hiking: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
Why We Love It: They’re comfy right out of the box.
What to Consider: They’re not very versatile as they’re hiking specific.
These sturdy boots by Merrell use water-repelling technology and a bellowed tongue to prevent rain and debris from creeping in without sacrificing breathability. The mid-cut silhouette provides optimal ankle support, and the midsole delivers stability and cushioning to the arch and heel. Other key features include their traction, shock-absorbing heels, and protective rubber toe caps.
Price at time of publish: $145
Sizes: 5-12 | Material: Leather, synthetic materials
Boot Care And Treatment
To keep your winter boots lasting as long as possible, its worth taking proper care of your investment. For starters, its always a good idea to keep them clean to avoid any breakdown in the materials. The grime that you pick up when walking through a slushy parking lot can wreak havoc on a boot if it isnt cleaned out. Warm water, dish soap, and a simple brush can do the trick in most cases. Further, many of the designs above have leather in the construction, which is a material that benefits from occasional treatment to avoid drying and cracking. A quality sponge-on design like Nikwaxs Conditioner works well on full-grain leather, keeping it in good shape while adding a water-resistant coating to the top. For boots that dont have a waterproof membrane or coating, its a good idea to treat them from the start . Another benefit of adding a leather conditioner right away is that it helps soften the leather and shorten the break-in period.
Boot Outsoles And Grip
Snow boots have a different lug pattern and rubber compound than their on-dirt hiking boot cousins. The compounds are softer and dont harden even when temperatures drop, which helps them continue to grip on snow and ice. In addition, the lug patterns are designed to prevent snow buildup. The outer soles themselves are very thick, which isolates your feet from the cold and rough ground underfoot. In general, hiking-ready models have the best traction, while casual and work boots can be a little cumbersome and prone to slippage. Vibram made some headlines with their Arctic Grip compound that’s specifically designed to stick to slippery and icy surfaces, which we see in designs like the Muck Boot Arctic Ice Mid. But from our experience, we still turn to a winter traction system in very icy conditions.
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Best Dressy: Sfft Sharnell Ii Waterproof Knee High Boot
Nordstrom
Why We Love It: They have both a lace-up back and side zippers, so they offer a secure fit every time.
What to Consider: The calf area may be a bit snug for some shoppers.
These sleek waterproof boots feature a nearly 16-inch shaft, which will keep you dry from knee to toe. A low, seam-sealed heel adds additional protection against puddles and provides a more formal appearance perfect for pairing with dresses, skirts, and narrow-leg trousers. Their lace-up back adds a fashionable touch, but side zippers make them easy to get on and off. Our favorite thing about these boots, though, is their ultra-stylish snakeskin print.
Price at time of publish: $240
Sizes: 6-11 | Material: Leather, synthetic materials
Womens Winter Boot Categories
CasualCasual or everyday winter boots are not the absolute warmest or best at resisting the elements, but they certainly get the job done for most winter walking and après-ski activities. The constructions of casual boots tend to have less rubber and more leather and exposed insulation, including synthetic baffles, fur, or wool. Other commonalities include a waterproof membrane, moderate level of insulation, and well-cushioned interiors that will keep most people warm and comfortable while shoveling or on short jaunts out of the house. Some casual boots are fairly streamlined and could be worn inside at work or while running errands , while others like the Sorel Joan of Arctic are bulkier and built for outdoor-only environments.
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Best For Walking: Ecco Sport Exohike High Hiking Boot
Zappos
Why We Love It: They prevent your feet from slipping, even on wet surfaces.
What to Consider: They have a narrow toe box.
Whether you’re headed to the trails or just around the block, the Ecco Sport Exohike High Boots’ shock-absorbing footbeds and snug heel cups will support your stride every step of the way. The rugged rubber outsole gives the boots a sturdy grip in all weather conditions, and the nubuck leather exterior will stand up to the elements. They even have a padded tongue and collar for added comfort and protection, and a breathable lining to keep your feet from overheating or holding in moisture.
Price at time of publish: $200
Sizes: 5-9.5 | Material: Nubuck leather, rubber
Traction Systems For Winter Boots
Winter boots have outsoles designed for walking on snow, but the reality is that even the best rubber compound and tread pattern wont grip all that well on a sheet of ice. To safely hike or even walk around town if the conditions are really bad, we use an additional traction system . There are a variety of designs on the market, from chain-style Yaktrax for casual walking to the Kahtoola MICROspikes for heavy-duty ice and backcountry use.
For pairing with winter boots, one of our favorite traction systems is the Kahtoola NANOspikes. Designed for running in winter, weve found their minimalist style to work wonderfully on icy sidewalks and trails. The 10 small carbide tips provide excellent grip , and the NANOspikes are lightweight and take up very little space in a bag. The downside with all traction systems is they take a little time to put on and take off and can be overkill for mixed conditions, but theyre the best way to cover ground safely on icy days. For a full breakdown of options, see our article on the best winter traction devices.
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Best Lightweight: Hunter Original Waterproof Chelsea Rain Boot
Nordstrom
Why We Love It: They’re made for rain, but they’re warm and sturdy enough to take on snow and ice, too.
What to Consider: They may uncomfortably rub your legs if you don’t wear socks that cover the ankles.
Putting a modern twist on traditional rain boots with a Chelsea-inspired silhouette, these boots protect from the elements and never feel bulky. At just over a pound per boot, the minimal latex rubber exterior of these rain boots keeps your feet light while trudging through the wet outdoors. Elastic paneling and a rear pull-tab make it easy to get your feet in. We especially love that the interior is super roomy without feeling oversized.
Price at time of publish: $140
Sizes: 5-11 | Material: Rubber, polyester
Why We Love It: They’re warm, cozy, and completely waterproof without the bulk of typical winter shoes.
What to Consider: They only come in two colors.
Price at time of publish: $165
Sizes: 5-12 | Material: Suede, rubber, microfleece
What Makes A Good Pair Of Waterproof Boots
The best waterproof boots can be completely submerged in water and still feel bone dry inside. However, unlike water shoes, these boots are not generally recommended for wading in water for long periods of time. Waterproof boots are generally made from synthetic material such as neoprene or a mix of nylon and have a waterproof membrane. They also have gusseted tongues to keep water out.
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Teva Womens Anaya Chelsea
Anyone familiar with the Teva brand will be aware that they have some great waterproof shoes and sandals. Some of the best sandals for hiking and some of the best water shoes for toddlers are made by the brand. The Teva Womens Anaya Chelsea Waterproof Boot is a stylish option for someone looking for a good pair of waterproof boots. These 100% leather shoes can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion.
The reason why these rank high on our list of best waterproof boots for women is the versatility and protection. A seam-sealed construction ensures water will stay out, keeping your feet comfortable in wet weather. These boots are also easy to pull on with side gore panels and a back heel loop.
As far as comfort goes, the responsive PU footbed provides exceptional cushioning and shock absorption. You wont have to worry too much about sweaty feet either with the breathable textile lining. And if youre concerned about slippery surfaces, thats taken care of too with the durable rubber outsole.
Warmth And Temperature Ratings
Some brands include a comfort or temperature rating for their winter boots. And theyre often very impressive numbers, claiming a rating of -25°F or lower. But right off the bat, lets be clear: there is not a standardized test to rely on for measuring a temperature rating. As such, comfort ranges are not a guarantee that youll be warm at the listed temperatures. In fact, we can almost guarantee you will not beparticularly if youre standing still. As we all know, how well a boot keeps you warm is dependent on a number of individual factors, including age, level of activity, the thickness of your socks, the tightness of the boot, and whether or not you run hot or cold. We recommend using the comfort ranges as basic guidance, but stay very conservative by adding a sizable buffer with your real-world use.
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Best Chelsea: Nisolo Everyday Leather Chelsea Boot
Courtesy of Amazon
Why We Love It: They’re incredibly flexible for waterproof Chelsea boots.
What to Consider: They’re best for shoppers with narrow feet.
These stylish boots by Nisolo are a fast favorite for their stunning leather exterior and stretchy elastic insets, which make taking them on and off a breeze. They’re also much more flexible than similar Chelsea styles, giving them a comfy edge over other options. The durable boots are even sustainably made and offer moderate arch support. In case you need further convincing that these are the waterproof Chelsea boots for you, they also happen to be Leather Working Group certified.
Price at time of publish: $175
Sizes: 5-10 | Material: Leather, suede, rubber, elastic
Removable Liners Vs One
Traditional winter boots like the Sorel Joan of Arctic and Baffin Impact are two-piece designs with outer shells protecting insulated, removable liners. The advantages of this construction are that the boots are extremely tough: the rubber and leather exterior materials are very durable and waterproof and they do a great job isolating you from the cold. The removable insulated liners are cushioned and soft, providing more comfort than a typical one-piece design. And perhaps the most functional element of the two-piece system is that you have the option to remove the liners to dry them more quickly should the boots get wet. These types of boots can feel a bit sloppy and ungainly when youre covering long distances, but for short walks, outdoor work, and harsh conditions, a boot with a removable liner is a nice choice.
For active uses like hiking or snowshoeing, or if you want to keep weight and bulk to a minimum, its better to go with a one-piece boot. These models often resemble a hiking design and offer a more precise fit and nimbler feel for greater control and stability in difficult terrain. Theyre also lighter on average, which is a positive for longer walks and snowshoe trips. You do compromise a little protection, but quality one-piece designs like the Oboz Bridger 7″ Insulated and Merrell Thermo Aurora 2 Mid are still formidable options in harsh conditions.
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How To Choose The Best Waterproof Boots For Women
One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing a pair of waterproof boots is where youll be wearing them. You cant expect a fashionable waterproof boot to stand up to the rigors of rough terrain. Similarly, you cant swing into the saddle with a pair of heavily treaded hiking boots on your feet. For that, youll need a good pair of waterproof horseback riding boots that you can comfortably put into stirrups. Besides this, there are other important features to consider when choosing the best waterproof boots for women.
Best With Arch Support: Vionic Women’s Whistler Wilma Waterproof Ankle Boot
Why We Love It: They’re perfect for teachers, retail workers, and anyone who spends the majority of the day on their feet.
What to Consider: They’re not ideal for super cold temperatures.
Thanks to its cushioned insole, Vionic’s Wilma Bootie offers exceptional arch support that can help remediate discomfort and strain. It boasts a chic Chelsea boot design with a walkable 2-inch block heel. They’re sturdy and cushioned and feature elastic paneling on one side, a zipper closure on the other, and a durable pull tab on each ankle they’re particularly easy to put on and take off.
Price at time of publish: $190
Sizes: 5-11 | Material: Leather, textile, synthetic materials
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Best For Wide Feet: Asgard Chelsea Ankle Women’s Waterproof Rain Boots
Asgard
Why We Love It: The low heel offers comfort and arch support.
What to Consider: They’re best for wider calves.
Budget-friendly, lightweight, and spacious, the Asgard Ankle Chelsea Rain Boots have a wide toe box inside a leather upper that ensures stability and structure. The boots also have a removable insole and a comfortable fabric lining. Even with an added insole and thick socks, there is still plenty of room for movement without being too big.
Price at time of publish: $33
Sizes: 5-12 | Material: Vinyl, rubber, elastic
Best Waterproof Boots For Women
Boots are one of the more popular choices of footwear for many reasons. Theyre stylish, provide good support, protect the ankles and come in a wide choice of colors and styles. While theyre the preferred choice for winter, youll find boots to suit all seasons. For women who like wearing boots throughout the year, theres nothing like the best pair of waterproof boots for women. Whether its hiking in uncertain weather or trudging through snow, a good pair of waterproof boots are a godsend. Many of the best rain boots for women are also trendy and breathable enough to be worn throughout the year.
Although waterproof boots will protect your feet sufficiently from the elements, dont expect them to be 100% waterproof if youre wading through water. Instead, youll find some pretty good water shoes for women for that purpose. While the best womens waterproof hiking shoes are great for the outdoors, theres nothing to beat the best waterproof boots for women on all surfaces.
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Best Ankle: Vionic Women’s Joy Bethany
Amazon
Why We Love It: They come in whole, half, and wide sizes.
What to Consider: They run narrower than normal, even in wide.
Ankle boots are a wardrobe staple, but it’s not easy to find a pair you can wear in the rain. Featuring a durable leather upper and protective finishing treatment, these waterproof and stain-resistant boots from Vionic come with a 1.59-inch block heel that’s walkable enough for daytime and polished enough to be dressed up at night. Their day-to-night comfort is thanks to a cushioned footbed, efficient arch support, a traction outsole, and a roomy toe box. A side zipper and ankle pull-tab keep things as functional as they are fashionable.
Price at time of publish: $160
Sizes: 5-12 | Material: Leather
Why We Love It: It has a wide toe box, which offers extra comfort.
What to Consider: They can be a little stiff around the ankle at first.
The Sorel Emelie Chelsea Boots have wide elastic side panels and a pull tab so you can easily slip in and out. Not only are they reliable waterproof boots, but they’re also supportive and feature removable footbeds, cushioned microfleece top covers, and shock-absorbing rubber midsoles. On drizzly days, their molded outsoles have enough traction for you to walk confidently and safely. They’re also so chic, you’ll want to wear them even when it’s not raining.
Price at time of publish: $165
Sizes: 5-11 | Material: Leather, rubber, textile
Waterproof And Rain Boots For Women
Theres nothing as unlucky as making a rainy day worse by stepping in a puddle & spending the rest of the day with wet feet! The best way to avoid this unfortunate situation is to invest in a great pair of rain boots. There are so many options of rain boots to choose from. You can get foot level boots or ankle and knee high waterproof boots. Not to mention the various prints, colors, and sizes available. Kohl’s has the right women’s rainboots for you!
A great basic to have is a pair of black waterproof women’s boots that you can pair with any outfit on a moment’s notice. Rain boots, like any other shoe, are also a fun way to showcase your style. London Fog waterproof boots offer a selection of exciting colors and prints! Maybe you don’t want something that looks like a rain boot? Columbia waterproof women’s boots are a great option for you. They double down as a great outdoor boot and will also keep your feet dry when rainy days hit.
When looking for a great pair of waterproof boots or rain boots, Kohl’s has you covered!
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Using Regular Waterproof Hiking Boots In Winter
Dedicated winter boots offer premium protection and warmth in freezing, snowy conditions, but we often use our regular hiking boots for short and active winter jaunts. For example, if you will be snowshoeing or walking without stopping, uninsulated and waterproof hiking boots with good socks may very well do the trick. One of our favorite models is Salomons classic Quest 4, which has a durable, water-shedding exterior and Gore-Tex bootie that offers lightweight warmth. To be clear, this is a good option for trips when you will be on the go the whole time and the weather isnt particularly frigid. If youll be stopping or out for long stretches of time, its safest to stick with an insulated winter-specific design.
