The Best Men’s Boots For Winter: A Complete Guide

See the Columbia Newton Ridge men’s winter hiking boot

Why buy the Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boot for men?

This outdoor winter footwear for men comes from a cold weather market leader and has so much to offer. It is also highly regarded by those who have already made their purchase, and has a reasonable price tag.

These just might be the best Columbia winter boots for men – especially if you need your footwear to cope with snow.

Columbia’s patented Omni—Heat technology reflects body heat back at the wearer, yet the breathable lining can wick away moisture. This waterproof, high-top boot offers extra ankle support, while the Omni-Grip sole makes it one of the best men’s boots for snow and ice.

Pros:

• Very warm
• Very comfortable
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Waterproofing can wear off after time

If you want a serious, ski-style boot, this Baffin product is one of the best men’s winter snow boots out there.

This calf-length boot fastens via two straps for a secure, snug fit, and a drawstring snow collar at the top helps to fight off chills. The multi-layered inner boot is removable, and the upper is made from tough 900 denier nylon. These insulated boots are rated for extreme cold and are designed to keep feet warm and dry in any conditions.

Pros:

• The clasps and tightening collar are more snow-proof than laces
• Lightweight (despite the size)
• Warm – good insulation

Cons:

• They are quite bulky

These are among the best Sorel winter boots for men, and are specifically defined for use in snowy weather.

The waterproof design features sealed seams and a tough nylon upper. A clever removable, washable inner offers 9mm of felt and a plush Sherpa cuff adds extra insulation. A herringbone tread sole is durable, waterproof and ensures good grip even on icy, frosty or snowy ground.

Pros:

• Good traction/ grip
• The size is cut big, so you can easily wear thick socks under them (also good for wider feet)
• Lightweight

Cons:

• The sheep’s wool is just at the top; not throughout the whole boot inside

This Columbia product is one of the best winter boots for hiking we’ve discovered.

Comfort is assured by the lightweight, cushioned midsole, while the traction outsole provides a firm grip on the ground.  Sealed seams and metal hardware make this boot rugged enough to withstand mud, puddles and rain.  The dual zone winter tread and waterproof upper ensure this boot can cope, no matter how tough hiking conditions get.

Pros:

• Durable
• Comfortable
• Warm, but not hot

Cons:

• The tongue let’s in a little water if intensely wet

Your search for the best Salomon winter boots for males might be over, thanks to the X Ultra.

This boot is specifically made for hiking, and features a Contragrip traction outsole.  Inside, Thinsulate keeps toes toasty, while the PU coated leather upper can withstand wintry conditions well.  When you buy Salomon winter boots you also have the back-up of their 2-year limited warranty.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Comfortable (order a half or full size larger for best fit)
• Very warm

Cons:

• Grip is not great on ice

These are the best Timberland winter boots for those heading off to hike the trails.

A best-seller, the Timberland Maddsen comes in a choice of 6 colors and has a full-grain, waterproof leather upper.  Anti-fatigue technology makes this a superior option for extended trips, while the rugged Timberland styling is smart enough for casual day or evening wear too.  

There is a cushioned, shock-absorbing midsole for comfort, while the traction outsole provides great grip.

Pros:

• Comfortable (but check sizing charts so you can also wear insulated socks)
• Good for mild winters
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Some inconsistency in manufacturing quality

The Merrell ThermoChill is one of the best men’s waterproof winter boots.

An impermeable membrane keeps out water, while lightweight insulation keeps your feet warm.  The outsole offers a great level of grip, thanks to the 5mm lugs.  

To fight foot odor, the boot has been treated with antibacterial agents, while the waterproof membrane allows moisture to escape. A contoured, flexible insole makes this a great choice for all-day wear.

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Good arch support
• Warm – good insulation

Cons:

• Uppers can be stiff

Another option among the best men’s Sorel winter boots is the Caribou.

It is also one of the best insulated waterproof boots for males, being rated for extreme cold. The waterproof leather construction is also seam sealed and the ThermoPlus inner boot is removable.  A vulcanized rubber outsole provides a great level of traction, even in the most slippery conditions.

Pros:

• Fit well – very comfortable (they tend to size big)
• Well insulated and warm
• Removable inner boot makes them easy to air out and dry

Cons:

• Are quite heavy

Looking for the best Keen winter boots that are waterproof? The Utility Davenport is a tough work boot that can cope with the most demanding conditions.

An ice traction sole provides a sure-footed grip, while the breathable membrane allows moisture out yet stops water getting in.  This boot also features warm insulation, tough composite toe, electrical hazard protection and a stability sole.

Pros:

• Very comfortable
• Lightweight
• Good insulation even at low temperatures

Cons:

• Little cushioning/ no insole

You can’t really go wrong with the Chelsea boor shape.

Boots like the Keen Anchorage are easy to put on, rugged enough for outdoor life and sufficiently stylish for casual evenings – all at the same time.  A breathable leather upper and leather lining keep feet fresh, while the design means you also remain warm and dry.

Pros:

• Comfortable – the lining isn’t bulky and thick
• Good insulation
• Well-sized

Cons:

• Slip on means snow can get over the top, so not good for deep snow

This pair from Merrell are certainly some of the best men’s pull on winter boots on the market.

Classic Chelsea boot styling means there’s no fiddling with shoelaces – simply pull them on and go.  A Vibram outsole ensures comfort when walking, while low bulk, lightweight insulation and a fleece lining keeps feet warm.  You can buy these in black or brown, too.

Pros:

• Good traction in the snow
• Pull tabs and elastic gores make them easy to pull on and off
• Fit well (order a half size larger than usual)

Cons:

• Waterproofing isn’t always reliable

This one makes the category for the best men’s slip on winter boots – even though it perhaps more closely resembles a shoe.

A full-length, waterproof shoe, however, complete with thermal lining.  The Brixen by Keen is effortless to pull on, while a wool felt lining provides insulation for feet. Even the footbed has built-in thermal heat shield technology.   This popular men’s low boot for winter can take you from the trail to bar with ease.

Pros:

• Good waterproofing
• Last well
• Comfortable fit

Cons:

• Sole is a little stiff

This highly-rated product has style and substance.  If you want a good all-rounder, these are the best Red Wing boots for winter we can find.  

The 100% leather upper is stylish enough for evening wear, yet casual enough for day.  Wear these well-made boots as they are by day, while by night a quick lick of polish will take you to the bar and beyond.  A Vibram sole and bump toe ensure comfort, while the mini-lug outsole gives good grip.

Pros:

• last really well
• Fit well (but they are sized big)
• Very stylish

Cons:

• There is typically a ‘break in’ period

Those searching for the best men’s fashion winter boots can’t go far wrong with this pair of Uggs for men.

The waterproof upper is 100% leather, while a 17mm pure wool lining assures warmth.  A full leather upper makes these Uggs smarter than other waterproof winter boots, and you can choose between black, charcoal and tan.  A cushioned foam insole and Ugg treadlite outsole ensure practicality as well as style.

Pros:

• Good waterproofing
• Comfortable
• Good quality

Cons:

• No half sizes (go up a size if needed)

The great thing about the classic Chelsea boot style is that it can be worn with anything from jeans to a suit.

This pair by Case Leeni are some of the best dress winter boots we’ve found, as they are warm while presenting a smart, highly-polished appearance.  A thick, anti-skid sole makes them practical, while a soft, thick furry lining ensures continued warmth and comfort.  This Italian leather product really is a great all-round men’s winter boot.

Pros:

• Surprisingly comfortable, given how stylish they are
• Warm – good insulation
• Great value for money

Cons:

• Not everyone loves the shiny leather

This Columbia boot is great for casual wear as well as hiking.

A cushioned, lightweight midsole makes for all-day comfort and a traction provides good grip.  This casual men’s winter boot also features sealed seams to keep to dust, rain and mud.  The specially designed winter tread along with a tough, waterproof upper make sure this boot is as durable as it is comfortable.

The Salomon X Ultra makes a great all-round casual winter boot for men.

Although it is actually intended hiking, it looks stylish enough for general wear.  A Thinsulate lining, Contragrip traction outsole and PU coated leather upper can stand up to cold weather, and this is a men’s boot that looks just as good as it feels.  These Salomon winter boots also come with the manufacturer’s 2-year limited warranty.

Available in four colors, this is one of the best casual winter boots.

Men’s boots with Thinsulate lining are ideal for everyday wear in cold conditions, and this boot also features a waterproof rubber shell construction to stop moisture as well as chills seeping in.  A non-slip sole assures good traction, even on snowy, wet or icy ground, and this boot attracts top ratings and reviews.

Pros:

• Comfortable (after a wearing-in period)
• Good waterproofing – good in rain and snow
• Good traction on ice and snow

Cons:

• Leather upper and sole are a bit stiff

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks. 

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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