by If you’re heading to the snow, or anywhere you’re likely to encounter wet and cold conditions, you’ll want a pair of top notch winter boots to get you through.
From apres-ski wear to simply rugging up to watch the footy, these boots are versatile, warm, waterproof, comfortable, lightweight and stylish – in short, they’re everything you need in winter boots.
These are six of the best winter boots to consider this year.
Best lightweight apres-ski boots
The North Face Nuptse Après Booties, $220
The North Face Nuptse Après Booties.
The North Face’s iconic Nuptse jacket has been at the top of the puffer game for decades, so it was only a matter of time before customers demanded the same down-filled goodness for their feet, too. Enter the Nuptse Après Booties, complete with 500-fill goose down insulation and weighing just 262g each. The durable water-repellent boots feature a recycled PET upper and outsole with up to 20 per cent recycled rubber, and fasten with a toggle so they’re easy to get on and off.
Best all-round warm waterproof winter boots
Sorel Caribou, Amazon Australia, from $169.99
Sorel Caribou Winter Boots.
The Sorel brand originated in Canada, where dealing with hardcore winters is second nature. So it’s only natural that its best-selling Caribou boots have been considered the gold standard in winter footwear for decades. They tick all the boxes for all-round and apres-ski use: comfortable, waterproof and warm. The waterproof suede and ballistic nylon upper is paired with a sole featuring top-notch traction, while inside, the removable, washable recycled felt inner boots ensure feet stay snuggly. They’re rugged, long-wearing and come in three classic colourways.
Best waterproof boots for walking
Merrell Marquette Thermo Lace (Waterproof), Merrell, $199.99âŸ
Merrell Marquette Thermo Lace (Waterproof).
“Warm, and like walking on a cloud? What could be better?” asks one five-star reviewer enamoured with Merrell’s Marquette boots. These impressive treads gain praise for a blend of warmth and waterproofness that’s rugged enough to traverse through snow, yet nice enough to wear around town. Their faux fur and soft fleece lining is bolstered by 100g of insulation and a plush midsole for maximum cosiness, while the waterproof suede leather upper and rubber sole ensures feet stay comfortably dry.
Best short waterproof winter boot
Columbia Minx Shorty IV, $174.99
Columbia Minx Shorty IV.
They may be short in style, but the list of benefits is long when it comes to Columbia’s Minx Shorty boots. They’re wonderfully warm thanks to 200g insulation and thermal-reflective breathable lining, reliably waterproof, and offer solid traction in slippery conditions. They’re dreamy to wear, with their refreshing light weight and generous underfoot cushioning prompting one reviewer to comment “I feel like I’m walking on air”. Of course, it helps that they look good too, with a quilted upper, inner faux fur, and a variety of colour options.
Best value snow boots
XTM Halo Waterproof Snow Boots, Wild Earth, $149.99
XTM Halo Waterproof Snow Boots.
Aussie snow gear brand XTM prides itself on its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and its Halo snow boots earn top marks for sustainable style. Not only are they certified carbon neutral, the boots are practical and comfortable too. A faux fur trim and soft boa lining complement the waterproof nylon outer and thermoplastic rubber sole for superior traction. Finished with laces to ensure a snug fit, they’re rated to -20 (translation: toasty toes even in cold climes).
Best premium snow boots
Helly Hansen Willetta 2 HT, $320
Helly Hansen Willetta 2 HT.
What does the “HT” stand for, you ask? “Head Turner” might be accurate, but it actually refers to “Helly Tech”. Translation: the water-resistant and breathable materials and techniques that set Helly Hansen apart as a premium outdoor brand. They use terms like “Seam-Shield” and “Aqua-Shield”, but the key things to know about the latest Willetta boots release is that they’re made with waterproof, durable suede; filled with a generous 300g of PrimaLoft insulation; and lined with luxurious faux fur for supreme softness.
How we choose products
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by asking experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
What shoes to wear at apres-ski?
Your snow boots or apres-ski boots need to be waterproof and have good grip on snow and ice. Comfort is a high priority so choose padded boots for sweet relief after a day in ski boots (and extra warmth). Lastly, consider style. Unless you’re a frequent snow-goer, consider a classic style so your boots will see you through more than just a season or two.
What winter boots does Kate Middleton wear?
Who better than a royal to transform a functional wardrobe essential into style-icon status? Both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle are fans of Sorel winter boots. The Princess of Wales has been photographed multiple times in Sorel Tivoli boots, while Meghan has been spotted wearing Sorel Joan of Arctic winter boots.
What boots are used in Antarctica?
Tall waterproof gumboots – such as Muck Boots or BOGS – are required for Antarctic landings as “wet landings” may involve wading through shallow water. However as a tourist, there’s generally no need to invest in your own boots because most Antarctic cruises provide guests with boots to wear for excursions and shore landings. This also helps avoid introducing any non-native organisms into the fragile Antarctic environment.
