Best Hiking Boots for Cold Weather – 2025 Reviews
When winter transforms hiking trails into icy challenges, having the right boots isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety and enjoying the journey rather than enduring it.
After testing numerous options in real cold weather conditions, we’ve identified the hiking boots that genuinely keep your feet warm, dry, and secure when temperatures plummet.
Best Hiking Boots for Cold Weather – 2025 Reviews
Merrell Men's Nova 3 Thermo Mid – Ice-Grip Technology
The Merrell Nova 3 Thermo combines specialized ice traction with premium insulation for serious cold weather performance.
Its Vibram Icetrek outsole and Primaloft Gold Eco Series insulation make it ideal for freezing conditions where other boots falter.
XPETI Men's Thermator Mid-Rise – All-Weather Performance
XPETI’s Thermator delivers impressive cold weather protection at a mid-range price that outperforms many premium options.
With its waterproof membrane and aggressive traction pattern, it handles mud, snow, and rocky terrain with equal confidence.
NORTIV 8 Insulated Winter Snow Boots – Extreme Cold Protection
These NORTIV 8 boots offer serious cold weather defense with 200g insulation rated to -25°F at a budget-friendly price.
The removable insole and slip-resistant outsole make them versatile for both hiking and everyday winter wear.
NORTIV 8 Mens Hiking Winter Boots – Thermal Comfort
This newer NORTIV 8 model features vegan leather construction with 4-hour waterproof protection and advanced thermal materials.
The gusseted tongue design prevents debris entry, making it ideal for snowy trail conditions.
CARENURSE Mens Winter Snow Boots – Lightweight Warmth
CARENURSE delivers surprisingly lightweight winter boots with faux fur lining and water-resistant construction.
At under 0.9 pounds, they offer comfortable insulation without the weight penalty of traditional snow boots.
KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid – All-Terrain Traction
KEEN’s Targhee 3 provides reliable waterproof protection and excellent traction across varied terrain.
While not specifically insulated, its secure fit and breathable membrane make it adaptable for cooler weather hiking.
ZHNSHM Mens Snow Boots – Easy On/Off Design
ZHNSHM offers convenient velcro-closure boots with fur lining and water-resistant upper for quick winter outings.
The anti-slip sole and adjustable fit make them practical for light hiking and everyday cold weather use.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
We put 7 different hiking boots through real-world cold weather testing, focusing on how they perform when temperatures drop and trails get tricky.
Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70% (including how well they match cold weather needs, user feedback reliability, and value) and innovation and competitive features at 30%.
For example, the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo scored 9.2 for its exceptional ice traction and specialized insulation, while the CARENURSE Winter Snow Boots earned 8.3 as a budget-friendly option with some trade-offs in water resistance.
We believe in transparent, data-driven insights rather than marketing hype—helping you find boots that actually work when winter arrives.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Hiking Boots for Cold Weather
1. Understanding Insulation Levels
Insulation is measured in grams—generally, 200g insulation works for most winter hiking, while 100-150g suits milder conditions. Too much insulation can cause overheating during strenuous activity.
Look for specific insulation types like Primaloft or 3M Thinsulate that provide warmth without excessive bulk.
2. Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
Waterproof membranes (like KEEN.DRY or proprietary systems) prevent water entry entirely, while water-resistant materials only handle light moisture.
For snow hiking, true waterproofing is essential—water-resistant boots will eventually soak through in wet snow or slush.
3. Traction for Icy Terrain
Look for aggressive lug patterns and specialized rubber compounds (like Vibram Icetrek) that maintain flexibility in cold temperatures.
Multi-directional lugs provide better grip on varied surfaces, while deeper lugs excel in mud and soft snow.
4. Fit and Sizing for Winter
Always size up to accommodate thick winter socks—most people need a half to full size larger than their regular shoe size.
Look for roomy toe boxes to prevent circulation issues and consider whether you’ll need space for custom orthotics.
5. Ankle Support and Stability
Mid-height boots provide crucial ankle support on uneven winter terrain where visibility might be limited.
Features like reinforced heels and external shanks add stability when carrying packs or navigating technical sections.
6. Durability Considerations
Check construction quality at stress points like seams and toe caps—these areas often fail first in winter conditions.
Rubber toe guards and quality stitching indicate better longevity, especially important for frequent hikers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much insulation do I need for cold weather hiking?
For most winter hiking, 150-200g insulation provides adequate warmth without causing overheating. In extreme cold below 0°F, consider 400g insulation, but remember that activity level generates body heat—too much insulation during strenuous hiking can lead to sweaty feet.
2. Are waterproof boots necessary for snow hiking?
Absolutely—true waterproofing is essential for snow hiking because snow melts against warm boots and can soak through water-resistant materials. Look for sealed seams and waterproof membranes that allow moisture vapor to escape while keeping water out.
3. Should I size up for winter hiking boots?
Yes, most people need to size up by half to a full size to accommodate thick winter socks and allow for proper blood circulation. Cold feet often result from boots that are too tight rather than insufficient insulation.
4. How important is traction for winter hiking?
Extremely important—specialized winter outsoles with aggressive lugs and flexible rubber compounds provide crucial grip on ice and snow. Standard hiking soles can become hard and slippery in freezing temperatures, increasing fall risk.
5. Can I use my regular hiking boots in winter?
Regular hiking boots lack the insulation and specialized traction needed for safe winter use. While they might work for brief cold-weather walks, dedicated winter boots provide necessary warmth, waterproofing, and ice grip for extended exposure.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing in genuine cold conditions, we recommend the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo for hikers facing serious ice and snow, while value-conscious adventurers will find the NORTIV 8 Insulated Winter Snow Boots delivers impressive performance at an accessible price point. Remember that proper fit and adequate insulation matter more than brand names when temperatures drop—choose based on your specific winter hiking needs rather than marketing claims.