Best Hiking Shoes for Cold Weather – 2025 Reviews

Insulation is your first line of defense against cold, but more isn’t always better. Primaloft and synthetic insulations like those in the Merrell and XPETI models provide excellent warmth even when wet, while fleece and fur linings offer cozy comfort at lower price points. Consider the temperature range you’ll be hiking in—light insulation (100-200 grams) works for temperatures down to 20°F, while heavier insulation (400+ grams) is needed for sub-zero conditions.

I’ve found that too much insulation can cause overheating and sweat during active hiking, which then leads to cold feet. The key is matching the insulation level to your activity intensity and the lowest temperatures you expect to encounter.

This distinction matters more than you might think. True waterproof membranes like those in the Merrell and XPETI boots create a barrier that keeps water out completely, while water-resistant treatments (common in budget options) repel light moisture but can soak through in heavy wet conditions. If you’ll be hiking in snow or crossing streams, waterproofing is non-negotiable.

Look for features like seam-sealed construction and waterproof breathable membranes that let sweat vapor escape while blocking external moisture. Remember that no shoe is completely waterproof if water comes over the top, so consider gaiters for deep snow.

Winter hiking introduces slip hazards that summer trails don’t have. Aggressive lug patterns like the XPETI’s 7mm multi-directional lugs provide grip in loose snow, while specialized rubber compounds like Vibram Icetrek maintain flexibility and grip in freezing temperatures. The angle and depth of lugs matter—look for designs that can shed snow rather than packing it in.

During testing, I noticed that softer rubber compounds generally provide better ice traction but may wear faster. If you’ll be on ice frequently, consider adding traction devices like microspikes for extra security.

Cold weather hiking shoes should fit differently than your regular footwear. You need enough room for thick winter socks without being so loose that your foot slides around. A good test is to wear your intended hiking socks when trying shoes—you should have about a thumb’s width of space in front of your longest toe.

Pay attention to ankle support—higher cuts like the Mishansha and NORTIV 8 models provide more stability on uneven terrain, while lower profiles like the Merrell women’s moc offer greater freedom of movement. Consider whether you’ll need to accommodate orthotics or have specific width requirements.

Keeping your feet dry isn’t just about external moisture—sweat management is equally important in cold weather. Look for features like breathable mesh panels and moisture-wicking linings that help move perspiration away from your skin. Shoes that feel warm but clammy will eventually make your feet cold as moisture accumulates.

During testing, I found that removable insoles (like the WHITIN’s) are valuable because they allow for drying and customization. Also, consider the overall ventilation—too much can let cold air in, while too little can trap moisture.

Winter conditions are tough on footwear, so construction quality matters. Look for reinforced toes and heels that protect against rocks and abrasion, quality stitching that won’t fail in cold temperatures, and materials that maintain flexibility when frozen. Leather uppers generally offer better durability than synthetic materials, but modern synthetics have improved significantly.

I’ve learned that welded seams tend to hold up better than stitched ones in wet conditions, and rubber toe caps like the NORTIV 8’s provide valuable protection without adding much weight. Consider how often you’ll use the shoes and choose accordingly.

Heavy boots can turn an enjoyable hike into a slog. Lightweight designs like the XPETI and Merrell models make a noticeable difference over long distances, while still providing adequate protection. If you’re a fast hiker or cover significant mileage, every ounce matters.

However, don’t sacrifice essential features for weight savings—adequate insulation and proper traction are more important than saving a few ounces. The lightest shoes in our testing, like the UPSOLO booties, work well for casual use but may lack the structure needed for technical terrain.

Once temperatures drop below freezing (32°F/0°C), regular hiking shoes become inadequate for most people. Cold weather hiking shoes with proper insulation become necessary around 20°F (-7°C), and below 0°F (-18°C), you’ll want serious cold-weather boots like the XPETI with their -25°C rating. The exact threshold depends on your circulation, activity level, and personal tolerance, but if you’re feeling cold in your current shoes, it’s time to upgrade.

While some shoes claim four-season versatility, I’ve found that dedicated winter footwear performs significantly better in cold conditions. Summer shoes lack adequate insulation and often have ventilation that lets in cold air. Winter shoes like the Merrell Nova 3 Thermo have specialized features—such as cold-weather rubber compounds and insulation—that simply aren’t present in three-season models. If you hike frequently in winter, investing in proper cold-weather shoes is worth it.

Extremely important—perhaps more so than insulation. Wet feet lose heat 25 times faster than dry feet, making waterproofing crucial in cold conditions. While water-resistant treatments work for light snow, true waterproof membranes are essential for hiking in melting snow, crossing streams, or dealing with unexpected rain. Models like the XPETI and Merrell provide reliable waterproof protection that can make the difference between comfort and hypothermia risk.

Generally, yes—most people need to size up by half to a full size to accommodate thick winter socks. Your toes should have room to wiggle freely, as constricted blood flow leads to cold feet. However, the shoes shouldn’t be so loose that your foot slides around, causing blisters. The adidas Terrex Snowpitch, for example, runs small for some users, so sizing up is recommended. Always try shoes with the socks you plan to wear hiking.

With proper care, quality cold weather hiking shoes can last 2-4 years of regular use. Premium models like the Merrell boots often outlast budget options due to better materials and construction. Factors affecting longevity include frequency of use, terrain roughness, and how well you maintain them (cleaning off salt, proper drying, etc.). Budget shoes like the WHITIN and UPSOLO may need replacement after 1-2 seasons of heavy use.

Absolutely. For icy conditions, prioritize specialized outsoles like Vibram Icetrek or similar technologies that maintain grip on frozen surfaces. Look for multi-directional lugs that provide traction from various angles, and softer rubber compounds that stay flexible in cold temperatures. The XPETI’s aggressive 7mm lugs and the Merrell’s Vibram Icetrek both excel on ice. For extremely icy conditions, consider shoes compatible with traction devices like microspikes.