Snow Boots You Need For This Winter

Winter is in full swing, with snowy conditions and icy sidewalks everywhere. To keep you safe and warm, a pair (or two) of snow boots is essential. We've all seen the classic duck boots, and while these are practical, are they really that cute? The newest styles in snow boots have really stepped up the style factor, so you'll not only want to wear them, but they are functional too. This season, some of our favorite looks range from fur-lined to hiking and even sneaker-inspired. And thankfully, many of them look good enough to blend into your everyday ensembles.

There are a few elements to consider when choosing your winter boots. According to Good Housekeeping, you should look for a solid and water-resistant upper made from either nylon or leather and opt for naturally insulating wool lining or lightweight Thinsulate® material. Once these basics are covered, you can tackle the cold weather in style. Read on to discover the snow boots you need for this winter.

Lug-sole Chelsea boots are not only right on trend but are inherently ideal for winter. The chunky, treaded soles provide the grip you need during icy conditions, and the elevated platform lifts you away from the snow. To ensure this style is even safer, look for boots that are insulated, with or without a fuzzy lining, and water-resistant.

The Doc Marten Fur Lined Chelsea Boots are ideal for everyday wear and commuting in a city where a bulky snow boot would usually be too much. They look amazing with your usual wardrobe and have the added warmth of soft faux fur lining. Like all Doc Martens, you can trust these boots to withstand rough and slippery conditions. For a similar vegan version, look toward eco-friendly designer Ganni's Rubber Chelsea Boots.

If you are looking for pure performance from your shoes, check out Blundstone's Thermal Chelsea Boots. These boots are fully waterproof to endure cold, wet weather and are crafted with genuine shearling footbeds and Thinsulate insulation. If you've ever stepped into an REI, you've seen these shoes.

If you're anything like us, you can't get enough sneakers in your life. The cushiony comfort combined with the grippy soles are hard to resist during any season. Over the past few winters, shoe designers have birthed the hybrid of sneakers and winter boots, and we are here for it.

Rossignol's Apres Ski Boots were designed to warm your feet after a day on the slopes. But you don't need to be in the mountains to wear a pair of these sneaker-inspired boots. These are amazing for slushy walks because the waterproof membrane seals out moisture and the specialized inserts reduce tension on pressure points.

Another option are Ugg's Lakesider Heritage Mid. These stylish sneaker boots are decidedly casual and pair best with denim or leggings. The classic waterproof suede and curly sheepskin poking out make for a functional shoe that will look timeless for years to come.

Hiking-inspired snow boots take the best aspects of utilitarian hiking boots and infuse them into a daily winter shoe. You'll find lace-up styles with waterproof or resistant exteriors, treaded soles, and metal eyelets. You may not want to hike more than a few miles in these styles, but they sure will look cute and keep your feet dry and warm.

Sorel is an excellent destination for winter boots of all styles. Their shoes are well made and durable while remaining at a reasonable price point (P.S. they often go on sale). The brand's Lennox Lace Boot, pictured above, gives you all the casual mountain appeal with added waterproof full-grain leather and a comfortable EVA footbed.

There is a hiking-style boot available for all budgets. But for a splurge that is worth every penny, Aether's Dolomite Boot is the ultimate in coziness and luxury. They are crafted from 100% vegetable-tanned Italian leather, fully lined in shearling, and finished with an ultra-sturdy Vibram rubber sole. Anjoufemme's Women's Hiking Snow Boot is our affordable pick that comes in under $50. This casual style is the perfect match for light snow and leisurely walks.

You know your beloved puffy jacket that's been a winter staple for years? Now you can have one for your feet! Yes, it sounds silly, but these boots are extremely comfortable, keep you warm, and just look plain awesome.

One of our favorites is Hunter's Insulated Short Snow Boot, pictured above. These boots may look like fun, but they mean business. They are crafted with a fleece lining, a hydroguard waterproof membrane, and a heat-retaining drawstring that allows you to stay warm in temperatures as low as -7°F.

Another option is the practical and stylish North Face's ThermoBall™ Lace Ups, which are like little padded jackets for your feet. They are incredibly lightweight, water-resistant, and have a sporty-cool factor that will update your winter outfits. So, as you can see, whether you are hiking in the mountains, commuting, or just shoveling, there's a snow boot to keep you warm, dry, and stylish this winter.