Unearth The Voyage
Discover the top winter hiking boots for 2025. These boots are the pinnacle of innovation and design, ensuring warmth, traction, and comfort during your cold-weather adventures. Whether tackling icy trails or snowy paths, these boots promise to keep your feet snug and secure. Explore the detailed reviews of each boot’s performance, features, and unique qualities. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, this list has something for every hiker. Find the perfect pair for your needs and enjoy winter hiking like never before.
1. KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar — Best Overall
The KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar stands unparalleled in the world of winter hiking. With its KEEN.WARM 200g insulation, it promises warmth in temperatures plummeting to –25°F/–32°C. The KEEN.Polar Traction outsole grips icy terrain with ease, while the heat-shield insole reflects warmth back to your feet. Testers at GearJunkie hailed it as their top choice for 2025. While a tad heavier, the boot focuses on performance for cold and mixed snow trails. It’s tailored for those who seek adventure, not just a shuffle through winter’s chill.
2. Oboz Bridger 7″ Insulated Waterproof — Best Women’s / Wide Sizes
The Oboz Bridger 7″ Insulated Waterproof boot has carved a niche for itself among women hikers needing wide sizes. Known for its slip-resistant winter rubber, it offers a secure fit with 200g insulation and a thermal insole. Treeline Review and GearJunkie praise its top-tier traction on icy paths. While the leather upper requires care, it remains a favorite for those tackling icy, packed trails. Its design caters to specific needs without compromising on durability, making it a trusted companion for winter explorations.
3. Lowa Renegade Evo Ice GTX — Best Ice Grip
Lowa Renegade Evo Ice GTX redefines stability on ice. This winter variant of the Renegade integrates an insulated GORE-TEX lining, coupled with a Vibram Arctic Grip Trac outsole, providing unparalleled grip on slick, wet ice. Lowa’s Monowrap frame enhances stability, making it ideal for freeze-thaw sidewalks and trailheads. Though this boot comes with a higher price tag, its premium features justify the cost. It’s the go-to choice for those seeking the best grip and stability in icy conditions.
4. Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX — Best Traction (Light & Nimble)
The Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX is celebrated for its lightweight agility and impressive traction. Though not insulated, it excels in providing a trail-runner feel with waterproof GTX protection. GearJunkie and Switchback Travel highlight its nimble design, making it perfect for fast winter day hikes. To combat cold, pair it with warm socks or gaiters. This boot’s design concentrates on speed and grip, ideal for those who prioritize agility on their winter escapades without the bulk.
5. Hoka Kaha 2 Frost GTX — Best for Long, Cold Days
Hoka Kaha 2 Frost GTX is a marvel for long, cold days on the trail. Its dual-density midsole offers cushioning that Backpacker’s testers adored on 9–10 mile winter hikes. This variant of Hoka’s Kaha platform ensures warmth and grip, keeping you comfortable on big-mile hikes across mixed snow and mud. Though its bulk might challenge some traction devices, its supportive nature prevails. For those who embark on extensive winter journeys, this boot remains a reliable ally.
6. Asolo Arctic GV — Best Insulated
The Asolo Arctic GV stands as the epitome of insulation in winter hiking boots. Travel + Leisure’s test team crowned it “Best Insulated” for its robust waterproofing and serious warmth. Ideal for below-freezing hikes, it keeps your feet toasty. However, a longer break-in period might be needed compared to lighter synthetics. This boot excels in offering a cocoon of warmth, ensuring you stay comfortable even when temperatures drop drastically.
7. Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Waterproof — Best on Packed Snow
Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Waterproof dominates packed snow. T+L’s 2025 tests named it “Best Traction” for its winterized design. The snow/ice-ready outsole, combined with insulation, makes it a formidable choice for sub-freezing trail days. However, testers noted its stiffer feel compared to some all-day hikers. It’s built for those who need reliability on groomed winter paths and light ice, balancing traction with warmth seamlessly.
8. The North Face Chilkat V 400 — Best Budget Warmth
The North Face Chilkat V 400 delivers warmth without breaking the bank. T+L testers highlighted its robust waterproofing and durability. With 400g insulation, it keeps feet toasty during slower winter outings. While it may feel heavier and less “hike-y” than mid-cut standouts, the value it offers is unmatched. Perfect for very cold walks and casual hikes, it combines economy with effectiveness, being an ideal pick for budget-conscious hikers.
9. Columbia Bugaboot III — Best Value
Columbia Bugaboot III is a triumph in value, often priced between $120–150. Endorsed as GearJunkie’s budget winner, it offers insulation, waterproofing, and affordability. Though heavier and bulkier than its pricier counterparts, it supports occasional winter hikes effectively. Best suited for new winter hikers or as a snow-day backup, it ensures a balance between functionality and cost-efficiency. This boot stands as a testament to quality without the premium price tag.
10. Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX — Best Everyday Winter Hiker
Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX is your everyday winter companion. Backpacker named it “Best Everyday Hiker” for its mid-height comfort, 200g insulation, and waterproof GTX. Suitable for everything from dog walks to weekend trails, it emphasizes practicality without overbuilding. However, it’s not warm enough for deep-freeze overnights. It’s perfect for those who need a versatile boot for daily wear and casual hikes, offering a blend of comfort and functionality for the average winter day.
