Unearth The Voyage
Cold-weather travel shouldn’t mean cold feet—or clunky, uncomfortable footwear. We tested this season’s most talked-about winter travel boots across icy sidewalks, slushy airports, and snowy getaways. From featherweight cushioning to fortress-level insulation, these pairs delivered when it mattered most. Read on to find your perfect balance of warmth, traction, and all-day comfort for winter trips in 2025.
Sorel Caribou Boot
The Sorel Caribou instantly impressed us with warmth and weather protection that never quit. Waterproof nubuck leather and seam-sealed construction kept slush and snow out during city treks and mountain-town strolls. A removable felt liner brought cozy insulation without adding awkward bulk, and the chunky rubber outsole gripped slick sidewalks confidently. Despite their rugged profile, they remained comfortable for hours of museums, markets, and transfers. We loved their timeless look that pairs with jeans or snow pants effortlessly. For travelers facing freezing temps and unpredictable storms, the Caribou remains a reliable, no-compromise classic that just works—day after day, destination after destination, winter after winter.
Columbia Bugaboot Celsius Plus
Columbia’s Bugaboot Celsius Plus proved warm and lively on cold, busy itineraries. The 200g Omni-Heat insulation and waterproof shell kept our feet dry and toasty through sleet, wind, and ankle-deep slush. A mid-height cut offered ankle support without feeling restrictive, while the Techlite midsole cushioned long sightseeing days. The Omni-Grip outsole bit into icy patches and wet granite steps with reassuring traction. We appreciated its balanced weight, making it easy to pack and wear from gate to gondola. Equally at home in snowy parks and urban boulevards, this boot nails the trifecta of warmth, comfort, and grip—ideal for efficient winter travel across climates.
Keen Revel IV Polar
The Keen Revel IV Polar shines when conditions turn harsh and unpredictable. KEEN.WARM insulation kept toes comfortable well below freezing, and the roomy toe box accommodated thick socks without pressure points. A waterproof nubuck upper sealed out moisture from slush and wet snow, while the aggressive outsole inspired confidence on icy paths. Stability felt excellent, supporting quick steps between trains and trailheads. We liked how it transitions seamlessly from snowy cities to weekend adventures. If your itinerary includes slick sidewalks, packed snow, and frozen viewpoints, the Revel IV Polar delivers reliable traction and warmth in a travel-friendly, durable package that invites longer winter days outside.
The North Face Chilkat V 400
The North Face Chilkat V 400 became our go-to for serious cold snaps. Packed with 400g Heatseeker insulation, it maintained steady warmth during long waits, scenic overlooks, and late-night strolls in sub-zero temps. The waterproof leather and rubber shell shrugged off slush, while the gaiter-compatible design kept snow from sneaking in. Underfoot, a textured outsole gripped icy sidewalks, mixed trails, and ferry decks. Supportive and durable, the boot felt secure without overwhelming bulk. For travelers expecting polar blasts or wind-whipped streets, the Chilkat V 400 brings expedition-level heat to everyday winter itineraries—making tough weather feel routine and extending your comfort window outdoors.
Merrell Thermo Overlook 2 Mid Waterproof
Merrell’s Thermo Overlook 2 balances warmth, traction, and all-day comfort with uncommon finesse. The waterproof full-grain leather upper kept our feet dry through slush puddles, while a cozy fleece lining added inviting insulation. Vibram Arctic Grip rubber offered standout bite on icy corners and polished stone steps. Testers praised the cushioned midsole, which made long itineraries feel manageable and reduced end-of-day fatigue. Lightweight for its protection level, it packs well and looks sharp with casual travel outfits. Whether you’re museum-hopping or detouring onto snowy trails, this boot’s blend of stability and style makes it a versatile, confidence-boosting pick for winter trips in 2025.
Timberland MT Maddsen Thermoforce Boot
Timberland’s MT Maddsen Thermoforce Boot pairs heritage styling with travel-tough performance. Thermoforce insulation kept us warm through wind and sleet, while waterproof premium leather handled slush confidently. A padded collar and cushioned midsole supported long days of sightseeing and spontaneous detours. We appreciated the classic aesthetic that works with jeans, chinos, and performance layers. Traction proved steady on wet cobblestones and icy bus stops, making transitions smooth. For travelers who want warmth without compromising everyday versatility, this boot hits the sweet spot—reliable, durable, and stylish enough to stay on your feet from breakfast to night markets in the heart of winter.
Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX Winter Edition
The Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX Winter Edition is a dream for travelers who prioritize cushioning without sacrificing winter performance. Its signature Hoka midsole delivers plush, supportive steps across long itineraries, from airport concourses to frosty promenades. A GORE-TEX membrane and winterized upper block wind and snow, while Vibram Megagrip ensures reliable traction on icy sidewalks. Despite its bold silhouette, the boot feels surprisingly light and nimble in motion. We loved the comfort-first design for marathon sightseeing days in freezing conditions. If your travel plans demand cloud-like cushioning with dependable warmth and grip, this standout will keep you moving happily through 2025’s coldest days.
