Do you know the types of hiking boots? In 2021, compare the 13 best winter hiking boots

Good winter hiking and hiking boots should have warm, comfortable characteristics, strong ankle protection, and good grip on slippery ground.

If you’re trekking through icy or snow-covered ground for hours on end, thermal insulation is essential.

Hiking boots vary in their type of insulation, but the most common and effective is the use of synthetic materials, which are more breathable and dry than wool or wool-based materials.

1. Types of hiking boots:

1. Professional type:

Professional hiking boots are designed to meet the demands of mountaineering adventures in extreme winter conditions.

They are best suited for mountaineering and hiking on steep ground, boasting stiffer soles (walking on flat roads can cause sore feet), therefore, these boots are not suitable for less extreme activities such as winter forest trekking or other low-level adventures.

All of the professional-type hiking boots we’ve profiled below have crampon compatibility, with a thick tread pattern on the sole for a strong grip.

2. Comfort type:

Comfort hiking boots are designed for outdoor activities in relatively mild winters for maximum warmth.

They perform differently than professional-type boots, but generally have more insulation protection, have more flexibility, and are generally lighter.

Perfect for gentle hiking, forest trekking, or any other activity on less challenging terrain.

Second, the advantages and disadvantages of the 13 best hiking boots comparison:

1. Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Boots:

If you’re looking for a pair of comfortable boots for hiking in late fall, early spring, or mild winter, then the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof Boots might be one of your best options.

Equipped with an ergonomic EVA midsole and a detachable contoured insole for arch support.

The weight is also one of the lighter winter hiking boots on our list.

However, this light and comfortable boot lacks warmth, with only 200 grams of insulation.

As a result, they perform best in shallow or slightly cold conditions, but do not provide sufficient thermal insulation and water resistance for extreme cold or hiking in deep snow.

Merit:

Quite lightweight.

Comfortable and flexible.

The price is not high.

Shortcoming:

Not as warm as other hiking boots.

2. KEEN Revel IV Hiking Boots:

The Keen Revel IV High Polar hiking boots are made of recycled PET fiber for insulation, making them an eco-friendly choice among winter hiking boots.

The boots are waterproof, breathable, and fitted with insulated insoles for hiking in deep snow.

The 5mm multi-rubber sole provides plenty of grip in the snow, while the wide toe cap and high side support help protect your feet from rocks and small debris.

For comfortable all-day walking in the coldest conditions, the Revel IV High Polar boots are also equipped with EVA midsole and heel support.

Good low temperature performance.

Rugged.

Excellent grip.

Reasonable weight (2 lbs 6.8 oz).

Available in men’s or women’s versions.

Not suitable for hiking in mild conditions or in light snow.

3. Danner Arctic 600 side zipper hiking boots:

If you’re looking for a low-profile winter hiking boot for women, the Danner Arctic 600 Side-Zip Hiking Boots are your first choice.

It’s best for easy and moderate hiking in light snow and cold weather, and it’s also stylish and comfortable enough for everyday wear in winter.

The boots contain 200 grams of Primaloft insulation, the outer layer is waterproof.

Very comfortable.

Also suitable for everyday urban use.

The Vibram outsole provides good grip.

Insufficient warmth.

Expensive compared to similar styles of boots.

4. Vasque Snowburban II insulated boots:

With 400 grams of Xinshiri insulation, UltraDry lining, and ColdHold sole, the Snowburban II provides super grip, is functional, super comfortable, and perfect for hiking in technical and/or steep places.

Despite being heavier, the UltraDry lining and insulation (the main added weight) not only protects against cold and dampness, but also wicks away sweat while you exercise.

Reasonable price.

Good warmth.

Very durable.

Strong grip in the snow.

A bit heavy.

Salomon X Ultra Winter CS WP 2 Performance Boots:

Despite lacking the thermal insulation and overall warmth of competitors like the Keen Summit County and Vasque Snowburban, this one is very agile, comfortable, lightweight, grippy and performs better on long hikes than other non-professional boots.

This comes down to excellent breathability and a sole construction for improved comfort, plus its leather upper is also completely waterproof.

The Ice Grip rubber sole provides excellent grip.

Perfect for mild winter hikes in not too cold climates.

Good performance in dexterity and agility.

Only 200 grams of new Shirley insulation.

6. KEEN Summit County III Winter Boots:

Summit County III stands out for its all-day comfort, premium waterproof leather materials and 400 grams of insulation.

For those who prefer leather over synthetics, it may be the best insulating boot, a lighter alternative to the Vasque Snowburban and at the same time less expensive.

400g insulation.

Made from waterproof leather.

Elegant appearance.

Quite heavy (1.45 kg).

7.Scarpa SL Active hiking boots

This classic hiking boot was updated in 2020 and the latest version is as always popular with winter hikers for technical hikes and climbs in cold and moderate snow conditions.

Their water resistance and overall sturdiness are attributed to the extra-thick 2.8mm Sherpa leather upper.

In addition, due to the design of the ankle padding, it is very comfortable to wear, but the warmth cannot compete with other competitors.

It is a good choice for hikers in late autumn and early winter.

Good for hiking and climbing.

Crampons compatible.

For women.

Not enough warmth.

8. La Sportiva Karakorum boots:

The ideal “bridge” boot between technical hiking boots and warm winter hiking boots, the classic and versatile La Sportiva Karakorum is your best choice.

It is suitable for both gentle forest walks and high mountains, with greater flexibility and more comprehensive performance, and has crampon compatibility.

Versatility – the perfect blend between more flexible hiking and mountaineering.

It takes some time to put on and take off.

Not as waterproof as competitors.

Heavy.

Expensive.

Columbia Mens Bugaboot Plus III Omni-Heat Boots:

The Columbia Mens Bugaboot Plus III Omni-Heat is a very comfortable and well-made hiking boot.

Although it only has 200 grams of insulation, the Bugaboot III is warm enough below zero, and its grip and weatherproof ability are not inferior to similar products.

Worth.

Light weight.

Only 200 grams of insulation

10, Merrell Moab Polar waterproof winter boots:

Moab Polar offers 400 grams of insulation, which is lighter than most competitors for non-professional hiking boots, while offering the same insulation.

Moab Polar has excellent grip, a very solid structural design, and is much cheaper than most competitors, therefore, the title of the best insulated winter hiking boots.

Relatively cheap.

There is a little touch at the ankle.

11, Oboz Bridger 8-inch insulated BDry hiking boots:

Waterproof, breathable and made from very tough, hard-wearing leather, the ObozBridger 8 is a boot you can trust in bad weather.

With an 8-inch tall upper, a comfortable EVA midsole, 200 grams of fresh Shirley insulation and a cold-resistant rubber sole, the Bridger is both comfortable and built to handle deep snow and rough trails.

It may not be as warm as competitors like the Keen Summit County III or Vasque Snowburban, but it’s a little lighter, just as comfortable, and there’s a version with a 7-inch upper that’s designed for women.

Very breathable.

The thermal wool insole is very comfortable.

Perfect for a relaxing walk in winter.

Quite heavy.

La Sportiva Nepal EVO GTX boots:

The La Sportiva Nepal EVO GTX boots are almost a favorite of climbers around the world, and it is a boot that combines technology and comfort.

Its construction and overall quality are second to none, and if properly cared for, a pair of La Sportiva Nepal EVO GTX boots will benefit you for a lifetime.

Boasting a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex film, insulating lining and durable leather upper, they keep your feet warm wherever you go.

Is the true king of the title of Best Men’s Winter Hiking Boots and Best Women’s Winter Hiking Boots.

It was warm.

Very strong and durable (maybe last a lifetime).

Unbeatable quality.

Easy to put on and take off.

Very expensive.

13 Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro GTX Hiking Boots:

For a relatively lightweight pair of technical hiking boots on snowy peaks, the Mount Blanc Pro GTX is the way to go.

It features a Gore-Tex insulating lining for added warmth, comfort, weatherproofing and excellent breathability, crampon compatibility and robust protection.

Again, this is also a rather expensive option, which is a bit lighter compared to the Nepalese EVO.

Quite lightweight (1.78 kg)

Despite the stiffer sole, it is still comfortable to wear.

The insulation is a little worse than the Nepalese EVO.

As with any hiking boot, the comfort of winter hiking boots is a key consideration.

Whether you’re heading to higher places to climb snow-covered peaks or just trekking at lower elevations, be sure to choose a boot that best suits your feet and keeps your feet comfortable and powerful.

#Wilderness Survival Guide#