Would you like to keep your feet warm and dry in frigid conditions? Seek no further as below we round up some of the best winter boots for walking on ice without feeling too bulky. Winter boots are made with exceptional traction, insulation components, plus a waterproof shell on the bottom.
Did you know you can walk on ice without worrying about slipping and falling? The right pair of winter boots allows you to continue your outdoor activities even in harsh winter weather. Winter boots are designed to offer plenty of traction for optimized stability, comfort, and warmth.
Without further ado, here are the best boots for walking on ice!
Best Winter Boots for Walking on Ice
1. NORTIV 8 Men’s Insulated Waterproof Work Winter Snow Boots
The NORTIVE 8 winter snow boots are made from a suede leather upper and a waterproof shell bottom. It is designed for winter daily life as it integrates seam-sealed water-resistant construction.
The winter boot features a 200-gram Thinsulate material which offers excellent warmth and insulation in temperatures as low as -25F.
The boots cushioned insole is made from sweat-absorbent breathable absolute linen material to enhance comfort and breathability. NORTIVE 8 winter boot features an ergonomic design for optimized protection and arch support. Moreover, its rubber outsole is slip and abrasion-resistant to offer stability and withstand any outdoor terrain.
The lace-up designed NORTIVE winter boots are available in sizes 6.5 to 8 and13 to 14. It comes in three different color options.
Pros
- Insulated
- Breathable with moisture-wicking inner lining
- Easy to adjust
- Slip-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- The rubber sole is less durable
2. Mishansha Men’s Women’s Winter Ankle Snow Hiking Boots
The Mishansha winter snow hiking boots are made using an artificial leather vamp. The winter boots provide exceptional grip and stability on the ice. They incorporate an elastic lacing system to ease the fitting adjustment.
The high-top snow boots feature improved rubber material for slip resistance and foot protection. Its interiors are covered with a thick warm lining for heat retention and comfort. Additionally, the boot has a flexible EVA midsole to provide wear resistance.
Also read: How to make boots anti-slip
Mishansha’s hiking boot features an anti-collision toe cap design to keep you safe when walking on icy surfaces. The stylish winter boot comes in a vast array of colors and sizes to fit your outdoor activities.
Pros
- Easy to adjust using the elastic lace-up design
- Lined with warm faux fur
- Affordable
Cons
- Poor water-resistant properties
3. Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot
The lace-up designed Columbia women’s Ice maiden II snow boots feature an Omni-grip advanced traction rubber sole which offers exceptional grip. Thus, you won’t wobble on ice. The winter boots keep you safe from slips and falls.
Columbia Ice Maiden II boots integrate lightweight midsoles, which offer excellent, long-lasting cushioning. In addition, it comes with waterproof membrane construction and 200-gram insulation to keep your feet warm and dry.
The boots come with a lace-up closure and are readily available in multiple colors and sizes. The stylish and versatile boots are perfect for winter days.
Pros
- Insulated
- Available in vast width measurements
- Slip-resistant, lightweight, and waterproof
- Easy to adjust and fit
Cons
- Partly waterproof
4. Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot
The Kamik men’s nationplus winter boots for walking on ice are made of 100% genuine leather.
The boot features a 10” shaft height which prevents the snow from getting in the shoes. The upper leather blends a rustproof lacing system which allows flexibility in adjusting to perfect fit on the feet.
Kamik winter boots are highly insulated with 200B Thinsulate. The highly durable materials provide high-performance protection against extremely frigid temperatures. These boots amalgamate seam-sealed waterproof and moisture-wicking lining that absorbs the sweat inside the boots.
Pros
- Waterproof and dustproof
- High insulation with 200B Thinsulate
- Lightweight and easy to move arch support
- High moisture absorption
- Provides optimized protection, warmth, and comfort
Cons
- Rubber sole cracks easily
- Poor cushioning
Also read: Best tactical police boots
5. Sorel Men’s Caribou Snow Boot
The lace-up closure Sorel Caribou snow boot is recognized for excelling in ice, wet, and slushier weather.
The Sorel snow boot features an impervious rubber base that lifts you out of snowy muck. These boots are made with 100% waterproof leather and synthetic.
The boot features underfoot wide surface area and a nubby lug pattern to offer optimized traction. The Sorel Caribous boo is rated to -40 degrees celsius.
The Sorel snow boot has a snow collar and a shaft that measures approximately 10.75” from the arch; thus, preventing snow from entering. It has a broad base and a nubby rubber sole which provides steady stability on winter surfaces.
Pros
- Easy to fit/ wear on and off
- Insulated
- Waterproof construction
- Optimized stability
Cons
- Synthetic fiber trap odor
Also read: Are Danner boots water-resistant
Considerations to Make When Selecting Boots for Walking on Ice
Waterproof/ Water-resistant
Icy environment encounters snowy and wet conditions; thus, it is imperative to select shoes with waterproof or water-resistant properties to keep your feet warm and dry. Water-resistant boots won’t entirely block water.
Consider boots made of Gore-Tex, neoprene, leather, PU, PVC, or rubber, as they offer the best protection against moisture.
Grip
Winter boots with grip provide stability and confidence when walking on icy surfaces. Shoes with perfect grip lower the risk of falling while walking on ice. Boots with rubber outsoles, large treads, or aggressive lugs offer ideal traction.
Consider sturdy shoes with deep treads for all-purpose winter use. Tiny treads won’t give you much traction in snowy/ slushy conditions.
Also read: Tips for packing boots in a suitcase
Comfort
Comfort is crucial, especially if you use the boots for winter pursuits. Boots with a cushioned footbed and good support improve shock absorption; thus, alleviating the risk of painful feet. Ensure the boots fit you properly.
Also read: How do you know that ski boots are too stiff
Insulation
Appropriate insulation aid in keeping your feet warm and toasty. The higher the grams per square meter measurement, the heavier the insulation. Check the temperature rating and look for materials like fleece and Thinsulate.

Are snow boots suitable for walking on ice?
Generally, snow boots coalesce grippy soles; hence, they are ideal footwear to wear while engaging in icy pursuits. Snow boots are insulated to keep your feet warm during winter. More so, they come up higher on the legs to prevent snow from entering into the boot.
What are the best boots to wear when walking on ice?
Consider shoes that are waterproof or water-resistant. Boots that feature breathable and durable materials keep your feet warm. In addition, boots made of 200-gram insulation, leather, rubber, or PVC protect from water elements.
Can you walk on ice with sneakers?
It is not wise to walk on ice in sneakers because it is risky. Sneakers are standard shoes lacking traction and insulation features required in cold conditions. Walking on ice in a pair of shoes designed for winter pursuits is recommended.
Navigating icy weather, you require optimized traction, warmth, and comfort. Winter boots should be waterproof or water-resistant with insulation elements.
There is always a durable boot to keep you steady and sure-footed during winter; hence, select the best winter boots for walking on ice from the mentioned brands above.