There are many winter activities that people engage in. Yes, the weather may be super frozen, but that should not and will never stop anyone from experiencing winter fun or simply going about their day to day activities.
However, if you live in a region with extended winters or visit such places for fun, you must have proper snow walking shoes. Your typical moccasins, pumps, slip-on, and sneakers won’t cut it. In this article, we are going to check out some of the best shoes for walking on ice.
Principally, all shoes for treading on ice have an extra-grip that keeps you steady while walking. This does away with the need to invest in ice cleats and other friction-enhancing devices with a detrimental impact on wooden floors and other delicate surfaces.
Out of all the options reviewed, we strongly recommend Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Insulated Snow Boot and Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Winter Boot. These top-rated options have plenty of ice walking features like good traction and superb insulation.
Keep reading to uncover even more impressive shoes for Ice and Snow walking.
Best Shoes for Walking on Ice
| Name | Price | Made of | Sole |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Women's Ice Maiden II Insulated Snow Boot | Check Price | Leather and Textile | Rubber |
| UGG Mens Australia Butte | Check Price | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Kamik Women's Momentum Snow Boot | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| Sperry Women's Powder Valley Snow Boot | Check Price | Leather | Rubber |
| Salomon Men's Toundra Pro CSWP Snow Boots | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| SOREL - Men's 1964 Pac Nylon Snow Boot for Winter | Check Price | Leather | Rubber |
| Icebug Women's Metro BUGrip-W | Check Price | Suede | Rubber |
Golden Choices
After countless grueling hours of research, here are what we believe to be the best shoes for walking in ice and snow:
1. Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Insulated Snow Boot
Winter is coming and like the House Stark in the game of thrones, it pays to get ready. One of the top ice shoe choices for women is Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot.
This boot comes with a style that deserves worshipping. With over 10k positive reviews on almost all shoe marketplaces, you really would be losing out not to consider it. So why is it such a big deal?
Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II is a boot that meets both fashion and function needs. Its charming feminine styling boasts of fur lining, nice-looking adjustable lace, and graceful patterns that make you look like a descendant of royal blood.
When it comes to functionality, Ice Maiden is rugged and ready to take on the frosty winters. The leather and textile upper are durable and thickly insulated to keep your toes warm and, at the same time, rebuff water seepage. To keep you steady, the outsole features a premium, traction-rich Omni-Grip technology. You can dance, run, and do whatever it is you like doing without losing your step.
Top Features
- Material: Leather and textile
- Techlite lightweight midsole
- Omni-grip rubber outsole
- Lace closure
- Feminine styling
- Insulated construction
- Fur lining
Pros
- A mind-blowing design
- Multiple vibrant color choices
- Top-grade comfort
- Returns a lot of energy back to the feet
- Superior traction
- Well insulated to warm your toes in cold weather
- Extremely versatile and stylish
- Waterproof and lightweight
Cons
- Some ladies find the wider toe box to be an unnecessary addition
Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot gives you both comfort, durability, and smashing looks. Although intended for warm conditions, its technology is advanced and comes in a lightweight package so you don’t have to feel weighed down. And the best part is, this boot is awesomely rated and affordable too.
2. UGG Mens Australia Butte
UGG Men’s Australia Butte is a work of art. It is robust, and rugged thanks to the suede and cow leather topping. As you can guess, the boot doesn’t flinch in the presence of the harshest winter seasons.
Its cold-weather signature further includes a waterproof exterior, seam-sealed design, and a plush faux-fur for a luxurious finish. The fur lining helps to boost warmth during chilly days.
UGG Men’s Australia Butte features a top-quality Vibram sole. In case you don’t know, Vibram is one of the top technologies for traction-ready shoes. So when you pair this boot with your snow gear, expect nothing but the finest performance. There are multiple eye-candy color options available for selection.
Top Features
- Cow leather and suede
- Faux-fur collar
- Vibram outsole
- Wool lining
- Seam-sealed construction
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Waterproof construction
- Leather uppers guarantee years of use (even abuse)
- Enhanced comfort
- Reliable wet condition traction
- True to size
Cons
- Costs a little on the higher side
UGG Men’s Australia Butte is a great winter boot that offers protection against water, ice, and other harsh elements. It also scores a lot on lightweight design-something many boots fail to achieve. As for durability, this baddie can hold itself quite well for several years (although this depends on the frequency of use and the conditions a shoe goes through).
3. Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot
If Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden doesn’t meet your standards, Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot might. Unlike the former, this boot features synthetic material but with nylon reinforcement and a gusseted tongue to prevent water and snow from entering the boot.
With 200g Thinsulate insulation, moisture-wicking lining, and the plush faux-fur lining, this boot is well endowed to keep your feet comfortably warm. Its comfort rating is -25 degrees F, which is standard for most boots designed to prevent cold toe problems.
Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot arrives in a bold grippy Peak rubber outsole that minimizes the risk of slipping and falling on the cold, icy grounds. You get a nifty quick bungee lacing system for a secure fit. On top of that, this snow walking boot comes with a removable footbed that sports anti-odor treatment.
Top Features
- 100% synthetic
- Faux-fur collar
- 200g Thinsulate insulation
- Waterproof nylon upper
- Quick bungee lacing
- Gusseted tongue
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Rubber outsole
- Comfort rating 25 degrees F
- Removable footbed
Pros
- Comes with a footbed that helps to control odor
- Designed with premium quality comfort
- Elegantly styled for fashion wear
- Insulated to keep your toes toasty
- Entirely waterproof
- Gusseted to prevent snow from entering the shoe
- Robust traction for steady strides
- Plenty of color choices
Cons
- The lacing might need some quality improvement-the eyelets too
Kamik is a brand that brings you both style and functionality in budget packages. This makes Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot an affordable yet decent quality boot for walking on snow. So far, its customer reviews are motivating.
4. Sperry Women’s Powder Valley Snow Boot
If you are here for a trendy snow boot that doesn’t compromise on comfort and quality, you should try Sperry Women’s Powder Valley Snow Boot. Styled for fashion lovers, this boot boasts of a timeless design that will continue to fit into the latest trends time and time again.
This an extremely comfortable snowshoe richly embedded with faux fur and Thinsulate lining to offer a soothing warmth. Be sure to have toasty feet even in frigid Siberia-like and French Alps kind of temperatures. The suede topping is seam-sealed for maximum protection as well as waterproofing.
Sperry Women’s Powder Valley Snow Boot comes with a super-grippy Vibram sole. The level of traction this kick offers will allow you to walk with the confidence of a successful boss. On top of that, this is easy on and off bootie with a pull tab and quick bungee speed lacing. Try to size up by half if you’ll be wearing thick socks too.
Top Features
- Leather top
- Bungee lacing
- Vibram outsole
- Faux fur and Thinsulate lining
- Seam-sealed upper
- Ankle pull tab
Pros
- Polar ice grip tech for extra-grippy traction
- Massively lined with premium quality fur for warmth and comfort
- Durable construction
- Elegantly styled for modern ladies
- Fully waterproof
- Easy on and off design
Cons
- No serious issues to mention
Sperry Women’s Powder Valley Snow Boot has been put to the test by ocean scientists wading through the coldest areas. And guess what, it passed slippage testing and outshined many cheap knockoffs in providing comfort and wetness protection. Do we even need to mention its fashionable looks rock too? Go check this beast out.
5. Salomon Men’s Toundra Pro CSWP Snow Boots
There are many snowshoes with a comfort rating of 25 degrees. While they can keep your feet warm, at times they fail to do just that. One boot that doesn’t is Salomon Men’s Toundra Pro CSWP.
This kick pops up with a comfort rating of up to 40 degrees F guaranteeing comfort in extremely frozen temperatures. Its synthetic top features ClimaSalomon technology that gives it full waterproof ability. You can walk on snow and ice for a whole day without getting wet.
When it comes to traction, Salomon Men’s Toundra Pro CSWP doesn’t disappoint. You can fully rely on its Contagrip rubber outsole for a sure footing. Comfort-wise, it does offer plenty of toe room for feet wiggling and is mildly padded for lightweight comfort.
The best thing about this boot is the 2-year limited warranty it comes with. Truthfully, it’s the only one in this review with such an extensive warranty, and that is a sign that the manufacturer knows it will work for you.
Top Features
- Synthetic top
- Contagrip rubber outsole
- Comfort rating 40 degrees F
- Aggressive treads
- Waterproof bootie
- 2 year limited warranty
- Speed lacing
- Heel pull tab
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Aerogel insulated to keep the feet warm in extremely cold temperatures
- Fully waterproof
- Secured with two years warranty
- Reinforced toe end for extra protection
Cons
- Lacks the best arch support
- Sophisticated lacing design
Salomon Men’s Toundra Pro CSWP is one of those snow and ice shoes that sport exceptional durability. Its versatile design will allow you to ride with it even when the winter is over. To put your doubt to ease, you have a limited 2 years warranty.
6. SOREL – Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Snow Boot for Winter
Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Winter Boot is another ideal snowshoe that is both functional and fashionable. This cold-weather classic sports some amazing insulation strategies. The first one is the faux fur shearling at the collar that not only looks good but warms you up as well.
Secondly, the interior comes with a removable and washable inner felt that boosts warmth even further. As if that is not already enough, the midsole too, is reinforced with a 2.5 mm felt frost to serve the same purpose. So it goes without saying that this boot’s comfort rating (-40 degrees F) is satisfactory for cold places.
To keep your feet dry all day, Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Winter Boot bears a nylon upper, which is also seam-sealed to make it very hard for water to get through. The vulcanized rubber sole forms another water impervious layer. This outsole further features herringbone to give you that needed extra grip so you can walk in full confidence.
Top Features
- Waterproof nylon
- Seam-seal construction
- Herringbone outsole
- Bonded felt frost in the midsole
- 9mm removable and washable inner felt
Pros
- Handcrafted to perfection for longevity
- Richly padded for a comfortable experience
- Stylish and functional
- Massively insulated to keep your feet warm
- Quite a lot of bells and whistles at a smaller price
- Lighter than full leather boots
Cons
- Vulcanized rubber trades off ventilation
Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Winter Boot is a classic winter boot with a waterproof exterior, faux fur lining, insulation technology, and stylish overlays…the whole nine yards.
The crazy thing is that you can still get a decent pair of this boot for as low as $60. This is obviously one of those rear choices people keep looking for (better quality at lower prices).
7. Icebug Women’s Metro BUGrip-W
Any shoe with massive tread lugs can remain steady on icy roads. However, for performance-oriented activities, you need far better outsole quality. The boot that can give you that is Icebug Women’s Metro BUGrip-W.
This kick’s rubber outsole features a proprietary BUGrip carbide tip studs, which together with the rubber property, offer a dynamic function. Unlike cleats that damage floors, carbide studs flex to adapt to floor surfaces, thereby providing the best traction.
Icebug Women’s Metro BUGrip-W is fashioned from suede (with PU components) that is both waterproof and long-lasting. Fleece lining in the interior helps to warm up your feet during chilly temperatures of up -25 degrees F. An included removable EVA sockliner helps further with heat insulation. The sockliner is molded to provide some arch support as well.
Something to note; these shoes are for icy streets only. They will slip if used indoors, and that could land you in trouble. So always carry a lighter pair kick for when stepping inside.
Top Features
- Suede top
- Fleece lining
- Molded EVA sockliner (removable)
- BUGrip studs
- Side zipper for getting a secure fit
Pros
- Fantastic traction
- Stylish feminine design
- Available in several amazing colors
- A side zipper and pull tab for easy on and off
- Long-lasting construction
Cons
- The studs are not retractable and thus an enemy of wooden floors
- May not be ideal for thick snow
Women’s Metro BUGrip-W is a stylish boot for fashion loves who need fantastic traction. Given that it employs the use of studs, it takes the top sport as a performance-oriented shoe. This boot’s quality is also off the charts.
Things to Consider While Buying Shoes for Walking on Ice
We all hate to spend lots of bucks on an irrelevant shoe. While there is an option to return, the process can be long, costly, and ineffective (that’s in case another bad pair comes back.
Here are all the factors to consider to get the best shoes for walking in ice and snow;
Traction
Walking on melting or freezing snow and ice without the right shoes is a risky business. You can slide and fall bruising or even breaking some of your body parts. Only traction-rich shoes can keep you upright.
There are a few outsole varieties that suit snow and icy regions. Vibram type is at the top of the list. This sole is usually grippy with huge treads that hold tight on icy surfaces. Massive treads help with heat insulation as well.
Other options include cleat styles, shoe chains, and crampons. Be cautious of the attached cleats as they can mar your floors.
Waterproof
The best shoes for walking on the ice must be waterproof. This way, you can spend a lot of time outside doing what you like without your feet getting drenched.
A combination of leather and suede can form a tough layer that keeps water out. Boots that combine synthetics (like neoprene), rubber, and nylon are extremely effective in stopping water from getting into the shoe. On top of that, some kicks feature gusseted tongues that lockout ice and snow pellets.
The boots that keep water out completely when submerged are made from neoprene, Gore-tex, treated leather, Polyurethane (PU), rubber, and PVC.
Heat insulation
The freezing temperatures of the winter can be very uncomfortable. Having a shoe that is waterproof and traction rich is okay; however, without heat insulation, you are looking forward to having cold feet and other associated feet problems.
A well-insulated shoe that is winter features things like faux fur, fleece lining, removable sockliner, removable felt, Thinsulate, and wool lining. Wearing a sock can also help to increase the heat insulation properties of an ice walking shoe.
Durability
Comfort, heat insulation, good traction, and all other features may mean a lot at first. But think about this for a minute; if a shoe is of mediocre construction, will all those other nifty features mean anything? Of course not.
So yeah, when shopping for the best shoes for walking on ice, give a lot of thought on quality. Leather is the most outstanding when it comes to longevity, followed by suede and then other synthetics. To know if a shoe is of good quality of not, read the reviews from past customers.
Comfort
Some snow kicks get used on a daily basis until the winter passes. As such, they need to sport a design that is gentle on the feet.
Like mentioned before, things like faux fur, wool lining, EVA footbed, and other insulation technologies keep the feet warm and cozy. You need to consider how flexible the outsole is or if it offers energy return. These and other comfort-enhancing features ensure you always go out in good company.
There is no need to talk about pricing because this is better left to you. However, if you have a lot of bucks, then don’t be afraid to spend more. After all, the best things in life don’t come cheaply (most of the time).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What are the best shoes for ice?
A. Some of the top-rated options include Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II, UGG Men’s Australia Butte, Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot and Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Snow Boot.
Q. What can I put on my shoes to stop slipping on ice?
A. If you keep slipping on ice, then your shoe lacks proper traction. You can add some traction to it through the use of cleats. Ice cleats are metal-like devices with tiny spikes that are attached to a shoe to provide some extra grip.
Q. Why are snowshoes more effective while walking on snow than ordinary shoes?
A. First, shoes designed for snow walking bear fantastic traction. Secondly, they are massively insulated to keep you warm during the freezing winters. Thirdly, most of them are partially or entirely waterproof.
Wrap Up
Slipping on ice can have far-reaching effects than you imagine. You could suffer a concussion, break a bone, lose a tooth, and in worst cases, lose vision. The best shoes for walking on ice can ensure you stay safe while treading on ice.
The good news is, you can get many good shoes for walking on ice that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Some of them double up as day to day walking shoes with amazing styling and superior comfort.
Don’t trouble yourself with countless hours of research. Most of the options we have reviewed above have passed the test of time and found to be worth their salt. Since thousands of previous buyers love them, we believe you will too.
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