I can’t do squished toes anymore. But I also spend time outside everyday, no matter the weather. So for the last decade I’ve made it my mission to find and test the most practical, but also truly comfortable, naturally fitting barefoot and wide toe box boots.
I present to you the best of the best barefoot winter boots that have a wide toe box and natural feel. No foot pain this winter please!
Staying Warm in Barefoot Winter Boots
But before we get to the actual shoes, here are a few of my best tips for getting the most versatility out of your comfy, wide, snow boots this winter.
- Learn how to waterproof your shoes.
- Add a warm insole.
- Find warm (but foot friendly) socks to wear inside your boots. I recommend those with a high wool content.
- Get yourself a pair of ice cleats for very icy conditions – they fit over any of the boots here.
- Check my “Tips For Staying Warm” section for additional ideas.
And if you’re looking for boots for other other occasions, these may be of interest to you:
And finally, in this post I talk about what type of feet these boots are best for to help you avoid costly mistakes. Find Your Foot Type Here.
Alright, let’s dig in to the best barefoot winter boots. First we’ll cover the best warm boots for snow and traction, and then the best for comfort & ground feel.
Best for Snow
Good barefoot snow boots are warm, waterproof (or can be waterproofed), and have good traction. Here are what I consider to be the best options for wintry weather conditions!
Vivobarefoot
Use code ANYASREVIEWS25 for 25% off
Vivobarefoot has quite the winter line up this year, with something for every kind of weather.
Canvas & Wool | Rated to -50F / -46C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Great
The showstopper for the most serious of winter weather is the Tundra ESC (find the men’s version here). It’s suitable even for arctic conditions, with a felted wool boot liner and insoles – the first of its kind in the natural footwear world and a real achievement! These fit pretty wide already, but I know from experience with Steger Mukluks that the felt will tamp down.
We get weather here as low as -50F, but I don’t spend much time out when it’s that cold. However I will go on pretty long walks when it’s -20F. I will for sure be using these Tundra boots when it’s that cold.
Textile | Rated to 15F / -10C | Traction: Snow – Good, Ice – Ok
If you don’t need something arctic-level intense, I am truly loving the Gobi Hiber. They pull on easily, are water resistant, and lined with soft fleece. In fact, they’ve been my preferred boots for morning walks this fall. Just so cozy and cute. Men’s version here.
These come with the Thermal Insole that I don’t love, so if you want really warm toes I suggest replacing it with a felted wool insole.
Textile | Rated to 15F / -10C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Good
An even comfier, warmer option is the Explorer Mid. They’re soooo nice and have better traction than the Gobi Hiber. But not water resistant (which is weird to me) and a lower cut. I have replaced the insole on these as well, and suggest using a waterproof spray for wet weather. Men’s version here.
Leather | Rated to 15F / -10C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Good
The Tracker Winter is a waterproof, insulated version of their hiking boot that I quite like as a snow shoe. They are kind of stiff when new, and I like to size up in them for space. But really functional. Men’s version here.
Sizing & Fit
- Wide width (Tundra, Gobi Hiber, Explorer) & Medium width (Tracker & Gobi Warmlined)
- Sloped, so not the best fit for square shaped feet
- Medium volume
- Runs slightly long – I normally size up in winter boots but didn’t need to in any of these except for the Tracker Winter. Those I got in a 38, the rest are size 37.
Lems Shoes
Lems is an in-between brand with a more traditional thicker outsole, but a wide toe box and natural fit. Great for people who want to take care of their feet but aren’t ready for full barefoot! Or if you just need something super practical for the winter, Lems has you covered. However if you want that flexibility and ground feel, I’d choose something else on this list.
And if you’re overseas, shop Lems EU here.
Leather | Rated to 5F / -15C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Good
The Breck boot is a taller cut, waterproof boot with a side zip and the same thicker outsole. This year they come in an insulated version, and I find them to be a stellar snow boot and all-purpose cold weather boot. The sole is definitely robust and not super flexible. They also are not fully zero drop, but have a 3mm heel rise. For me this is an acceptable compromise in a winter boot, but if you are sensitive you may notice it.
Leather | Rated to 0F / -18C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Good
The new Chelsea Tuff in brown has a fluffy collar and lining that is surprisingly warm. The sole is quite thick (makes me feel so tall!) but flexes at the toe. Really well-made shoes with a grippy practical outsole. Also waterproof. The black color has no fluff and not as warm, but is still insulated.
Leather | Rated to 5F / -15C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Good
The Boulder Boot Summit is the warmest Boulder boot option from Lems, with the same outsole as on the Breck boot. So it’s got good grip and is well insulated. I personally prefer the Boulder Boot Grip, because it’s lighter and more flexible (and also fully zero drop). But if you want the extra warmth the Summit is a good one!
Sizing & Fit
- Wide – not quite as wide as the Lems Primal Zen or Chelsea suede, but still quite generous.
- Plateau shaped – may not work for really square feet, but should for most others.
- Medium to high volume.
- Runs small. I consistently size up a half size larger than I do in most barefoot boot brands. Mine are all a women’s 8.
Zaqq Quintic
Leather | Wool Lined | Waterproof | Rated to -5F/-20C | Ships from US or EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Great
The Zaqq Quintic is so soft, and yet warm and practical. They are definitely the most flexible option in this list that is also snow ready.The outsole is grippy so you’re not sliding everywhere, and the waterproof upper means your feet stay dry. Both Justin and I love these boots as a stylish barefoot winter boot that can be worn under dress pants, with jeans, or even leggings and skirts. They’re surprisingly warm and functional even without a heavy sole.
We carry them in the US as much as possible (linked above), but they usually sell out so you can also find them in Germany from Zaqq Barefoot directly where they carry additional colors and vegan versions.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Medium to wide width
- Mountain shaped
- Medium volume
- Runs Small
The fur lining is quite thick and so they feel pretty snug in my normal size. I went up one and they still are quite cozy!
Xero Alpine
Waterproof | Vegan | Rated to 5F / -15C | Ships from USA
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Ok
Outside the US? Shop Xero EU here!
The Alpine Pull-On is new for 2025 and my favorite Xero winter boot. They are surprisingly warm for how lightweight they are, and so easy to pull on and off. You get some adjustability with the toggle, but they are quite roomy through the heel so I don’t recommend sizing up for socks. They’ll fit higher volume feet best, but my lazy bones will be pulling these on often this winter.
The Xero Alpine is not as warm or as flexible as the Alpine Pull-on, but it does cinch around your foot much better so is more secure. I think they’d be good for a slightly warmer climate than mine (I’m thinking Rocky Mountains), but not my top pick for frigid midwest winters. I did swap out the insole for a sheepskin one and that helped a lot (it always does!). The sole is on the stiff side, and I found them to be slippery on ice (but fine in snow).
Sizing & Fit
- Medium to wide width – Not recommended for extra wide feet.
- Mountain shape (rounded toe box)
- High volume
- The Alpine boot runs on the small side, but the Alpine Pull-On runs bigger! I wear an 8 in Alpine and a 7.5 in the Pull-On.
Be Lenka Winter Boots – Extra Wide Friendly
Code ANYASREVIEWS gives you 5% off when you shop with them (but they only accept returns from within the EU and USA). We also carry lots of Be Lenka models at Anya’s Shop!
Be Lenka Barefoot is also upping the winter boot game this year. They have 3 excellent options to choose from, and all have a generous wide toe box for real comfort. They may be a bit heavier and thicker than the Vivobarefoot options, but I like that I don’t have to add extra insoles to make them warmer.
Textile | Rated to -25F/-32C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Great
The new ArcticEdge is super warm, water resistant, and has great traction. I admit that my lazy bones prefer the pull-on Vivo boots for daily wear, but these are more practical for weather. A kind of heavy duty winter urban hybrid.
Textile | Rated to -25F/-32C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Great
Another practical option from Be Lenka is the PolarStride. It has the same Primaloft material as in the ArcticEdge, but a more flexible outsole and a taller shaft. I love the idea of them, and they are quite cozy, but I wish there was a way to tighten them. They fit loose on me.
Leather & Wool | Rated to -10F/-23C | Traction: Snow – Great, Ice – Good
The Winter 3.0 is also wool lined, highly water resistant, and on the same functional outsole, but has more of a dressy look. They aren’t as soft and comfy as the others, but bonus points for style. Also, I love real wool.
If outside the US, shop here.
Besides these, Be Lenka has a variety of fleece-lined boots that are cozy and nice but not as winter-friendly.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Extra wide
- Square shaped
- Versatile volume (except PolarStride is high volume and Winter 3.o is medium volume)
- Runs small and I size up to a 38 consistently.
Saguaro Rise
Textile, Suede, & Faux Fur | Waterproof | Rated to 5F / -15C | Ships from Asia
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – OK
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 15% off
The Saguaro Rise is the cheapest practical barefoot snow boot to date! They are waterproof, lightly insulated, and cinch up nicely to fit different foot types or different socks.
They do run small, especially if you have wide feet (and I would skip entirely if you have extra wide feet). And shipping can be a bit slow from Saguaro. But if you are in need of an affordable waterproof snow boot this is the best there is!
Sizing & Fit Type
- Medium wide fit
- Mountain shaped toe box
- Runs small – size up at least one. I need a size 39 in these and usually wear a size 38 in winter boots.
Jenon Leather Snowflake – Extra Wide Friendly
Leather | Sheepskin Lining | Rated to -5F/-20C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Good
Use code JENON11 for 10% off
These Snowflake boots from Czech brand Jenon Leather were a surprise hit for me. They are very cozy warm with a wide toe box and slim heel (which means they don’t slide around my narrow heels). I so appreciate that in a winter boot, where it’s really common for me to need to add leg warmers to get that cinched in feel. They also don’t press over the tops of my toes, even with the thick lining.
The leather upper is smooth and quite water resistant so I didn’t bother treating it. I also appreciated that the sole is a bit thicker than many barefoot boots for more warmth while still being flexible.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Extra wide fit
- Plateau shaped toe box
- Medium to low volume
- Runs small – I recommend sizing up one.
The lining is very thick so I am glad I sized up. I found that the volume was on the lower side, but I know that many people with high volume feet enjoy these boots after sizing up. These can also be customized for shape/fit or just choosing whatever leather color you’d like! Read the full Jenon Leather review for more details.
Freet Arken – Extra Wide Friendly
Use code AnyaFreet for 10% off. If you live in the UK, shop Freet here. For EU residents, shop here.
The Freet Arken is an insulated waterproof boot with quite a cozy upper. Like in Vivobarefoot boots, I find the insole to be not warm enough for winter so I recommend replacing it for a wool alternative. Once swapped out these are very warm.
The outsole has lugs that works best for soft ground – snow, mud, grass. I recommend these for cold weather hiking where you don’t get deep snow (because they are a shorter height).
Sizing & Fit Type
- Wide fit – will work for some extra wide feet too
- Plateau shaped toe box
- Medium to low volume
- Runs small
I sized up to a 38 and they’re still a little snug, but I can wear medium weight wool socks with them.
Steger Mukluks – Extra Wide Friendly
Leather | Wool Lined | Rated to -50F / -46C | Ships from USA
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Great
Steger Mukluks are supremely warm and also wide and flexible. The insole and body of the boots are lined with 9mm thick felted wool that is moisture wicking and built for extreme temps. The outsole is rubber and surprisingly grippy on ice and show. The exterior is high quality moose hide (both soft and super durable).
But a new update to the outsole makes them no longer zero drop (roughly 5mm heel lift) and not as flexible as before. To me, 3mm and below is acceptable in a snow boot but 5mm is pushing it a little. However, for some people in really cold climates, this small heel lift may be worth it, because of how warm they are (and because they are not as expensive as Vivobarefoot’s Tundra Esc boots).
None of the Steger models come waterproof, so I also bought their waterproof spray and treated my boots before wearing them. It has worked great for me, whenever my boots get wet the water beads up and rolls off the leather instead of soaking in. I reapply it each fall and they look almost brand new even after four winters! And I hear repeatedly from readers who have owned Stegers for 5, 10, even 20 years and they are still going strong.
To be as close to a barefoot winter boot (and as warm) as possible, use them with the felted wool insole instead of the supportive insole (boots ship with both). And if you have low volume feet like me you might even want to order an extra felt insole and layer both inside the shoe.
Sizing & Fit Type
- 3 widths fit average to extra wide feet
- Square toe box fits most foot shapes
- High volume
- True to size
Note that the felted lining tamps down with use! So they might feel pretty snug at first, but you will get more room as you wear them. I ordered a Women’s 7 Wide for my wide feet and they are very spacious after a few years. You can also call in to Steger’s shop and ask for internal measurements.
If you have low volume, narrow heels, and/or thin ankles, expect to need an extra insole, thick socks, or leg warmers to make these a secure fit. You also might want to order a model with ties so you can tighten them on your leg. If you have thicker ankles and calves and don’t need the ties, Steger also has models that are just pull-on.
Best for Comfort
The following warm barefoot winter boots are cozy and comfortable, but not as functional for lots of time outdoors in wintery conditions. They are your lifestyle boots, but made warmer than most other barefoot boots!
Shapen Cozy – Extra Wide Friendly
Leather | Wool Lining | Rated to 5F/-15C | Ships from EU or US
Traction Rating: Snow – Ok | Ice – Ok
Use code ANYA5 for 5% of Shapen in the EU. We also have this model at Anya’s Shop in the US.
The Shapen Cozy is so light and soft, they are perfect for someone who has sensitive feet that get irritated by stiff heel cups. I have reached for mine frequently the last three winters since they were released and thoroughly enjoy every time. They are an excellent cozy barefoot boot for cold winter days, especially if you are someone who wants a true barefoot feel.
The Cozy is my favorite comfy warm boot option from Shapen, but they also carry the Urbaneer (similar but without a side zip) and the Frosty (fine, but not my favorite). This is a good brand for people with extra wide feet that have a hard time fitting into other brands.
Sizing & Fit
- Extra wide fit
- Square shaped toe box
- Medium to high volume
- Runs slightly big
Unlike many lined boots, the Shapen Cozy does not run small. I am still wearing a size 38, but I have more room than I do in most of my other size 38 barefoot boots (they fit almost like a 39). I still don’t recommend sizing down in most cases because you’ll likely want to be able to wear socks.
Peerko Frost
Leather | Wool Lining | Rated to 5F/-15C | Ships from EU or US
Traction Rating: Snow – Ok | Ice – Ok
Code ANYASREVIEWS10 gives you 10% off your order. Peerko doesn’t accept returns outside the EU, but we carry the Frost in the US at Anya’s Shop.
The Peerko Frost is probably the most stylish barefoot winter boot in the bunch! The smooth leather is naturally water resistant, and you can waterproof them yourself for extra protection. The outsole isn’t the best for winter terrain, so I prefer to use them for warmth as I go around town as opposed to playing in the snow or hiking. But if you’re someone who needs to look nice in the winter AND spend time walking around outside they are phenomenal.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Wide toe box
- Medium volume
- Runs slightly small because of wool lining
Peerko boots have a pretty universal fit and are well loved across the board. They probably won’t suite someone with an extra wide toe splay, and you might want to size up one because of the thick lining. I wear mine in a 38.
Zeazoo Dingo
Leather | Sheepskin lined | Rated to -20F / -29C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Good | Ice – Good
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off your order at ZeazooKids.com. Or you can find them in the US at Anya’s Shop.
The Zeazoo Dingo is a personal favorite of mine. They are the perfect barefoot Uggs dupe and so easy to slip on for quick jaunts outside when it’s freezing. I wear mine often as school-run, coffee-run, and mail-run shoes. The sheepskin lining wicks sweat so they’re comfortable barefoot and they are just so warm but lighter than all the above options (and nice and wide). You can also roll the top down to get a furry cuff and a shorter height.
While they are a home run for warmth, they don’t have a robust outsole so the bottom edges of the boot can start wearing quickly if you use them roughly. And the upper is not water resistant. They’re more of a warm lifestyle boot than an active outdoor snow boot. Still, a total lifesaver if you live in a cold climate.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Wide width
- Plateau shaped
- High volume
- Runs big
I size down in the Dingo and still have plenty of space! The cozy fur lining also tamps down with use so it’s ok if they feel snug when brand new. Once worn in they can be a little loose on thin ankles and narrow heels, so leg warmers are a great way to make the Dingo work for low volume feet.
Softstar Phoenix
Leather | Sheepskin Lined | Rated to -25F/-32C | Ships from USA
Traction Rating: Snow – Good | Ice – Good
The Softstar Phoenix is a fully lined high quality sheepskin boot with a side zipper for easy on and off. The fur is super thick, warm, and close fitting so you don’t feel like you’re going to walk out of the boot. They can be worn with or without socks because of the breathable, moisture wicking sheepskin. They keep my legs and feet super cozy in cold temps, and they’re so easy to put on and off! I find myself wearing them a ton on snowy winter walks.
The only downside is that because the leather upper comes all the way down to the flat sole they can take scuffs sooner than if that part was covered with outsole material. I would also recommend waterproofing them if you plan to use them in wet conditions.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Wide to Extra Wide Width
- Low to Medium Volume (but can stretch to fit)
- Runs Small
The Phoenix is made entirely of leather and so can stretch to fit a variety of foot types, but they might feel too snug on extra wide/high volume feet. I also recommend sizing up because of the thick lining unless you have quite slim, low volume feet. Mine are a 7U, or Women’s 8.
Wildling Shoes
Textile & Wool | Water Resistant | Rated to 10F/-12C | Ships from Germany
Traction Rating: Snow – Good | Ice – Ok
Use code AWN_ANYA_S for a one-time free shipping offer. If you are outside the US/Canada, use this Wildling Shoes link.
Wildling Shoes hold a special place in my heart. They literally feel like wearing nothing, combining innovation, quality materials, and a gorgeous aesthetic. Besides being adorable, Wildling has somehow managed to create an ultra thin outsole that bends in all directions effortlessly. The uppers of Wildling winter shoes have an integrated waterproof membrane and are topped with either wool or cotton. The models change annually, but for the best warmth I recommend the ones made of a wool upper with a wool lining.
I also wear a felt insole inside my Wildling winter boots, which I consider essential (my cold rating above includes the insoles). If I wear wool socks and leg warmers I can even get by in 15 F/ -10 C for short periods of time! Though I am most comfortable in Wildling boots in temps of about 25 F+. While these are not sufficient to keep me outside for long during the harsh Midwest winters, I wear mine frequently for short jaunts and feel like I’m in slippers the whole time.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Medium to wide width
- Plateau/Square shaped
- High volume
- True to size
While all Wildlings have the same squared off toe box, some models fit roomier than others so I always recommend checking the fit guide on the shoe listing. And if you have low volume feet I highly recommend adding one of Wilding’s wool insoles to your order. Wildlings do intentionally fit long so you have plenty of toe space!
Mukishoes Igneous
Leather | Wool Lined | Rated to 10F/-12C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Good | Ice – Good
Use code ANYAMUKI for 10% off.
The Mukishoes Igneous is a soft boot that looks stylish and on trend while still being delightfully light and flexible. They’re one of my faves! A similar feel to the Shapen Cozy, but with a slimmer toe box and a felted wool lining. I wear mine with an additional wool insole for warmth (and it helps them fit better on my low arches too).
Mukishoes has a few other really nice barefoot boots, but the Igneous is the warmest and best for wintry weather!
Sizing & Fit Type
- Medium width
- Mountain shaped
- Medium to high volume
- True to size, maybe slightly small
Because Mukishoes are not extra wide fitting many people size up for a little extra space. They do fit pretty high volume, so insoles are your friend if you’re low volume.
Honorable Mentions
Feelgrounds Patrol
Vegan Leather | Waterproof | Rated to 5F / -15C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Good
Use code ANYA5 for 5% off your first order
The Feelgrounds Patrol Winter boots have a robust outsole with good traction and a waterproof upper, while still retaining some flexibility. They are also vegan and insulated for warmth. I use them with their optional extra insole for a better fit on my low volume feet.
For me the heel cup is a little stiff (I have a sensitive achilles), but Justin wears his frequently in the winter and they are very practical. Great for someone who wants a durable waterproof barefoot winter boot with a bit more sole.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Wide to extra wide fit
- Mountain shaped
- Medium to high volume
- Slightly small
In this shoe I recommend sizing up because they run short in our experience.
Manitobah Mukluks
Leather | Faux Fur Lined | Rated to -25F/-32C | Ships from Canada
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Good
Manitobah is an Aboriginal-owned Canadian brand that makes faux fur and sheepskin lined mukluks. The original mukluks are built on a super flexible Vibram outsole (but not all models are zero drop, so look for the flat ones!). They are thick and warm inside and yet you still feel grounded. One bonus to Manitobah is that they have waterproof options!
Manitobah tends to fit quite loose through the ankle so I chose this wrap tie version for adjustability. They are the softest, coziest boots! Since the Short Wrap is not waterproof, I used Nikwax spray on it, which seems to be working well.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Narrow to medium width toe box
- High volume
- Runs big/stretches a lot
Manitobah mukluks have a fairly tapered toe box when brand new, but there is a lot of vertical space and the leather stretches out a lot as you wear them. Still not best suited for really wide toes.
Magical Shoes Alaskan
Leather | Wool Lined | Rated to 25F/-4C | Ships from Poland
Traction Rating: Snow – Good | Ice – Great
Use code ANYA for 10% off
The Magical Shoes Alaskan is an ultra flexible, ultra lightweight wool-lined barefoot winter boot. The outsole is very grippy on snow and ice, and the side zipper makes them easy to put on and off. For being so light, they are surprisingly practical. But I do find the material on the thinner side so my feet got cold faster than in the other boots I tested. I put in an extra insole and warm socks, but still felt the cold through the top fairly quickly in my climate.
While the upper material is water resistant, the stitching, zipper and the tongue is not waterproof so water can come through pretty easily if soaked.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Medium to wide width
- Plateau shaped toe box
- Medium to high volume
- Runs small
I definitely recommend sizing up in these, especially if you have wide feet!
Xanthe Anna (UK)
Sheepskin & Veg Tanned Leather | Sizes EU 35-47 | Ships from UK
These sheepskin boots from Xanthe Anna are obviously high quality and really warm. They also have a wide, generous toe box. I like that they stand upright without flopping over. The sole is quite thick and not super flexible, but that may be what you need in the winter.
They’re made-to-order in the UK, repairable, and you can even customize a pair with your desired colors, shaft height, and outsole thickness.
239 thoughts on “The All Time Warmest Barefoot Winter Boots for Snow”
I’m looking for a boot boot for cold, slushy, wet weather. I love Lems because I prefer a minimalist to a true barefoot shoe. I already have the boulder mid for dry fall weather and love it, but know it’s not waterproof and doesn’t have great grip. I am so torn between Boulder Grip, Boulder Summit, Chelsea Tuff, and Outlander! I know you say the Outlander is more rugged than the Boulder Grip, and the Summit is warmer but heavier and less flexible than the Grip. If my biggest priority is an everyday shoe with good grip on icy/slushy pavement for daily errands, or running around in a muddy yard with the kids, which would you go with? I’m so torn! I’m also looking at the new insulated Breck for heavier snow.
For me, that would be the Chelsea Tuff. Mostly because I prefer a pull-on shoe for those types of things, and the Chelsea Tuff is just so easy to slip into and also looks cleaner if you ever want to be slightly dressier. I do love the Boulder Grip, but I end up reaching for the Chelsea more often for those shorter outings (and it would be between the Chelsea Tuff and the Boulder Grip, because the others I find too heavy for the kind of use you listed).
I’ve stuck with Lems because I don’t like truly barefoot shoes – I need some cushioning. I want a foot-shaped, zero/minimal drop shoe and Lems is the only brand I see recommended again and again for that. That being said…you mention the BeLenka boots are heavier and thicker than some other barefoot options. Would they be a good minimalist option similar to Lems? Or are they still more of a true barefoot shoe?
They are more of a barefoot shoe, especially the models that aren’t boots. The boots do edge more towards the Lems side of the spectrum, but Lems is still thicker.
I do love truly barefoot shoes, and Lem’s is still a favorite of mine! I will always own Lem’s.
There are just days where they seem more practical. Especially now that we’re talking about winter: I live in Wisconsin and we get a lot of snow and slush and things get messy when it starts to melt. Not to mention all the salt and sand used on roads and sidewalks. A little more stack height and materials that don’t soak up the wetness go a long way towards keeping feet dry and therefore warm. I messed up a pair of Wildling Chestnuts (and felty insoles) because a puddle of water with road salt soaked the material. I let them dry and I brushed them, and I’ve tried to hand wash as best as I can, but sometimes it’s just better to grab the Lem’s boots or my Xero Alpine’s and switch shoes at the office.
Hi Anya! Thank you for your review. I’m looking for a barefoot boot with wool lining and vegetable tanned leather. I’m not sure if such a boot exists, though! Do you have any recommendations?
Check out Xanthe Anna Boots, we just added them to the list this year!
Love this article! I have extra wide feet. Which boots have the widest toe box? I need 110 mm. Normally wear size 40 X-wide. So far, no matches when I do find size charts.
Your widest toe boxes will be from Be Lenka, Barebarics, Jenon Leather, Shapen, and Steger Mukluks. I wouldn’t reply solely on the size chart to determine if the width will work for you. Read more about that here..
We just updated this post today, so be sure to look it over again and note anything that is marked as “extra wide friendly”.
I see that you recommend sizing up for the Softstar Phoenix. Is this recommendation for the old version or the new wider version? Thanks!
I sized up in the newer version too. They are roomier than before, because of the wider toe box. But they only come in whole sizes. So between that and the thick lining, I still needed the size up.
Can you tell me the Lem’s Boulder Boot Grip, was it it rated to? How cold can I wear them in. Will it go 5 degree F or 15 degree F. What do you think?
For me, 15* F would probably be about as low as I would go in Lems Boulder Grip, with warm socks and maybe a wool insole (my feet get cold easily). The Insulated Breck and Chelsea Tuff are both warmer than the Boulder Boot Grip.
I noticed the Be Lenka Snowfox boots were removed from this last since last year’s, was there a specific reason for that? Would love to know as I just ordered them.
I love the Be Lenka Snowfox, but it’s no longer being produced so after the current inventory is sold through (and it’s already dwindling) it won’t be available anymore. That’s the only reason they aren’t in here anymore.
Is the Xero Alpine Pull On truly waterproof?
I haven’t yet had the opportunity to really put that to the test, since I’ve only had a sample pair for a few months (and no significant snow fall yet). But I do know that they switched the material for both their Alpine boots to a better and more water resistant option. However nothing is truly waterproof forever – there is always a fail point after a certain amount of use.
I was really excited to try out the Xero Alpine pull on but then saw some negative reviews on their website. Please let us know your thoughts after you put them to the test!
I’m looking for a warm winter boots that is not totally bare foot. It wide toe box. I love my Lems and Altra shoes. I’m looking for something with insulation to keep me warm in my Wisconsin winters. I currently own Be lenka artic edge. I’m looking for something with a thicker sole similar to Altra.
I would suggest the new Insulated Breck Boot from Lems. It has the type of sole you’re looking for and is probably the warmest option with that type of construction. If you want to go for something really intense, there is also Steger Mukluks.
Do you know of any barefoot winter boots that are grounded? Either through thick leather soles or through other technology?
Hi Greta – The Bahe Revive has a thicker sole and is fairly warm, with grounding technology. Depending on how severe you winter is it might not be quite warm enough, but you also can replace the insole with a sheepskin alternative.