I’ve got the trifecta of sensitive feet, cold toes, and a NEED for outdoor movement. So it was a bit of a rude awakening when I moved to Iowa and found I had nothing I could comfortably wear in the dead of winter. And thus began my hunt for seriously practical snow shoes that ALSO respected my precious toes and their need for space.
I present to you the best of the best winter boots that have a wide toe box and natural feel. We’re here for the functionality and the genuine comfort. No foot pain this winter please!
The All Time Warmest 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.
The Best Barefoot Winter Boots 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 ANYA25VB for 25% off everything but Sensus Yin, Sensus Slide, and Gobi Premium. You can use code ARVIVO20 20% off those.
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 both 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.
You can also find a warmlined version of the Gobi lace-up and Gobi Chelsea. These are indeed warm (I still recommend replacing the insole like in the others), but they’re my least favorite of the Vivo boots here because they are comparatively stiffer and narrower. More elevated look, but less comfortable.
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.
Be Lenka Winter Boots
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 4 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
Also new this year 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, but 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 Snowfox is a winter boot I’ve been joyfully using for a long time now. They are thinner and more flexible than the above, and not as inherently warm. But they feel so good to wear and the lacing system makes for a super secure fit.
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.
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 low volume)
- Runs small and I size up to a 38 consistently.
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! But if you want that flexibility and ground feel, I’d choose something else on this list.
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 Breck boot is a taller cut, waterproof boot with a side zip and the same thicker outsole. Again, a really practical outdoor boot (though the zipper is inherently not waterproof, so don’t stand in deep puddles). Not as warm as the brown Chelsea Tuff, but you could easily your own insole and pair with warm socks.
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 on the other boots here. So it’s got good grip and is well insulated. I personally prefer the Boulder Boot Grip, because it’s lighter and more flexible. But if you want the extra warmth the Summit is a good one.
Sizing & Fit
- Wide – not as roomy as the non-winter Lems or Be Lenka, but still quite generous.
- Plateau shaped – may not work for really square feet, but should for most others.
- Medium to high volume.
- Runs small.
Because these boots are more structured I feel the sides more. So I like to size up for space and because they generally feel small to me. This is true for all Lems boots, for both Justin and me. I size up to a 7.5 or 8, Justin to a 14 (!)
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, flexible, and yet warm and practical. 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 practical.
We carry them in the US as much as possible (linked above), but they sell out quickly 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!
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.
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 Xero Alpine is an all around solid barefoot snow boot. It comes up higher on the leg for deep snow, and is easy to cinch tight to keep it out. They are waterproof and come with a removable insole, which I swap out for a warmer sheepskin insole. These are warm enough for me in subzero temps with thick wool socks, but note that the fluff is only in the top and not lined throughout. The sole is stiff for a barefoot boot, but they are thinner than the Lems boots. I also found them to be slippery on ice (but great on snow).
Sizing & Fit
- Medium to wide width
- Plateau shape (rounded toe box)
- High volume
- True to size
In the Alpine I have lots of space above my toes! But likely won’t be wide enough for extra wide feet.
Currently the Alpine only comes in women’s size. For men who want something similar I recommend the Ridgeway boot.
Feelgrounds Patrol
Vegan Leather | Waterproof | Rated to 5F / -15C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Good
Use code ANYA5 for 5% off
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.
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 one
Jenon Leather Snowflake
Leather | Sheepskin Lining | Rated to -5F/-20C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Good
Use code JENON10 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). 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
The lining is very thick so I am glad I sized up one. 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
Use code AnyaFreet for 10% off.
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
Leather | Wool Lined | Rated to -50F / -46C | Ships from USA
Traction Rating: Snow – Great | Ice – Great
These boots are no longer 100% barefoot, read for details
Steger Mukluks are hands down the warmest almost-barefoot snow boots I’ve ever put my feet into. 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). This boot beats out all the others for both warmth and traction, and yet they are still flexible.
But unfortunately a new update to the outsole makes them no longer zero drop (roughly 5mm heel lift) and not as flexible as before. For some people in really cold climates, this small heel lift may be worth it, because of how warm they are.
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.
The Best Barefoot Winter Boots 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
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 boot 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. Wildling’s 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.
Realfoot
Leather & Vegan Options | Rated to 10F/-12C | Ships from EU
Traction Rating: Snow – Good | Ice – Good
Use code ANYASREVIEWS10 for 10% off.
Realfoot winter boots are soft, flexible, and oh so wide. They are not the warmest boots here, but they do the job and have the most toe space of any here. They are also well made and good quality.
Sizing & Fit Type
- Extra wide
- Square shaped
- Medium volume, but adjustable for all foot volumes
- True to size
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!
The Warmest Barefoot Winter Boots for Kids
For a review of my top kids picks for cold and snow, check out my Warm Barefoot Winter Boots for Kids post!
Tips for Staying Warm in Barefoot Shoes
Even if you don’t have the absolute warmest zero drop winter boots, there are things you can do to make them cozier. I use a combination of all these things through out the cold season.
Insoles
My all time favorite trick is to use an insole. Here are a few of my favorite warm insoles that make my regular boots more practical for winter. For more, read this post on barefoot insoles.
- Sheepskin – Takes up lots of space, you may want to size up in your shoes to fit
- Wool – Cut to fit your shoe size!
- Thermal (vegan) – I don’t find these to be very warm, but if you need vegan they are an option.
Socks
- Creepers Wool Toe Socks – Use this link for 10% off
- Injinji Wool Toe Socks
- Knitido Wool Toe Socks
- ToeToe Wool Toe Socks
- Thick boot socks
- Yoga Stirrup Socks – I use these over my socks almost every day. Knitido (linked above) also sells great ones
- Leg Warmers
Waterproofing Techniques
- Collonil Carbon Pro
- NikWax
- Sno Seal – Head over to Instagram for a tutorial on waterproofing with Sno Seal
- Aqua Seal – for seams/holes/etc.
Boot Liners
Depending on how much extra space you have inside your boots, liners can really increase their warmth. Put a warm liner inside a waterproof overshoe and you’ve got yourself warmth, traction, and waterproof-ness (just keep an eye out for the flat options).
- Intuition Denali Liner – This is a very expensive liner, but extremely warm.
- LL Bean Snow Boot Liner
- Fleece Liners
- Rain Boot Liner
215 thoughts on “The All Time Warmest Barefoot Winter Boots for Snow”
Hi Anya. I’ve been going in circles trying to get my first winter barefoot shoes. I’ve read through all your posts but I’m still very undecided because I’m trying to get a warm chelsea boot that’s good on snow and ice. I live in the south of Germany and the temperatures go down to – 10c during the winter with snow. Do you have any recommendations for a grippy yet warm and waterproof chelsea? Thank you in advance!!
Hi there, the Angles chelsea boots with a winter lining come to mind. They are very cozy and warm and the traction is pretty good. It’s not the best out there for traction, but the chelsea boot options that have better traction are not as warm. Another option that is a slip on boot but not a chelsea boot is the Be Lenka Polaris – they have a sheepskin lining and are the warmest boot they carry with a functional non slip outsole. Neither of these are waterproof though, but you would be able to waterproof them yourself with a spray protectant.
Hi Anya, thanks for this great info. I purchased the Shapen COZY Black barefoot shoes. Should I use a protectant spray to protect them from rain/snow damage? Thanks!
Yes – if you want to protect the leather we recommend spraying them before wear and periodically to keep them looking nice.
You can find some product suggestions here.
Wow thank you! I’m always looking for a foot-shaped shoe, a thicker (somewhat cushioned) sole would be appreciated, I don’t even mind a very slight drop. It should be water resistant, ideally leather, good traction (!), preferrably a chelsea, not toooo expensive (> 150) and available in EU. Any help appreciated haha. Thank you!
Mugavik Barefoot is a EU retailer that carries Lems shoes – I would suggest looking at those! The Lems Chelsea and Boulder Boot Grip are waterproof and cushioned! The Grip has better traction than the Chelsea.
Anya, thank you so much for your posts, such great information! I had purchased a pair of the Magical Shoes boots, but i found that the wool lining really irritated my skin so much even with socks. Can you recomend a warm lining that doesnt cause itching?
Hmmmm, I personally have found the Zeazoo Dingo to be super comfy without socks, as well as the Shapen Cozy.
Hi Anya! I’m an outdoors enthusiast slowly transitioning all my functional footwear to natural foot shaped/wide toe box and zero drop. I’d like warm winter boots (I live in New Hampshire, so single digits are very common in the winter) but ideally ones I can wear with snowshoes and microspikes for traction on snow and ice. Because “barefoot” brands design with thin, flexible soles for enhanced ground feel this can actually work against having any sort of harness system over your boot. I’d prefer a thicker sole for both insulation from cold and so as not to feel the metal spikes underfoot. Is there a boot you’d recommend with this in mind? Or any on your list that you’d particularly avoid for use with microspikes? Thanks!
Hi Kari! The Xero Alpine and any of the Be Lenka boots work well with ice spikes because the soles are thicker and less flexible.
I’m wondering if you found winter boots you like? I’m finding it difficult to locate zero drop, wide toe box boots (which I need for fit and comfort) but that have a thicker-than-barefoot sole (which I need for warmth). I tried the Xero Alpines last winter, and while they fit well they were not warm. The upper part of the boot was insulated enough, but the sole quickly became cold as I hiked around in the snow. Are there any barefoot shaped winter boots you would recommend?
Hi there! A couple Steger questions: their website and customer service claim says it is an 1/8” (3+mm) drop and they claim it’s actually more flexible than previous model.
1. What is your experience in how they perform in actual wearing them. I’m thinking of getting a pair for both myself and my son who is a forest runner/jumper and I’d like him to be more agile than what traditional snow boots like bogs would give him. They claim more flexible but you find them less? Thank you!
2. You mentioned you have the size 7 wide but at the end of the article you mention you have it in double wide. Do you mind sharing what it is to get a visual a bit from the photos.
Thank you! Much appreciated!
Hi Marie, mine are 7 Wide. The reference to the double wide is because that is the widest option for extra wide feet (and what Samantha, contributing author, wears in Stegers). About the heel, from what I understand Steger is referring to the heel lift in the molded insole that comes with the boots. Because I recommend swapping it out for the flat felt insoles that also come with your Steger order, the only heel lift I factored in is in the outsole itself. I did not find the new model to be more flexible, but it definitely wasn’t stiffer.
The Steger’s look like Quetico Tall’s. Are they, and do you have a preference? My wife has “duck feet”, very low volume. I want to get her something that is warm and sure footed, can you help?
Yes, they are Quetico tall. I wear them every year on the coldest days, total lifesavers. I would say for low volume feet the Quetico tall is a good one because of the wrap lace – I wrap it pretty tight around my ankles for extra security. I also wear them with leg warmers because they are wide in the heel and ankle area so my foot moves around a lot if I don’t (especially now that mine are very worn in). Even though they’re not perfect out of the box for low volume feet, they are by far my warmest boots and the best for deep snow.
Thanks so much for all your reviews, Anya! You have become my best source of information as I make the transition to barefoot shoes. (And at 73, my feet feel better than they did in middle age. So I’m your demonstration that it’s never too late.)
Both the Be Lenka winter boots and the Xero Alpine look good for our cold (sometimes subzero) and often snowy Chicago winters, but I’m wondering, what about waterproofing on the Alpines? (Because when we don’t have snow we’re apt to have near-freezing water everywhere.) They aren’t leather, so do you know if there are waterproofing treatments that work on them?
I love hearing that! The Alpines come waterproof, but with lots of wear will likely start to get water seepage (it’s inevitable in waterproof shoes). But you can use waterproofing treatment on non-leather shoes, both sprays and waxes can be used on them!
When I checked again the Be Lenka Winter boots were on sale, so I went with those. They arrived yesterday, and I think they will be great when the weather gets zero-ish again. I think I could have gone one more size up, but they are OK in the size I got. Thanks again!
Hey Anya, I’m pretty new to barefoot, I recently bought a Mika Xero Shoes but I found out that they lack grip on rain and ice. I live in Northern Sweden, and we have long and cold winters (-30ºC sometimes), therefore lots of snow and ice, and rainy springs, so they feel pretty restricted to use.
I’m an over thinker, and couldn’t decide what to try next, also because it will be an investment in terms of money. I’m looking for something that is warm but, most of all, that have great grip on ice, and wet floors, if they were vegan it would be the cherry on top of the cake. What would you recommend me? Thank you so much, I have learned a lot from your site.
Hi there. Zaqq Barefoot is in the EU and they have a wide variety of winter boot options, including vegan. And the sole is one of the better ones I’ve found for grip in slippery conditions. The Quintic that I review here comes in vegan.
Hi! I am looking for winter boots that both look good and are warm, waterproof and good for playing in the snow. I like zaqq quintic, but I am a bit sceptical because of the velour leather – in my experience smooth leather is easier to keep waterproof and good looking. Have you not had any problems with this issue? I very much like the zipper on the mukishoes igneous, but they are liste under the headline best barefoot winter boots for comfort that are not as functional for lots of time outdoors in wintery conditions. You did not write anything about why they are not as functional as the others? On some of the other shoes under that headline you wrote that the sole is not so good or they are not as warm as the others, but I did not find a reason on these.
The Mukushoes Igneous is not waterproof, not as warm, and not as grippy. So for real winter weather that would be problematic. But they’re super comfy and probably fine for some climates! The Zaqq Quintic Velour has a sturdy leather, but it does show wear more quickly than smooth leather. The waterproofing is internal, so if you waterproofed the outside it would be more to protect the leather from water damage – which you certainly could to preserve the look.
I see that you list the Be Lenka boots as extra wide. I got the Snowfox and sized up to a 39 (I’m a 39 in entice neo and 38 in prime) but still found it too tight across the base of my toes / the midfoot. I’m afraid if I size up one more it will be too long and still not wide enough. Do you have a recommendation for an even wider brand of pretty heavy duty snow boot? Or do some of the other Be Lenka models fit a little wider? The Snowfox seems rigid enough that it wouldn’t stretch with time.
The warmest Be Lenka winter models often are lower volume over the toes and can feel a little snug even though they are wide. I would suggest looking at Realfoot for a brand that should be soft and extra wide fitting from the beginning.
Really wish these companies would get some of the top tier winter soles like IceFX or Vibram’s Arctic Grip.
Nons Barefoot has some with Vibram’s ice outsole, I’ve just been waiting for her to get more inventory in before I added them! And Vivobarefoot has an arctic style boot coming out this fall (but I’ll be honest, I’m skeptical until I can try it in a foot snow, and in of ice, and -20F temps). But the good news we’ll be getting more truly winter friendly options soon
Anya, I just found these on Amazon, they seem somewhat comparable in feel to the Alpine Xero boots (though I haven’t tested in the winter yet). Zero drop, no arch support, wide toe box: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D5HCPPY8?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title&th=1
I’ve seen these white label shoes at a bunch of different sellers and shops. They are very similar to the Saguaro Will, and after my ANYASREVIEWS discount code about the same price too. They are soft and pretty warm, but not comparable to the Alpine because they are not waterproof nor very rugged/durable. My boys like to wear them running around outside in the cold weather, but they get soaked through pretty easily.