We have a hunch that your enjoyment of winter is in direct proportion to how well you’ve prepared for it—starting with the best winter boots for women. Regardless of how low temperatures dip or how unhinged a snowstorm becomes, if your closet is primed to withstand the elements, you’re in a far better position to maneuver through everyday life no matter what weather comes your way. And while a chunky scarf or fuzzy hat might make excellent accompaniments to a cold-weather wardrobe, there’s no denying the utter necessity of a pair of chic, yet sturdy boots.
The season’s best winter boots for women hit all the marks of a worthy investment piece—quality materials, reliable craftsmanship, and styles that strike a balance between timeless and modern. Take Bottega Veneta’s Chelsea boot, for example, which offers all the features you’ve come to expect from this classic shape, but is also designed in a deep chocolate brown and with bold lug soles for an interesting finish. Or Burberry’s playful take on the snow boot with its all over signature check print. For those who might prefer a more subdued look, Toteme offers a classic waterproof boot this season made from smooth Italian rubber that will make rainy days feel particularly elegant. All of these, and much more, with the 50 best winter boots to shop ahead.
The Best Winter Boots for Women, According to Vogue
Shop the Best Winter Boots, by Style
Shearling
Turn up the texture this winter with plush linings and trims crafted in soft shearling or other furry materials; the soft and cozy texture is all over shearling bags (and of course, coats and jackets) as well this season. If you’re leaning toward a minimalist style, consider Toteme’s Off-Duty leather boots designed in a simple shape with fold-over cuffs. For a sturdier silhouette, Tory Burch’s shearling hiking boots or Jimmy Choo’s lined moto style marry warmth and practicality with elevated aesthetics.
Lug Soles
When sidewalks are precarious and a sturdy boot is all but essential, lug soles come to save the day. But despite their utilitarian nature, the season’s assortment of lug-soled boots is distinctly refined, with highlights including Gucci’s moccasin-style ankle boots adorned with horse bit hardware and finished off with durable lug soles.
Snow
When the weather forecast predicts multiple inches of snow, the only kind of winter boot to slip into is, of course, a snow boot. And despite these being the bulkiest styles, there’s plenty of luxe options for the season, like Loro Piano’s puffy nylon ankle boots crafted in a snowflake white, or Prada’s nylon and gabardine lace-up boots that would look particular chic for après ski.
Waterproof
For those long days of rain when a rubber boot feels wisest, look for styles that can play nicely with your wardrobe. Bottega Veneta’s smooth rubber boots are made with natural molecules (as opposed to synthetic) and offer a more modern silhouette than traditional picks. And you can’t go wrong with the budget-friendly classics like Hunter or Ugg, or La Canadienne’s extensive collection of waterproof boots.