The best men’s winter boots to keep your feet warm and dry

Looking for the best men’s winter boots so you can go out and enjoy the Canadian winter? With so many choices out there, it can be tricky to pick a pair that fits both your needs and budget. Fortunately, the SAIL team has tested dozens of models from many of the best outdoor brands. Here are their top winter boots recommendations.

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Best men’s winter boots for extreme conditions: Baffin

Founded in 1979 in Canada, Baffin quickly established itself as one of the country’s top manufacturers of winter gear. Seventeen years after its creation, the company launched its signature inner-boot system, which allows anyone wearing Baffin boots to remain comfortable in temperatures up to -70 ℃.

One of the brand’s flagship models is the Snow Monster, designed for extreme weather pursuits. These winter boots are made for moderate activities and come with a long list of technical features. Lightweight, flexible, and breathable, the boots also come with the staple removable multi-layer inner boot system, which comprises a wicking layer near the foot. The rubber outsole is resistant to wear and tear, for a pair of boots that will stand the test of time.

The Zone is another one of Baffin’s models, this one being more adapted to active winter days. Short and lightweight, it comes with plenty of cushioning and a breathable upper for those exploring the trails throughout the colder months. These winter boots were even tested by Baffin ambassadors during marathons and ultramarathons held in some of the world’s harshest environments, making them a reliable choice for all your winter pursuits.

Best men’s winter boots for snow sports: Columbia

Columbia is known worldwide for its innovative use of technology and its high-performance gear. From outdoor clothing to equipment and footwear, the manufacturer offers a wide range of products to fit every outdoor adventure, and winter boots are no exception.

Hikers should look at the Liftop III men’s winter boots. This model is lightweight and fully waterproof, yet extremely breathable thanks to the leather and mesh upper. Its 200 g insulation ensures your feet stay warm and dry, while the rubber outsole provides enough traction to keep you steady on slippery terrain.

While hikers can trust the Liftop III boots, skiers should check out the Bugaboot III. With its waterproof leather upper, sealed seams and 200 g insulation, this product was designed for cold weather protection. The boots are rated to -32 ℃ and provide high energy return. Perfect for those frigid days spent on the mountain.

Best men’s winter boots for sustainability: Keen

Known for its original designs and sustainable practice, Keen is solely focused on developing footwear that doesn’t harm the planet. The company offers the whole gamut: sandals, shoes, boots and winter boots.

With the Revel IV Mid Polar, Keen has created a men’s winter boot that keeps your feet warm and cozy up to -32 ℃. Its 200 g recycled PET insulation provides the warmth of a down jacket, while the multidirectional lugs give it exceptional traction on icy terrain. The upper is also made from environmentally preferred leather, in line with the company’s sustainable practices.

The Circadia Mid Polar, on the other hand, is a winter twist on a classic! The winterized version of Keen’s popular Circadia hiking boot features an added 200 g of warm insulation, a waterproof-breathable membrane and a high-traction outsole. In short, it is a hiking boot designed specifically for winter enthusiasts. Its midsole is made with high-density foam for extra cushioning, and eco-friendly materials such as environmentally preferred leather and PFC-free water repellent are used to manufacture this product.

Most versatile men’s winter boots: Merrell

When it comes to active footwear, Merrell needs no introduction. This global leader offers a wide range of winter boots for every outdoor pursuit; from hiking to trail running.

The Cham 8 Thermo Tall is a versatile winter boot. This model is lightweight, waterproof, and provides protection and stability for your feet and ankles as you go over tricky terrain. With its 400 g of insulation, the Cham 8 Thermo can be trusted to keep your feet warm even in the harshest of temperatures. The protective rubber top cap also comes in handy on rugged trails.

Another model that’s been updated to allow for ultimate performance during the winter is the Moab III Thermo Extreme. Take the same great features found on Merrell’s popular Moab hiking boots, add 600 g of Primaloft® Gold Eco insulation as well as a Vibram® IceTrek outsole for ultimate traction on icy surfaces and you have yourself a high-performance pair of winter hiking boots! The cherry on top? The cozy fleece-lined interior for added comfort.

Best men’s winter boots for protection: Salomon

Salomon was born in the French Alps, so the brand is no stranger to harsh winter conditions. Its purpose is to help connect people with nature, and with a wide range of winter boots, the manufacturer has certainly made it easier for outdoor enthusiasts to step out into the cold.

Those looking for the ultimate protection during the winter months should have a look at the Toundra Pro men’s winter boots. This model provides great traction thanks to the aggressive treads on its outsole, made using a compound that stays grippy even in cold temperatures. When it comes to warmth, this is the brand’s best-performing product. Its Aerotherm™ Aerogel technology, first used by NASA, makes the winter boots warm to -40 ℃ while the Climasalomon waterproof booties ensure water doesn’t seep in.

The Shelter is a shorter option, more suited for urban exploration. However, the same protection features can be found in the Shelter as in other Salomon winter boots: strong support, fully waterproof bootie, protective toe cap and weatherproof, durable materials.

For more tips on how to choose your winter boots, have a read of the article on our blog.