As a mom, outdoor adventurer, and frequent traveler, I’m on my feet a heck of a lot.  Since walking is more than just exercise and leisure, but a form of transportation most days, I can’t mess around with footwear.  In the fall, winter, and even spring (spring lasts from March to July in Seattle!), I need boots that will protect my feet from the elements, provide comfort, hold up, and even help me look a little put together!

Over the years I have tested several different brands and styles of women’s winter boots, and I have compiled my favorites here in a round-up.  Of course, different boots serve different purposes.  You’ll see in each description what conditions and situations each pair works best in.

Know that for each of the the winter boots featured here, many miles have been walked, so I consider the testing fairly rigorous! Miles logged include hiking on trails, long city walks, snowy treks, rainy visits to the playground, and everything in between.

Also keep in mind that we live in Seattle, so my frame of reference is going to be centered around, “What’s going to keep my feet dry?”.

Favorite Winter Boots for Traveling & Outdoor Women

Clarks Women’s Reunite Up GTX

I received these lace-up boots for Christmas in 2017 from Slaed after eyeing them on another blog.  I wish I could remember her site to give her credit! The big reason for this purchase was that I needed a brown boot option that was waterproof, warm, stylish, and comfortable for our upcoming trip to London.  The Clarks Reunite Up delivered on all of that, and are still going strong! While I’d opt for more of a traditional rain boot for stormy, downpour days, these boots are great for our everyday Seattle-misty rain, and post-rain conditions.

Quick Facts: 

• 100% Waterproof via GORETEX
• Leather & faux fur (inside) construction
• Rubber outsole provides great traction & grip on slick sidewalks.
• 2-ways to wear: Laced up to about mid-calf or Folded down more like an ankle boot

Bogs Womens Insulated Rain Boots

Since moving to Seattle, I’ve had about 3 different pairs of Bogs Rain Boots.  They perform well, are comfortable, and the big factor for me: They not only keep my feet dry in pouring down rain, they also keep my feet warm.  I also love the handles at the top of the boot making them easy to slide on (and carry around)!  Unfortunately, the soles tend to wear about, and start to leak, after about 2 years.  Knowing how much I wear them, and how much walking (miles and miles and miles) I do, this hasn’t been a deal breaker for me.  Another plus–so many pattern choices & styles.  Make sure to shop around to find the best fit/pattern for you.  These winter bloom classic bogs caught my eye!

Quick Facts: 

• 100% Waterproof
• Rubber & Neoprene construction
• Insulated to -40 degrees F
• Solid gripping sole traction for slippery, wet sidewalks

Arcopedico L19 Booties

The perfect travel boot(ie)! These leather ankle boots are extremely comfortable, lightweight, and durable.  Despite their simplicity, they pack a punch, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how they’ve held up on high step count days.  I walk my kids to and from school (over a mile each way), and have felt continuous comfort when wearing the Arcopedico L19 Booties.  Speaking of, I love that I’m not limited to a more “typical” walking shoe or sneaker.  Even though I have some miles to cover, I can still look stylish and put together thanks to the L19 Booties!

These boots came along on our recent trip to Colorado, and I was also very impressed with their packability. They fold up small (see photo for reference), and bounce back to their original shape beautifully.     I don’t recommend wearing Arcopedico in icy, snowy conditions, or heavy rain.   However, when the sidewalks are clear, like they were in downtown Denver, and the temperatures are chilly, the boots keep feet warm and cozy.  Even a little rain is fine too as these Arcopedicos are water resistant!

Quick Facts:

• Vegan leather/”Lytech” construction
• Water Resistant
• Rubber soles includes air-cushioned heel
• Side-zipper (easy on and off)
• European sizing

Muck’s Women’s Liberty Alpine

The Women’s Liberty Alpine from Muck Boots feels a lot like I’m wearing a hiking boot.  However, unlike a more tradition hiking boot, I feel more stylish and put together when I wear them.  I’ve even worn them to the ballet! Yes, it’s the Pacific Northwest, and it also happened to be during our epic snowmageddon event, but still.  They are a flattering boot.

Since the Liberty Alpines are 100% waterproof, I love having the option to wear them on rainy days (and snowy days) when I want to look a little more “formal”.  I will say, after walking several miles at a time, my feet tend to ache a little more in the Liberty Alpines compared other boots.  This may be due to the boot’s weight since they are so heavy duty.  I also learned in my research that the boots tend to run a little narrow.

Quick Facts: 

• 100% Waterproof
• Leather & neoprene construction
• 1.25″ heel
• Quick-adjust grommet & eyelet lacing

XtraTuf’s Women’s Salmon Sisters 12-inch Legacy Boot

I get a feeling of complete ease and comfort when I wear my XtraTuf boots.    They are simple to slip on and off, and I love the fold-over option that reveals the gorgeous, salmon sisters design. Make sure to click through to the XtraTuf site to see all of the amazing patterns.  XtraTuf boots, like many rain boot options, are only offered in full sizes.  I opted to size up to a size 9 (I’m a true 8.5), and do find them roomy, but with thick socks, they are the perfect fit.  I’ve confidently traipsed around in snow and rain in these boots, and: I know my feet will stay protected, I know my feet will stay dry, and I know I’ll be provided with plenty of traction and stability.  I almost find myself wishing for a little rain just so I have an excuse to wear them! Almost 😉

Quick Facts: 

• 100% Waterproof
• Slip Resistant
• Triple dipped neoprene construction
• Cork cushion insole

I hope this round-up provides you with ideas and inspiration in finding the perfect winter boot for you or a loved one.

Have a favorite winter boot? Please share it here in our comment section, and I’d love to chat more!

I was provided with a complimentary pair of Arcopedico L19 boots, Muck Liberty Alpine boots, and XtraTuf Salmon Sisters Legacy boots for purposes of review.  All opinions expressed here are my own, honest thoughts! This post also contains affiliate links.  Purchases made through these unique links will provide us with a small commission.