The Best Winter Boots for Travel in 2022

Winter Boots Opener — Getty Images/iStockphoto

Planning which footwear to pack for a winter getaway can be a challenge, especially when your go-to travel shoes don't protect against weather extremes like rain, sleet, or snow.

So we pulled together a list of the toughest, warmest, and most packable boots out there. Read on to see which shoes are your best bets for winter hiking, full-leg coverage, and more.

Best for: Equestrian Style

Cole Haan Galina Boot — Courtesy of Vionic

These Vionic boots are a great travel companion because of their sturdy rubber soles, wather-resistant leather, and super comfy cushioned insoles.

To buy: vionicshoes.com, $250

Best for: A One-shoe Weekend

Winter boots can be clunky and take up a lot of precious luggage space. Wear these Coach Chelsea boots, which look great with casual jeans during the day, or with tights and a dress for a night out, and you won't need another pair all weekend.

To buy: coach.com, $295

Best for: Traction

Keen Elsa II Boots — Courtesy of Nordstrom

An extremely tough tread and waterproof construction make these Keen boots perfect for a weekend of exploring all types of terrain. Plus, we love the cozy faux-fur lining.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $130

Best For: Snow and Style

Merrell Chateau Boot — Courtesy of Cole Haan

These waterproof hiker boots from Cole Haan are not only weather-resistant, but cute. They'll easily take you from a snowy stroll to après ski and dinner with ease. This limited-edition colorway is part of a collaboration with celebrity stylist Simone Harouche and there are four more equally chic styles to check out, too.

To buy: colehaan.com, $270

Best for: A Rain Boot in Disguise

Moncler Short Rain Boot — Courtesy of Zappos

The last thing you want to pack for a vacation is a pair of large rain wellies that take up half your suitcase, but these sleek short boots with studded detailing and side goring panels don't even look like traditional galoshes.

To buy: zappos.com, $145

Best for: A Comfortable Classic

Aquatalia weatherproof boot — Courtesy of Nordstrom

The leather on this elegantly designed boot by Aquatalia has been treated with a protective weatherproofing process, and a subtle low heel makes them comfortable enough to bring on all your travels.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $595

Best for: Hiking

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge™ Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot — Courtesy of Columbia

Columbia offers a waterproof and seam-sealed boot that is technical enough to hike in, but simple and chic enough to wear as your everyday boot on a trip, too.

To buy: columbia.com, $80

Best for: Après-ski

Fur Trimmed Winter Boots — Courtesy of Matchesfashion.com

For those who want a bit of luxury this winter, these Italian-made suede and fur-trimmed, lug-soled boots will easily take you from the mountain to the lodge.

To buy: matchesfashion.com, $374

Best for: The Non-boot

Sneakers aren't typically known for their warmth, but this style of Keds is water- and stain-repellant and features a heat retention layer to keep feet dry and warm while treading around.

To buy: keds.com, $75

Best for: A Lace-up Boot

Doc Martens Lace-Up Boots — Courtesy of Zappos

There is no better lace-up than iconic Dr. Martens. This style is an update on the classic, and with its Goodyear welted construction and air-cushioned sole, these boots are to made to last. The vegan pair is one of Emma Watson's travel shoes of choice.

To buy: zappos.com, $140

Best for: Extreme Weather

Extreme Weather Boots by Sorel — Courtesy of Nordstrom

For those trips with unpredictable weather ahead, bring along these Sorel boots. The rubber sole, waterproof upper, and cozy faux-fur lining are guaranteed to keep the heat in and unwanted moisture out.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $170

Best for: A Little Height

Suede Wedge Boots by Aerosoles — Courtesy of Zappos

These waterproof leather Blondo boots will give you an added boost, perfect for perusing the streets of a new city (all while keeping you dry and comfortable).

To buy: nordstrom.com, $140

Best for: Full-leg Coverage

Stuart Weitzman Thigh-high Boots — Courtesy of Bloomingdale's

A pair of Stuart Weitzman suede thigh-highs will give you a leg up on packing, since they fold easily and won't wrinkle in transit.

To buy: bloomingdales.com, $798

Best for: A Pop of Color

Blundstone Red Trimmed Boots — Courtesy of Zappos

Blundstone boots are made resist rain, snow, oil, and even acid. The pink elastic goring is a colorful detail that will make an otherwise gloomy day brighter.

To buy: zappos.com, $175

Best for: Sleet

These Bogs boots will keep you grounded during the snowmelt, whether walking to the lodge or crossing a slippery city street. The built-in handles and lace-tops make them much easier to put on, too.

To buy: zappos.com, $100

Best for: Winter Wandering

Vasque Pow Pow III Hiking Boot — Courtesy of Eastern Mountain Sports

Vasque's Pow Pow III Ultradry style has a dual-density foot bed for extra stability and is lined with shearling and extra insulation, making this the best hiking boot out there!

To buy: ems.com, $150

Best for: Boots That Feel Like Slippers

Water-resistant Ugg Boots — Courtesy of Ugg

On your next cold-weather trip, bring along these Ugg boots with a water-resistant leather upper and a cozy wool lining and insole for extreme comfort and warmth.

To buy: ugg.com, $200

Best for: Suede Booties

Best Winter Travel Boots: Italeau Daniela Waterproof Suede Ankle Booties — Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Suede boots are the most versatile pick, but it's not easy to find a pair you can wear in the rain. Italeau has the waterproof and stain-resistant answer, and it comes with a two-inch block heel that's walkable enough for daytime wear and tear and polished enough to be dressed up by night.

To buy:neimanmarcus.com, $445