These Are T+L Editors’ 13 Favorite Winter Shoes of 2023

Sam Edelman Garret Combat Platform Boots

4.6

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Style, comfort, and functionality combine in these leather combat boots from Sam Edelman. They were made for taking on cold, wet winter days thanks to their waterproof construction and 2.28-inch lug soles, which provide stability on any type of terrain. Customize your fit with both laces and a side zipper, and choose from four neutral colors ranging from ivory to black.

“Living in New York City, waterproof boots like these that won’t have your feet screaming after walking miles at a time are essential,” commerce editor Lydia Price said. “They stood up to complete downpours that left the rest of me soaking wet, the thick sole is comfortable to walk on, and there’s enough traction for slippery winter streets. I also love their look — they’ve easily paired well with dresses, leggings, and jeans.” 

Price at time of publish: $180

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

5

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If you’re looking to get active this winter, consider these ultra-durable hikers from Merrell. They’ve got everything you need for the most comfortable winter trek of your life: a waterproof membrane, a breathable lining, a supportive and removable footbed, and a comfy foam midsole that offers stability on tough terrains. Featuring pig suede leather, metal hook closures, and abrasion-resistant toe caps, these shoes are sure to stand up to snow, rain, and mud for years. You can snag them in brown, gray, or navy.

“Merrell makes some of the most indestructible boots on the planet,” articles editor Paul Brady said. “I like the waterproof and mid-rise Moabs, which are just as good for a rainy day dog walk as they are for a 10-miler in the Catskills.”

Price at time of publish: $145

Kate Spade New York Women’s Star Rain Boots

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Don’t want to sacrifice style for a good pair of rain boots? You don’t have to when you’ve got Kate Spade’s Star Boots on hand. The Chelsea-style rain boots boast a glossy black upper, gold-tone piping, and subtle gold hardware at the ankle. A 1.5-inch heel adds a bit of height without taking away from the comfort these boots are known for — but our favorite thing about them is that they look and feel so much more elevated than your typical rain boots.

“These Kate Spade boots have been my go-to on most wet, winter days,” senior commerce editor Morgan Ashley Parker said. “I wore my first pair literally into the ground and, when they got a small tear — about 5 years after I purchased them — I immediately ordered a replacement. They don’t look like rubber from a distance and I’ve recommended them to so many strangers who've stopped me over the years, too.”

Price at time of publish: $158

Blondo Suede Waterproof Velma Boots

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Over-the-knee boots are a must for both warmth and style during the winter months, and this pair by Blondo is one of the best pairs on the market. They feature insulated lining, watertight construction, and a low, stacked heel for stability on slippery surfaces. Despite their length and lack of a zipper or lacing system, they couldn’t be easier to pull on — just slide them up with the help of a stretchy back panel. Choose between black, brown, and camel suede (or add all three to your cart).

“When I finally sucked it up and bought winter boots, I opted for these,” Parker said. “I reach for them when there’s a chance of snow — and don’t feel foolish when the forecast gets it wrong. Not only are they waterproof, the over-the-knee height means they keep my legs warm even with a short dress. I’ve worn them through true snowbanks in Chicago on repeated visits, so I know they hold up in actual accumulation beyond New York City sludge puddles.”

Price at time of publish: $230

Merrell Women’s Bravada Knit Bluff Polar Waterproof Boots

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Though they’re incredibly functional, sneaker boots and hikers tend to have a bit of a bulky look — but this pick from Merrell aims to change that. Equipped with all the best features of a great pair of hikers — a waterproof membrane, a shock-absorbing heel, and a durable rubber outsole — the Bravada Knit Bluff Polars also include a faux fur collar, fleece lining, added stability in the midsole, and a slim, lightweight build. That means you can hike, shovel snow, or walk about town in warmth, comfort, and style.

“I was gifted a pair of Merrell boots that taught me, on first wear, the value of an insulated, extra-grippy, proper snow boot,” deputy photo editor Skye Senterfeit said. “I’ve never looked back. My [first pair] is still going strong, but this winter I’ll be working this newer Merrell model into rotation; a sleeker, lighter option that still delivers winter-storm-ready insulation, waterproofing, and grip.”

Price at time of publish: $130

Pawj California Vegan Fur Lined Slippers

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Slippers are an integral part of winter. Walking around the house or hotel room without them when temperatures drop just feels wrong (and cold), so a pair that adds comfort and warmth to your day is essential. Opt for Pawj California’s Vegan Fur Lined Slippers, which have an ultra-soft vegan suede upper, faux fur insole and lining, and a durable, reinforced heel that’s strong enough to handle concrete on occasion. They come in Black Mink and Snow Leopard colorways, and if you ask us to choose our favorite, we’d simply say both.

“These super soft faux shearling and faux fur-lined slippers are perfect for keeping your toes toasty at home,” Senterfeit said. “Bonus: The sole is sturdy enough that you won’t have to change out of your slippers if you’re going out for a quick coffee run.”

Price at time of publish: $100

Tory Burch Ladybug Sneaker

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Whether you like to switch up your winter footwear game or you’re simply not a boot person, these durable Tory Burch sneakers are a stylish and functional alternative. Constructed with leather and suede uppers, a leather footbed, and rubber and poly soles, you’d be hard-pressed to find a pair of sneakers that stand up to moisture and frigid temperatures better than these. The shoes also happen to be the epitome of shoe craftsmanship, from the logo-printed soles to the sturdy aglets featuring the company name. Throw these in your cart to have on hand for low accumulation days — or grab them in other shades like Prickly Pear, Fluorescent Pink, or Frost.

“I love the pop of green on these comfortable, retro-leaning sneakers from Tory Burch,” editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford said. “They feel like a more polished, fashion-forward version of something you might wear on the tennis court.”

Price at time of publish: $288

Senso Mona Ankle Boots

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High-quality leather? Check. Cozy faux-shearling lining? Check. Rugged lug sole? Check. These ankle boots from Senso are the perfect option if you’re on the hunt for snow boots that don’t look like snow boots. The chic booties work just as well at the office or during a night out thanks to silver hardware, trendy straps, and a 1.2-inch heel. The boots also feature a comfortable insole and a pull tab on the heel to help ease your foot in.

“The moment I spotted these cozy boots, into my cart they went,” Parker said. “The lug sole adds a little edge to standard leather moto booties, but the real standout is the faux shearling inside. I bought them a size up so I could still add a thicker sock, and my feet have never been toastier. They’re a snuggly choice when temperatures drop in the city, and I treated them with a waterproofing spray for added protection in those just-in-case moments as well.”

Price at time of publish: $278

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals

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It’s no secret that Birkenstocks are comfy, durable, and built to last for years. However, if you want to up the ante, we insist you try the Arizona Shearling Sandals. The cozy shoes feature the brand’s classic open-toe, double-buckle sandal design, but they’ve been upgraded with soft shearling on the insole and underside of the buckles for added warmth during the winter months. The shoes are also crafted with a suede upper and anatomically formed cork-latex footbed, so you know their comfort is truly next level.

“I've been wearing Birkenstocks for years, and I absolutely cannot recommend the shearling style enough!” digital associate editor Jamie Aranoff said. “They are beyond comfortable. I wear them with and without socks depending on the style, and I never have an issue with my feet overheating. They are a little pricey but will last a long time.”

Price at time of publish: $160

Sperry Women’s Torrent Lace Up Boots

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These lace-ups from Sperry are everything you could ever want from a pair of winter boots. They’re completely waterproof, but thanks to a sleek suede upper and faux fur trim, they’ll never sacrifice style for function. They additionally spotlight Sperry’s signature IceTread, which provides superior grip on even the wettest, snowiest, and iciest of days. The boots are also constructed with a D-ring hardware lacing system, so they’re not likely to tear or lose their shape. Grab these in black, ivory, or tan.

“As a person who is chronically cold, I found it strange when these boots actually had me looking forward to the first snowfall of the season,” associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin said. “But it was hard not to — the chic, non-bulky silhouette paired with impossibly soft faux fur trim make for quite the winter fashion statement. On top of that, the boots are super comfy and have excellent traction. I can't wait to wear them on snow days and ski trips this winter.”

Price at time of publish: $170

Vagabond Shoemakers Kenova Lace Up Boots

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Looking for a pair of do-it-all combat boots this winter? Look no further than Vagabond Shoemakers’ Kenova Lace Up boots. The slim-fitting style keeps shoppers’ warm and dry in every situation, including all-day downpours, muddy hikes, and afternoons of running errands in the snow. They’re extra-sturdy thanks to a cap toe and treaded lug sole, while buttery leather and a 1.5-inch heel keep them stylish. Though they’re built with laces, they also feature side zippers to help ease the foot in and out.

“These are the most versatile boots I've ever owned,” Maglin said. “In the year I've had them, I've worn them to explore new cities, to hike, and even to attend a winter baby shower. They're just as durable as they are sleek and stylish, and after a year of frequent use, they have virtually no signs of wear.”

Price at time of publish: $210

Sorel Women's Explorer Carnival

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We’re firm believers that everyone should have a quality pair of duck boots in their closet. The style gets its name from its duck-like upper, which expertly keeps moisture at bay. The Winter Carnival Boots from Sorel are the duck boots we wish we knew about years ago — they’re handcrafted, waterproof, and unbelievably warm. Not to mention that the felt inner boot (which is the source of all the warmth and coziness) is removable and washable. The Canada-made, mid-calf boots’ outsole is made for trekking through heavy snow, while durable laces stay tied all day to lock in heat.

“If you're buying winter boots, buy Canadian,” luxury and experiences editor Maya Kachroo-Levine said. “We know about winter. And when in doubt, duck boots forever.”

Price at time of publish: $180