Can Snow Boots Be Used For Hiking?

When we think of snow boots, we are thinking of hiking in cold weather conditions. The goal of using snow boots is the crampons that attach to them and ensure that you don’t slip on the ice. However, if you have been using snow boots for your hiking, you might be wondering;

Can Snow Boots Be Used for Hiking?

Snow boots can be used for hiking. However, it might not be the most comfortable option when hiking. You might want to consider traditional hiking shoes or hiking boots. Hiking with snow boots is not impossible. However, you will only feel comfortable hiking with snow boots for a short distance before it becomes uncomfortable.

This article aims to give you all the information you need about snow boots and see which snow boots are the best. We have also included a small buyer’s guide that will ensure you know which features are the most important. The article should allow you to find the best snow boots on the market today.

Key Features To Look For Winter Hiking Boots For The Snow

Before looking at the top snow boots for hiking in the winter, you need to keep a couple of features in mind. These features will allow you to see how we went about selecting the top snow boots. You can use these features as your buyer’s guide to ensure that you get the best possible value for your money.

Fit

Snow boots tend to have a tight fit, and much like any other hiking boot, you need something that fits comfortably. If you are hiking plenty of miles with the boots, you should make sure that it is comfortable. Fortunately, you will find a guide that helps you determine the fit of each boot before hiking.

Materials

We always mention the durability factor when looking at the top hiking boots. However, the materials are directly related to the durability of the boot. Leather or synthetic leather is often the best to consider when looking for the best hiking boots. We would recommend leather for the durability and the insulation it will provide. However, it would be best if you treated it with a water-resistant solution.

Inner Lining

Each boot has an inner lining, and you must consider the boot’s inner lining before buying. The lining will not only wick away some of the excess moisture but keep your feet warm on the inside of the boot. If you are looking for a specific lining, Gore-Tex is one of the best materials for the inner lining.

Outer Sole

The thing about snow boots is the outer sole. The outer sole is one of the most important things for you to keep in mind. The main purpose of snow boots is the give you traction in wet and slippery conditions. Lug rubber is the best option for these outer soles. It might be harder, but when designed correctly, it will prevent slipping. When hiking on the ice, you might also want to consider adding crampons to your boots for better traction.

Weight

While we don’t emphasize the weight, it is something you want to keep in mind. Nothing is more frustrating than having tired feet and heavy boots to move around. However, you should not reduce the weight and lose some of the essential features. It is better to have heavy boots instead of lightweight boots with no features.

Support

One of the final features you will need to keep in mind is the shoes’ support. The support is often added in the form of a shank. Steel shanks are great for construction boots but too heavy for hiking. You might want to consider the nylon shank for additional stability and durability when hiking.

Top 3 Snow Hiking Boots

Now that you have a better understanding of the features of these boots, you might be wondering which of them are the best. We have used the features in the buyer’s guide to assist us in selecting the best snow boots. Here are some of the best boots to keep in mind when selecting snow boots for hiking:

Columbia Men’s Bugaboot III Snow Boot

Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon

Pros:

100% leather
Reliable brand
Good arch support
200g of insulation
Offers good traction

Cons:

Expensive

Bottom Line: The Columbia Men’s Bugaboot III Snow Boot is one of the top options on the market today. It is made from 100% genuine leather and features plenty of durability that you might need. The boot is designed for walking in the snow. The 200-grams of insulation should assist in keeping your feet warm as well.

Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot

Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon

Pros:

Made from 100% leather
Large design for wide feet
Resistant to temperatures of -40 degrees Fahrenheit
Thinsulate insulation

Cons:

It needs some time to break them in

Bottom Line: If you want a reliable shoe that will not cost you a fortune, the Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot is one of the best options on the market today. The boot might take some time to break in, but it will be comfortable once done. The Thinsulate should keep your feet warm, and durable outer soles provide excellent traction.

Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot

Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon

Pros:

Made from leather and textile
Lightweight
Comfortable inner lining
Available in numerous colors

Cons:

Expensive

Bottom Line: The Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot is the final option we have on the list, and it is one of the very best boots you can buy. The boot is designed with leather and textile, but the inner lining is what makes it comfortable. With the stylish design, the boot can be used for all walks of life.