Winter Boots & Cold-Weather Shoes: How to Choose

From sheepskin boots to waterproof leather, here's how to choose cold-weather footwear that keeps you warm, dry, and steady — and which styles we carry at Feet Heart.

What should you look for in a winter boot?

Three things matter most: warmth (sheepskin or insulation), traction (a lugged or grippy outsole for ice and slush), and water resistance (treated leather, waterproof membranes, or sealed seams). How much of each you need depends on whether you're walking city sidewalks or facing real snow.

Best winter boots we carry

• UGG — Classic Mini II, Classic Short, and Tasman for sheepskin warmth. Shop the UGG collection.
• Timberland — the 6-Inch Premium and Earthkeeper in waterproof nubuck. Shop Timberland.
• Dr. Martens — 1460, and the chunky 2976 Quad and 1461 Quad for leather durability. Shop Dr. Martens.
• Birkenstock shearling — Boston Shearling and Uppsala for cozy, contoured warmth.

See all of them in our boots collection.

Are UGG boots good for snow?

Classic UGG boots are made for warmth, not deep snow or heavy rain — the suede can stain when soaked. For wet conditions, choose UGG's waterproof or rubber-soled styles, or treat the suede with a protector. More detail in are UGGs waterproof?

Are Timberlands waterproof?

The classic Timberland 6-Inch Premium uses waterproof nubuck and sealed seams, which handle rain and slush well. See are Timberlands waterproof? for the specifics.

Which UGG boots are the warmest?

Taller, fully-lined styles trap the most heat. We compared them in the warmest UGG boots for winter.

What about winter slippers and house shoes?

For indoor warmth, UGG Tasman, Tazz, and Scuffette slippers and Birkenstock shearling clogs keep feet cozy. Browse women's slippers.

Sizing help

UGG and Birkenstock fit differently from regular shoes. Check our UGG sizing guide, Birkenstock sizing guide, and Timberland sizing guide before you order.

Fit help and in-store shopping

Not sure which winter boot is right? Visit Feet World in Culver City or Arcadia, call (310) 398-7497, or email info@feetheart.com. See store locations and hours.