When it comes to venturing out in the snow, having the right pair of shoes is essential. Not only do you want to keep your feet warm and dry, but you also want to ensure that you stay stable on your feet. However, regular dress shoes or shoes made of cloth or canvas are not suitable for walking on the snow, as they allow the snow to seep in and cause discomfort.

So, what are the best kinds of shoes to wear in the snow? In this article, we will explore the different types of shoes that are ideal for snowy conditions, and how they can provide you with the necessary warmth, comfort, and stability to enjoy your time in the snow.

1. Shoes Made of Leather or Faux Leather

When it comes to shoes that can protect your feet from the snow, leather shoes are a great choice. Full grain and top grain leather are two types of leather that are perfect for snowshoes because they are water-resistant and keep the snow out of your feet.

Full grain leather shoes are made with leather that is only mildly treated, making them highly water-resistant. You can also spray them with a weatherproofing product for added protection. Many high-quality shoes from brands like Asics and Nike are made with full grain leather and come with water-resistant capabilities.

Top grain leather shoes are also weatherproof, but they are weaker than full grain leather because they have been polished and sanded. However, they still offer excellent protection against snow and water.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, faux leather shoes are a great choice. They are made of artificial materials that imitate real leather and are just as protective as real leather shoes when new. However, they may not last as long as real leather shoes.

In summary, shoes made of leather or faux leather are excellent choices for protecting your feet from the snow. Full grain and top grain leather offer the best protection, while faux leather is a more affordable option that still provides good protection.

2. Shoes with Cozy Lining for Insulation

When it comes to walking in the snow, you need shoes that keep your feet warm and dry. Shoes with a cozy lining are the perfect solution to achieve this. The fleece lining in these shoes traps the warmth generated by your feet and keeps it close to your skin. This insulation not only keeps your feet warm but also dry, allowing you to spend more time walking in the snow.

Avoid wearing rain boots in the snow, as they are designed to keep your feet dry rather than warm. Wet feet in the snow can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. If your shoes get wet from the snow, consider purchasing a shoe dryer to dry them out before your next outdoor adventure.

Investing in shoes with a cozy lining for insulation is a wise decision for those who enjoy walking in the snow. Not only will your feet stay warm and dry, but you'll also be able to enjoy the winter wonderland without any discomfort.

3. Shoes with Good Traction

When walking on snow, having shoes with good traction is essential to avoid slipping and falling. The type of traction you need depends on your activity. For mountain climbing, rigid crampons are best suited for snowshoes. However, if you're walking on light ice and snow, microspikes are perfect. For everyday use, such as going to work or school, look for shoes with rubber soles and deep treads. These will provide the stability you need on snow and ice. It's important to choose shoes with good traction to prevent any injuries and ensure a safe and enjoyable winter experience.

4. Shoes made with Gore-Tex technology

If you're looking for shoes that can keep your feet dry, warm, and breathable, then look no further than those made with Gore-Tex technology. This material is designed to keep water and snow out while letting sweat escape. This means that your feet will stay dry and comfortable all day long. Although shoes made with Gore-Tex technology may cost more than other shoes, they are worth the investment. You'll get the best value for your money, as they are durable and long-lasting. So, if you want to keep your feet comfortable and dry, consider investing in shoes made with Gore-Tex technology.

5. Waterproofed Shoes

When it comes to snowy or rainy weather, it is important to wear shoes that keep your feet dry. Most shoes let in water through the seams, so it is recommended to look for shoes that are waterproofed on the seams and throughout the entire shoe. Leather shoes are a great option as they can be sprayed with a weatherproof product to make them snowproof.

Waterproof shoes are preferable to water-resistant shoes as they can withstand exposure to water for longer periods of time. The best waterproof boots are made of rubber and do not have seams, such as wellies, which will keep your feet dry in even the wettest conditions.

Cloth shoes are not recommended as they soak up too much water and can leave your feet cold and heavy. By choosing waterproofed shoes, you can ensure that your feet stay dry and comfortable in any weather condition.

6. Shoes with Ankle Support

When hiking in the snow, it is crucial to wear shoes with ankle support, especially when hiking on trails with elevation gain. Snow boots come with ankle support in the high shaft, but if you prefer shoes, look for a pair with a shaft extending beyond the regular shoes. This extra support will come in handy when walking on steep trails in the snow. If you have weak ankles, choose boots that reach above your ankles to provide additional stability while walking on the snow.

Consider these features when looking for shoes with ankle support for hiking in the snow:

• High shaft extending beyond the regular shoes
• Strong ankle support
• Good traction on the sole
• Waterproof material to keep your feet dry
• Breathable material to prevent sweating and moisture buildup

By choosing shoes with ankle support, you can enjoy your hike in the snow with confidence and stability.

7. Shoes that are true-to-size

When it comes to buying shoes for walking on snow, it is important to ensure that you get the right size. Ill-fitting shoes can cause your feet to slip inside the shoes as you walk, which can hamper your stability. This can be especially dangerous when walking on snow, where there is already a small degree of instability to contend with.

To avoid this, it is recommended that you check whether the brand provides shoes that are true to size. If you normally wear a size 42 shoe, then that is what you should receive. However, you may want to consider ordering a pair that is half or one size bigger if you plan on wearing heavy merino socks to keep your feet warm.

By ensuring that you have shoes that fit properly, you can improve your stability and reduce the risk of slipping or falling when walking on snow. So, be sure to take the time to find the right size before you hit the trails.