The best snow boots for all your winter plans

This year, instead of sleek boots designed for urban commutes or evening events, many of us are probably more focused on finding the warmest, most comfortable footwear for spending more time outdoors all winter long. 

And while all the best winter boots will invariably be versatile, durable and rated for very low temperatures, you'll want to consider your seasonal plans, too, while selecting the perfect pair for your needs. After all, lightweight, cozy styles designed for urban excursions won't perform quite as well for walking through deep, snowy trails — and vice versa. Finding a great pair that meets your requirements is a matter of  making sure the style you love checks off all the essential performance boxes, from non-slip soles to waterproof seams to robust insulation. 

Here are a dozen stylish, feature-packed pairs to inspire your snow-boot search this season.  

For distanced, outdoor gatherings

These warm boots are better in wet, icy conditions than classic Ugg boots, but are just as cozy to wear for wintry backyard hangouts with blankets or space heaters nearby.  

Women's Classic Weather Short, $225, Ugg

These extra puffy boots may just feel like a parka on your feet, and that's not a bad thing! Especially if you're sitting around on a patio or deck for hours, and need to keep your toes warm.

Women's Thermoball Tall, $159.99, The North Face

These eco-friendly boots feature an outsole partially made from recycled rubber, and PrimaLoft insulation and a PET fleece lining made from recycled plastic bottles. Wear them to catch up with a friend on a deck or park bench. 

Men's Chillberg Tall Insulated Waterproof Boots, $170, Timberland

For snowy trail walks

Sorel's Caribou boot is a winter classic that is ideal for heavy snow. The leather upper is waterproof, the outsole offers decent traction, and the felt liner is removable and washable.

Men's Caribou Boot, $200, Sorel 

Relatively lightweight and streamlined, these tall boots are great for mucking around outdoors thanks to their waterproof design and seamless construction. Plus, they are comfort rated to a very cold -60ºC.

Bozeman Tall Men's Winter Boots, $175, Bogs

Puffy, quilted boots are a big trend this season. This pair by Keen comes with a wide range of features that are particularly helpful for snowy conditions: a waterproof, breathable membrane, insulation-rated to -32°C, and a rubber outsole for good traction. 

Women's Greta Waterproof Boot, $220, Keen

For active, cold-weather pursuits

If you've ever tried to run up a sledding hill in a pair of heavy, tall snow boots … you'll appreciate the flexibility of this lightweight, insulated winter sneaker-boot hybrid from L.L.Bean. Plus, they'll fit well under your lined pants. 

Men's Snow Sneaker Mid Lace-Up, $195, L.L.Bean 

Nice for snowball fights and other winter fun sports, this sporty and flashy Pajar "active snowboot" is good to -30°C. There's a Vibram Arctic Grip sole and plenty of waterproofing features to keep snow, ice and slush at bay. 

Exo Light NY F Puff, $275, Pajar

For urban explorations

For work and the weekend, these salt stain-resistant, waterproof leather boots will ensure a fashionable impression. 

Men's Cascade Arctic Grip Winter Boot, $200, Kodiak

Also available in eye-catching silver and classic black, this fleece-lined pair is temperature rated to -30°C. Perfect for weekday school runs, or downtown walks with friends. 

Pax Leather Winter Boot, $230, Cougar

This vegan-friendly women's style offers a well-priced take on the hiking boot trend that's been so popular lately. Wear it to the dog park, or for running errands around town.

Thierrania, $89.99, Call It Spring 

A youthful, winter-ready take on Converse's iconic Chuck Taylor All Star shoe that's perfect for city strolls, these boots feature a water-repellent polyester and warm lining.

Water Repellent Chuck Taylor All Star MC Boot High Top, $140, Converse

Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.