The Best Winter Traction Boots

Ready to strap on some snowshoes and head into the woods, or climb Mt. Washington with a few friends? Or maybe you'll just be slushing around town while running a few errands? In any case, a pair of winter boots with good traction is essential. From low-key waterproof duck boots to technical mountaineering boots designed for ice climbing, selecting the best pair of winter boots depends entirely on how you intend to use them.

  1. Hiking Boots

    • Comfort and warmth are factors to consider when selecting general-purpose hiking boots. Boots like the leather Dolomite Ortles G or versatile Garmont Momentum Snow GTX have Gore-Tex liners to keep your toes dry and installation for warmth. High cuffs keep snow at bay and aggressive tread keeps you moving over slippery surfaces. Backpacker Magazine recommends the Danner Light/Light II leather mountain boot: "Despite no break-in time, the first mile in the Light IIs felt just as good as the last--terrific."

    Mountaineering Boots

    • Mountain-climbing boots tend to be made of ridge plastic.

      Typically constructed of rigid plastic, mountaineering boots have sophisticated insoles. Crampons attached to special indentations provide ultimate traction when moving over icy and treacherous surfaces. As of 2011, advanced materials and construction techniques have resulted in the development of more flexible--and therefore more comfortable--boots, such as the Salewa Raven Combi GTX.

    Winter Warmth

    • Muck--or pak--boots provide the greatest winter warmth and decent traction. Large, high on the leg and well-insulated pak boots work well for many activities, from pulling sleds to light hiking. Boots from Sorel and L.L. Bean have felt liners that keep feet warm down to around 0 degrees. Backpacker Magazine recommends the Muck Boot Arctic Sport. According to their tester, Muck boots are good in temperatures down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit, while "broad lugs provide traction for snow stomping in all but steep terrain."

    Trail Running

    • Muck boots can be a good choice in and around town, where comfort and warmth are priorities. However, trail runners like the Iceberg Attla Buprip or LA Sportiva Crossover GTX provide some of the best winter traction. The Buprips have 15 carbide spikes embedded across an aggressive tread of rubber lugs. The odd-looking LA Sportivas feature a Gore-Tex liner and above-the-ankle gaiter to seal out water and debris, while a double-layer proprietary insole provides support and protection.