As soon as the first hint of frost makes itself known, it’s time to break the best winter boots out of storage. While whipping winter winds and the seemingly permanent chill in the air aren’t exactly exciting, from a fashion perspective, they’re a challenge to accept. Winter boots make a statement: they can make you feel festive and cozy, sleek and sultry, or rugged and ready to take on the world.
When it comes to essentials, our top picks range from classic, minimalist Chelsea boots to sleek knee-highs, plus all of the cozy, chunky, and insulated boots in between. This year’s trending styles are proof that practicality and design-forward silhouettes go hand-in-hand; lug soles, laces, and plush linings can be just as chic as they are high-performance. When cold weather rolls in, these warm, durable, and stylish winter boots are ready to take on everything from brunch to blizzards—or both in a single day. Below, shop the best winter boots, all hand-selected by Glamour editors, that keep you as stylish as they do warm.
The best winter boots for women, at a glance
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Best tall winter boots
Fashion need never be at the mercy of harsh winter conditions—so long as you have a great pair of knee-high boots in your arsenal. Although you may want to avoid stepping out into a snowstorm in these leather and suede styles, they’re the key to looking effortlessly chic when temperatures drop. Plus, tall women’s winter boots offer a practical way to style your favorite miniskirts and short dresses throughout the chilliest season of the year. You can even size up by a half size and wear wool socks or a pair of fleece-lined tights for extra warmth.
Best cozy winter boots
You know it’s time to slip on your coziest winter boots when you notice your morning coffee becomes a handwarmer and you wish you could wrap yourself in your duvet before heading out the door. Even without traipsing down the street in your comforter, you can still stay warm and toasty on the most blustery days, courtesy of winter’s snuggliest boots. In tandem with a faux-fur coat or chunky sweater, these simple silhouettes deliver a polished look with a cozy feel, proving that you can stay comfortable and look effortlessly chic at the same time. Just be sure to steer clear of slush puddles, as these styles aren’t necessarily waterproof boots.
Best winter Chelsea boots
For days when you want to look polished and elevated without trying too hard, Chelsea boots come in clutch. A winter capsule staple, the silhouette’s classic slip-on design makes it a style you’ll reach for when you’re rushing out the door. Chelsea boots are a great reminder not to overcomplicate winter style; high-quality leather and a minimalist silhouette go a long way. Invest in a timeless pair, and you’ll rock them year after year.
Best lug-sole winter boots
Wintertime and slushy, slippery commutes tend to go hand in hand, but lug-sole boots are durable enough to stand up to puddle season without forcing style to take a back seat. Tough grips, good traction, and design-forward silhouettes—ranging from minimalist ankle boots to lace-up boots ready for combat—will keep you moving forward. A pair of well-made lug-sole boots will be the uncontested MVP of your cold-weather shoe rotation, and the right pair will be cute enough to wear around the office, too.
Best winter snow boots
You can’t skip running errands or commuting to work just because the forecast calls for snow—but cold feet and soaked insoles won’t do, either. Short of pulling out your snowshoeing gear, only a pair of true snow boots, complete with slip-resistant rubber soles, waterproof uppers, and enough room for thick socks, fits the bill. The goal is functional and fashion-forward (not frumpy) winter footwear, and these durable, often fleece-lined styles are ready to rise to the occasion.
