As soon as I arrived in Canada, on March 3^rd, 2022, to be precise, I was confronted with sub-zero temperatures and snow. Having packed only sneakers and ankle boots that were unsuitable for walking in the snow, I had to find a solution quickly to keep my feet warm and dry. After several hours of searching, I finally found THE pair of cute snow boots that would enable me to face the great Canadian cold. In this article, I’ll explain the criteria to look for so that you too can find what you’re looking for.

Important Criteria for Choosing Cute Snow Boots for Canadian Winters

Temperature Rating: Understanding Cold Resistance

The temperature rating indicates how warm your feet will be. Generally speaking, there are four temperature ratings for snow boots: -10°C, -20°C, -30°C and -40°C.

If you’re looking for snow boots to get you around town, say in Toronto, a rating of 0 to -25°C should suffice.

However, if your environment is colder and/or you’re planning an expedition lasting several days, opt for a warmer temperature rating (from -40°C).

This first criterion is important, as it determines the composition of your snow boots. Generally speaking, the more resistant a shoe is to the cold, the heavier it will be, making it less practical for everyday use.

Insulation and Lining Options

When choosing snow boots to face the cold Canadian climate, it’s important to consider the level of insulation, and therefore the lining. This choice will be determined by your level of activity. If you do a lot of walking, it’s best to choose a pair of snow boots with insulation that’s not too hot. The idea is to prevent you from sweating too much in your snow boots. In this case, a sheepskin lining is a good option.

On the other hand, if you plan to spend many hours in very cold temperatures, you’re better off with synthetic materials such as Thinsulate or Primaloft. These materials are renowned for retaining heat while remaining very light. Note that for these synthetics, there are different degrees of insulation:

• 100 g: light insulation. Perfect for mild autumn temperatures.
• 200 g: medium insulation. It should be enough for everyday activities.
• 400 g or 600 g: high insulation. Ideal for long-term outdoor activities or extremely cold conditions.

Tip: if you’re an indecisive person like me, and want a pair of snow boots that you can use for everyday wear as well as for activities in the cold of Canada, some boots come with a removable lining. So when you get too hot, you can remove the lining. A good compromise, don’t you think?

Waterproofing and Breathability Features

Because you’ll undoubtedly have to deal with snow, your boots need to be totally waterproof. One of the most common technologies used to guarantee waterproofing is GORE-TEX. As well as being waterproof, this material is also breathable. Having boots that “breathe” is important, as it wicks away perspiration while keeping moisture out. In other words, it keeps your little feet warm and dry.

In addition to GORE-TEX, other materials such as treated leather and certain types of synthetic also offer excellent water resistance. However, it’s important to note that, even if the boots’ material is waterproof, the construction and seams also play a crucial role. Indeed, opt for sealed seams and waterproof membranes. You’ll thank me, especially if you’re looking for boots for walking in the snow.

Sole Types

If you don’t want to fall over in front of everyone because you’ve accidentally slipped on a hidden patch of ice (yes, I’ve been there), the sole is your best friend. As well as preventing you from slipping, they’re your first line of defense against the cold emanating from the ground and your feet. While no sole is infallible, some are more grippy than others.

• EVA soles: this self-insulating foam provides complete insulation from the cold emanating from the ground. What’s more, the sole is molded in a single piece. There are no seams, making it completely waterproof.
• Thick rubber soles: the thicker the week, the better the insulation against the Canadian cold. Among the most widely recognized, Vibram Arctic Grip soles feature specific patterns that grip extremely well on slippery surfaces.
• Insoles with integrated studs: the ultimate in grip. These crampons, often removable, can be deployed in situations such as walking on icy surfaces. Not necessary if you’re staying in town, though.

In all cases, you’ll want to opt for notched rather than smooth soles. Also, unless you really want to, avoid snow boots with heels.

The Height

Whether your Canadian snow boots are ankle-high or calf-high is entirely a matter of taste. Note, however, that your snow boots must be high enough to protect you if you walk in the snow.

Material Composition

GORE-TEX footwear is generally the best choice. As we saw earlier, this material is both waterproof and breathable. The perfect choice for winter! Nevertheless, GORE-TEX footwear can represent a budget.

If you’re looking for other options, leather is also an excellent choice. Leather is renowned for its waterproof qualities. Nevertheless, leather snow boots tend to be a little less breathable. Conversely, if you turn to synthetic materials such as nylon, the snow boots will be more breathable but may not be as waterproof. Generally speaking, a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) primer is required to make them waterproof.

Color and Style

As Canadian winter is a long one, you’ll be wearing your cute snow boots for many, many months. So it’s best to choose a pair that suits you, looks like you, and matches your wardrobe.

As with your choice of winter coat, some snow boots have (fake) fur. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, fur keeps the snow out of your shoes.

Popular (Cute) Snow Boot Brands in Canada: A Comparison Guide

As I’m very careful about what I buy, I’ll look at the materials and the company’s commitment to ethics and the environment before I buy an item. I also like to suggest small, niche brands that you wouldn’t have suspected. Nevertheless, when I was searching for THE pair of cute snow boots, I had a lot of trouble finding brands that are mostly seen in Canada, which I’ve listed below.

• Baffin: this Canadian brand was created in 1979. It offers technical footwear to withstand the extreme Canadian cold.
• Blundstone: created in 1853 in Australia, this brand arrived in Canada in 1994. It offers “Chelsea”-type models suitable for everyday wear.
• Sorel: this brand is well known for its quality footwear designed specifically for the Canadian climate. They offer shoes for everyday wear as well as for outdoor activities.
• Kamik: this Canadian brand was founded in 1898 and continues to produce its shoes in its factory in Montreal! Similar to Sorel, this brand offers footwear for everyday wear as well as more resistant footwear to face the extreme cold in Canada.

Personally, I must admit that I wasn’t very convinced, aesthetically speaking, by the models from these brands. So I turned to my favorite brand, Bobbies. As I walk mainly in the city of Toronto, the Mandaree model meets my needs perfectly.

How to Find Your Perfect Boot Size

There are no miracle tips here: the best thing to do is try on your snow boots before you buy them. If possible, try the shoes on with the socks you plan to wear most of the time.

Choosing the right size for your snow boots is important not only for your comfort but also for keeping warm. If you choose shoes that are too small, not only will your feet hurt, but you’ll also feel colder because your blood circulation won’t be optimal.

Maintenance Guide: Making Your Snow Boots Last Longer

Your snow boots are in for a rough ride. Between temperature changes, snow, and salt, they’ll have a difficult life. Here are a few tips to keep them looking their best for as long as possible.

1/ After each use, wipe your snow boots with a damp cloth to remove dirt, snow, and salt. Here, avoid chemicals that could damage shoe materials. Also, don’t hesitate to rinse your soles with water to make sure you remove all traces of salt.

2/ Air-dry your snow boots in a well-ventilated area. You can also use shoe trees or stuff your snow boots with newspaper to absorb moisture. Avoid putting them near a source of direct heat, such as a fireplace or radiator. This could cause the materials to dry out and crack.

3/ Regularly check your snow boots. Inspect the soles for signs of deterioration, such as a smooth sole. Also, check the seams for tears.

A final word

Finding THE right cute snow boots to face Canada’s extreme cold, combining both technical and aesthetic aspects, can be a rather tedious process. Nevertheless, brands are trying to offer more models that meet these criteria. Don’t forget that the most important thing is that you feel good in your boots.

La Bise,