Should I buy a size up in snow boots?

Optimally, you'll want to buy snow boots in the right size for your child right now, particularly if they will be wearing them a lot. However, if they are little and/or growing quickly, you may want to go up a half or full size, especially if it's early in the season. Also, if you have multiple children, you may consider buying the right size, knowing their younger sibling can wear the boots in a few years.

Can snow boots be worn all day?

Well-fitting, comfortable snow boots can be worn all day, particularly if they are insulated and warm. Note that the boots may take some time to wear in. So, you may want to limit your child to wearing them for just a few hours a day to start with to avoid blisters or other foot discomforts. Or, many children in cold climates keep sneakers or slip-on shoes at school to wear there as an alternative to keeping their snow boots on all day.

How long do snow boots last?

Snow boots can last years, but their longevity will depend on their quality and how well you take care of them. Well-made boots can be expected to last well beyond the current season and can be passed down to other children. However, boots that are left out in the elements may not last more than one year. Either way, your child is likely to outgrow them after a year or even a few months.

How do you clean snow boots?

Typically, snow boots can be cleaned off with a clean, dry rag or brush. Use water and mild detergent as needed to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Follow cleaning instructions from the manufacturer for your specific snow boots, as best practices will vary based on the materials used in each product.

The 8 Best Snow Boots of 2023

Once the flurries start falling, it’s near impossible to keep kids from wanting to go outside and play in the snow. When those snowflakes start to accumulate, your little one will need to bundle up to stay warm and dry, and that includes their feet. Winter snow boots are essential if you live somewhere that sees a lot of snow because they keep your kid’s feet cozy and comfortable all day long as they play outside and walk to and from school (or even just to and from the car!).

Beyond the size and fit, You’ll want to consider the different types of lining commonly found in snow boots, like faux fur, fleece, and felt. You should also check to ensure the boot is waterproof to keep feet not only dry, but warm, too. We carefully considered sizing, insulation, material, value, and design when reviewing products.

Here are the best snow boots for kids.

Our Top Picks

Best for Toddlers:

Kamik Kids Rocket Cold Weather Boot at Amazon

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Best for New Walkers:

BMCiTYBM Toddler Winter Snow Boots at Amazon

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Best Warm:

Kamik Kids Insulated Snow Boots at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Fur-Lined:

Lands' End Snow Flurry Winter Boots at Landsend.com

Jump to Review

Best Waterproof:

Sorel Youth Flurry Boot at Amazon

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Best for Easy On/Off:

Crocs Kids' Crocband Winter Boot at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

L.L.Bean Ultralight Waterproof Snow Boots at L.L.Bean

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

DREAM PAIRS Ducko Ankle Winter Snow Boots at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Zappos

Pros

Waterproof rubber shell
Temperature rated to -40 degrees Fahrenheit
Reflective patches for safety

Cons

Limited flexibility in sole
Sizing may be confusing

The Kamik Kids Rocket Cold Weather Boots earned a top spot on our list because of the reinforced ankle strap for stability, which comes in handy regardless of weather conditions. The boots also have a bungee cord at the top to prevent snow from sneaking in, a rubber foot and sole, a thermal insole for warmth, and a moisture-wicking liner that can be removed if needed. The soles are made to improve traction and the boots’ overall design focuses on keeping little toes dry and warm.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Zylex | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Velcro and bungee cord | Size Range: 8 to 10 (toddler), 1 to 13 (little kids), and 4 to 12 (big kids)}

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Rubber soles
Flexible cushions and padding

Cons

Some colors are not waterproof

New walkers will have a little extra support and traction with these winter boots. They have rubber soles to help prevent slips and keep the toes dry as well as a fluffy faux-fur lining to ensure their feet stay warm in the coldest months. The boots have soft flexible cushions and padding around the ankle and tongue to provide extra comfort as well as support so little ones don’t lose their balance.

Price at time of publication: $39

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Faux fur | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Bungee cord | Size Range: 6 to 12 months (infant), 12 to 24 months (toddlers), and 11 to 12 (little kids)}

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Famousfootwear.com

Pros

Waterproof sole
Cozy fleece lining

Cons

Sizing may be confusing

The last thing you want is for your kid to be too cold outside, and these faux-fur boots will give you the assurance their feet will stay toasty. In addition to the fur collar along the top of the boot, the rest of the inside is lined with cozy fleece and a soft foam cushion. On the outside, the boot has a lightweight rubber sole and nylon upper to keep the feet dry. These boots also have bungee lacing to ensure they’re snug and tight to keep snow out and ankles supported.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Fleece | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Bungee cord | Size Range: 8 to 10 (toddler), 1 to 13 (little kids), 4 to 7 (big kids)}

Courtesy of Lands End

View On Landsend.com

Pros

Waterproof
Insulated bungee cord

Cons

Spot clean only

With these boots, your kid’s feet will be protected in just about every way. They have sherpa-fleece lining and a soft cushioned footbed. Additionally, they are completely waterproof and have flexible rubber soles designed to improve traction. Thanks to the insulated bungee cord closure at the top, you can rest assured knowing that no snow will sneak in.

Price at time of publication: $65

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Sherpa- fleece | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Bungee cord | Size Range: 5T to 8T (toddler), 9 to 13 (little kids), and 1 to 7 (big kids)}

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Sorel.com

Pros

Waterproof fabric
Removable and washable felt inner liner

Cons

Costly (depending on size)
Lower temperature rating (only -25 degrees Fahrenheit)

If you live somewhere that gets more slush than snow, these are the boots for your kiddo. The upper is made from a waterproof fabric with a bungee closure that blocks water, snow, and wind from sneaking in. They also have a rubber lower that works as a barrier to water and provides extra traction for slippery conditions. Plus, they come in all kinds of great colors.

Price at time of publication: $70

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Felt | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Velcro and bungee cord | Size Range: 8 to 13 (little kids) and 1 to 7 (big kids)}

Courtesy of Croc

View On Amazon

Pros

Can be taken on/off easily
Foot cushion

Cons

Closure does not tighten
Some sizes more costly than others

With styles for kids between 1 and 6 and juniors 7+ years old, these boots are designed to keep all kinds of feet safe and dry in the winter. The outer sole is made from waterproof “Croslite” with “Croslite” details on the soles to improve traction in the snow and ice. The upper of the boot is made from synthetic water-resistant nylon fabric and the interior of the boot has cozy liners and a foot cushion.

Price at time of publication: $56

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Not Listed | Sole Type: Croslite | Closure Type: N/A | Size Range: 6 to 10 (toddler) and 1 to 13 (little kids)}

Courtesy of L.L.Bean

View On L.L.Bean

Pros

Extra tall
Fleece lining
Waterproof rubber toe cap

Cons

Costly
No half sizes

Kids living in areas where a lot of snow is guaranteed every winter will benefit from these extra tall snow boots. They have an interior fleece lining with insulation to keep feet extra warm, a rubber outsole designed to improve traction, and a waterproof rubber toe cap for extra protection from slush and puddles. These snow boots are available in sizes 1 to 6 and 10 to 13 and come in three different color options.

Price at time of publication: $99

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Fleece | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Bungee cord | Size Range: 10 to 13 (little kids) and 1 to 6 (big kids)}

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Budget-friendly
Side zipper

Cons

Only one big kid size

These boots are budget-friendly and still get the job done. They have a waterproof shell and synthetic sole which is made to increase traction, insulated lining, and double straps to ensure a snug fit and keep snow out. In addition to the two straps, the boots also have a side zipper to make it easier for kids to get them on and off.

Price at time of publication: $43

^{Key Specs:
Lining Type: Thermal | Sole Type: Rubber | Closure Type: Velcro | Size Range: 9 to 10 (toddler), 1 to 13 (little kids), and 4 (big kids)}

Final Verdict

For kids living and playing where it’s really cold, the Land’s End Snow Flurry Insulated Winter Boots will keep their toes warm even on the coldest days. If you’re less concerned about the outside temperature, the SOREL Youth Flurry Boot will keep your kids’ feet dry when that snow turns to slush.

What to Look for in Snow Boots for Kids

Sizing

Picking the correct size when it comes to snow boots can be tricky. You want your kiddo to have a snug fit but not so tight they’re uncomfortable while out in the cold weather. Before picking out a size, measure your child’s foot from heel to toe to get an exact measurement of their foot. This will help you when it comes to looking at the boot manufacturer’s size chart.

Your best bet for sizing is for your child to try on the boots themselves. This will ensure they have a proper fit and feel comfortable. If trying them on is not an option, view the manufacturer’s size chart to get started. Many size charts will show sizes in inches that you can then compare to your child’s foot measurement.

Some parents and caregivers believe going up one size from their child’s regular shoe size is a good rule to follow. Because snow boots are heavily insulated, their feet will more than likely need a little bit of room. Always follow the manufacturer’s size chart first before purchasing, though. Also, note that sizing among brands will vary, so it's ideal to try on the boots before deciding on the right pair.

Insulation

One of the most important features to look for when buying snow boots is insulation. Snow boots are much more insulated than rain boots and often feature special ties, like Velcro or bungee cord, to keep the boots on better and keep out snow. You’ll want to consider the different types of lining commonly found in snow boots, like faux fur, fleece, and felt.

Faux fur is extremely soft and will keep feet very warm while out in the snow, but some kids may complain that their feet are too hot. Fleece, a woven fabric, comes in different weights, like lightweight, medium, or heavy, and is affordable. Felt is also an affordable and heavy material, so it’s great for really cold weather, but may make feet overheat like faux fur.

Waterproofing

Snow boots need to be insulated to keep kids' feet warm, but they also need to be waterproof to keep kids' feet dry. Most snow boots use a synthetic material as their upper fabric, which is usually waterproof, but not always. Some have synthetic nubuck, like Kamik Kids Rocket Cold Weather Boot (view at Amazon), which is also known as microsuede. An upper type like this is very durable, soft to the touch, and water-resistant, making it the perfect choice for snow boots.

Having a bungee or other cinch closure at the top of the boot is also important to keep snow from falling down into the boot as kids play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I buy a size up in snow boots?

Optimally, you'll want to buy snow boots in the right size for your child right now, particularly if they will be wearing them a lot. However, if they are little and/or growing quickly, you may want to go up a half or full size, especially if it's early in the season. Also, if you have multiple children, you may consider buying the right size, knowing their younger sibling can wear the boots in a few years.
Can snow boots be worn all day?

Well-fitting, comfortable snow boots can be worn all day, particularly if they are insulated and warm. Note that the boots may take some time to wear in. So, you may want to limit your child to wearing them for just a few hours a day to start with to avoid blisters or other foot discomforts. Or, many children in cold climates keep sneakers or slip-on shoes at school to wear there as an alternative to keeping their snow boots on all day.
How long do snow boots last?

Snow boots can last years, but their longevity will depend on their quality and how well you take care of them. Well-made boots can be expected to last well beyond the current season and can be passed down to other children. However, boots that are left out in the elements may not last more than one year. Either way, your child is likely to outgrow them after a year or even a few months.
How do you clean snow boots?

Typically, snow boots can be cleaned off with a clean, dry rag or brush. Use water and mild detergent as needed to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Follow cleaning instructions from the manufacturer for your specific snow boots, as best practices will vary based on the materials used in each product.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Ashley Ziegler is a staff and freelance writer who covers lifestyle, home, parenting, and commerce for a variety of platforms. She’s a mom to 1-year-old and 4-year-old daughters and an aunt to three nieces and two nephews ranging from 5 to 11 years old. In addition to regularly scouring the internet to find the best things for herself, Ashley spends multiple hours a week researching, comparing, and writing about products specifically for kids and families.