Best Kids Winter Snow Boots: Tested by Real Kids – 2023-24 Edition

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Warm, dry, kids are happy kids.

Okay, that may not always be true, but I promise, that wet freezing cold kids are NOT HAPPY!  When you buy winter snow boots for kids (or any outdoor gear for that matter), you want to make sure that you get something that is great quality and hopefully doesn’t require you to eat ramen noodles for a month to afford it.  No one wants to get out on an adventure and then discover that their kid’s gear is inadequate and they’re unhappy!

Throughout the last 15 years, we’ve pretty much tried EVERYTHING when it comes to uncovering the best winter boots for kids to play in the snow. Kids winter boots from Walmart, expensive name-brand winter boots for kids, second-hand winter snow boots from the thrift store…and just about everything in-between.

best kids snow boots

In this kids’ winter snow boots review, I’ll share what kid’s boots have been amazing, which ones have been horrible, and ultimately share with you what I think are the best winter snow boots for kids. Living in the mountains of Utah, our kids wear snow boots almost daily in the winter, so we’ve tried so many different pairs and can’t wait to share with you which ones are best!

(Make sure to also check out our article on the best winter coats for kids.)

Below you’ll find reviews that have taken us YEARS to compile. Many of the kids’ snow boots that we mention below have been used by our family for several years and some have been worn by 4 of our kids, so this is really a really comprehensive list of the best kids’ winter boots (Including our favorite winter boots for toddlers and infants down at the bottom).

Below, we tested 12 pairs of winter snow boots for kids (including the toddler winter boots) and have some great advice and recommendations for you to be able to buy the best winter boots for kids. In the end, this should help you find and buy the best kids’ snow boots so that your kids can get outside and enjoy winter more this year.

 Also, make sure to read up on How Cold is Too Cold for Kids, Dressing Kids for Winter Adventures, How to Choose a Great Winter Coat, The Best Kids Snow Pants and The Best Winter Socks for kids.

We’ve rated everything on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being the worst and 5 being the best kids’ snow boots:

Keeping Kids Feet Warm In The Winter

Cold feet will make anyone miserable, especially kids. And the truth is that some kids ALWAYS seem to be cold. I don’t know what it is, but one of my kids is always colder than the others, and it makes getting outside with the other kids a lot harder. Here are the best things we do to keep the kids feet warm in the winter.

  1. Always wear wool socks with snow boots, never cotton. Read about some of our favorite wool socks for kids.
  2. Keep feet dry before and after kids snow boots go on.
  3. Use Aurora Heat beaver fur warmers inside their socks.

The biggest thing we did for my kid who’s always cold is to start putting Aurora Heat beaver fur warmers inside of his socks. They keep his feet warm, regardless of how cold it is (we also wear them in our ski boots on super cold days). While they look bulky, they pack down super small and you don’t even notice them once your boots are on (except that your feet are finally WARM!) They’re a little expensive, but absolutely worth the cost, especially since they last for years and you can pass them down to your other kids. Use code BRINGTHEKIDS to save 10% on Aurora Heat fur warmers.

best kids snow boots

Best Winter Snow Boots For Kids – Quick Picks

Best Overall Snowboots: Merrell Snow Quest Lite 3 – Waterproof, warm, easy to put on, perfect for sledding or backyard play

Runner Up – Best Kids Boots: Reima Coconi – Secure fit, amazing traction, waterproof, warm, perfect for running around in winter or winter hiking | Use code BRINGKIDS20 for 20% off

Most Waterproof Kids Snow Boots: Muck Kids Boots – These boots are super waterproof, so they’re perfect for super wet snow days, and even great as a rain boot too!

Best Snow Boots For Active Kids: Keen Greta and Merrell Snow Crush boots – Both of these boots are the best for active kids who don’t want the snowy weather to slow them down!

Best Toddler Snowboots: Reima Nefar – Super easy on and off, stays on feet well, waterproof, warm | Use code BRINGKIDS20 for 20% off

Best Snowboots For Teen Boys (adult sizes): Kamik Nationplus Boots – Secure fit, super warm, waterproof, more affordable than most mens boots (full review coming soon)

Best Snow Boots For Teen Girls (adult sizes): Kamik Momentum 3 – Tall to keep snow out, warm to -40F, waterproof, great styling, more affordable than most womens boots (full review coming soon).

best kids snow boots

Looking for kids boots that are more for moderate winters? Consider getting a good pair of kids waterproof hiking boots if you don’t get much snow.

Merrell Kids Snow Quest Lite Boot Review – Best Overall Kids Snow Boot

For years, our kids have been wearing Merrell Snow Quest Lite boots. The kid’s feet are always warm and dry, and best of all, after a super long and cold winter (where they were worn daily), they are all still looking almost new, so they’re really durable! The most current version is the Snowquest 3.0 kids winter boot, and we absolutely LOVE IT!

We have at least 10 pairs of Merrell winter snow boots for kids at our house (that we’ve collected over the years, in almost every size). So far, they have been the best kid’s snow boots we have found.

Features: They are super easy to get on and off, and since they have an elastic bungee closure at the top, they stay on really well too. Our kids have worn them hiking, snowshoeing and even at recess playing. They’re not as snug of a fit as a kids lace-up snow boot, but they are significantly easier to put on (which is a big win for MOM). If you’re looking for the best snow boots boys or the best snow boots for girls, Merrell has several different colors available for both genders.

What are the differences between the original Snow Quest Boots and the 2.0 and 3.0 version? As far as performance goes, these boots are almost identical and have exceeded my expectations. The 2.0 version has a bungee that tightens up the front of the boot, and the older model only tightened at the top cuff. The Snow Quest Lite 2.0 also does not have a removable liner. If you can find the Snow Quest lite, as opposed to the Snow Quest Lite 2.0, you’ll get almost the same boot, but probably be able to get a great kids snow boot sale on this older (but still great) kid snow boots.

girl in snow

Waterproofing 5/5: The lower part of these boots is molded all as one piece, so everything below the ankle was always dry. Surprisingly, the nylon uppers were amazingly waterproof as well (my boys even wore them out puddle jumping several times and never soaked them through). We did have a couple of times where the inside of these Merrell kids snow boots got wet from being left outside by the door, and thankfully they have a removable liner (not in the 2.0 version) which was really easy to take out and dry quickly.

Warmth 5/5: Technically, the original Merrell Snow Quest children’s winter boots are rated to be warm down to -40 degrees and the Snow Quest 3.0 is rated to -35 degrees. While I hope to never be in -35 degree weather to test that out, we did have plenty of days last year where the temperatures were around 0 F and our kids all stayed warm, including our toddler (I know because I always took his boots off for him and his feet never felt cold). Of course, we’re always careful to wear wool socks since that makes a big difference in kids comfort level in the snow. Our daughter wore them to school for at least 2 months straight last winter and she never complained that her feet were sweaty or too hot during the day, so that’s always a big benefit!

Price 5/5: For a boot with as many features as this boot has, the price is exceptional.

Overall 5/5: The Merrell Kids Snow Quest Boot is outstanding. It has lots of great features, is really well built, and both the original and 2.0 boot are great choices. As a mom of a growing boy, I really love that the youth snow boot sizes go up to a size 7 (thankfully not having to buy men’s shoes yet), so if you need youth winter boots in bigger sizes, get these.

family hiking in the snow with boots on

Reima Coconi Boots + Discount

Use code BRINGKIDS20 for 20% off all Reima Kids Gear
If you’re looking for winter boots that can truly be worn EVERYWHERE this season, then you’re going to love the Coconi kids snow boots from Reima. We love Reima for all things outdoors with kids, and the Coconi boot is no exception. Our favorite thing about this Reima kids’ winter boot is that it has velcro so the kids can get them on and off easily, and still have a secure fit. The more secure fit makes them great snow boots for running, recess, and even snowshoeing!

reima coconi

Features:  The Coconi boots are some of the warmest kid’s boots we’ve found, which makes sense since they were designed for kids in Finland, where temperatures are regularly 0 degrees in winter. The velcro allows for a customized and more snug fit, which I love for kids who are really active (for younger kids, we like pull-on style boots for simplicity). While your kids are out running around, you’ll appreciate the grippy soles that makes helps kids be so much more stable on ice. These boots really are just an all-around solid kids boot and we think they’re a fantastic winter option. Currently, my 10-year-old wears them and is SO HARD on gear, but they’re lasting incredibly well, so I know his little brothers will be getting these when he grows out of them! All of this really is just what Reima is about since they design their gear specifically for active outdoor kids, so they can really just let loose and BE KIDS!

Waterproof 5/5:  While these Reima kids snow boots don’t have a rubber bottom section like the Merrell boots we just shared, they’re still surprisingly waterproof. When I poured water on them, it simply beaded up and rolled off, and so far we’ve had great success testing them soaking in water.

Warmth 5/5:  These are some of the warmest kid’s snow boots on the market. After all, they’re designed for winters in Finland. While they don’t have a specific temperature rating, if you want a boot that stays tight on your kids’ feet AND keeps them super warm, these are the boots to get.

Price 4/5:  These snow boots for children are some of the most more, but they’re absolutely worth what you pay. These boots are boots that I plan on passing down through all of my kids through the years. Use code BRINGKIDS20 for 20% off all Reima Kids Gear Reima Tartu Gloves

Overall 5/5:  These boots are amazing and are the best velcro snow boots for kids. If you want a high-performance kid’s snow boot, I highly recommend them.

Muck Kids Boot Review – Most Waterproof Kids Snow Boots

If you’re looking for a children’s winter boot that’s not only warm but incredibly waterproof, then Muck boots might be the perfect match for you. We’ve been wearing Muck boots in our family for at least 10 years, and they’re so waterproof that my kids also wear them as rain boots year round.

We have 2 Muck boots that we love – The Muck Hale and the Muck Slushmaster. They are pretty similar boots, except the Slushmaster has a more rugged sole. Both are fantastic options, it just depends on what your kid’s needs are.

Features:  These Muck boots both have a rubber bottom with a 4mm neoprene top.  These are winter boots kids will love since they are more snug fitting than the other boots than a moon boot style snow boot, but still pull on.  That means that they take a minute longer to put on, but once they are on they are staying put and not going to fall off.  This is an excellent option, especially for smaller kids who want to put their own shoes on, but can’t figure out the laces or Velcro of other boots. Both the Slushmaster and the Hale have a similar fit, so they’re both wonderful snow boot options.

Waterproof 5/5:  Muck boots are the most waterproof that I have found.  When I poured water on them, it simply beaded up and rolled off.  It’s no shocker that over 10 minutes in the sink and not a drop soaked through to the inside! If you want the best kid’s waterproof snow boots, these are the ones to buy.

Girl snowshoeing
Yes, Muck boots are even secure enough for Snowshoeing with kids

Warmth 5/5:  Somehow these boots offer an amazing warmth balance.  My kids have worn these out to play in the snow for years and never complain about cold feet despite being outside on many single-digit days (good wool socks make a big difference too – these are our favorite wool socks). Surprisingly, the kid’s feet are never sweaty in these children’s snow boots, even if they throw them on for a quick trip to the store without socks in the springtime. We have one pair that’s been through 5 kids in the last 10 years and still doesn’t stink either! I don’t know how they did it, but these children’s snow boots are amazing for both freezing and warm temperatures.

Price 4/5:  These snow boots for children are on the bottom end of the expensive spectrum, but worth every bit of money! If you’re looking for toddler snow boots, you’ll be thrilled to know that these are also available in toddler sizing for younger kids.

Overall 5/5:  These boots are amazing.  I’d really call them the ultimate 3-season boot.  They can easily go from building snow forts to puddle jumping and mud-pies without skipping a beat.  I’d buy these again in a heartbeat.

kid touching ice castles

Merrell Snow Crush Snow Boots For Active Kids

The Merrell Snow Crush is a fantastic lace-up boot and one of our all-around favorite boots for active kids.  It comes in both boy’s and girl’s colorings, and is a great winter boot for running, winter hiking, and active play!  The toggle closure is really easy for kids to use (even with gloves on), and we love how well these boots fit kids.  

While this boot comes in sizes for toddlers, we think it’s best for school-aged kids and up who can get their boots on and off alone and are less prone to jump in puddles!

Features 5/5: The Merrell Snow Crush boot has lots of features that make it good for active kids.  It has good traction, without being overly bulky and handles pretty well in icy conditions.  The laces are our favorite since they give the most secure winter boot fit we’ve found!

Waterproofing 4/5: While this boot is pretty waterproof, it’s not a waterproof as the rubber bottom Merrell Snow Quest Lite or as the Muck boots.  It does do a good job, bu it’s probably not the best boot if your child is in the “stomp through every puddle of slush phase”.

Warmth 5/5:  Thse boots are super warm, so we gave them a 5/5.  The laces give it a snug fit so there’s less space for cold air to get in and so these keep kids feet comfortably warm.

Price 5/5: For the quality you get, these boots are fantastic.  
Overall 5/5: Finding winter snow boots that work well for active kids is HARD, but these do an amazing job.  We love that they are secure and help our kids be active outdoors so that the snow and cold don’t have to stop them from running, hiking and lots of wild play outside!

KEEN Greta Lace Up Kids Winter Boot Review

Our kids have been wearing Keen lace-up snow boots for 9 years, but this pair is our FAVORITE YET! The Keen Greta girl’s snow boots are fantastic quality and the fit is incredible. Our daughter wore them for some extensive winter hiking and snowshoeing last winter and they were fantastic.

Features:  These are the best youth snow boot that we reviewed with laces I LOVE them.  Think of them as a cross between a snow boot and a hiking boot.  They provide lots of support and structure but go high enough on the leg so to provide good coverage and prevent snow from getting in. 
Since these girls’ snow boots have laces, they are a bit trickier to get on and off, especially compared to a pull-on boot like the Muck Boots.  The advantage though is that they stay on tighter, so they’re very well suited to snowshoeing and other activities that are very active.  The velcro strap at the top helps on those lazier days when kids don’t want to fully tighten their laces.

Girl on a snowy trampoline

Waterproof 5/5:  These girls’ snow boots are made of waterproof leather on the bottoms and the uppers are treated with a waterproof and breathable coating.  

Warmth 5/5:  KEEN girl’s boots are really warm.  I think that because they offer such a secure fit, they are even warmer than some other boots because there’s not a lot of room for cold air to be trapped inside.  In fact, KEEN winter boots can sometimes be too hot and our kids have gotten sweaty feet on days when they wear them all day long.  Make sure your kids are wearing good wool socks so that if they do start to sweat, their feet don’t stay wet and get cold.  I highly recommend these wool socks which are great for skiing and last for YEARS (we have several pairs that have lasted for 7 years and multiple kids) which pair great with these KEEN snow boots for girls.

A boot being too warm is actually kind of a nice problem to have, especially for kids who always feel COLD!

Price 4/5:  It is true that you get what you pay for with your outdoor gear.  KEEN Winter boots are not cheap but they are great quality.  As I mentioned earlier, we’ve had other KEEN lace-up boots for 9 years and are about to pass them down to their 5th kid.  

Overall 5/5:  These boots are amazing.  They are warm, will keep your kids dry and are very secure, making them a great fit for active winter activities. If you want a pair of Keen kid winter boots kids will love, these are a great value and some of the best kids snow boots.

Columbia Bugaboo Kids Snow Boots

The Columbia Bugaboo kids snow boots are fantastic snow boots that are super rugged.  They arhave a really tough sole that’s perfect for icy conditions and will last through wherever your kids want to stomp through.  We love that it has a bungee elastic closure, for extra security, but is still pretty easy for kids to get on and off. 

Features 4/5:  Our kids really like these boots and we think that they do a great job of keeping them warm.  The bottoms are fully waterproof rubber and the leather uppers are really great quality.  While the bulky sole can be great for some conditions, we found that it was a little too thick in others.  We don’t love these for hiking since it felt like the kids were just stomping around.  They’re perfect for backyard and neighborhood play though, and would be a fantastic kids snowmobile boot!

Waterproofing 5/5: That rubber bottom really is incredible.  THe kids were goig all over the place and stayed dry in everything.  The leather is also more waterproof than most other brands fabric, so we really loved the addition of that with these boots for kids.  

Warmth 5/5:  These are really warm kids winter boots.  Like many other warm winter boots for kids, after a while, the kids feet started to sweat.  Luckily, with the bungee elastic, the kids could just make them a bit looser, to let some cool air in, and then tighten them back up.

Price 4/5: These kids snow boots are a bit more expensive, but nothing over the top.  For the quality, I think that they’re great!
Overall 4/5:Overall, we’re giving these boots a 4/5.  We love the features, but they’re a bit more bulky than some other childrens snow boots, so they’re not quite as versatile.  Still a fantastic snow play boot for kids.

family in snow wearing snow boots

Sorel Flurry Boot Review

Years ago I scored a pair of Sorel Cub snow boots at a thrift store for only $4.  These Sorel kids snow boots looked like they were in good condition, but I was skeptical at best, since we were talking about $4 used winter boots for kids.  I mean, I love a good deal, but would they stand up to the test (especially since I had no idea if they were well cared for in their previous life).  They did not disappoint at all.

Since then, we’ve upgraded to the Sorel FLurry and it’s INCREDIBLE! It’s got all the features of the Cub that we fell in love with years ago, but with a velcro strap for more security. As a bonus, the Sorel Flurry comes in SO MANY fun colors and prints that kids are sure to fall in love with them!

Features:  The Sorel Flurry is a boot that is easy on and off.  With elastic and velcro securing the foot from the outside, they’re pretty straightforward.  This is great for getting feet in, but also that you don’t have to sacrifice security.  They stay secure even when stuck in a snow bank and when kids are running around for hours! Great for both backyard play and light winter hiking as well!

It’s been almost 11 years since I first bought a pair of kid’s Sorels at the thrift store, and we have since owned other Sorel boots for kids that I’ve been equally impressed with. The Flurry is one of the best kid’s boot options because it’s affordable, lasts forever, and is so easy for kids to get on and off alone!

family sledding in snow

Waterproofing 5/5:  When I initially poured water on these boots, I was worried because it appeared that the fabric was soaking it up, however, none of it ever got inside the boot. I left them submerged for at least 5 minutes and they were still dry as a bone.  Considering that waterproofing is usually the first thing to go on shoes, I was amazed that these lasted so long. In the years since, the waterproofing on the Sorel Flurry has only gotten better. I no longer see water soak into the fabric and I consider these a great all-around waterproof boot!

Warmth 5/5:  Our kids have been wearing these boots in all sorts of conditions and have never had cold feet this winter.  In fact, on milder days, they’re almost too warm!  To balance it all out, make sure that your kids are wearing wool socks to keep them dry even if their feet start to sweat. These are definitely Sorel boots kids will love and really warm winter boots.

Price 5/5:  While I did get a great deal on these Sorel kid’s winter boots at the thrift store, the regular price of the Sorel Flurry is really great, and especially when you consider the quality, it’s a bargain.

Overall 4/5:  These Sorel boots for kids boots are fantastic.  They are easy to put on and take off, keep feet totally dry, are warm, and as far as boots go they are pretty reasonably priced. The velcro on these boots makes them have the advantages of both a pull-on boot and a more secure style!

family sledding at sunset

Northside Frosty Boot Review

I was introduced to Northside a few winters ago and was immediately intrigued by their fun colors and low prices.  To top it all off, they were the #1 selling kids boot on Amazon, so I figured they were probably great…that really couldn’t have been farther from the truth!

Features:  Similar to the Sorel Cub, they have elastic on the outside of them to make them easy on and off  (the elastic is adjustable with velcro!).  As I’ve already mentioned, this is a good and bad thing!

Waterproofing 1/5:  Because this boot has a rubber bottom, water stayed out of the bottom part well.  However, after less than a minute, the inside of the boots were starting to get wet from water soaking through the fabric upper.  If your kid is prone to puddle jumping in the melting snow, or will be out playing hard for long periods of time in lots of snow, these are not going to cut it. I don’t even think they’d survive one school recess before becoming soaked!

Warmth 4/5:  I was amazed that these boots are comfort-rated to -25 degrees F.  Our oldest wore these all over the place with no complaints of cold or of feet that were too hot.  However, the liners are medium weight so I’m still unsure how they will do in extreme cold, despite the claims (we wore them during a mild Colorado winter).

Price 5/5:  You can purchase the Northside Frosty boots on Amazon for a great deal…but don’t let the price fool you. Keep reading below for their major flaw! 

Traction 1/5:  Okay, here’s where I ran into a serious problem with these boots.  On the sole, the outer part of the tread is rubber, while the inner section appears to be felt or some other similar type of fiber.  As soon as kids step into the snow, a giant clump of snow would stick to the bottom of the felt section.  Yes, this means that the traction becomes essentially worthless and your child is just walking around on a snowball.  For me, this is a deal breaker!  If I can’t trust that my kids are not going so slip and fall, I wouldn’t buy them.

Overall 1/5:  The traction problem was a deal breaker for me.  I wanted to love these boots, I really did.  I love that the are such a good price and easily available on amazon.  However, they simply do not perform and need to come up with a different sole in order for them to be good for kids.  The price and warmth are great, but again, the waterproofing is really poor.  These boots are proof that saving a few bucks is absolutely NOT WORTH IT! Even if these kids snow boots are on sale, don’t waste your money. Although the reviews on Amazon show that this is a good kids snow boot, we don’t agree.

kids sledding boots

Wal-Mart Special Snow Boots

A few seasons ago, we were at Grandmas and a spring snowstorm hit.  Ill-prepared for this delightful surprise, I did what any parent would do in my situation – I went to Wal-Mart.  I scored these no-name child snow boots for only $5 on clearance (I think that the original price was $15).  They’ve been worn a lot and I think that they offer a good comparison for this test.

Features:  These boots have a velcro adjusting strap on the front.  While this can make them a little trickier to put on than those boots with just elastic, they also provide a more snug fit, so I think it’s a great feature.

Waterproofing 1/5:  Let me preface this by saying that these boots are 3 seasons old (I bought them pretty big to begin with and we have lots of kids…).  The bottom rubber section of the boots was great at keeping water out.  However, when submerged in water, these boots started leaking through in about 20 seconds.  Yep, that means that if your kid jumps in one puddle, their feet will be soaking wet for the rest of the day – BOO!  Also, I have noticed over the years that they also get wet inside when just playing in the snow.  Totally a 1/5.

Warmth 3/5:  These boots are not bad, but also the warmest winter boots in the world.  I do remember a few times that Mason complained of cold feet while wearing these boots, but that was rare (and he almost never complains about being cold).  Probably fine for 80% of the times that you send your kids out to play in the winter.

Price 5/5:  For $5 it’s hard not to pick them up and throw them into the shopping cart.  At $15, I’d think a little more about it but would likely still grab a pair in a pinch.

Overall 2/5:  A great pair of kid snow boots in a pinch and for a short time, but not something that can perform as well as kids need.   They simply are not warm enough or dry enough to go out on big adventures or do anything beyond the backyard (and even then they will need a day or 2 to dry out EACH TIME).  Wal-Mart does what it does best with these kids snowboots, and gives you a great price, even if the quality is lacking.

Best winter snow boots for toddlers and babies

baby crawling in snow wearing mittens and snow boots

Truthfully, picking the best toddler snow boots is really hard. Mostly it’s hard because most snow boots for toddlers are really horrible. Either they don’t stay on their cubby ankles well, or they’re impossible to put on. However, I can fully stand behind two baby and toddler winter boots that have worked well for us.

Reima Nefar Snow Boots For Toddlers

We absolutely love the Reima Nefar Snow boots for toddlers. They’re so easy to put on, and we love that they keep little feet extra warm. While we absolutely love these kids snow boots for elementary age kids (they go up to a size 3.5), we love them most as a snow boot for toddlers.

reima nefar kids snow boots

They’re the boots that our 4-year-old picks most often because they’re extra warm and he never needs help adjusting them. Best of all, they’re incredibly waterproof, so they keep toddler feet dry, even when they depend on stomping through EVERY. SINGLE. PUDDLE.

Use code BRINGKIDS20 for 20% off all Reima Kids Gear

These toddler snow boots go down to a size 4.5, so they are an easy first snow boot (though if your little one needs more shoe flexibility, check out the Stonz below).

Check Prices on Reima Nefar Little Kids Snow Boots

best kids snow boots

Merrell Kids Snow Quest Lite for toddlers

Amazingly, the best snow boots for boys and girls also happen to be some of the best snow boots for toddlers. We started our youngest wearing Merrell Snow Quest boots when he was just 18-months-old and they were incredible. These toddler winter boots stayed on no matter what we did (thankfully they cinch up with a Velcro tab) and always kept our baby’s feet warm. These are very waterproof kids’ winter boots, so great for toddlers who can’t resist splashing in every puddle they see.

The smallest size they come in is a size 5, though we recommend going a size up for winter boots for toddlers. Truthfully, our son wore about a size 5.5T last winter and the size 7 worked fine for him. If you have a very active toddler and are planning on doing a lot of walking, sledding, and playing in the snow, I highly recommend these winter boots for toddlers. These have been perfect toddler boy snow boots for our son since he can put them on and take them off without help.

With lots of great colors make sure to check out these snow boots for toddler girls and also these snow boots for toddler boys.

Also, like we mentioned over and over with the older kids boots, wearing good wool socks is critical for kids in the winter. We like these toddler wool socks because they don’t bunch up and stay up all day long (which is so HARD to find in toddler socks!) WE are happy to say that we think these are the best toddler winter boots.

Stonz Winter Boots for Toddlers and Babies+ Discount

We discovered Stonz winter boots a few years ago when our youngest was just a baby. The concept is incredibly simple, and they’re just about the easiest boots to put on that we’ve ever seen. They’re essentially a rectangle that you slide on your toddler or baby’s foot and then cinch up to keep tight. Stonz baby snow boots can be worn over regular shoes or with their insulated liner which is a must have for winter. Personally, I think they are the best winter boot for babies, though I don’t love them as much for toddlers since I don’t think they’re great for active toddlers (I like my winter boots for toddlers to have a real sole, even if they make adorable snow booties for boys). Also, make sure to check out these styles of winter boots for baby girls and unique designs of baby boy snow boots as well.

Use code BRINGTHEKIDS10 for 10% off all purchases at Stonz.

Stonz baby boots

Overall recommendations for kids snow boots

It’s clear to see that there is a direct correlation between price and quality, as far as snow boots for children are concerned.  If I were buying kids snow boots all over again, here would be my picks:


1. Merrell Kids Snow Quest Lite 3.0 – It’s affordable and really well built. Waterproof, warm, and secure which is exactly what I look for in a kids snow boot.

2. Muck Boots for Kids– Awesome 3-season boot that is secure, warm and waterproof.  I love it when I can use one pair of shoes for multiple conditions, so these are fantastic!

3. KEEN Greta – An amazing and secure boot, and is perfect for active girls and winter hiking.

4. Sorel Flurry – Warm, easy on/off and can often be found at a great discount online.

Truthfully, I wouldn’t recommend buying the Northside boots (because of the snow traction problem) or a pair from a discount store like Wal-Mart.  It’s just not worth it to have kids who are wet or cold or who are slipping all over the place (both ways that will make your winter adventures instantly less fun). If you’re going to invest money, we recommend you buy the best kids winter boots so you can use them for several years and hopefully pass them on to someone else who needs a great snow boot for kids when you’re done with them.

This article on the best waterproof snow boots for kids was originally published in 2012 and continues to be updated to show what are the best snow boots for kids. Our goal is to create the best resource for kids snow gear. We’ve also shared review articles on the following topics:

Best waterproof mittens and gloves for kids
Best winter coats for kids
Best k
ids base layers
Best kids ski harnesses
Best winte
r face masks for kids
Best kids ski socks
Best kids snow pants

If you’re looking for adults, check out this article on the best winter boots for men.

This article on the best waterproof snow boots for kids was originally published in 2013 and continues to be updated to show what are the best snow boots for kids.


How Should Snow Boots Fit Kids?

Snow boots should have a snug fit without being tight, allowing room for warm socks and a bit of toe room. There should be a finger’s width space between the toe and the end of the boot. Always have your child try them on with the socks they’ll wear. WHile it’s tempting to go up a couple of sizes to get more wear out of kids snow boots, we recommend not going too large since that will just make kids feet colder.

Do kids Need Waterproof or Water-Resistant Boots?

Waterproof boots offer complete protection from water and snow. Water-resistant boots can handle light moisture but may not keep feet totally dry in wet conditions. Our favorite boots have a ruber bottomm covering the foot so they really are water proof. Any fabric material is technically only water-resistant, but some are so water-resistant that you won’t have to worry at all about snow getting in. If you’re getting water-resistant boots for kids, make sure that htey have a waterproof rating of 10,000 or higher!

How Warm Do Kids Snow Boots Need To Be?

We always reommend getting the warmest boots that your child will need. Every reputable manufacturer will have temperature ratings on their kids boots – if there is not temperature rating, the boots probably aren’t that great. Check the temperature rating if provided by the manufacturer as a first rule. Next, consider where you’ll use the boots, since cliate and weather can make a big difference in what kids snow boots you buy. If you are in Alaska or Canada, you’ll need different boots than if you live in Texas with an occasional snowstorm. If you need extra insulation, grab some Aurora Heat foot warmers – They’ve been a game changer for our kids who are always cold!

How Should I Clean and Maintain Winter Boots?

Most snow boots can be cleaned with a damp cloth and left to air dry. Never put boots away wet or they’ll get gross and break down fast! We recommend getting a good boot dryer if you use your boots regularly or having a storage rack with good airflow. Aside from always keeping boots clean, we recommend that for boots over a year old, you treat them with this fabic and leather waterproofing treatment to keep them dry and in good condition. For boots that have removable liners, check the manufactureres instructions for how to wash the liners to keep them clean and odor free.

How Tall Should Kids Snow Boots Be?

Tall boots do a great job of keeping snow out. If you’ll be in deep snow, we recommend a children’s snow boot that is at least up to their calf. If you’ll be in just a couple of inches of snow, you can get a boot that’s just above the ankle. FOr younger kids, taller boots, tend to be easier since they often fall down more and are more likely to get snow in the top of their boots.

What Kind Of Boot Closure Is Best For Kids?

Part of this is personal preference, and part is practicality. Overall, boots with just an elastic closure are easiest to put on and take off. That’s really handy on a snow day when everyone is all bundled up. Velcro is the next best option in terms of ease and is better at securing boots to kid’s feet for activities like winter hiking or snowshoeing. Bungee elasit is another great option for keeping boots secure, but still being easy to get on and off. We don’t recommend kids snow boots with zippers since they can ice up and not function as well.

Discount Winter Boots For Kids

Looking for some good winter boots, but need to save a bit of money? Here are some of the best boot discounts that we’ve found lately! We haven’t tried all of these boots BUT, they’re all high enough quality that I would have no concerns buying them for any of my kids. These will probably all sell out FAST, so if you see a pair in your childs size, hurry and buy them!

Through December 6 2022, Lands End kids boots are 50% off with the code CLOUD
Kamik Finely Winter boots for little kids
Kamik Snowdrifter – Big and little kids sizes
Merrell Snow Crush 2.0 – little kids sizes
Kamik Rocket Pac 2

About Jessica Averett

Hi, I’m Jessica, a mom of 5 kids and married to my favorite adventure partner. I love to bike, ski, camp and hike. We've visited over 40 countries with our kids, but are equally happy on the road as we are exploring our home state of Utah.

15 thoughts on “Best Kids Winter Snow Boots: Tested by Real Kids – 2023-24 Edition”

  1. We got Matt a pair of Sorel’s this year and they’ve been amazing. Waterproof, warm and easy to clean. The felt liner in ours came out (just like mommy and daddy’s) which doubled as a slipper a couple times in the lodge. We were able to get them on sale for a great price and they still look like and act like new after a winter’s abuse by a preschooler!

    Reply
  2. I’dd add that the Lands’ End boots like this one https://www.landsend.com/pp/girls-snow-flurry-boots~249507_1187.html?sku_0=::BTM now on sale for $30 have never been bad for any of the ratings. Warm, easy to put on and off with velcro wings (see link), waterproof, and even price (normally $50). They’re lasting through several seasons to boot! (hah hah). The only drawback I’ve found with them is snow can get in the top relatively easily if the kids are playing in deep snow or rolling around in snow in general.

    Reply
  3. Wandering about the weight of the boots you described in the article. Is it one with 5/5? And really what’s the weight in grams. Thanks

    Reply
    • Marilena – I’m not sure what the weight in grams is of each boot, but I’m sure if you check with the manufacturer, they can help you with that! Good Luck!

      Reply
  4. Hmm, interesting, as I came upon this blog to find a replacement for my son’s Sorel boots. I find that they are always wet (not waterproof) when he comes home, and after taking out the felt liner to dry a couple of times, it has made it difficult for his foot to fit back in easily. Perhaps we got a bad batch, but I have to say that I am disappointed in these boots–especially after spending about $65 on them. Would like to try the Kids Rover II boots. Thanks for the info! Wish us luck for warm, dry feet 😉

    Reply
  5. I have two kids under 4 years old. Trying to find comfortable and quality shoes has been very difficult. Most boots we saw and tried made their feet perspire, were difficult for little ones to put on and take off at preschool not to mention were not warm enough. I finally found this website that has beautiful European quality shoes, all with orthopedic insoles specially designed for kids feet to have proper support. All winter shoes have zippers and my 3 year old has no problems putting them on. We tested it with last Sunday snow fall here in Chicago and their feet were warm thanks to their winter boots filled with natural wool. And I was amazed how lightweight they are. For all moms out there picky as me and looking to find the best I want to share this information, go to http://www.viviatokids.com Like me I feel you won’t be disappointed.

    Reply
  6. We live in Wyoming and my kids have worn bogs since before they were walking. The big handles make it easy for kids to pull on, totally waterproof and rated to -30. They last through a few kids as well with little wear and tear

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  7. OLANG, no !! = Terrible quality !
    We bought for my daughter this winter boot model : OLANG BINGO Enfants and in less than a year (1 season use), 2 holes appeared under the boot, at the top of the sole, letting water in. Customer service is terrible and never wanted to help even though the boots were in their original box with plenty of pictures to show their defect.
    NEVER again!

    We’re sold to SOREL ! 🙂

    Reply

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