Last updated on February 18th, 2024
When it comes to braving icy terrains during your hiking expeditions, having the right footwear is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 8 best hiking boots for ice, addressing questions like, “Are hiking boots good on ice?” and “What boots are best for icy paths?”
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner venturing into wintry landscapes, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and keep your feet warm, dry, and safe. Let’s dive in!
Top 8 Best Hiking Boots for Ice
1. Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot
The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid GTX Hiking Boot is a sturdy and comfortable shoe designed for hiking and outdoor adventures. These boots are made by a company called Merrell, known for their quality outdoor footwear.
These hiking boots have a mid-top design, providing support to your ankles while allowing for flexibility. The “GTX” in the name stands for Gore-Tex. It comes with special material used in the boot that makes it waterproof and breathable.
This means your feet stay dry even in wet conditions, but they won’t get too hot and sweaty inside the boot. The boots feature a durable leather and mesh upper, which provides both protection and ventilation.
This combination helps to keep your feet comfortable and protected from rough terrain.With a cushioned midsole, these boots offer good support and shock absorption, reducing fatigue during long hikes.
Pros:
Waterproof, Durable, stylish design.
Cons:
Heavy.
2. Mishansha Womens Mens Winter Hiking Boots
The Mishansha Women’s and Men’s Winter Hiking Boots are great for outdoor activities in the cold. These boots are made to keep your feet warm and steady, whether you’re walking on snow or rugged terrain.
They have a special lining that keeps heat inside, so your feet stay cozy even in freezing temperatures. Plus, the soles are designed to grip the ground well, so you won’t slip on icy paths.
These boots are tough and durable, so they’ll last a long time even with regular use. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or just taking a walk in the snow, these boots will keep your feet happy and comfortable.
Pros:
Grip, Breathable, Warmth.
Cons:
Bulkiness.
3. Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot is a sturdy and comfortable choice for your hiking adventures. These boots are designed to keep your feet dry and supported, no matter the terrain.
It is Made with durable materials. These boots feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane that keeps moisture out while allowing your feet to breathe. This means you can hike through rain, mud, or streams without worrying about soggy socks.
The mid-cut design provides ankle support and stability, reducing the risk of twists and sprains on uneven ground. Plus, the cushioned footbed and EVA midsole offer excellent shock absorption and comfort. So you can hike for hours without discomfort.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole delivers reliable traction on various surfaces, giving you confidence with every step.
Pros:
Waterproof, lightweight, Traction.
Cons:
Limited color options.
4. Salomon Men’s OUTPULSE Hiking Boots
The Salomon Men’s OUTPULSE Hiking Boots are engineered to provide a smooth and dynamic stride on icy terrain. The Energy Blade Outdoor lightweight TPU plate in the forefoot area filters the ground and delivers a responsive stride.
The Fuze Surge foam midsole offers exceptional cushioning and high-energy return. Inspired by Salomon’s ski heritage, the reverse camber midsole geometry makes you feel like you’re floating over the ground.
These boots are perfect for hikers seeking a combination of performance and style.
Pros:
Dynamic stride, responsive cushioning, unique design.
Cons:
Limited ankle support, not fully waterproof.
5. Kkyc Womens Hiking Snow Boot
Kkyc boots are specially designed to keep your feet cozy and secure while you explore the great outdoors. It is made with waterproof material.
These boots will keep your feet dry and warm, even in the wettest conditions. No need to worry about slipping and sliding thanks to the anti-slip design, providing you with stability on icy surfaces.
The lace-up closure ensures a snug and customized fit, giving you the confidence to take on any trail with ease. Plus, the high-top design provides extra ankle support, reducing the risk of injuries while you hike.
Whether you’re trekking through snowy mountains or strolling through winter wonderlands, the Kkyc Women’s Hiking Snow Boot is your trusty companion for all your cold-weather adventures.
Pros:
Warm, waterproof, Stability.
Cons:
Limited breathability.
6. Hi-Tec Men’s Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Hi-Tec Men’s Bandera Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a reliable choice for hikers seeking comfort and support on icy paths. The suede overlays and striped nylon straps add a touch of style to this practical boot.
The removable molded insole allows for customization, while the traction rubber cup sole ensures excellent grip on various terrains.
With its steel shank for support and stability, this boot is built to withstand the rigors of hiking in cold conditions.
Pros:
Comfortable, supportive, customizable fit.
Cons:
Limited color options.
7. XPETI Men’s Thermator Mid-Rise Lightweight Hiking Boots
The XPETI Men’s Thermator Mid-Rise Lightweight Hiking Boots are designed for those who require high-performance footwear for icy adventures.
These boots feature a waterproof mesh upper and X-DRY Membrane technology, keeping your feet dry and warm even in muddy and snowy conditions.
The 200g Thinsulate insulation provides warmth in temperatures as low as -13°F. With its super-aggressive X-grip rubber outsole and molded TPU ankle support, these boots offer superior traction and stability on icy paths.
Pros:
Waterproof, warm insulation, excellent traction.
Cons:
Slightly small sizing, and limited color options.
8. KEEN Targhee II Hiking Boots
The KEEN Targhee II Hiking Boots combine waterproof protection, durability, and comfort, making them ideal for icy terrains. The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable by allowing vapor out without letting water in.
The bruise plate provides protection on uneven surfaces, while the high-abrasion rubber toe guard enhances durability. The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole offers a high traction grip, ensuring stability on rocky and icy surfaces.
With its generous toe space and contoured heel, these boots offer optimal support and comfort.
Pros:
Waterproof, durable, and excellent traction.
Cons:
Slightly heavy, with limited color options.
Are Hiking Boots Good on Ice?
Hiking boots can indeed be excellent companions on icy terrain. Their sturdy construction, advanced traction soles, and insulation make them suitable for cold weather conditions.
The waterproof materials and sealed seams keep your feet dry, while the insulation and cushioning provide warmth and comfort. Many hiking boots also feature specialized outsoles designed to grip icy surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
When paired with proper traction devices like microspikes or crampons, hiking boots offer the stability and support needed to confidently navigate icy paths.
What Boots Are Best for Icy Paths?
When it comes to choosing the best boots for icy paths, several factors come into play. Look for boots with excellent traction, such as those featuring advanced rubber outsoles with deep lugs and multidirectional patterns.
Waterproof materials and sealed seams are essential to keep your feet dry in icy conditions. Insulation, such as 200g or more, provides warmth during cold weather hikes.
Consider the ankle support and stability features, as well as the overall comfort and fit of the boots. Lastly, opt for boots that suit your style preferences and personal requirements, ensuring a confident and enjoyable hike.
Have a look at our article: Best hiking boots for Hammer’s toes
Conclusion:
In conclusion, selecting the right hiking boots for icy conditions is vital to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.
With our top 8 best hiking boots for ice, you can choose from a variety of options that offer comfort, durability, and excellent traction on icy paths. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these boots provide the necessary features to conquer icy terrains with confidence.
Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your selection. Invest in a pair of reliable hiking boots, and embark on your icy adventures with peace of mind. Happy hiking!
Tyler Looney is an avid hiking enthusiast and the author of HikingBootsPros.com, a website dedicated to providing helpful insights and advice on choosing the best hiking boots. His expertise and passion for hiking have made him a valuable resource for both beginner and experienced hikers alike.