Hiking boots vs snow boots: can walking boots do winter?

What a snow boot is built for

Typical snow boots have thick insulation, a high waterproof shaft, a soft rubber sole that stays flexible in the cold and easy closures such as toggles or wide openings. They keep feet warm when standing still, walking to the shops or tramping through deep snow on flat ground.

They are rarely stiff or supportive enough for hill paths. The fit is often loose for warmth, the sole is not designed for edging on slopes and most cannot take crampons.

What a walking boot does in snow

A waterproof walking boot keeps snow out as long as the snow is not deeper than the cuff, and its lugged sole grips well on fresh snow. It supports the ankle on uneven, hidden ground and is comfortable over long distances. Most walking boots are not insulated, so warmth comes from your socks and from keeping moving.

On compacted snow and ice, the rubber of any boot can slip. Microspikes or crampons, depending on the terrain and the boot's rating, give far more grip than the sole alone.

Note:Ice and hard snow on slopes are dangerous. Carry appropriate traction and an ice axe for winter hills, know how to use them and check the mountain weather and avalanche forecasts.

Hanwag Banks GTX and Banks Winter GTX compared

Hanwag makes the Banks in both a standard and a winter version, which shows what changes when a walking boot is adapted for cold. The table uses details from the amazon.co.uk listings. Hanwag describes the Winter version as built for cold conditions; check the maker's page for insulation details before buying.

When walking boots are enough

For lowland and valley walks in snow, forest tracks and gentle hills, a good waterproof walking boot with warm merino-rich socks and gaiters is enough for most people. Gaiters stop snow getting in over the cuff, which is the most common way feet get wet in snow.

If your feet run cold or you stop often, a winter version of a walking boot, such as the Banks Winter, adds warmth without losing the walking-boot fit and grip. Our best walking boots for UK hills guide includes the standard Banks GTX.

See the best walking boots for UK hills →

When you need more than walking boots

On steep, snowy hills and mountains in winter, flexible walking boots are not suitable. You need at least a B1 boot that takes C1 crampons, and for steeper or icier ground a B2 boot. Our B1 vs B2 boots and crampon and boot compatibility articles explain the system.

Snow boots are not a substitute here either. They are designed for warmth on flat ground, not for kicking steps or holding crampons.

Tips for walking in snow

Small changes make a big difference to comfort and safety when you walk in snow, whatever boots you choose.

• Wear gaiters to stop snow entering over the cuff.
• Choose warmer socks but check your boots still fit without pressure.
• Reproof the outer of your boots so they do not soak up meltwater.
• Carry a spare pair of socks in a dry bag.
• Use traction aids or crampons suited to the ground and your boots.

Frequently asked questions

Can hiking boots be used as snow boots? For walking in snow, yes, especially with gaiters and warm socks. They are less warm than insulated snow boots when standing still.

Are hiking boots good for snow? Waterproof hiking boots grip well on fresh snow. On ice and hard snow, add microspikes or crampons suited to the terrain.

Are snow boots good for hiking? On flat, snowy trails they can be fine. On hills and rough ground they lack support and grip.

Do I need insulated boots for winter walking? Not always. Many walkers use unlined boots with warm socks and keep moving. Insulation helps if your feet run cold or you stop often.