The 7 best snow boots with arch support
These options will keep feet warm and comfortable all winter long.
North Face Women’s Shellista VI Mid Waterproof Boots
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$165.00
There are multiple reasons why having snow boots with arch support can benefit you. First, it will increase comfort and decrease the risk of body aches. “Proper arch support is critical for maintaining foot alignment and reducing strain, especially when wearing snow boots for prolonged periods of time,” says Cunha. “Snow boots are typically used in cold, wet conditions and on uneven surfaces like snow and ice. Without adequate support, the foot can flatten or overpronate, which may lead to discomfort, pain, or long-term foot issues like plantar fasciitis.”
Beyond pain, when your foot is more supported, you can walk with more stability. “Choosing the right snow boots with good arch support helps distribute weight evenly across your feet, which improves stability,” says Cunha. This is particularly helpful when walking on slick surfaces.
To help you find the best snow boots with arch support, we asked podiatrists what key things to pay attention to while shopping. Here’s what they suggested:
To recommend the best snow boots with arch support, we asked podiatrists to share their favorite options. We also rounded up highly rated options that meet our experts’ criteria.
These boots feature a rubber bottom to keep feet dry, lugs carved into the sole for traction and a cozy fleece lining for warmth, according to North Face. “I recommend The North Face Shellista V Mid Boots as a supportive boot for winter conditions,” says Cunha, who notes that the boot offers good arch support and adjustable laces for a more custom fit.
Sizes: 5-11 | Widths: Medium | Outer material: Leather and rubber
A faux fur collar adds style, while seam-sealed construction and insulation keep your feet warm and dry in temperatures up to -40°F, according to Kamik. Cunha likes that they have a moisture-wicking lining to ensure your feet stay comfortable and a bungee lacing system for easy wear. A molded, removable insole is inside for support, and the rubber outsole has deep treads to keep you steady on slippery patches.
Sizes: 5-11 | Widths: Medium | Outer material: Nylon and rubber
“Though a pricier option, I recommend the Joan of Arctic Women’s Waterproof Boots for their exceptional arch support, durable design, and superior insulation,” says Cunha. The boot has a handcrafted vulcanized rubber outsole with herringbone tread for grip in icy conditions and a waterproof suede upper for style and comfort, according to the brand. These boots also have a washable felt inner for additional warmth. The footbed has a built-in arch and is lightly cushioned for comfort.
Sizes: 5-11 | Widths: Medium | Material: Suede and rubber
These boots have a waterproof leather upper, rubber bottom and extra quilted stitching around the ankle for added support. They also have insoles with built-in arch support and medium cushioning. These snow boots, which have a 4.6-star average rating from over 37,550 reviews on Amazon, have a faux fur collar for added warmth and reinforced toes and heels. They are rated to keep feet warm in weather down to -25°F, according to the brand.
Sizes: 5-11 | Widths: Medium | Material: Leather and rubber
These boots are made with Columbia’s proprietary Omni-Tech technology, which makes these boots breathable while still keeping out any coldness and wetness, according to the brand. These boots have a waterproof leather upper and rubber sole with deep treads that provide traction wherever you’re walking. The lightweight midsole has a supportive arch and lots of cushioning for comfort. These boots have a 4.5-star average rating from over 7,200 reviews on Amazon.
Sizes: 7-17 | Widths: Medium and wide | Material: Leather and rubber
“Snow boots that have somewhat of a slight heel less than 3/4 inch in relation to the front are actually better for you than shoes that are completely flat because it takes the stress off the Achilles which can help with the alignment of your posture, ankles, knees and spine,” says Cunha. These boots have a slightly elevated heel, along with a waterproof suede upper and rubber shell to keep snow out and keep feet warm down to -25°F.
Sizes: 7-15 | Widths: Medium | Material: Suede and rubber
Offering protection in weather down to -40°F, these boots have a removable liner and a cushioned, contoured footbed. According to the brand, these boots have a rustproof speed lacing system, making it easy to get in and out of them. These boots have a 4.4-star average rating from over 5,600 reviews on Amazon.
Sizes: 7-14 | Widths: Medium and wide | Material: Leather and rubber
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed three podiatrists on the importance of arch support in snow boots.
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